New Testament Survey I

Learning Objectives

• Identify the major events, teachings, and characters in Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Acts
• Analyze the similarities and differences among the four Gospel accounts
• Trace the geographical and chronological progression of Jesus's ministry and the early church's growth
• Recognize the distinct theological emphases each Gospel writer communicates about Jesus
• Understand the role of the Holy Spirit and apostolic leadership in Acts
• Summarize the major themes of redemption, discipleship, and witness in these five books
• Locate and explain key Old Testament connections in New Testament passages
• Connect historical and cultural context to the meaning of biblical passages

Syllabus

Overview

New Testament Survey I is designed to ground ministry students in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the birth of the church as witnessed in Scripture. Rather than relying on secondary sources, this course prioritizes direct reading of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Acts. Students will observe the distinct voice and purpose of each Gospel writer, trace major episodes and teachings chronologically where possible, and understand how these narratives shape Christian belief and practice. The course combines close reading with discussion that connects the text to a student's own faith and future ministry. Throughout, we ask: What does each passage reveal about Jesus? How does it call the church to live and witness? How does it connect to God's promises in the Old Testament?

Reading Plan

Weeks 1–2: Matthew, chapters 1–13 (introduction, Sermon on the Mount, parables)
Weeks 3–4: Matthew, chapters 14–28 (miracles, passion, resurrection)
Weeks 5–6: Mark, chapters 1–8 (call of disciples, miracles, Peter's confession)
Weeks 7–8: Mark, chapters 9–16 (transfiguration, final week, resurrection)
Weeks 9–10: Luke, chapters 1–12 (birth narratives, early ministry, Jesus's teachings on money and discipleship)
Weeks 11–12: Luke, chapters 13–24 (parables of mercy, passion, resurrection appearances)
Weeks 13–14: John, chapters 1–11 (prologue, signs, claims of Jesus, raising of Lazarus)
Weeks 15–16: John, chapters 12–21 (final discourse, crucifixion, resurrection, commissioning)
Weeks 17–18: Acts, chapters 1–12 (Pentecost, apostolic witness in Jerusalem, Peter's ministry, gentile inclusion)
Weeks 19–20: Acts, chapters 13–28 (Paul's missionary journeys, Jerusalem council, witness to Rome)

Required Materials

A student Bible in a standard English translation (ESV, NIV, NASB, NLT, LSB, or CSB)
Notebook or journal for class notes and reflections
Writing materials for quizzes and assignments
Optional: a basic Bible atlas or map resource for geographical context

Grading & Completion

Weekly reading assignments (40%): Students will complete assigned Gospel and Acts readings and submit brief weekly reflection notes responding to study questions. Active participation in class discussion and small-group work contributes to this component. Three quizzes (30%): Short-answer quizzes at weeks 6, 12, and 18 will assess comprehension of major events, teachings, and themes. A final examination (20%): A comprehensive exam in the final week covering all five books, emphasizing key passages, theological themes, and connections between the texts. A culminating synthesis paper (10%): In the final two weeks, students will write a 5–7 page paper tracing a major theme (such as the kingdom of God, discipleship, or witness) through all five books. All written work must demonstrate close reading of Scripture and clear, organized writing.

Course Outcomes

• Upon completion, students will be able to read and comprehend the Gospels and Acts with attention to their literary form, historical setting, and theological purpose.
• Upon completion, students will be able to identify the central claims each Gospel makes about Jesus's identity, mission, and resurrection.
• Upon completion, students will be able to trace the expansion of the gospel from Jerusalem to the Gentile world as recorded in Acts.
• Upon completion, students will be able to recognize and explain how Old Testament background illuminates New Testament passages.
• Upon completion, students will be able to articulate how the Gospels and Acts call believers to discipleship, witness, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.