Course Description

Welcome to BBS 103! This course is a journey through the story of the New Testament, from the silent years between the prophets to the final vision of a new creation. Following the grand overview in BBS 101, this course focuses on the narrative of God’s plan fulfilled in Jesus Christ. We will explore the world into which Jesus was born, walk with Him through His life and ministry, witness the climactic events of His death and resurrection, and trace the birth and expansion of the early Church. You’ll meet the key figures, understand the pivotal events, and grasp the foundational truths that have shaped the faith of millions. Get ready to see the story of Jesus and His Church unfold!

Course Structure

This course is composed of five chapters, each building upon the last to tell the complete story of the New Testament. Each chapter includes a detailed summary, five in-depth lessons, a chapter test, and an optional “Deep Dive” for further study. The course culminates in a final course test.

• Course: Syllabus + Interactive Syllabus + 5 Chapters + Course Test
• Chapter: Summary + 5 Lessons + Chapter Test + Deep Dive

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Trace the Narrative Arc: Articulate the main storyline of the New Testament, from the Intertestamental Period to the Book of Revelation.
• Identify Key Figures and Events: Recognize the major characters (e.g., Jesus, Peter, Paul) and pivotal events (e.g., the Incarnation, the Crucifixion, Pentecost) and explain their significance.
• Understand Foundational Theology: Explain the development and significance of core New Testament doctrines like the Kingdom of God, the New Covenant, and Justification by Faith.
• Connect to the Old Testament: Understand how the New Testament serves as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises, prophecies, and patterns.
• Engage with the Text: Learn basic principles for reading and interpreting the different genres of the New Testament (Gospels, History, Epistles, Prophecy).
• Enrich Your Faith: Appreciate the depth and richness of the New Testament as the inspired record of God’s redemptive work in Christ.

Course Outline

Chapter 1: The King Arrives – The Foundation of the Gospel Story

• Lesson 1: The World Between the Testaments
• Lesson 2: Four Portraits, One King: Introduction to the Gospels
• Lesson 3: The Incarnation: The Birth of Jesus
• Lesson 4: Preparation for Ministry: Baptism and Temptation
• Lesson 5: The Kingdom at Hand: Jesus’ Core Message & First Disciples

Chapter 2: The King’s Ministry – Words and Works of the Messiah

• Lesson 1: The King’s Manifesto: The Sermon on the Mount
• Lesson 2: The King’s Authority: Miracles and Healings
• Lesson 3: The King’s Wisdom: The Parables
• Lesson 4: The King’s Identity: Growing Conflict & Opposition
• Lesson 5: The King’s Mission: The Journey to Jerusalem

Chapter 3: The King’s Sacrifice – The Climax of Redemption

• Lesson 1: The Final Week Begins: Triumphal Entry & Temple Cleansing
• Lesson 2: The Upper Room: The Last Supper & New Covenant
• Lesson 3: The Darkest Hours: Arrest, Trials, and Denials
• Lesson 4: The Ultimate Price: The Crucifixion
• Lesson 5: The Ultimate Victory: The Resurrection

Chapter 4: The King’s Church – The Birth and Expansion of the Ekklesia

• Lesson 1: Power from on High: The Ascension & Pentecost
• Lesson 2: The Jerusalem Community: Growth, Miracles, and Martyrdom (Acts 1-7)
• Lesson 3: Breaking Barriers: The Gospel to Samaria and the Gentiles (Acts 8-12)
• Lesson 4: To the Ends of the Earth: The Missionary Journeys of Paul (Acts 13-28)
• Lesson 5: A Council and a Crisis: Grace Affirmed in Jerusalem (Acts 15)

Chapter 5: The King’s Letters & Final Victory – Instruction for the Church and Hope for the Future

• Lesson 1: Letters from a Servant: Introduction to the Pauline Epistles
• Lesson 2: Letters from the Pillars: Introduction to the General Epistles
• Lesson 3: Faith at Work: Key Themes from James and Peter
• Lesson 4: The Test of Love: Key Themes from John’s Epistles
• Lesson 5: The King’s Return: Introduction to Revelation

Assessments & Grading

• Chapter Tests: A test at the end of each of the five chapters will review the material covered.
• Final Course Test: A comprehensive final exam will cover the key ideas from all five chapters.
• Passing Requirement: To successfully complete this course, you must achieve a score of 80% or higher on each of the five Chapter Tests and the Final Course Test.