New Testament Module

OBJECTIVE

To gain a deeper understanding of the seven Epistles (otherwise known as the Catholic Epistles + the book of Revelation) in the New Testament that will serve to guide students to a life of righteousness and holiness. The objective of this module will not be to simply cover as much of the epistles as possible in 4 lessons but rather, to take a few main ideas from each book and dive deeply into the Word of God through the eyes of the saints who wrote them.

MILESTONE

Scripture: The Books of the Bible are arranged based on themes rather than importance or chronology. Particularly, the parts of the New Testament are:

1 The Gospels

2 The Book of Acts

3 The Pauline Epistles

4 The Catholic Epistles

5 The Book of Revelation

The word "Catholic" means "Universal" or "General."

Spiritual: Several of the topics within the Catholic Epistles refer to actions and deeds of Christians. Hence, the term "Catholic" meaning "Universal" - all believers are called to action. In addition, as opposed to specific communities addressed by St. Paul, these writings were meant for anyone to follow. Finally, many of us are aware of the debate between Protestant churches and Apostolic churches as to whether it is faith or deeds that lead to salvation. The coptic Orthodox Church has always taken the stand that one is the condition for the other. Meaning, one cannot express their faith without deeds and likewise, one cannot express their deeds without faith.

Social: The expression of our faith can be difficult in a society that does not follow the same moral beliefs. The early church was growing in the hostile Roman Empire. In addition, the general beliefs of the population throughout the Empire were in opposition to the Christian teachings (think of turning the other cheek). Ultimately, the Catholic Epistles teach us to swim against the current, dare to be different, and hold steadfast in the faith.

Rituals: Many are aware of the debate between Protestant churches and Apostolic churches as to whether it is faith or deeds that lead to salvation. The Coptic Orthodox Church has always taken the stand that one is the condition for the other. Meaning, one cannot express their faith without deeds and likewise, one cannot express their deeds without faith. Hence, the church readings include a Pauline Epistle (discussing faith) and a Catholic Epistle (discussing deeds). Both are equally important.

TOPICS BY WEEK

Please read through all of the lessons in this module in preparation for this lesson.

• Week 1: Epistle of St. James
• Week 2: Epistles of St. Peter
• Week 3: Epistles of St. John
• Week 4: Revelation
• Capstone Activity

CHURCH CONNECTION

Please make sure every effort to incorporate our Orthodox traditions, liturgical practices, and sacraments in every lesson.

PARENTS CORNER

Every lesson contains suggested material for you to send to parents/guardians on a weekly basis. The ultimate goal is to give parents tools and resources necessary to educate their children every day, creating an Orthodox Christian home.