This class is part one of a two-part course that surveys the books of the New Testament. The focus of this course is an examination of the intertestamental period, the historical/cultural/religious situation of first century Judaism and the Greco-Roman world, and the NT story of Jesus and the early church. The objectives of this course are: 1. Bridge the time period separating the two testaments, 2. Provide foundational knowledge on the history, culture, and religion of Judaism and the Greco-Roman world, which informs understanding of the New Testament, 3. Examine each of the four Gospels as unique theological presentations of Jesus’ life. 4. Explore the early history of the church as recounted in the Book of Acts.

This course is an introduction to basic principles of biblical interpretation and secondary resources that aid in the study of the Bible. It is intended to form a foundation for students of the Bible to build upon throughout the program.