NT501—Understanding the New Testament

Redemption Course Description

This course surveys the writings of the New Testament, emphasizing cultural contexts, authorship, thematic relationships, and Jesus the Messiah as the central focus. After examining the Gospels, Acts, Epistles, and Revelation, the course moves into an in-depth study of the Apostle Paul. The overarching goal of the course is to help the students grow in their appreciation of and commitment to Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Increasing their knowledge and skill in handling the New Testament in light of its historical setting is a means to the higher goal of cultivating faith and a clearer vision of Jesus the Messiah.

Credits: 3

Learning Objectives After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  • Analyze the context, content, and themes of each of the writings in the New Testament.

  • Evaluate the student's own interpretation and application of the New Testament Scriptures using knowledge of the cultural contexts of the authors and their original audiences.

  • Construct a persuasive case with examples showing why the cultural contexts of New Testament writings are important for contemporary Christian life, teaching, and ministry. (PLOs 3 and 4)

Outline of Unit Topics

1. The Life and Teachings of Jesus of Nazareth

2. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John

3. The Acts of the Apostles

4. The Life and Teachings of Paul the Apostle

5. Paul's Journeys

6. Paul's Epistles

7. The General Epistles and Revelation

Course Structure

Work at your own pace (watching, reading, and answering questions in a course workbook.) When you are ready, register for seven weekly meetings with a Redemption mentor that you choose to review each of the seven units in your workbook.

Grading is low-stress since there are no exams. Mentors have a conversation about student work, and students have the opportunity to make necessary changes week to week.


Featuring Lectures from Dr. Lynn Cohick

Two Logos Mobile Ed courses by Dr. Lynn Cohick make up the lecture material for this amazing course, introducing the meaning and structure of the New Testament. This content is included as part of the course (no additional charge). The student owns the video content after completing the course.

Logos Mobile Ed content Included

 

Teaching By:
Dr. Lynn Cohick

Logos Mobile Ed: NT101 Introducing the New Testament: Its Structure and Story —6 hours. (Retail price $330 if purchased independently — But included as a part of this Redemption Course.)

Overview
Explore the structure, themes, and historical context of the New Testament with renowned scholar Dr. Lynn Cohick. This course provides an in-depth look at the literary techniques of the Gospel writers, the development of the early church, the backgrounds of the epistles, and the distinctive genre of Revelation. Additionally, Dr. Cohick examines the life of Jesus and the broader historical setting in which the New Testament was written, offering valuable insights into its message and significance.

 

Teaching by:
Dr. Lynn Cohick

Logos Mobile Ed: NT231 Paul of Tarsus (5 hours) (Retail price $275 if purchased independently — But included as a part of this Redemption Course.)

Overview
Who was Paul of Tarsus, and why does he remain such a pivotal figure in Christian history? In this course, Dr. Lynn Cohick provides a rich exploration of Paul’s life, beliefs, and mission by examining both the book of Acts and Paul’s own letters. Rather than viewing Paul solely as a theologian or letter-writer, Dr. Cohick presents him as an active participant in the unfolding story of the early church—someone whose faith was lived out in action as well as in words.

Beginning with Luke’s account in Acts, Dr. Cohick highlights key moments in Paul’s journey, offering insights into his motivations, challenges, and the historical context of his ministry. Using Acts as a foundation, she then turns to Paul’s own writings to reveal his personal reflections, concerns, and theological convictions. This course serves as a guided exploration of Paul’s life and legacy, providing a deeper understanding of his impact on Christianity.


Required Central Texts Included

Logos digital textbook permanently added to the student’s digital library

  • Burge, Gary M., and Gene L. Green. The New Testament in Antiquity: A Survey of the New Testament within Its Cultural Contexts. 2nd edition. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Academic, 2020.

(Access provided as part of the course, no additional charge)

  • The Lexham Bible Dictionary. Edited by John D. Barry, David Bomar, Derek R. Brown, Rachel Klippenstein, Douglas Mangum, Carrie Sinclair Wolcott, Lazarus Wentz, Elliot Ritzema, and Wendy Widder. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2016.

  • The Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible. Edited by Walter A. Elwell. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1988.

  • Lexham Context Commentary: New Testament. Edited by Douglas Mangum. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2020.