Foundations: What Every Christian Should Know

Learning Objectives

• Understand what Christianity actually is and how it differs from being simply a good, moral person
• Understand who Jesus is - fully God and fully man
• Understand why Jesus had to die, and what His death actually accomplished
• Understand how the death of one man can provide salvation for all people who believe
• Understand what salvation actually is - what we are saved from and what we are saved to
• Understand how salvation is received, through repentance and faith
• Understand clearly that salvation cannot be earned, and is received by grace alone

Syllabus

Overview

This course answers the most fundamental questions of the Christian faith in clear, accessible terms - what Christianity actually is, who Jesus is, why He died, how one man's death can save everyone, what salvation is, how it is received, and whether it can be earned. Written to be understandable to anyone, whether brand new to the faith or a longtime believer wanting to articulate these truths more clearly.

Reading Plan

Week 1: What is Christianity? Week 2: Who is Jesus? Week 3: Why did Jesus die? Week 4: How can one man save everyone? Week 5: What is salvation? Week 6: How do we receive salvation? Week 7: Can salvation be earned?

Required Materials

A personal Bible in one of the following standard translations: ESV, NIV, NASB 1995, CSB, LSB, or NLT; a notebook or journal for reading notes and reflection.

Grading & Completion

Assessment focuses on engagement with Scripture and demonstration of comprehension. Students complete weekly reading assignments and a short weekly quiz covering that week's material. A final exam covering the entire course is available once every week has been passed.

Course Outcomes

• Upon completion, students will be able to clearly explain the core message of the Christian gospel in their own words
• Upon completion, students will be able to explain who Jesus is and why His death and resurrection matter
• Upon completion, students will be able to explain, with confidence, how a person actually receives salvation