New Testament Module

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this module is to teach Seventh graders about the four Gospels in depth. Students will learn about the Evangelists, how and why the Gospels were written, as well as the importance of the Gospels as the Good News of salvation. Students will also learn about how the Gospels fulfilled the prophecies in the Old Testament and how the message of the Gospels can be applied to our lives.

MILESTONES

Scripture: The Bible teaches us the true identity of our Lord Jesus Christ. The four synoptic Gospels are aligned to theology. It is worth noting that the selection and arrangements of the Books of the New Testament were done by St. Athanasius the Apostolic, the 20th Patriarch of Alexandria.

Spiritual: All four gospels are referred to as "synoptic": meaning that they present the same or common view even though they are written by four different Evangelists. Each Evangelist witnessed (beheld) the Lord Jesus Christ from their own vantage point, however they are united in scope and vision. The Crucifixion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ are fact. Three of the Gospels (St. Matthew, St. Mark, and St. Luke) are more closely related and have many common events. The Gospel of St. John focuses on the Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ. In all, there are no contradictions within the Gospels, which is another indication of the work of the Holy Spirit in all the writings.

Social: One of the greatest compliments one could ever give someone is that they are a "Living Bible." To be a Living Bible, one must be fully washed by the Word of God. Daily reading and study of the Bible are essential to maintaining a healthy and strong relationship with God. At times, we may be embarrassed to follow the teachings of the Bible, but we are comforted by God's promise to those who do not deny Him.

Rituals: The rituals of the Coptic Church have all four Gospels read on Palm Sunday and Great Friday of Pascha Week. Each hour or Gospel reading from Palm Sunday and Great Friday (Including the Eve of Great Friday) has all four Gospels read together. The parallel and synopsis of all four Gospels is quite clear.

TOPICS BY WEEK

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

• Week 1: Introduction to the Four Gospels and Evangelists
• Week 2: Comparison of the Four Gospels
• Week 3: Christ Fulfills the Prophecies
• Week 4: The Gospel in Our Lives
• Capstone Activity

CHURCH CONNECTION

Please make 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.