The New Testament

Course Overview

Discover how historical research can illuminate the New Testament in this riveting course that combines biblical scholarship, archaeology, and literary analysis.

The New Testament is among the most significant writings the world has ever known, influencing literature, faith, and culture for over 2,000 years. Yet, it remains one of Western civilization’s most widely disputed and misunderstood texts. This course, taught by distinguished religious scholar Dr. Craig R. Koester, offers a carefully reasoned understanding not only of the New Testament itself but also of the individuals and communities that created its texts.

Through 24 engaging lectures, you’ll explore key historical questions about authorship, circumstance, audience, content, and meaning. You will delve into the development of early Christianity, examining how different texts emerged and why some were included in the New Testament canon while others were excluded. By studying the New Testament as a collection of narratives, you can better appreciate its impact on history and its relevance for contemporary readers.

Video Lecture List

1. The Early Christians and Their Literature

• 32 min
• Overview of who the authors were and their intended audiences.

1. The Greco-Roman Context

• 31 min
• Explore the religious environment of the Greco-Roman world that shaped early Christianity.

1. Ancient Judaism

• 31 min
• Discuss the diverse sects of Judaism during the time of Jesus and their beliefs.

1. The Earliest Traditions About Jesus

• 31 min
• Analyze the oral traditions that formed before the Gospels were written.

1. Mark-Jesus the Suffering Son of God

• 31 min
• Investigate Mark’s portrayal of Jesus and its implications.

1. Matthew-Jesus the Jewish Messiah

• 31 min
• Examine Matthew’s emphasis on Jesus’ Jewish identity and teachings.

1. Luke-Jesus the Savior of the World

• 31 min
• Discuss Luke’s viewpoint on social issues and Jesus’ message to the Gentiles.

1. John-Jesus the Man from Heaven

• 31 min
• Explore John’s distinctive theological interpretation of Jesus.

1. Noncanonical Gospels

• 31 min
• Learn about gospels that didn’t make it into the New Testament and why they were excluded.

1. The Historical Jesus-Sources and Problems

• 30 min
• Examine how Gospels serve as historical sources despite discrepancies.

(…Continued through all 24 lectures)