New Testament

New Testament

A collection of 27 books composed in Koine Greek over about 70 years, beginning in 50 AD, consisting of narratives and letters.

Covenant

An open-ended contract of love between God and humanity, sealed by Jesus's death and resurrection.

Synoptic Gospels

Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which present a similar view of the life of Jesus.

Kerygma

The preaching of the Gospel to unbelievers, forming part of the oral tradition in the early Church.

Criteria for Inclusion in the Canon

Requirements for a text to be considered authoritative: Apostolic Origin, Widespread Acceptance, and Conformity to the Rule of Faith.

Oral Tradition

The primary method of teaching in the 1st century, involving the transmission of teachings through spoken word before they were written down.

Galilee

A region where Jesus conducted much of his ministry, characterized by its fertile land and diverse population.

Palestine

The geographic area encompassing the events of the New Testament, named by the Greeks and historically significant for its conflicts.

Samaria

Region inhabited by Samaritans, who accepted the Law of Moses but rejected Jerusalem's temple, causing tension with Jews.

Judea

The region that includes Jerusalem and was the center of Jewish life and worship; heavily influenced by Roman authority.

Dead Sea

The lowest point on earth, located in Judea, significant in biblical geography.

Jesus' Miracles

Events performed by Jesus that demonstrated divine authority; first miracle took place in Cana.

Jewish Practices

Religious customs such as worship in synagogues, study of the Law, and observance of holidays like Passover and Yom Kippur.

The Temple in Jerusalem

The central place of worship for Jews, renovated by Herod, where rituals and sacrifices were performed.

Seder Meal

A ceremonial dinner during Passover that commemorates the Exodus from Egypt.

Pentecost

A Jewish festival celebrated 50 days after Passover, marking the first fruits of the harvest.

Tabernacles

A fall harvest festival that commemorates the Israelites' wandering in the desert, focusing on reliance on God.

Roman Political Climate

Characterized by an extended period of peace, a common language, and a complex legal and road system.

Languages of the Bible

Aramaic, Koine Greek, Hebrew, and Latin, reflecting the diverse cultures interacting in biblical times.

Jesus' Life and Teachings Needed To Be Written Down

The realization that the end of the world was not imminent, leading to the need for written records of Jesus' teachings.

Jewish Christians' Missionary Task

To proclaim the Gospel to fellow Jews, emphasizing Jesus as the Messiah.