NT 5000 Introduction to the New Testament
Elmbrook Christian Study Center
Dr. David P. Seemuth
Spring 2015
GRADUATE SYLLABUS
Course Description
This course will be a study of the background, content and basic themes presented
in the New Testament documents. Our purpose is to formulate an understanding of
the message of the New Testament that will provide a basis for personal growth and
an ability to explain the Scriptures to others. We will attempt to become familiar
with the main themes of each of the books of the New Testament. In addition, and
woven into the class, we will study important background issues, theological themes
and critical issues which relate to the New Testament. This will include an
examination of issues surrounding the authorship, dating, integrity, etc., of New
Testament documents.
Objectives
The specific objectives of this course are as follows:
1.
To become acquainted with the main themes and content of each New
Testament book.
2.
To study the historical setting and background of the New Testament in
order to better understand its teaching.
3.
To examine New Testament teachings of theological topics such as
christology, justification, sin, sanctification, the church, the future, and other
aspects of the Christian life.
4.
To become aware of the method and nature of New Testament theology as a
stepping stone to systematic theology.
5.
To establish guidelines for approaching and handling critical issues within an
evangelical doctrine of Scripture.
Textbooks
Required:
An Introduction to the New Testament, by D.A. Carson and Douglas Moo.
Zondervan, 2nd edition, 2005.
ISBN 0310238595
Survey of the New Testament, by Robert H. Gundry. Zondervan, 5th edition, 2012.
ISBN 0310238250
Simply Jesus, by N.T. Wright. San Francisco: HarperOne, 2011.
ISBN 0062084399
Course Requirements
1.
Read the entire New Testament.
2.
Answer assigned questions.
3.
Read assigned portions of the textbooks.
4.
Complete two exams.
Evaluation Criteria
Graduate students will be graded as follows:
Answering assigned questions 20%
Reading of the New Testament 10%
Reading of the Textbooks
20%
Exam I
20%
Exam II
30%
Class Schedule
Date
Topic
January 22
Introduction, Background to the New Testament World
January 29
Gospel of Mark
February 5
No Class
February 12
Gospel of Matthew and Luke
February 19
Gospel of John
Febraury 26
Major Epistles of Paul
March 5
Exam I
March 12
Major Epistles of Paul (cont.)
March 19
Early Epistles of Paul
March 26
Prison Epistles Prison Epistles; Pastoral Epistles
April 2
Hebrews; James; Epistles of Peter, Jude
April 9
Epistles of John
April 16
Revelation
April 23
Final Issues for NT Studies
April 30
Putting It All Together
May 7
Exam II