KYB3 The World of the New Testament

This course explores the historical, cultural, social, and religious context of the New Testament, providing students with a deeper understanding of the world in which Jesus and the early Christian movement emerged. Focusing on the political landscape of the Roman Empire, Jewish traditions and expectations, Greco-Roman cultural influences, and the development of early Christian communities, students will examine how these factors shaped the writing and message of the New Testament. Through an interdisciplinary approach, including archaeology, history, and biblical scholarship, students will gain insights into the key social and religious dynamics that influenced the early Christian experience and the formation of the New Testament canon.

Course Outcomes:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Understand the Historical Context of the New Testament.
2. Identify Key Cultural and Religious Influences.
3. Examine the Relationship Between Judaism and Early Christianity.
4. Analyze the Social Structures of the Roman Empire.
5. Interpret New Testament Writings in Context.
6. Explore the Religious Diversity of the First Century.
7. Engage with Scholarly Perspectives on the New Testament World.
8. Understand the Process of Canon Formation.

This course equips students with the knowledge and interpretive skills to understand the New Testament within its broader historical and cultural framework, providing a foundation for advanced study in biblical studies, theology, and church history.