Introduction to the New Testament

We will study the New Testament literature by reading the N.T. texts, the assigned textbook, and other supportive literature.  By interacting with the readings, seeking answers to key questions, and through interaction and discussion, students will become better acquainted with the content and context of the writings, the themes of the Biblical drama centered upon Jesus, and the New Testament’s bearing upon current issues and ministry.  The overall purpose of the course is to enhance the student’s understanding and use of the N.T. in teaching, preaching, and living faithfully in God’s world today.

Leader:  Bob Atkinson, is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and serves as the Interim Minister at Zion U.C.C. in Mayview, Missouri.  Prior to this he served as:  Interim Minister at Bethel U.C.C. in Concordia, Missouri; Campaign Development Director for the Camp Mo-Val Campaign of the Missouri Mid-South Conference U.C.C. for five years; and Pastor of Trinity U.C.C. in Lexington, Missouri, for eleven years.  Bob was ordained in 1991 after receiving a Master of Divinity degree from Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Kansas.  He also received a Masters degree in Adult and Continuing Education from the University of Missouri – Kansas City in 1982, and a B.A. degree in Religion from Eastern Nazarene College in Wollaston, Massachusetts, in 1977.

Dates: June 1 to July 27, 2010

Cost:   $390.00

Text:

• Chalice Introduction to the New Testament, Dennis E. Smith, editor (Chalice Press, 2004).
• Students are encouraged to use a New Revised Standard Version Study Bible, such as:  The New Interpreter’s Study Bible; The New Oxford Annotated Bible; The HarperCollins Study Bible; or The Oxford Study Bible.
• Highly recommended is:  An Introduction to the New Testament, by Raymond E. Brown (Anchor Bible Reference Library, New York:  Doubleday, 1997).  This book is most helpful for NT study.