Course Description: NTS400 - New Testament Survey III
NTS400 - New Testament Survey III is
an advanced-level course that provides a comprehensive exploration of critical
theological themes, doctrines, and interpretations of the New Testament.
Building on the foundations laid in NTS100 and NTS200, this course delves
deeply into the integration of Old Testament concepts with New Testament
theology, offering students a thorough understanding of the continuity and
fulfillment of God's redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture.
The course is structured to cover eight major themes:
- Old Testament Concepts and New Testament Theology: This section examines how key Old Testament themes
such as covenants, sacrifices, and prophecies find their fulfillment in
the New Testament, particularly in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
Students will gain an understanding of how the New Testament writers
reinterpret Old Testament scriptures to articulate the identity and
mission of Christ.
- The Doctrine of Atonement: Students will explore the Old Testament sacrificial
system and its culmination in the atoning work of Christ. The course
covers various atonement theories, the significance of the resurrection,
and how these concepts are central to Christian worship and practice.
- The Plan of Salvation: This section traces the unfolding of God's salvation
plan from Genesis to Revelation. It covers key biblical figures and
events, the role of covenants, and the New Testament’s presentation of
salvation through Christ. The course also examines theological concepts
such as justification, sanctification, and glorification, providing
students with a robust understanding of soteriology.
- Integration of Old Testament and New Testament
Theology: This section focuses on typology, the
relationship between the Law and the Gospel, and the use of Old Testament
scripture in the New Testament. Students will explore how New Testament
writers use typology to reveal Christ and how the promises of God in the
Old Testament are fulfilled in the New.
- Eschatology and End Times: Students will study Old and New Testament
eschatology, including the concept of the Day of the Lord, the teachings
of Jesus on the end times, the Book of Revelation, and different
eschatological views. This section also covers the resurrection, final judgment,
and the hope of the New Heaven and New Earth.
- Systematic Theology and Personal Faith: This section explores the role of systematic
theology in shaping Christian life and practice. Students will learn how
to develop a coherent theological framework and how key doctrines such as
the Trinity, Christology, and Soteriology inform personal faith, spiritual
formation, and ethical decision-making.
- Advanced Study of the Book of Revelation: This section provides an in-depth analysis of the
literary structure, symbols, and theological messages of Revelation.
Students will study the seven churches, the throne room visions, the
eschatological themes, and the final victory of good over evil, gaining
insights into the relevance of Revelation for contemporary Christian life.
- Application and Reflection: The course concludes with practical applications of
theological concepts to daily life. Students will reflect on their faith
journey in light of systematic theology, explore the impact of eschatology
on Christian living, and examine the role of the Church in helping
individuals apply theological truths. This section encourages continuous
learning, spiritual growth, and the integration of faith into every area
of life.
By the end of NTS400, students will have a deep and nuanced
understanding of New Testament theology, equipping them to teach, apply, and
live out these truths in both academic and pastoral contexts. This course
emphasizes not only the acquisition of knowledge but also the practical
application of theology to foster spiritual growth and maturity in the life of
the believer.