NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY - Servant Leaders English Testament Survey is a course designed as ... The perfect environment that was marred by sin in ... the first century. 1

New Testament Survey is a course designed asa complement to the Old Testament SurveyCourse. The student will see the consummationof God’s story of human history.

NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY

INTRODUCTION .................................4

INTER-TESTAMENT PERIOD.................8

TOPICAL NEW TESTAMENT...............10CAIN & ABEL, THE FLOOD AND THE TOWER OF BABEL

GEOGRAPHICAL NEW TESTAMENT.......................................11

THE GOSPELS....................................16ISAAC, JACOB AND JOSEPH

EARLY CHURCH HISTORY................ 21

GENERAL LETTERS BY PAUL..............23MOSES (NUMBERS / DEUTERONOMY)

PERSONAL LETTERS BY PAUL............30

LETTERS FROM OTHERS.....................33

PROPHECY OF FUTURE.....................38

APPENDIX-A....................................40

APPENDIX-B.....................................43

APPENDIX-C....................................45

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3LIFE

STUDENT GUIDE

Servant Leaders RESOURCECopyright © 2015 Servant Leaders InternationalVisit our website: www.servantleaderstraining.comAll rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise, except as permitted under Sections 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without the prior permission of the Publisher or Authors of this content. Written requests to the publisher for permission should be addressed to David M. Graef at [email protected]. He can also be reached at (616) 498-1986.

CreditsAuthor: David Graef and Cameron WoolfordGraphic Design: Ashley Day

3 |NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY

Description:New Testament Survey is a course designed as a complement to the Old Testament Survey Course. The student will see the consummation of God’s story of human history.

Objectives: Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to…

• Understand the historical context of inter-testamental period up till the coming of Christ.

• Articulate the literary structure of the New Testament, knowing which books of the Old Testament be-long to the Gospels, History, Letters and Prophecy.

• Grasp the geographical context of the New Testament narratives.

• Distinguish the purposes and intents of the four gospels.

• ShowhowJesusfulfilledallOldTestamentMessianicpropheciesandpropheticelementsoftheOldTestament covenants.

• Have a basic understanding of the content and structure of all New Testament books.

• HaveabasicunderstandingoftheNewTestamentprophecieswhichareyettobefulfilled.

Learning Inputs:

1. Attendance of course lectures

2. Completion of assigned reading

Outcome Activities:

1. Complete Homework Assignments

2. Complete Final Project

course: new testament survey

INTRODUCTION


THE BIBLE PYRAMID(Symmetry within the structure of the Bible)

1BIBLE

2TESTAMENTS

3 MAJOR TOPICS17 HISTORY 55 EXPERIENCE 2117 PROPHECY 1

(Israel) 8 MAJOR DIVISIONS (Church) Law History Poetry Prophecy Gospels History Letters Prophecy

5 12 5 17 4 1 21 1

The Overview


Notes


EIGHT MAJOR DIVISIONS

Old Testament

1. LAW (Genesis – Deuteronomy): 5 books Foundation

In the Law God lays down the foundation on which the superstructure of the succeeding Scriptures

isbuilt.AllmajorBiblethemesanddoctrineshavetheirrootsinthefirst5Biblebooks.

2. HISTORY OF ISRAEL (Joshua – Esther): 12 books Explanation

The History books (Joshua through Esther) give us the explanation of how God’s character and

plan for man should have worked out in the history of one nation. In the Law, Abraham and his

people were called and prepared. Then in the historical books they were to practice their faith

before a pagan world. They were to be God’s salt and light. The plan was to give the world a

living illustration, through Abraham and his descendants, of the quality of life God desires for all His

creatures. God’s precepts were to be their practice, His law their life. In so doing they would make

the world thirsty for the quality of life the one true God could produce in people.

3. POETRY (Job – Song of Solomon): 5 books Aspiration

In these books (Job through Song of Solomon) are recorded the aspirations of men and women, to

encourage us to walk closer with our Creator.

Why is their suffering in our lives? How can we handle it?

How can we worship God in a wicked world?

How can we stay pure when persecuted and suffering?

PROVERBS Where can we get wisdom for the practical problems of everyday life?

ECCLESIASTES What is really worth living for?

SONG of SOLOMON What is God’s view of love in marriage?

4. PROPHECY (Isaiah – Malachi): 17 books Expectation

TheOldTestamentpropheticbooks(IsaiahthroughMalachi)arefilledwithdoubleexpectations:

God’s expectation for His people, and His people’s expectations from Him. These books were

writtentoafflictthecomfortableandcomforttheafflicted.

JOB

PSALMS


Notes

8 | NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY

New Testament

5. GOSPELS (Matthew – John): 4 books Manifestation

AfterMalachitherewere400yearsof“Prophetless”,andmostly“profitless”,existence.Thenthe

New Testament opened with the announcement and arrival of the long awaited perfect Prophet,

Priest,andKing.HereintheGospelswasthemightymanifestationofGodincarnate(inflesh).The

infinitesomehowbecameaninfant.Jesuswasfullyman,becauseHehadtobeamaninorderto

die, for God can’t die. But He also had to be fully God, because only God is perfect and therefore

able to pay for the sins of the world. If Jesus Christ was not fully God and fully man, the God-man,

He could not have been our Savior.

6. HISTORY OF CHURCH (Acts): 1 book Formation

ThehistorybookofActscontainstheformationofthechurch.Acts1recordsthefinalwordsof

Christ’s earthly ministry, chapter 2 contains information on the birth of the church at Pentecost, and

the rest of the book of Acts records the expansion of the church throughout the Roman Empire. The

church is born in Acts 2 and then spreads from Jerusalem, to Judea, to Samaria and the rest of the

world.

7. LETTERS (Romans – Jude): 21 books Exhortation

In the Law there were 613 commandments given to God’s people. In the New Testament there

are 1,051 commands, most of which are in the Epistles (Letters). That’s why we describe the New

Testament Letters (Romans through Jude) as exhortation. Here the will of God for believers is spelled

out in no uncertain terms. If you really want to know what God wants you to do, read the Letters.

IDEA: Why not read through the Letters and mark a big letter “C” in the margin of your Bible beside each command.

8. PROPHECY (Revelation): 1 book Culmination

Just as Genesis describes the origination of things, so the New Testament Prophecy book

(Revelation) depicts the culmination of things. The perfect environment that was marred by sin in

Genesis is made new in Revelation

WHAT THEN IS THE MAJOR PURPOSE OF THE BIBLE?


Notes


The Authors of the NT

MATTHEW one of the original disciples, tax collector /publican

MARK not an apostle, lived in Jerusalem, played a role in Paul’s ministry

LUKE not an apostle, traveled with Paul, two books he authored may have been written as part

of Paul’s defense

JOHN part of the inner circle of three disciples

PAUL religious Pharisee who was converted after meeting Jesus face to face on the road to

Damascus.

PETER part of the inner circle of three disciples

JAMES half brother of Jesus, did not become a believer till after Christ’s resurrection, called an

apostle

JUDE half brother of Jesus, full brother of James, did not become a believer till after Christ’s

resurrection

? The author of Hebrews is unknown


Notes


400 YEARS BETWEEN Testaments

The so-called 400 “silent years” between Malachi and Matthew (silent because no authoritative prophet

wasonthescene)wereinrealityfilledwithactivityofspiritualsignificance.Godwasveryactiveinhuman

history preparing things for the coming of His Son (Galatians 4:4, But when the fullness of time had come,

God sent forth His Son@).

The Empires:

1. ASSYRIAN EMPIRE – Came to ascendancy about 900 BC..

2. BABYLONIAN EMPIRE – Controlled the world scene from 612 – 539 3. MEDO-PERSIAN EMPIRE– This

lasted from 539 – 332 BC.

4. GREEK EMPIRE – Their world domination lasted from 332 – 176 BC.

5. MACCABEES – This was a large group in Judah which established a time of Jewish independence

after a revolt against Greek authority in 176 BC.

6. ROMAN EMPIRE – Caesar Pompey the Great brought Palestine under Roman rule in 63 BC. This

would be a dominion that would last until around 500 AD. Christ was born during the reign of Caesar

Augustus who had appointed Herod the Great as king over Palestine.

Important Events Preparing the Way:

During the period of Roman rule leading up to the birth of Christ there were several important developments

that prepared the way for the coming of Christ (Galatians 4:4) and the spread of the gospel throughout

thefirstcentury.

1. SYNAGOGUE – During the period of Babylonian Exile and after the Jewish people were dispersed

throughout the then known world, synagogues (places of Jewish worship and the study of the OT

Scriptures) were established wherever there were groups of Hebrews. During the 1st century they

provided a place where the apostle Paul and others could go and preach the gospel.

2. ROADS –Cyrus, the first kingof Persia,begandevelopinga systemof roadsduringhis reign. This

continued during the early years of the Romans to the point that by the time of Christ there was a

very well developed system of roads throughout the entire empire.

inter-testament period


Notes


3. LAISEZ-FARE ATTITUDE (worship without interference) – This started with the Medo-Persian Empire

where they allowed the Jews to return and live in their home land, worshiping as they pleased as

long as they did not cause any disturbance. This policy carried right on into the Roman Empire and all

its provinces. Thus the Jews were able to worship freely and the early Christians were able to openly

spread the gospel with little or no hindrance from the government.

4. GREEK LANGUAGE – The fact that everyone spoke Greek also facilitated the spread of the gospel.

Christians did not have to learn new languages, nor did the Bible have to be translated into dozens

of other languages in order for the message to get out. This also led to the writing of the Septuagint

(Greek translation of the Old Testament, LXX). Now everyone could understand the Bible. (Four major

languages: Latin – Roman courts & literature, Greek – common man, Aramaic – in Palestine/Israel,

Hebrew – Jewish religious leadership)

5. PAX ROMANA (Roman peace) – During the time of Christ and the 1st century church the Roman

Empire was at relative peace. This made the world one big happy neighborhood and facilitated free

movement throughout the empire for Christians and the gospel.

PARTIES OF THE JEWS BETWEEN THE TESTAMENTS

Judaism in Jesus’ day was fractured by factions, which largely developed during the inter-testamental

period. Overall the Jewish faith had become an emphasis on the externals (being right with God by

following a long list of rules). The Sanhedrin (the 70) became the supreme court in Israel in religious and

some civil matters, but any major decisions were subject to Roman approval. The high priest served as the

Sanhedrin’s leader. There were 6 Jewish parties that vied for the people’s allegiance.

The 6 Parties of Jews between the Testaments: (3 religious groups & 3 secular)

A. Religious Groups

1. PHARISEES (legalists) – These were the staunch conservatives, upholding both the Old Testament

and the accumulated oral traditions of the Jews. They were strict legalists and political separatists.

2. SADDUCCEES (rationalists) – These were the upper class religious and political liberals. These wealthy

and socially minded rationalists rejected belief in the resurrection or the immortality of the soul.

They strongly opposed the Pharisees and their traditions.

3. SCRIBES (traditionalists) – These were the professional religious teachers and interpreters of the OT

law. They devoted themselves largely to disputes and debates over small details of Scripture. They

hated Christ from the very beginning of His ministry.

B. Secular Groups

4. HERODIANS (status quo) – They were pro-establishment, committed to maintaining the status quo.

5. ZEALOTS (political activists) – These were the Middle East terrorists of Jesus’ day

6. ESSENES (isolationists) – These were the extremists, living in isolation from the rest of Jewish society


Notes


topical new testament

Thefirst5booksoftheNewTestamentgiveusthehistoryofChristandthechurch,thenext21books,inthe

formofletters,focusonthebeliever’sexperienceandtheclosingprophecybookisafittingculmination

to the whole collection of Scripture.

Observations:

1.ThefiveNewTestamenthistorybooksgiveusthe“storyline,.

2. 22 books supplementing that story.

3.The4GospelsrecordthemanifestationofChristintheflesh.

4. Acts records the formation and expansion of the church under the leadership of the apostles.

The letters (epistles) are full of God’s exhortation to His people. As expected the majority of the 1,051

commandsoftheNewTestamentarefoundhere.Forthemostpartthelettersfitintothetimeperiodofthe

bookofActs.The21lettersdividenaturallyintotwogroups.Thefirst13arefromPaul,andthelast8arefrom

others. Paul’s epistles all get their names from the people to whom they were addressed (for example:

letter to Timothy, to the Ephesians, etc.). But the others all get their names from their human authors (for

example: letter from Peter, from James, from John, etc.). Hebrews, with its unknown author, is the only one

thatdoesn’tfitthisscheme.

See Appendix A: The Chronological New Testament. Pages 40-42)

History — 5 Books Experience — 21 Books Prophecy — 1 Book

...of Christ

Matthew

Mark

Luke

John

...of the Church

Acts

Letters written by Paul

Romans

1 & 2 Corinthians

Galatians

Ephesians

Philippians

Colossians

1 & 2 Thessalonians

1 & 2 Timothy

Titus

Philemon

Letters written by Others

Hebrews

James

1 & 2 Peter

1, 2, & 3 John

Jude

Revelation


Notes


geographical new testament

THE FOUR GOSPELS ON ONE MAP

Most believers are familiar with the pieces of Christ’s earthly

life and ministry, but rarely do they see the panorama of it

all. In this section of our study we will draw a map of the land

of the gospels and place major events from Christ’s life and

ministry on it.

The Old Testament map stretches all the way from Egypt to

Persia, but for the life of Christ we only need a small section

of that map. Jesus never traveled more than 100 miles from

home during his whole earthly life.

The Water

1. The Great Ocean The names of the major bodies of water

change some from the OT to the NT. The Great Sea of the

OT is never mentioned by name in the NT, though many

events take place on it. Today we call it by its modern

name, Mediterranean Sea.

2. In the Gospels the Sea of Chinnereth becomes the Sea of

Galilee.

3. The Jordan River keeps its same name

4. The Salt Sea is not mentioned in the NT, but today it is

known as the Dead Sea.

The Regions

There are 5 major regions where Jesus traveled

1. The area between Mt. Carmel and the Sea of Galilee is

named Galilee.

2. The area between the Dead Sea and the Mediterranean

was Judah in the OT, but in the NT it is Judea.

3. Between Judea and Galilee is Samaria.

4. Northeast of the Sea of Galilee is Iturea

5. Northeast of the Dead Sea is Perea.

1.

2.

3.

4.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.


Notes


ACTS AND LETTERS ON ONE MAP

On the map below you will see the area in which all major biblical events from the ascension of Christ to the

Revelation take place. These land areas all clustered around one great sea, the Mediterranean.

Geographical Observations

1. Italy is well known for its boot-shaped boundaries.

2. The next land mass to the east jutting south into the Mediterranean Sea has 3 provinces ; Macedonia,

Achaia, and Greece.

3. The province of Asia is in the southwestern corner of the next landmass to the east, with Galatia in the

center.

4. Syria and Israel hug the eastern shoreline of the Mediterranean.

5. Arabia to the southeast and Egypt southwest of Israel.


Notes


Geography and Formation of the Church: ACTS

THE FORMATION OF THE CHURCH IN ACTS 1-12

The 5th New Testament period covers the expansion of the church from Jerusalem to Syrian Antioch. Jesus

ascended back to heaven from Jerusalem. Fifty days later the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples on the Day

of Pentecost. That event marked the beginning of the church, a body in which there is no distinction between

Jews and Gentiles.

After Pentecost the church was mainly Jewish and centered in Jerusalem. Then Philip took the gospel to Judea

and Samaria. Peter was encouraged in a vision to take the gospel to the Gentiles at Cornelius’ house. Then

Jewish persecution of the church caused believers to go out from Jerusalem as far north as Antioch in Syria.

Shortly thereafter Antioch became the missionary center of the church which was becoming more and more

Gentileinitsfocus.Infactthefirst3missionarytripsledbytheApostlePaulweresentoutfromthischurch.

Paul’s Missionary Journeys

1. PAUL’S FIRST JOURNEY IN ACTS 13-15

The 6th New Testament period Paul, Barnabus, and John Mark (the author of the Gospel of Mark) were sent out

asmissionaries. Traveling throughCyprus, thegroupexperiencedbothconversionsandconflicts.AfterMark

left for home from Perga the other two continued inland to the central cities of Galatia. Many were saved and

several churches were founded, but Satan was hard at work as well. In Lystra Paul was nearly stoned to death.

After the pair had ministered in Derbe they returned to each of the new churches to strengthen the believers in

their faith. Finally they returned to their home base in Antioch.


Notes


2. PAUL’S SECOND JOURNEY IN ACTS 16-18

During this 7th New Testament period

Paul, who had now partnered up

with Silas and Timothy, left the church

at Antioch and went overland to

encourage the believers in Galatia. Then,

clearly directed by the Holy Spirit, the

party headed for Troas on the Aegean

Sea. Their Paul saw a vision of a man from

Macedonia calling for help. The churches

of Philippi, Thessalonica, Corinth, and

Ephesus were all started on this trip. Paul

stayed for 18 months in Corinth teaching

the Word of God, and after stopping in

Jerusalem to greet the church there they

headed home. Most of this missionary

tour was spent in Macedonia, Achaia,

and Greece.

3. PAUL’S THIRD JOURNEY IN ACTS 19-21

The 8th New Testament chronological

period began with a time of strengthening

the Galatian Christians, Paul and his

companions went west to Ephesus where

Paul stayed a total of 3 years. Following

a brief tour through Macedonia, Achaia,

Greece, and back to Ephesus, Paul

quickly made his way to Jerusalem for

the Feast of Pentecost despite several

warnings that he would be arrested there.


Notes


4. PAUL’S FOURTH JOURNEY IN ACTS 22-18

The 9th New Testament period really began in Jerusalem. After he arrived for the feast, Asian Jews mobbed Paul

in the temple, which led to his arrest by the Romans. After 18 months in a Caesarean jail, Paul, as a Roman citizen,

appealed his case to Caesar in Rome. The ship, which transported him and other prisoners there, got caught in a

violent storm and wrecked on the Island

of Malta, just off the coast of Sicily. Once

in Rome Paul was placed under house

arrest for 2 years. Fortunately he was free

to receive visitors and openly proclaim

Christ to the soldiers and others who

were guarding him during all this time.

5. PAUL’S FIFTH JOURNEY

Most historian’s believe that after his

imprisonment in Rome Paul was freed

andtookafifthjourneytoSpain,Ephesus,

Macedonia, Crete, and back to Rome.

During this 10th New Testament period

Paul’s overriding concern was two-fold:

1. To take the gospel to Spain which

was at the western extremity of

the Roman Empire.

2. To encourage his pastoral

appointees, Timothy and Titus

who were pastoring at Ephesus

and Crete respectively.

CONCLUSION OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

MostofthewritingsoftheLaterApostles(LA),thosefirstgenerationapostleswhooutlivedPaul,weredonebythe

aged Apostle John who was exiled on the barren island of Patmos. The book of the Revelation tells of history’s

conclusion and it letters could also reminds us of how history will conclude: He’s Coming! The forces of evil will not

triumph. Jesus Christ is Lord of history and He has promised to personally return to consummate all of history.


Notes


the gospels

Introduction:

Each of the four Gospels develops the life and teachings of Jesus around a central theme.

1. Matthew and John stress divine aspects of Christ.

2. Mark and Luke emphasize His humanity.

3. Matthew and Mark together give us a balanced view of how Christ exercises His royal authority: He

is servant of all.

4. Luke and John each stress one side of Christ: He is fully man and fully God, united in one person.

(See Appendix B: Comparison of the four Gospels. Page 44)

MATTHEW – Messiah/King for the Jews

Matthew is a Jew writing for Jews. His message is that Jesus is none other than the long-awaited Messiah,

God’s Anointed One, predicted and pictured throughout the Old Testament.

Matthew is a natural link between the two testaments, with 99 references to the Old Testament. He

recorded10specificOldTestamentpropheciesthatwerefulfilledbyJesus.Heusestheterms“king”and

“kingdom” 75 times.

Matthew wastes no time or words in presenting Christ as king. In chapters 1-4 he gives Jesus a pedigree

straight back through David to Abraham. His earthly arrival was attested by Scripture, the star and the

angels. John the Baptist proclaimed Him as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world and at

His baptism He was openly approved of by God.

Matthew quoted the King’s own principles for His people (chs. 5-7). His miracles proved that He had

the power to rule (chs. 8-10). After Jewish leaders decided to oppose Jesus as their king (chs. 11-15), He

prepared His disciples (chs. 16-20) for His impending death and resurrection (chs. 21-28). Ultimately He died

on a cross with a sign attached that proclaimed Him as King of the Jews.


Notes


Mark – Christ is Servant

Mark presents Christ as coming not to be ministered to, but to minister. Jesus taught that the way to be

great is to be a servant (10:42-45). Jesus’ nativity and genealogy are not recorded in Mark, for who cares

about a servant’s birth or pedigree. Though this is the shortest of the four gospels it has the most words

about the works of Christ. In stressing the activity of the divine Servant, Mark used the Greek term eutheos,

meaning straightway and immediately forty times to show the clear obedience of Christ to His Father and

His service to others. No one in Mark called Jesus “Lord” before His resurrection. Stern indictments of others

are omitted as they are improper for a servant. Six of the sixteen chapters cover the week before the cross,

which makes sense, because redemption was the Servant Messiah’s greatest work. Throughout the book

Christ leaves a perfect example of service to others as the proper path to greatness.

Outline of Matthew:

Chapters 1-10 Chapters 11-28

LooksmoreatChrist’sfirstcoming Looks more at Christ’s second coming

Ministering to the multitudes Focus on Disciples

Christ came to serve Christ came to suffer

Emphasis on miracles Emphasis on teaching

Ministry in northern Israel Ministry in southern Israel

Outline for part 1a Outline for 2a

Presentation of King (chs. 1-4) Progressive opposition to King (chs. 11-15)

Proclamations of the King (chs. 5-7) Preparation of Disciples (chs. 16-20)

Power of the King (chs. 8-10) Passion of the King (chs. 21-28)


Notes


Outline of Mark:

LUKE – Likeness of Man

Luke’s favorite title for Christ is “Son of Man”. He wrote the longest gospel to demonstrate that Jesus in His

humanity came to sympathize with sinful people as well as to seek and to save them (19:10). It’s not surprising

that a physician would give us the most historical facts and intimate details about Christ’s interactions with

people. Jesus’ emotions emerge the most in Luke and he gives us the lengthiest lineage of Jesus; assuring us

that Jesus was a man. Luke is the gospel commentary on Hebrews 2:17-18 and 4:15-16. Christ is our likeness

in every way but one; he had no sin of His own which meant that He could voluntarily take ours on the cross.

Outline of Luke:

The service of the Servant – Jesus’ life

chapters 1-10

The sacrifice of the Servant – Jesus’

death chapters 11-15

The success of the Servant – Jesus’

resurrection chapter 16

Jesus’ preparation for service (1:1-13)

Jesus’ ministry in Galilee (1:14-6:29)

Jesus withdrawal from Galilee to train the disciples (6:30-9:29)

Jesus’finalministryinGalilee (9:30-50)

Jesus’ ministry in Judea and Perea (ch. 10)

Sunday (11:1-11) The triumphant entry

into Jerusalem

Monday (11:12-19) The cleansing of

the temple

Tuesday (11:20-13:37) Controversies

with Jewish leaders and signs of the

end of the age

Wednesday (14:1-11) The anointing by

Mary

Thursday (14:12-52) The last supper and Gethsemane

Friday (14:53-15:47) Trials and crucifixionofChrist

The conquest of the grave (16:1-14)

The conquest of he globe (16:15-20)

Preparation (1-3 Identification (4-8) Instruction (9-18) Culmination (19-24)

Jerusalem/Nazareth Galilee Judea & Perea Jerusalem

Angels and People Miracles Parables GreatSacrificeandMiracles

30 Years 1.5 Years 6 Months 8 days + 50 days

Mighty in Deed MIghty in Word


Notes


JOHN – Jesus is God

In John the emphasis is on Jesus’ deity and His role as the Son of God. The fourth gospel is 92% unique, only 8%

of it’s content is found in any other gospel and thus John stresses the absolute uniqueness of Christ. He is none

otherthanGodcomeintheflesh!Johncarefullyselectedseven“Iam”claimsofChristtodeity,buttressed

by seven preresurrection miracles (signs) that only God could do.

Seven “I Am” Claims: I am the...

Bread of life (6:35)

Light of the World (8:12)

Door (10:9)

Good shepherd (10:11)

Resurrection and the life (11:25)

Way, and the truth, and the life (14:6)

Vine (15:1)

Seven Miracles/Signs:

Water to wine (2:1-11)

Official’ssonhealed(4:46-51)

Lame man healed (5:1-9)

Feeding of 5,000 (6:1-14)

Walking on the water (6:16-21)

Healing of a blind man (9:1-7)

Resurrection f Lazarus (11:1-46)

John’s stated goal was to present Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world so that people would believe on Him

and have eternal life (20:30-31). This is the gospel of belief, the word believe is used in some form 99 times and

it is available to the whole world, a term used 77 times.

SufficientteachingofandtestimonyaboutChristwasavailabletoproducemanymorebooks(21:25),but

John states that he included enough so that we would have a valid basis for belief in Christ as the Son of

God. God has done His part. The Savior has come, the Scriptures about Him have been written, and our part

is to believe the record and receive Him as our Savior (1:12). The Son of God became the Son of man so that

the sons and daughters of men could become sons and daughters of God.


Notes


(See Appendix C: ALPHABETIZED LIFE OF CHRIST -Page 45.)

Outline of Luke:

Prologue 1:1-14

Jesus’ pre-Galilean ministry 1:15-4:54

Jesus’Galileanministry,conflictsinJerusalem 5:1-10:42

Jesus’ miracle at Bethany and entry into Jerusalem 11:1-12:50

Jesus’finalteachingandprayer 13:1-17:26

Jesus’ death and resurrection 18:1-20:10

Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances 20:11-21:25


Notes


early church history

Acts

The four gospels give us the history of Christ, and Acts the early history of the church. The apostles, trained

under Christ’s earthly ministry, became His church leaders and spokesman under His heavenly ministry. His

apostles (meaning “ones sent with authority”) went out in the power of the Holy Spirit to evangelize the

world.

Observations:

1. The church (Jews and Gentiles – one in Christ) was: Born on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) with the Spirit

empowering the gathered saints

2.Peterquicklyemergedasthedominantspokesman,seeing3,000convertsafterhisfirstsermon.

3. For about seven years the church was all Jewish and centered in Jerusalem.

4. Jewish persecution expanded the church to Samaria and beyond.

5. Saul of Tarsus was converted (Acts 9) and became the apostle to the Gentiles, expanding the church

throughout the Roman Empire by his missionary journeys.

6. ThebookofActs is the natural bridge to the Epistles (letters) and it testifies that Jesus’methodof

multiplying his ministry through others works well. This is still his method today. He desires our lips to be

used to tell His praises and our lives to show His power.

Outline of the Book of Acts:

Formation of the church (1-7) Transition of the church (8-12) Expansion of the church (13-28)

Peter Peter and Barnabus Paul

Evangelizing Jerusalem Evangelizing Judea and Samaria Evangelizing the world

33-39 AD (7 Years) 40-48 AD (8 Years) 49-68 AD (20 Years)


Notes


4 Journeys of Paul

Scripture Time Places Visited Books Written

1st Acts 13-15

47-48 AD Seleucia, Cyprus (Salamos, Paphos), Perga, Antioch in Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra,

Derbe

Galatians

2nd Acts 15:36-18:22

49-52 AD Syria, Cilicia, Derbe, Lystra, Phrygia, Galatia,

Mysia, Troas, Samothracia, Neopolis, Philippi,

Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, Corinth, Ephesus,

Caesarea, Jerusalem

1, 2 Thessalonians

3rd Acts 18:23-21:17

52-56 AD Galatia, Phrygia, Ephesus, Macedona, Greece, Philippi, Troas, Assos,

Mitylene, Chios, Samos, Trogyllium, Miletus, Coos,

Rhodes, Patara, Tyre, Ptolemais, Caesarea,

Jerusalem

1, 2 Corinthians Romans

4th Acts 21:18-26:32 Acts 27:1-28:31

56-58 AD

58-61 AD

Imprisoned in Caesarea for two years

Imprisoned in Rome for 3 years

Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon

5th? 61-64 AD 64-67 AD

68 AD

Crete, Macedonia, Ephesus (1 Timothy 1:3; Imprisoned

in Rome Titus 1:5) Beheaded in Rome

1 Timothy, Titus

2 Timothy


Notes


general letters by paul

ROMANS – Righteousness of God

Romans gives us the big picture of the Gospel developed around the theme of the righteousness of God,

so it’s no wonder that it has been placed at the beginning of the thirteen letters penned by the Apostle

Paul. Paul had never been to Rome when he wrote this letter.

Major Themes:

1 Everyone has a witness of God’s existence and righteousness in creation and conscience, and the

Scripture is available to most.

2. But we all fall short of God’s righteous standard and we are in certain need of the salvation only God

can provide as a grace-gift.

ROMANS GOD’S

RIGHTEOUSNESS

Manifested inpractical life.

(12-16)

Needed bysinful people.

(1:1-3:20)

SIN

SELE

CTI

ON

SERVICE &

SEPARATION

SECURITY SANCTIF

ICATIO

N

Proved by God(3:21-4:25)

Rejected by Israel(9-11)

Guaranteed as permanent

(8:18-39)

Experienced in the soul

(5:1-8:17)

3. Once we sinners accept God’s

gift we are given a right standing

before Him (justification) and we

begin to grow in a process called

sanctification.

4. We are to be living demonstrations

of what the righteousness of God

can produce in lives that are given

to Him.

As with other letters Paul wrote, Romans,

gives a balanced presentation of

doctrine and duty; of how belief ought to

make a difference in our daily behavior.


Notes


1 CORINTHIANS – Church Problems Solved (written while in Ephesus on 2nd journey)

This letter is all about problems and questions in the early Gentile church. They had problems such as incest,believersfiling lawsuitsagainsteachother,adulteryand immorality,divorce,disorderlyconductsurroundingtheLord’sSupper,financialgiving,theresurrection,followingGod’swisdomandmore.Butthetone of the letter is not one of condemnation, but rather of concern and correction. God had a solution for all the problems they faced and He has solutions for ours; be they personal, family, or church related.

Outline of 1 Corinthians:

Section Theme Verses

Introduction 1:1-9

Personal Reports Divisions

Fornication

Lawsuits

Body Purity

1:10-4:21

5:1-13

6:1-8

6:9-20

Letter Marriage

Virgins

Christian Liberty

Women in the church

Lord’s Supper

Spiritual Gifts

Resurrection

Collection for Jerusalem Relief

7:1-24

7:25-40

8:1-11:1

11:2-16

11:17-34

12:1-14:40

15:1-58

16:1-4

Conclusion 16:5-24


Notes


2 CORINTHIANS – Clearing Paul’s Reputation

WithPaul’sstraightforwardapproachtotheirproblemsoutlinedinthefirstletter,it’snosurprisethatanotherletter was needed to clear His reputation. Those who didn’t like his instruction sought to discredit him.

In this most autobiographical letter, the Apostle Paul opened a window to His soul. He could be emotional, even angry and though he had God-given apostolic authority, he preferred not to throw that authority around or for that matter even share all that He had been through for the cause of Christ. Paul set aside personal rights and even his reputation if that would help the Corinthians remain true to the Lord and to grow in their faith.

Outline of 2 Corinthians:

GALATIANS – Gospel of Liberty (ThisletterwassenttoagroupofchurchesplantedonPaul’sfirstmissionaryjourney)

The good news of Galatians is that in Christ we can be set free:

1. from our bondage to sin

2. from the Old Testament Law that is helpless to produce righteousness in us.

3.toserveChristandfulfillourhighestpotentialinthisworld.

But liberty doesn’t mean license! We are not set free to live to ourselves, but to Him who loved us and gave Himself for us (2:20). We are freed from our former slavery in order to voluntarily choose a new Master.

ThepriceofournewabilitytoliveandwalkbytheSpirit(insteadoftheflesh)wasfullypaidonCalvary.Christ has broken the links of the chain that bound us to our old nature and old lives.

Outline for Galatians:

Apology of Paul (1-7) Arrangements of Offering (8-9) Authority of Paul (10-13)

Change in plans Charity Defense

Chastening Commendation Delight

Call to Ministry Cheerful Giving Duty

Chapters 1-2 Chapters 3-4 Chapters 5-6

Lessons directly from Chris Law produces slavery Liberty only from the Gospel

Autobiographical Theological Practical

Christ Contrast: Law vs. Grace Conclusion

God’s revelation in Christ today

God’s revelation in Moses before

God’s expectation in us today


Notes


EPHESIANS – Exaltation of Christ (begins prison epistles)

Every believer is wealthy with all the riches of Christ Himself. God sees us as exalted with Christ in the heavenlies. We have a perfect position.

Chapters 1-3: God’s love for us is so great the whole Trinity was involved in our salvation. We who were dead in sin are now made alive in Christ. Not only are we reconciled to God through the blood of Jesus Christ, but barriers between people in Christ’s church are broken down, because there is no more a distinction racially, economically, or socially. We are all apart of the same family.

Chapters 4-6: God is concerned that our daily lives, our walk, match our wealth (all we have in Christ). Our practice should compliment our position in Christ. This ought to make an impact on our relationships with other believers, our ministry for the Lord, our family relationships, the way we handle ourselves at work and issues related to spiritual warfare.

Outline for Ephesians:

PHILIPPIANS – Priority of Unity

Whenthereis individualunitywithChristandcorporateunity inthechurch,thenthejoyisfreetoflow.Disunity on the other hand, destroys unity. Personal humility is a necessary attitude for unity with God and man. Christ is the ultimate example. He set aside His “robes” of glory so that we might receive the righteousness of God in Him and be “robed” in His righteousness. Paul made it clear that his lengthy list of human achievements was not a valid basis for acceptance by God. Right standing with God comes as a free gift through Jesus Christ. We can rejoice in the Lord always by availing ourselves of the power and provision given us as grace-gifts by Christ.

Chapters 1:1-3:21 Chapters 4:1-6:9 Chapters 6:10-24

Our Wealth Our Walk Our Warfare

Complete in Christ Fruitful in Christ Victory in Christ

Redemption by Trinity (1) Walk in Unity Our Adversary

New relationships with God and Man (2)

Walk as children of light, walk in love

Our Armor

Paul’s preaching and prayer Walk in relationship Farewell


Notes


COLOSSIANS – Church’s Ascended Head (very similar to Ephesians, these two letters compliment each other)

Chapter 1: Christ is the heavenly head of His earthly body, the church. Just as a deep sea diver depends totally on those in the ship high above him who control his life support systems, so the church depends on Christ.FromHimflowseveryprovisionneededforvictoryoversin,ministryintheworld,andsecurityinoneday reaching our heavenly home.

Chapter 2: Paul came on strong against those who would undermine simple faith in Christ. Once we crown Him as totally preeminent in our lives we want to put our minds on things above, pronounce death on our sinful old man, put on the new man, and personally share Jesus with all we can.

Chapters 3-4: As His body, we are His instruments of expression on the earth. He has no hands but our hands, no feet but ours. Thus our hands and feet must become His, swift to do His desires.

Outline for Colossians:

Outline for Philippians:

Section Verse

Introduction 1:1-14

Supremacy of Christ 1:15-2:3

False Teachers Refuted 2:4-23

Authentic Christian Life 3:1-4:6

Conclusion 4:7-18

Section Theme Verses

Paul’s Condition Preaching in Person 1:1-30

Three Examples to Follow Christ’s Humility

Timothy’s Service

Epaphroditus’ Faithfulness

2:1-18

2:19-24

2:25-30

How Christ Charged Paul Past

Present

Future

3:1-6

3:7-12

3:13-21

Paul’s Concern for the Church

Exhortation

Encouragement

Appreciation

4:1-9

4:10-13

4:14-23


Notes

Section Verse

Introduction 1:1-14

Supremacy of Christ 1:15-2:3

False Teachers Refuted 2:4-23

Authentic Christian Life 3:1-4:6

Conclusion 4:7-18


1 THESSALONIANS – Triumph before Return (visited on 2nd journey, church established at that time)

AtfirstsomeoftheThessalonianbelieversthoughtJesuswouldreturnbeforeanyChristiandied.Latertheywondered what would happen to their fellow believers and loved ones who had died. Paul had good news.

1. The dead in Christ are with the Lord and when He returns their living souls will return with Him and their dead bodies will be resurrected.

2. Believers that are still alive when Christ returns will be caught up off the earth, meet them in the air andreceivetransformedbodiesthatarefitforeternalexistence.

When believers die we need not sorrow as do those who have no hope. Instead, we should live daily looking for and ready for the Lord’s return. The main themes of this letter are righteous love, resurrection and rapture and respect for leaders.

Outline for 1 Thessalonians:

2 THESSALONIANS – Tribulation before Return

When persecution began to come upon the believers at Thessalonica they thought perhaps they had missed the Lord’s return for His own and were having to go through the Great Tribulation that Jesus predicted (Matthew 24-25).

Paul’s teaching indicates that the Lord will return in two stages.

1. First, He will return in the air to gather His own and take them to heaven.

2. Then following the Great Tribulation He will return to the earth to establish His kingdom, bringing all His saints with Him. The Great Tribulation will precede His second coming to the earth.

Paul reassures them that the persecution they were experiencing was not the Great Tribulation because before that would happen they would be raptured, restraint on sin would be removed, the Antichrist would be revealed, and a great apostasy would take place. Paul’s words were an encouragement to them and to us. Experiencing persecution for the sake of Christ is nothing new and it will soon end when the Lord comes to take us to be with Him.

Section Theme Verse

Paul’s Hearfelt Thanks 1:1-10

Paul’s Personal Defense Defense of His Actions

Defense of His Absence

His Prayer

2:1-16

2:17-3:10

3:11-13

Exhortation to Live Godly 4:1-12

The Return of Christ 4:13-5:11

Final Admonitions 5:12-28


Notes


Outline for 2 Thessalonians:

Section Verse

Encouragement from the Promised Return of Christ 1:1-12

The Events Before Christ’s Return 2:1-12

Further Instruction and Admonition 2:13-3:5

Living and Working as a Christian 3:6-15

Final Greetings 3:16-18


Notes


personal letters by paul

TIMOTHY – Trust Placed in Timothy

Timothy and Titus were two of Paul’s pastoral students. Paul had deposited a sacred trust in Timothy, who

was ministering in the apostle’s place at Ephesus.

Almost three years of Paul’s life had been invested in planting and nurturing the Ephesian church. And even

more time was invested in Timothy’s internship with Paul on His second and third missionary journeys. In this

letter, Paul talks to Timothy about how a young pastor should conduct himself and how he should relate

to the diverse age groups and types of individuals a pastor encounters. These were important subjects of

Paul’s letter to Timothy.

A pastor must:

1. Be given to prayer and the ministry of the Word.

2.AppointfaithfulmentobefellowoverseersanddeaconsovertheflockofGod.

3. Always guard against false teachers and their false teachings.

4. Set an example for the believers in words and action, love and faith.

No one can despise a pastor who does these things faithfully.

Outline for 1 Timothy:

Section Verse

Warnings About False Teaching 1:1-20

Instructions About Public Worship 2:1-15

Instructions About the Selection of Leaders 3:1-16

Instructions About False Teachers 4:1-16

Instructions to Groups Within the Church 5:1-6:2

Miscellaneous Matters 6:3-21


Notes

Section Verse

Warnings About False Teaching 1:1-20

Instructions About Public Worship 2:1-15

Instructions About the Selection of Leaders 3:1-16

Instructions About False Teachers 4:1-16

Instructions to Groups Within the Church 5:1-6:2

Miscellaneous Matters 6:3-21


TITUS – Truthless Teachers Denounced

A good offense is the best defense; this is the theme of Titus. One of a pastor’s most important tasks is the

selectionandtrainingoffaithfulpeopletobefelloweldersandoverseetheflock.Correctdoctrineshould

be taught and applied in a relevant manner to the needs of the different age groups within each church.

God’s gospel of grace that freely brings us salvation should result in good works. They are the bi-product

of salvation not a part of salvation.

Outline for Titus:

2 TIMOTHY – Teach the Church

In this second letter to His prodigy, Paul reminded Timothy of His major responsibility as a representative of

Christ. It’s easy to get side tracked onto other things, but what the church mainly needs is the teaching

of God’s Word in a clear and relevant manner. The best way for a pastor to guard His people against

falsehood creeping in is to guide them into the will of God for their lives as revealed in God’s Word. Teach

them the truth and they’ll recognize error.

Paul gives Timothy eight pictures of what it means to be faithful in a pastoral/teaching ministry (ch.2). He

warns Timothy that he would be opposed by those who don’t want to hear or follow the truth. But he

should still persevere in preaching the Word.

Outline for 2 Timothy:

Section Verse

Elders in the Church 1:1-9

False Teachers 1:10-16

Various Church Groups 2:1-15

Believers in General 3:1-8

Responding to Spiritual Error 3:9-15

Loyalty (1-2) Apostasy (3) Ministry (4)

Thanks for Timothy Danger Preaching

Charge to Timothy Defense Perseverance

Pictures of Faithfulness Paul’s desires and plans


Notes

Section Verse

Elders in the Church 1:1-9

False Teachers 1:10-16

Various Church Groups 2:1-15

Believers in General 3:1-8

Responding to Spiritual Error 3:9-15


PHILEMON – Pardon of Onesimus

Onesimus was a run away slave who came into contact with the Apostle Paul in Rome and through Paul

he came to trust Christ as his personal Savior. Onesimus’ former owner happened to be a friend of Paul

and fellow believer, Philemon. Paul sent Onesimus back to Philemon with this letter requesting pardon of

the run away.

Paul was seeking forgiveness of Onesimus, not the forgetting of any debts he might have owed. Onesimus’

obligations should be put on Paul’s account (debt was probably the reason Onesimus was Philemon’s

slave). What a perfect picture of salvation! God can freely pardon us because all of our sins have been

charged against His Son’s account. What a difference this makes in our lives.

Outline for Philemon:

Section Verse

Praise for Philemon 1-7

Plea for Onesimus 8-17

Pledge to Philemon 18-22


Notes

Section Verse

Praise for Philemon 1-7

Plea for Onesimus 8-17

Pledge to Philemon 18-22


letters from others

HEBREWS – Hasten to Maturity

When people are born again through faith in Christ they enter the family of God as newborn spiritual

infants. What is needed is a process of spiritual growth to maturity. But not all grow as fast as they should

and some even regress back to former stages of development. Such were the recipients of the letter of

Hebrews. So its author gave some strong exhortation to encourage them on to maturity.

The letter compares and contrasts Jesus Christ, demonstrating His superiority. The comparisons prove that

Heissuperiortoangels,prophets,Moses,Joshua,Aaron,andalltheLevites.Hedefinitelysurpassesthe

OldTestamentcovenant,sanctuary,andsacrifices.Sowhydriftbacktotheinferior,whenyouhavethe

superior? God is committed to our growth. As a loving heavenly Father, He at times takes His wayward

children to the spiritual woodshed for necessary discipline. So they will once again be encouraged to

move toward maturity. The author gives examples to us as readers of those who lived by faith and saw its

benefitsandpowerintheirlives.

Six danger signals in Hebrews...

Drifting (2:1-4)

Doubting (3:7-4:2)

Disobedience (4:11-13)

Degeneration (5:11-6:12)

Despising (10:19-39)

Denying (12:25-29)

Superior Person of Christ Superior Priesthood of Christ Superior Provision of Christ Superior Principles of Christ

1:1-4:16 5:1-8:5 8:6-10:39 11:1-13:25

a. Over Prophets a. Over Aaron and Levites a. Covenant a. Faith

b. Over Angels b. Comparable to Melchizadek

b. Sanctuary b. Endurance

c. Over Moses c.Sacrifice c. Relationship

d. Over Joshua


Notes


JAMES – How Belief Behaves

James wrote to Jewish believers scattered all over Asia Minor. He made it clear to them that people who

believe should act like believers. It is faith alone that saves, but the faith that saves is never alone. James

includes an impressive list of some of the differences that saving faith should make in a Christian’s life. Faith

produces:

1. victory over trials

2. obedience to the Word of God

3. impartiality in the treatment of others

4. good works like those of Abraham and Rahab

5. purity in speech and thought

6. humility before God as we make our plans

7. endurance in suffering and sickness

...just to name a few.

James’ point is that even the demons believe in God. They are fundamentalists in their doctrine, but they

are not saved even though they tremble at what they know (2:19-20). True saving faith demonstrates itself

in a changed life. Faith is known by its fruits.

Outline for James:

Faith produces:

Section Verse

Victory in Testing and Temptation 1:1-18

Obedience: Listening and Doing 1:19-27

Impartiality: Favoritism Forbidden 2:1-13

Works 2:14-26

Tongue Control 3:1-12

Wisdom 3:13-18

Purity 4:1-4

Humility 4:5-5:6

Endurance & Perseverance 5:7-20


Notes


1 PETER – Patience in Trial

From what we read about Peter in the Gospels we probably would not think of Him as a shining example of

patience. But the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost made a major difference. Which shouldn’t surprise

us since patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

Peter’s first letter iswritten to encouragepatienceon thepart of believerswhoare suffering trials for

the Gospel. Peter reminds his immediate audience and us that we should feel secure in our salvation

and realize that our suffering is noted by our sovereign heavenly Father who allows it. There are certain

benefitsthatcomebacktousfromthesesufferings;identificationwithandinsightintopartsofGod’sWord,

incentive to spiritual growth, increased recognition of our earthly status as aliens, and a more intensive

focus on our redemption by the precious blood of Jesus Christ, shed at the hands of His persecutors.

Peter gives special instructions to citizens, servants, wives, and husbands. But all believers must be sure their

suffering is for good and not for evil which we have done. When we suffer patiently for doing well, we are

following the example of our Savior and glorifying God. We must remain faithful sheep, trusting in our Great

Shepherd’s power over Satan and His promised return for His own.

Outline for 1 Peter:

Believer’s suffering and (how our suffering ties into)...

Section Verse

Security 1:1-9

Scriptures 1:10-25

Sanctification 2:1-12

Submission 2:13-3:12

Sufferings of Christ 3:13-4:19

Second Coming 5:1-10


Notes

Section Verse

Security 1:1-9

Scriptures 1:10-25

Sanctification 2:1-12

Submission 2:13-3:12

Sufferings of Christ 3:13-4:19

Second Coming 5:1-10


2 PETER – Purge False Teachers

The false teachings that were being brought into the church in Peter’s day sound very modern. They were

advocatinglawlessnessandimmoralliving,scoffingatGod’sslownessinkeepingHispromises,andthey

promoted hedonism; “eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die” (enjoy this life because this is it).

Onceagain,activegrowthinGod’sWordisthebestguardagainsttheinfiltrationoffalsehoodintoourlives

and our church. Additionally, those who teach falsely must be exposed and expelled from the church, for

they are like a cancer.

Truebelieverscanbeidentifiedbytheirpersonalpurityandpatienceinwaitingforthepromisedreturnof

Christ. God is patiently waiting for people to receive His Son in the interim. Either we are waiting for Jesus

to return, or He is waiting for us.

Outline for 2 Peter:

1 JOHN – Joy in Fellowship

The three letters of John form a trilogy on fellowship:

1 John - we should have fellowship with God.

2 John - we should not have fellowship with false teachers.

3 John - we should have fellowship with those who teach the truth.

JohnwrotehisfirstletterasapersonalparticipantinthejoyGodgivestothosewhoenterintofellowship

with Him (read 1 John 1:3-4). Fellowship means, sharing in common. John reminds believers that they share

in common God’s light, His love, and His very life.

Walking in light – means we don’t love the world or listen to antichrists, but we do walk in obedience to

God’s Word (chs. 1-2)

Walking in love – manifests itself in love for God’s people (chs. 3-4).

Walking in the life of God –itmaybedifficultattimestounderstandbutbelieverssharetheverylifeofGod

(ch. 5, read 1 John 5:11-13).

Section Theme Verse

Christian Life Our Growth

Our Foundation

1:1-11

1:12-21

False Teachers Their Teachings

Their Judgment

Their Conduct

Their Followers

2:1-3

2:4-9

2:10-19

2:18-22

Return of Christ The Scoffers Exposed

The Saints Exhorted

3:1-10

3:11-18


Notes


2 JOHN – Judge False Teachers

Though John commended a certain lady in his second letter because her children walked in the truth, he

reminded her and others that not all teachers taught the true Gospel. They and we are to judge teachers

bythisstandard;“DotheysaythatJesusChristisGodcomeintheflesh?”Iftheycan’tpassthisbasictruth

test they are not to be welcomed, listened to, or helped in any way.

It’s easy to extend Jesus’ command to love one another too far. The Lord’s law of love has limits; it does

not help those who deal in impurity or false teaching.

3 JOHN – Joy of Hospitality

What John directs us to withhold from those who deny the truth and deal in impurity, should be given to

those who live and communicate the truth. The joy of hospitality (opening your home to others – strangers)

should be shared with those who hold a proper view of Jesus Christ. John commends Gaius who was a

good example of godly and gracious hospitality. But prideful Diotrephes was just the opposite. He not only

refusedtobehospitabletobelievers,butmadeitdifficultforthosewhowere.WeshouldbelikeDemetrius

who did good for others out of his heart for God. Godliness should give us a good report card in the eyes

of others.

JUDE – Judgment of Apostates

Jude’s theme may sound similar to Titus, 2 Peter, and 2 John, but Jude was many decibels louder in his

denunciation of false teachers. Apostates in the past, such as some in Israel, and the sinners of Sodom and

Gomorrah, did not escape God’s wrath. Nor will modern apostates fare much better. Those leaders who

have contempt for God and corrupt His truth may gain acceptance in churches by their eloquence, but

underneath the veneer they are characterized by an ungodly nature and they lack the Holy Spirit in their

lives. In contrast, true believers don’t do what comes naturally, but what comes supernaturally because

the power of God’s Spirit is living within them.


Notes


prophecy of future

REVELATION

In this letter addressed to the seven churches of Asia Minor, John wrote about:

1. The past (visions of Christ, ch. 1),

2. The present (letters to the churches, chs. 2-3), and

3. The future (chs. 4-22).

Most of Revelation is prewritten history. It chronicles a 7-year period of Great Tribulation to come on the

earth, encompassing 21 terrible successive judgments on the evils of earth (7 seals, 7 trumpets, 7 bowls). In

additiontothejudgmentsofthattime,7peopleandgroupsplaysignificantrolesintheGreatTribulation:

Israel, Satan, Christ, archangel Michael, beast out of the sea (Antichrist), beast out of the earth (his False

Prophet), and the redeemed ones sealed by God.

Outline for Revelation:

I. Introduction - “Things which you have seen” (1:1-20)

II. Letters to the churches in Asia - “Things which are” (2:1-3:22)

A. Ephesus (2:1-7)

B. Smyrna (2:8-11)

C. Pergamos (2:12-17)

D. Thyatira (2:18-29)

E. Sardis (3:1-6)

F. Philadelphia (3:7-13)

G. Laodicea (3:14-22)


Notes


III. Visions of things to come - “Things which shall be hereafter” (4:1-22:5)

A. Throne in Heaven (4:1-5:14)

B. The Seals (6:1-8:1)

C. The Trumpets (8:2-11:19)

D. The Visions (12:1-14:20)

E. Plagues (15:1-19:5)

F. Kingdom of the King of Kings (19:6-20:15)

G. New Jerusalem (21:1-22:5)

IV. Conclusion - (22:6-21)


Notes


appendix —a

CHRONOLOGICAL NEW TESTAMANT

The fivebooks inboldcapital lettersquicklyadvance thehistoryofChrist and thechurch. Thebooks

listed below the 12 basic periods supplement the 12 primary periods and are listed in the order they were

probably written.

PERIODS 1-4 (The 4 Gospels):

All 4 gospels are needed for a composite picture of Jesus Christ the God-man.

MATTHEW – presents Jesus as the king of the Jews

MARK – viewed Christ as the perfect servant

LUKE – presented Jesus as the perfect man

JOHN – pictured Him as fully God

Christ had all royal divinity, but He exercised it as the servant of all. He was both God and man. As man,

Christ could fully sympathize with our humanity and was able to lay down His life for us. But because of

Hisdeity,ChristmetGod’sstandardofperfectionandistheonlyworthysacrificetomakefullpayment

(atonement) for the sins of the world. The four Gospels are not really biographies of Christ, but rather

thematic summaries. Each writer selected those sayings, scenes, and signs that supported his thesis.

MATTHEW MARK LUKE JOHN OF CHURCH PAUL’S JOURNEYS APOSTLES CONCLUSION

1

M

2

M

3

L

4

J

5

FC

6

PJ1

7

PJ2

8

PJ3

9

PJ4

10

PJ5

11

LA

12

HC

FORMATION

ACTS 1-12

Galatians

James

1 Thess.

2 Thess.

1 Cor.

2 Cor.

Romans

Ephesians

Colossians

Philemon

Philippians

1 Timothy

1 Timothy

2 Timothy

Titus

1 Peter

2 Peter

1 John

2 John

3 John

Jude

Hebrews

Revelation

ACTS 22-28ACTS 13-15 ACTS 16-18 ACTS 19-21


Notes


PERIOD 5 (Formation of the Church):

WhentheHolySpiritcameontheDayofPentecost,thechurchwasborn.Atfirstthenewbodyofbelievers

wasconfinedtoJerusalemandJudea,withPeterandJohnasitsmajorspokesperson.Thenpersecution

pushed the gospel to Samaria under Philip’s preaching. But the greatest expansion of the church would

come following the conversion of the church’s “public enemy number one”, Saul (Paul) of Tarsus. The

greatest persecutor of the church became its greatest preacher.

PERIOD 6 (Paul’s 1st Missionary Journey):

In addition to Paul, the Antioch church also sent Barnabus and John Mark (the author of the Gospel of Mark), to the Island of Cyprus and the Roman province of Galatia. Soon after returning Paul wrote the letter ofGalatianstohisrecentconverts.Thusinconnectionwiththisfirstmissionaryendeavorhewrote1letter(anatural memory link). Many also believe that the epistle of James was written at this time. Galatians stresses that it is faith alone that saves. But James reminds us that the faith that saves does not exist alone. The faith that saves is a faith that works.

PERIOD 7 (Paul’s 2nd Missionary Journey):

After a visit to the Jerusalem church for an important meeting (Acts 15); Paul, Silas, and Timothy revisited thebelieversreachedonthefirsttripandbroughtthegospeltotheGreekpeninsulaforthefirsttime.Afterthey returned from this second trip Paul penned his two letters to the church at Thessalonica (1 and 2 Thessalonians), both of which focus on the second coming of Christ.

PERIOD 8 (Paul’s 3rd Missionary Journey):

Paul’s third trip took him back to Greece, but he spent most of his time in Ephesus. In connection with this third journey he produced 3 letters: 1 and 2 Corinthians and Romans.

It’sinterestingthateachofPaul’sfirstthreemissionaryjourneysgotthreechaptersofcoverageinthebookofActs.Therewasalsoadirectcorrespondenceonhisfirstthreejourneysbetweenthenumberofeachjourney and the number of letters he wrote in connection with each (He wrote one letter in relation to the first,twoinconnectionwiththesecond,etc.).

PERIOD 9 (Paul’s 4th Missionary Journey):

Thistripwasnotvoluntarylikethefirstthree.ThistimetheRomangovernmentpaidforit,asPaulwasnowa prisoner of Rome. The four letters in connection with this journey and the imprisonment that followed are: Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, and Philippians. This is the order in which we believe they were written.

PERIOD 10 (Paul’s 5TH Missionary Journey):

AfifthtripisstronglyhintedatasActscloses.PaulwasaprisonerfortwoentireyearsinRomewaitingforhis accusers. If they didn’t show up Roman law decreed that he be freed. The strong implication of Acts is that his Judean opponents never showed up. Also some of the chronology in the letters of 1 and 2 Timothy andTitus(thePastoralEpistles)doesn’tfitwellintotheActstimeperiod.FortheseandotherreasonsmanybelievePaulwasfreedandabletotakeafifthjourney.


Notes


PERIOD 11 (Later Apostles):

About AD 85-90 the Apostle John wrote three letters 1, 2, and 3 John. The letters of Jude and Hebrews may

have been written during this period as well. This period of later Apostles refers to those who outlived Paul.

PERIOD 12 (History’s Conclusion):

When John penned the Revelation from the island of Patmos, where he was exiled, he was not only

finishingtheNeTestament,butwasalsodescribingGod’splanforfinishingtheworld.


Notes


appendix —b

Comparison of the 4 Gospels

MATTHEW MARK LUKE JOHN

Recipients

Key Verse

Theme

Distinctives

Nature of Book

Key Words

Emphasis On

Common Material

Jewish Messiah (King) Divine Servant Son of man Son of God

Jews Romans Greeks World

5:17 10:45 19:10 20:30-31

Christ’s offer of His Kingdom to the Jews

FulfillmentofOTprophecies

58% shared

42% unique

93% shared

7% unique

41% shared

59% unique

8% shared

92% unique

Prophetical Practical Historical Spiritual

“Fulfilled” “Immediately” “SonofMan” “Believe”

Sermons Miracles Parables Doctrine

“Immediately,

“straightway” (Greek

eutheos) used 40 times

Completeness and detail;

longest Gospel, shortest

Gospel

Forms of the word

“beleive used 99X

Christ’s response to men’s needs

Christ’s deityChrist’s ministry of obedience to the Father


Notes


Comparison of the 4 Gospels Continued

MATTHEW MARK LUKE JOHN

Written By

Prophetic Aspects

Ends With

Work of Christ

Time Viewpoint

Tax Collector Servant/Missionary Physician Fisherman

King (Zechariah 9:9) Servant (Isaiah 42:1) Man (Zechariah 6:12) God (Isaish 40:9)

Resurrection as proof of Messiahship

Christ in His sovereignty come to reign and rule

Past - Old Testament fulfillment

Present - work as a servant EternalFuture - writing thorough case fo Christ as a defense for Paul

Christ in His humility come to serve and die

Christ in His humility come to share and sympathize

Christ in his deity come to reveal and redeem

Ascension of servant to Heaven/Glory

Promise of Holy Spirit to ones left behind

Second coming


Notes


appendix —c

Roman and Jewish Leaders

EVENT EMPEROR HEROD PROCURATOR/GOVERNOR

Christ’s birth

Christ’s death

James’ death (Acts 12)

Paul’s Journeys

Paul imprisioned (Acts 21-28)

Paul death (A.D. 68)

Destruction of Jerusalem

Augustus - issued decree sending Joseph and Mary to Behtlehem

Tiberius

Claudius

Claudius & Nero

Nero

Nero

Vespasian (Titus)

Pilate

Herod the Great - issued decree to kill all male babies less than two years old

Herod Antipus - killed John the Baptist

Herod Agrippa I - Aquilla & Pricila went to Corinth

Agrippa II

Agrippa II Felix & Festus

In Acts 24-26, Paul give a defense of his beliefs before procurators and Agrippa II

(A.D.70) Jewish - Roman wars from A.D. 68-73 . Romans destroyed city and temple the last stand took place at Masada.


Notes

Documents

NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY - Servant Leaders English Testament Survey is a course designed as ... The perfect environment that was marred by sin in ... the first century. 1