In this class we will explore the following topics: “The Gospels” taught by Dr. Eric Cook, “The Epistles” taught by Dr. Mel Winstead and ‘Eschatology in the New Testament” taught by Travis Boovy.
Text Requirements: ‘A Popular Survey of the New Testament’ by Norman Geisler. There will be a homework assignment which requires selected readings from this book. (This book is available on Amazon for $13.89! ).
Details of the Class:
The Gospels: This section, taught by Dr. Cook, will examine the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John which encompass the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. We will see how the four gospels give us a comprehensive view of the Savior. Also, a brief overview of the books followed by a look at the synoptic gospels. We will look at the focus of each book along with its intended meaning, the author, dates and intended audiences. There will be Q & A throughout the class!
The Epistles: This section, taught by Dr. Winstead, we will cover the Pauline and General epistles. This section will cover Romans through Jude. We will learn about the great doctrine of salvation by faith alone from Romans 3 and 4, the great moral issues presented in 1 Corinthians and the all- important topic of the resurrection of Jesus Christ in 1 Corinthians 15. In Paul’s shorter letters we will learn of the great truths of the church including how it is to function, who runs it, and what is its mission in the world today. In the section Hebrews through Jude we will learn of the great truths of Christology, how Jesus Christ connects with the Old Testament and what implications this has for church members’ lives today. In a word, the New Testament is amazingly and immensely relevant for church members today. We’ll go deep and wide as we mine some great treasures from the New Testament letters.
Eschatology: This section is the study of “last things.” It is the last things to happen on this earth in this present age. It covers events such as the second coming of Jesus Christ, the judgment of the world, the resurrection of the dead, and the creation of the new heaven and earth. We do not learn of this only at the end of the Bible but throughout the whole. We intend to highlight the practical application drawn from the New Testament occurrences of eschatological passages so that even while holding different methodologies & frameworks, we can minister to others with a firm and faith filled grasp that even though we have not seen Jesus, we love him. Though we do not now see Him, we believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory (1 Peter 1:8 ESV).