Introduction

This course, Introduction to the New Testament, offers a comprehensive and academically rigorous exploration of the writings that form the foundation of Christian faith and theology. Designed as an intensive learning experience, the course guides students through the literary, historical, and sociocultural world in which the New Testament emerged, providing the tools necessary for thoughtful and critical engagement with its texts. Through a combination of lectures, readings, audiovisual resources, and group discussions, participants will gain a deeper appreciation of the complex processes that shaped the early Christian movement and its sacred writings. 

Students will begin by examining the geographical, political, social, and religious context of the first century, setting the stage for a meaningful study of Jesus of Nazareth and the early Christian communities. Special attention will be given to the canonical process, understanding how the New Testament as we know it came to be. From there, the course will explore major sections of the New Testament—its Gospels, Acts, Pauline corpus, General Epistles, and the Book of Revelation—highlighting their distinctive theological emphases, literary features, and pastoral concerns. 

Methodologically, the course draws upon historical-critical, literary, sociological, and hermeneutical approaches, encouraging students to cultivate skills in critical reading, exegesis, research, and theological reflection. Interactive components, such as group exercises and discussion sessions, will reinforce the application of academic tools to real ministry and teaching contexts. 

By the end of the course, students will be equipped not only with introductory knowledge of each major New Testament writing but also with the ability to articulate foundational elements of New Testament theology. Ultimately, this course aims to inspire both intellectual growth and spiritual enrichment, preparing participants to read, interpret, and teach the New Testament with clarity, depth, and contextual awareness. 

Dr. Pablo A. Jiménez

Email: profpablojimenez@gmail.com 

Website: www.drpablojimenez.com 

Introduction to the New Testament

December 3 to 6, 2025

Syllabus

Course description

Literary and historical-critical introduction to the documents of the New Testament (NT). Consider the canonical process, the social historical background of the NT, the historical person of Jesus of Nazareth, the Synoptic Gospels, the Johannine Literature, the Acts of the Apostles, the Pauline Writings, the General Epistles, and Revelation. The course approaches the documents in question from literary, historical-critical, sociological, and hermeneutical perspectives.

Educational objectives

At the end of the course, each student will be able to:

1. Better understand the geographical, historical, cultural, and religious context of the New Testament.
2. Use their new academic skills in the study of the New Testament, including critical reading, exegesis, research, and discussion skills.
3. Discuss the basic introductory elements of the New Testament writings.
4. Discuss the basic elements of New Testament theology.

Required readings

Allen, Ronald J. Reading the New Testament for the First Time. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2012.

Methodology

The course will be conducted as follows:

1. The theoretical aspects of the course will be covered through lectures, directed readings, and assigned readings.
2. The practical aspects of the course will be covered through group exercises.
3. The teacher will use computer-generated presentations, educational videos, and other electronic resources to conduct the course.

Evaluation criteria

To successfully complete the course, students must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Attend classes regularly.
2. Write a journal as a final evaluation of the course, writing a short reflection of no less than 500 words answering the following questions. Score: 25 points.
3. Watch the video about the New Testament Historical Background, read the materials, and answer assigned questions. Score: 25 points.
4. Watch the videos about Jesus of Nazareth, read the materials, and answer the assigned questions. Score: 25 points.
5. Watch the video about The Apostle Paul, read the materials, and answer the assigned questions. Score: 25 points.

Four grades will be awarded in the course. They are divided as follows:

• Quiz about The Historical Background of the NT
• Quiz about Jesus of Nazareth
• Quiz about The Apostle Paul
• Journal - Final Evaluation

Each assignment will have a cumulative value of 25 points. The total possible to obtain is, therefore, 100 points.

Schedule

Wednesday

• Reading and discussion of the Syllabus
• History of the NT 
• Political and social setting of the New Testament
• Jesus of Nazareth: Life and Theology
• Reading: Allen, Chapters 1-4

Thursday

• The Synoptic Problem
• The Synoptic Gospels and Acts
• Reading: Allen, Chapter 8

Friday

• The Gospel of John and Johanine Literature
• Paul: Introduction to his life & ministry
• Pauline Theology
• Reading: Allen, Chapters 5-6, 8

Saturday

• The Pauline Epistles
• The General Letters
• Revelation
• Reading: Allen, Chapters 7, 9-13