First lesson: Introduction to the New TestamentA. Basic Bible Facts66 books, written by 40 different authors over 1500 years39 OT “old” = 3 letters, “testament” 9…3—9--3927 NT “new” = 3 letters, “testament” 9 blessings multiplied 3x9 = 27B. How did we get the Bible we have today? The Old Testament was preserved through the nation of Israel/Judah until the time of Jesus. The Septuagint (3rd century BC) is a Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures and the primary text of 1st century Israel. The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947 provided an important archaeological verification of the Old Testament. How was the NT formed? The books of the New Testament were written within 30 to 60 years after Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into heaven. First century Israel was primarily an oral culture. Researchers estimate that 3 to 5% of the population could read and write. At first the teaching was oral, but early Church leaders realized that a written record would be necessary for future generations. Three criteria were used to determine whether a document should appear in the Bible.1. Apostolic origin: Is the document directly linked to one of the apostles? A document had to have been written by an apostle or a close associate of an apostle or of Jesus. Matthew and John were apostles and eyewitnesses to the events they record in their gospels; Peter and Paul were also apostles; Mark an associate of Pierre; Luke, associate of Paul; James and Jude brothers of Jesus.2. Doctrinal consistency. Are these documents consistent with the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles? Acts 2:42 “They devoted themselves continually to the teaching of the apostles and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. »3. Historical recognition. Did the documents...... middle of paper ...... the Great was appointed governor of Judea and reigned from 37 to 4 BC. Jesus was born during the reign of Herod. 4 words help us connect the whole reign of God. Word.Preparation: In the OT, God prepared humanity for the Messiah.Apocalypse: In the four Gospels, God revealed the Messiah: Jesus of Nazareth, the only Son of God. Jesus entered the world, died for humanity and rose again. Action: In Acts and the Epistles, God implements His plan to redeem humanity through Jesus. The universal Church is begun, the Gospel is preached, individual churches are established throughout the Roman Empire, and Christians are taught how to live as new creations of God. Completion: In the book of Revelation, the outcome of God's perfect plan is revealed. Satan is defeated, sinners are judged, believers are rewarded, and Jesus reigns forever as King of kings..