Application: The Historical Development of New Testament Theology

2 High School Credits | 32 Weeks | Available for Sale Summer 2028

Application takes students through the New Testament in the approximate order its books were written, exploring how God’s revelation unfolded for the early Church. Students consider what believers understood at different points in history, why individual books were written, and how additional revelation expanded their understanding.

For example, what would Christians have known if James were the only New Testament book available? Why was Hebrews written? Why were the Gospels recorded? These questions help students understand the New Testament from the perspective of its original recipients.

What Will Students Study?

Students explore Scripture while developing skills in literature, grammar, and written communication.

  • New Testament Theology: Examine how Christian teaching developed as additional Scripture was written and circulated.
  • Biblical History and Culture: Investigate the historical circumstances, people, places, and cultures surrounding the New Testament.
  • Literature: Analyze literary techniques, characters, and themes while comparing selected works with biblical truth.
  • Grammar and Language: Strengthen comprehension through practical analysis of sentence structure and language in Scripture and literature.
  • Writing and Composition: Practice reflection, narration, devotional articles, character analysis, book reviews, comparative essays, creative writing, and research-based argumentation.

Students also complete regular devotional writing to encourage personal reflection and application of Scripture.

How Does the Course Work?

Application combines biblical study with literature and meaningful writing activities. Students might analyze Paul’s persuasive techniques, compare themes in a novel with Scripture, create a newsletter describing biblical events, or develop an argumentative research paper.

Assignments progress from shorter writing exercises to more involved projects, helping students strengthen their ability to analyze information, develop ideas, and communicate clearly.

Course Details

  • Credits: 2 high school credits: Bible and English
  • Planned Length: 32 weeks
  • Primary Textbook: The Bible (family’s preferred translation)
  • Planned Literature: A Long Way Down, The Book Thief, and The Pilgrim’s Progress, with additional selections under consideration