Study of the New Testament
Beginning next Sunday, all classes plan to begin a study of the New Testament. Many members have never participated in a study of this nature. First of all, it is not just an overview; it will take two-and-a-half years to complete. Second, neither is it a verse-by-verse study, which would take much longer. But it does cover every verse in the New Testament. Each lesson is about five pages, and it contains the following:
A title, such as, he the Birth of John"
Memory verses, such as John 1:1-3: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made" (younger ages' verses are not as long).
Key points to look for in the lesson, such as, 1) Jesus is eternal; 2) God can do anything (except not be Himself), 3) Never doubt God's Word.
An outline, which also contains all the verses to be studied.
The facts discussed in the text. The design of this section is fourfold.
To bring out the meaning of the text, as men did after the captivity. They "helped the people to understand the Law." They read the Law "and they gave the sense, and helped them to understand the reading" (Neh. 8:7-8).
Scriptures from the Old Testament are cited in connection with the text in order to understand its meaning.
Sometimes another passage, which contains more relevant information relating to the text will be referenced.
The book is valuable in that it would take a considerable amount of time to write down as notes all the information provided in each lesson.
After each one, there are questions asked in order to review some of the key material studied.
Finally, the next text to be studied is listed so that the student can come prepared for class.
If all goes according to plan, each family will have about eight to ten pieces of data to cover at home during the week. These are designed so that what is studied will remain in the memory longer. Some classes may study a lesson on both Sunday and Wednesday—especially those who are new in the faith. Others may study this material on Sunday and engage in a different study on Wednesday evening. It might be that a neighbor or friend would be interested in learning the New Testament in a chronological, systematic way. Encourage members and visitors alike to participate in the study.