Programs

New Testament History & Literature

  • Grades10-12
  • DatesMay 29 - June 27, 2025
  • Credits.333 credits
  • Price$775
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New Testament History & Literature fulfills the 10th grade religious studies graduation requirement for Parish.

In this course, students will learn to read and interpret ancient Christian texts and apply the methods of modern biblical scholarship. They will also learn to critically discuss the claims made by early Christian writers. New Testament History and Literature is a study of the beliefs and practices of 1st and 2nd century Christians as these are described in the writings of the New Testament and other contemporary texts. Of central importance is the figure of Jesus of Nazareth. What can be known about him? Who did he believe himself to be? How was he received by his countrymen? How, after his death, was his influence extended beyond Judea to Syria, the Aegean, and Rome?

In our search for answers to these questions and others—e.g. How is early Christianity related to Second-Temple Judaism? Does Jesus teach that wealth is immoral? Did his followers believe that they could become divine? Who, according to the early Christian writers, will enter the Kingdom of Heaven?—we will read the narratives about Jesus and his followers in the Gospels; together with the religious and theological claims in the Pauline, Johannine, and Petrine epistles; as well as those in the writings of the early Apostolic Fathers.

Students will learn to read and interpret ancient Christian texts and apply the methods of modern biblical scholarship. They will also learn to critically discuss the claims made by early Christian writers.

To meet the religious studies graduation requirement, either Hebrew Bible or New Testament History and Literature must be completed in addition to World Religions and Contemporary Religious Issues during a student’s tenure in Upper School.

Instructor: Dr. Brad Blue

Attendance Expectations & Requirements

Classes require in-person attendance at the Midway campus. Instructors encourage students to attend all scheduled classes to ensure success, but students are required to attend FIVE of seven face-to-face sessions to receive credit for the course. Additionally, students must attend one of the scheduled orientation sessions in May.

Students must complete and turn in an attendance plan to the instructors showing how they plan to meet the minimum attendance requirements.

Required Orientation for all students: Week of May 19th

Scheduled Class Meetings (Must attend FIVE sessions)

  • Thursday, May 29 (12:30 – 2:00 pm)
  • Monday, June 2 (12:30 – 2:00 pm)
  • Wednesday, June 4 (12:30 – 2:00 pm)
  • Monday, June 9 (12:30 – 2:00 pm)
  • Wednesday, June 11 (12:30 – 2:00 pm)
  • Monday, June 16 (12:30 – 2:00 pm)
  • Wednesday, June 18 (12:30 – 2:00 pm)

Final date for all Coursework – Friday, June 27 at midnight

“I have enjoyed taking summer classes as I am able to select other areas to explore during the year. It is nice to have some structure and maintain friendships during the summer classes.”

Student Testimonials

Program Instructor

Dr. Brad Blue

Email Dr. Blue