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CLASE 1 EPISTOLA A LOS ROMANOS CONTEXTO
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CLASE 1 EPISTOLA A LOS ROMANOS CONTEXTO

Course Introduction and Prayer

Opening Remarks

  • The speaker emphasizes the importance of participation in the course, encouraging students to make the most of it.
  • A prayer is initiated to bless the course, asking for guidance and support throughout its duration.

Course Objectives

  • The speaker highlights two foundational aspects of Pauline theology: understanding the life of Paul and systematically studying the Epistle to the Romans.
  • It is noted that completion of previous courses, particularly on hermeneutics and Paul's biography, is essential before taking this course.

Course Structure and Content Overview

Course Materials

  • Students are informed about downloadable resources available in a general folder, including a PDF book covering Romans and other Pauline letters.

Key Themes

  • The primary goal is to grasp major Pauline doctrines found predominantly in Romans, which serves as a critical text for understanding his theological framework.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will explore how faith in Jesus is experienced by both Jews and Gentiles, with an emphasis on differences in practice despite shared beliefs. A guest lecturer from Israel will provide additional insights into Jewish Messianic perspectives later in the course.

Assessment Criteria

Evaluation Methods

  • Assessment will include three short tests, class assignments (tasks), presentations, an infographic worth 10%, two discussion forums (each 5%), and a final exam. The infographic assignment will be introduced during week one.

Weekly Breakdown

  • Week one focuses on the historical context of Romans; subsequent weeks will cover specific passages such as Romans 1:1–17 discussing themes like the promised gospel from the Old Testament. Further details on weekly topics are expected to follow as classes progress.

Pablo Evangeliza a los Gentiles y Judíos

Introducción a la Carta a los Romanos

  • La carta a los romanos está mal dividida, lo que dificulta su comprensión. Se propone una nueva forma de dividirla para mejorar el entendimiento del lector.
  • El curso tiene como objetivo capacitar a los participantes para evangelizar tanto a judíos como a gentiles, enfatizando la importancia de entender las diferencias en la predicación.

Importancia del Evangelio

  • Los testimonios son valiosos, pero no son suficientes para convertir; es el evangelio el que realmente transforma vidas, ya que "la fe viene por el oír".
  • Se destaca que hay diferentes enfoques al predicar al gentil y al judío, y se espera que los participantes se sientan más motivados para evangelizar tras completar el curso.

Estructura del Curso

  • Semana 5: Estudio de Romanos 3:21 - 4:25 sobre la justicia por la fe.
  • Semana 6: Doctrina de la justificación en Romanos capítulo 5.
  • Semana 7: Análisis del antimonianismo en Romanos capítulo 6, recordando acusaciones pasadas contra Pablo sobre pecar para aumentar la gracia.

Temas Adicionales

  • Semana 8: Ley de Moisés y poder del pecado (Romanos capítulo 7).
  • Semana 9: Superioridad de la ley del espíritu (Romanos capítulo 8).
  • Semanas posteriores incluirán temas sobre Israel en el nuevo pacto y consejos cristianos desde Romanos capítulos 12 a 15. Examen final programado después de estos estudios.

Detalles Administrativos

  • Se explicará cómo participar en un foro donde se comentarán temas comunes; cada participante podrá ver las contribuciones de otros. Esto será detallado cuando llegue esa semana específica del curso.
  • Recursos adicionales están disponibles para descargar, incluyendo presentaciones y materiales complementarios relacionados con el curso sobre Romanos. Estos recursos son útiles para futuras referencias académicas o certificaciones educativas.

Introduction to the Course and Resources

Overview of the Course Structure

  • The course will be comprehensive, with a focus on detailed content over a year compared to church teachings.
  • Unlike church sessions, this course includes assignments, readings, and assessments. Students will have extra reading materials assigned.

Recommended Reading Material

  • A key text for the course is "Romanos" by William Hendriksen, which is available at Christian bookstores. Respect for authorship prevents sharing scanned copies of this book.
  • The instructor emphasizes the importance of purchasing recommended books to enhance learning experiences.

Upcoming Materials and Personal Projects

New Book Announcement

  • The instructor has submitted their own book for publication consideration with three different publishers; prayers are requested for this endeavor.
  • The upcoming book titled "El apóstol de los gentiles" will serve as a resource in future courses about Apostle Paul’s biography.

Additional Learning Resources

  • A new PDF resource detailing cities mentioned in the Acts of Apostles will be shared next week, providing historical context and insights into commerce and worship practices in those locations.

Importance of Studying Romans

Reasons to Study Romans

  • There are five compelling reasons to study the Epistle to the Romans; it is considered essential for understanding Christianity's foundations. It serves as a political constitution for Christian doctrine among New Testament texts.
  • Romans provides clarity on core doctrines such as sin and justification, making it crucial for effective evangelism and understanding grace according to Paul’s teachings rather than misconceptions from Judaizers.

Understanding the Importance of Romans

The Doctrine of Reconciliation

  • The doctrine of reconciliation is clearly outlined in the Book of Romans, emphasizing its significance in understanding Christian faith.

Connection Between the Gospel and the Old Testament

  • The epistle to the Romans connects the gospel with Old Testament scripture, providing a foundational basis for its teachings.
  • While Paul presents evidence from the Old Testament, he clarifies that the gospel was not preached there but rather promised.

Distinction in Faith Practices

  • It is crucial to study Romans as it highlights differences in how Jews and Gentiles live out their faith in Messiah.
  • Referring to Acts 15, Paul addresses how early apostles debated how Gentile converts should practice their faith compared to Jewish believers.

Understanding Pauline Epistles

  • Romans serves as an essential foundation for comprehending all Pauline writings due to its doctrinal richness.
  • There are only two epistles in the New Testament; understanding this distinction between letters and epistles enhances our grasp of their theological depth.

Historical Context and Significance

  • Policarpo of Smyrna, a second-generation Christian martyr, emphasized the importance of studying Paul's letters for spiritual edification.
  • His reflections on Paul's teachings highlight their enduring value even among early Christians who were direct disciples of apostolic figures.

Addressing Judaizers

  • Romans is identified as a powerful text against Judaizers alongside Galatians and Hebrews, setting up a critical framework for understanding these theological disputes.

Inductive Study Methodology

  • Seven key questions guide an inductive study approach: authorship, content analysis, audience context, location of writing, method used, timing, and purpose behind writing.
  • These questions help uncover circumstances surrounding Paul's authorship and provide deeper insights into his message.

Authorship of Pauline Epistles

Doubts on Authorship

  • There are texts attributed to Paul that have questionable authorship, specifically 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, and Hebrews.
  • The speaker emphasizes that serious scholars do not doubt Paul's authorship of Romans due to a strong historical tradition.

Historical Evidence for Authorship

  • Eusebius of Caesarea, in the 4th century, stated that it is evident Paul authored 14 letters, including Romans and Hebrews. This reflects Eastern church consensus.
  • Origen from the 3rd century also recognized Paul's authorship of Romans while employing an allegorical interpretation method which can be risky as it allows subjective meanings.

Allegorical Interpretation and Controversies

  • Origen's literal approach led him to self-mutilation based on his interpretation of scripture regarding sin and its consequences. This raises questions about his theological stance.
  • Despite being controversial, Origen was sincere in his beliefs but sometimes bordered on heretical views such as believing demons could repent.

Recognition of Paul's Teachings

  • Origen noted that Paul indicated everyone has a part in Christ through their rational nature, referencing Romans indirectly to affirm Paul's authorship.
  • The discussion highlights how early church figures consistently acknowledged Paul's role in writing Romans across different centuries.

Canonical Considerations

  • The Muratorian Canon from the late 1st century acknowledges several New Testament texts including Romans as written by Paul despite some debates over other texts' authenticity within the canon.
  • By the 4th century, the New Testament canon became more formalized with established books used widely among churches despite earlier uncertainties regarding certain writings like "The Shepherd of Hermas."

Pablo y la Autoría de Romanos

Reconocimiento de Pablo como Autor

  • Se menciona que Pablo es reconocido indirectamente como el autor de Romanos, lo cual establece su autoridad en las Escrituras.
  • El canon de Muratori indica un orden incorrecto en la escritura de las epístolas, pero confirma que Pablo escribió Romanos.
  • Ireneo de León, un discípulo de tercera generación, afirma directamente que Pablo es el autor de Romanos, reforzando su autenticidad.
  • La identificación del apóstol Pablo como autor se mantiene constante a través de los siglos I al IV sin cuestionamientos significativos.

Importancia del Texto

  • En Romanos 11, el propio Pablo se identifica claramente como el autor, subrayando la importancia del texto dentro del Nuevo Testamento.
  • Se plantea una distinción entre cartas y epístolas; las cartas abordan problemas específicos mientras que las epístolas son más generales y doctrinales.

Diferencias entre Carta y Epístola

Características Específicas

  • Las cartas tratan problemas concretos dirigidos a individuos o comunidades específicas; por ejemplo, la carta a los Corintios aborda conflictos internos.
  • La comprensión del contenido se complica si se elimina el destinatario en una carta; esto resalta la necesidad contextual para entender correctamente el mensaje.

Naturaleza Teológica

  • A diferencia de las cartas, las epístolas son sintéticas y buscan presentar tratados teológicos más amplios sin depender tanto del destinatario específico.
  • Romanos es considerada la obra maestra de Pablo debido a su desarrollo doctrinal superior comparado con otras epístolas.

Epístolas en el Nuevo Testamento

Comparación con Otras Epístolas

  • Además de Romanos, Hebreos también se clasifica como una epístola importante por su enfoque en la superioridad del nuevo pacto sobre el antiguo.
  • Se discute cómo estas obras establecen normas teológicas claras y desarrollan doctrinas específicas para guiar a los creyentes.

Understanding the Epistle to the Hebrews

Purpose and Audience of Hebrews

  • The Epistle to the Hebrews is specifically addressed to Hebrew Christians, aiming to provide a theological treatise that explains why the New Covenant is superior to the Old Covenant.
  • It serves as a guide for Hebrew believers, directing them away from living in the shadow of the Old Testament practices.

Distinction Between Epistles and Letters

  • There is a common misconception regarding terminology; Romans and Hebrews are classified as epistles, while other writings by Paul are considered letters due to their specific community issues.
  • For instance, 1st and 2nd Corinthians address particular problems within those communities, categorizing them as letters rather than epistles.

Comparison of Themes in Gálatas and Hebreos

  • A comparison between Galatians and Hebrews reveals that while both discuss similar themes, Galatians addresses specific issues faced by its audience, whereas Hebrews presents a broader theological discourse.

Sharing of Letters Among Churches

  • Paul's letters were often shared among churches because they addressed common issues. This sharing was encouraged as seen in Colossians 4:16 where Paul instructs that his letter should be read among different congregations.

The Central Theme of Romans

  • The primary focus of Romans is on "the gospel of grace," which underpins its significance despite addressing various topics relevant to Roman Christians.

Clarification on Ephesians' Audience

  • The letter to the Ephesians may not specify its audience directly but discusses themes relevant across multiple churches in that region. It emphasizes broader doctrinal points rather than specific community problems.

Understanding the Epistle to the Ephesians

Spiritual Warfare and Context

  • The discussion begins with a reference to Ephesians 6, emphasizing that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. This highlights the nature of spiritual warfare in Christian belief.
  • The speaker recalls Paul's missionary journeys, particularly his time in Ephesus, noting significant satanic opposition during that period, including the worship of Diana and practices of witchcraft. This context sets the stage for understanding the challenges faced by early Christians in Ephesus.

Themes in Ephesians

  • A central theme identified in the letter to the Ephesians is the inclusion of Gentiles into the new covenant, which is elaborated throughout the text. This reflects a broader theological shift within early Christianity towards inclusivity.
  • The speaker argues that while this theme is prominent, it does not fully encapsulate all aspects of Ephesians; thus, it should not be strictly categorized as an epistle but rather as a letter with multiple themes.

Distinction Between Epistles and Letters

  • There’s a clarification regarding literary distinctions between epistles and letters: neither holds greater normative authority over the other despite some legal parallels drawn (e.g., decrees vs agreements). Both forms are considered equally authoritative within scripture.
  • It is suggested that starting with epistles may provide clearer doctrinal insights compared to letters due to their systematic presentation of theology. Thus, understanding epistles can enhance comprehension of subsequent letters.

Traditional Division of New Testament Texts

  • The traditional division of New Testament texts includes four Gospels, Acts as historical monograph, Pauline letters, Catholic (universal) letters, and Revelation; however, this classification may require reevaluation for clarity's sake.
  • A proposed reclassification suggests dividing letters into two categories: universal (or Catholic) letters without specific recipients (like 1st John) and ecclesiastical writings directed at specific communities (like Romans or Corinthians). This distinction aims to clarify their intended audiences and messages.

Addressing Judaizers in Early Christianity

  • Three specific letters are noted as being written for Messianic Jews: Hebrews, James (Jacobo), and 1 Peter; these texts address issues pertinent to Jewish believers amidst early church controversies involving Judaizers who claimed exclusivity over God's promises based on heritage.
  • An example from 1 Peter 2:9 illustrates how Peter applies Old Testament language originally meant for Israel to Gentile believers—this could be leveraged by Judaizers claiming continuity with Israel's identity through Christ's message. The implications here highlight ongoing debates about identity within early Christianity amidst diverse beliefs about salvation history.

Understanding the Context of Biblical Texts

The Audience of Peter's Letter

  • The speaker emphasizes that 1 Peter 1:1 addresses Jewish expatriates, indicating that the letter is specifically meant for Jews in dispersion rather than Gentiles.
  • This context allows for phrases like "you are a chosen lineage, a holy nation" to be directed at these Jewish believers, highlighting the importance of understanding the intended audience of biblical texts.

Misinterpretations in Pauline Letters

  • The speaker critiques misapplications of Paul's letters, particularly where he instructs women to be silent in churches. This directive was specific to issues within the church at Ephesus and not a blanket rule for all churches.
  • Understanding the specific problems addressed in letters like 2 Timothy is crucial; it prevents misuse of scripture that can lead to harmful practices against women in church settings.

Interpretation and Application of Scripture

  • The discussion transitions to how certain passages, such as those from Peter and Paul, have been interpreted differently over time. For instance, Romans 11 applies Old Testament references about Israel to Gentiles under new contexts.
  • The speaker notes that while Paul uses these scriptures with dual interpretations (for both Jews and Gentiles), it’s essential to recognize their original context before applying them broadly.

Authority of Apostolic Interpretation

  • An example is given regarding Matthew's Gospel referencing Hosea ("Out of Egypt I called my son"), originally about Israel but later applied by apostles to Jesus. This illustrates how apostolic authority allows for reinterpretation based on new revelations.
  • Paul’s application in Romans shows how scriptural meanings can evolve while still being rooted in their original intent.

Importance of Pauline Theology

  • Emphasizing Pauline theology is vital for understanding Christian doctrine today; it directly addresses Gentile believers unlike some other New Testament writings.
  • The speaker argues that misinterpretations often arise when people fail to distinguish between texts written specifically for Jews versus those applicable to Gentiles.

Correctly Understanding Scriptural Context

  • It’s highlighted that interpreting texts without considering their original audience leads to significant misunderstandings. For example, claiming all Christians are part of a royal priesthood based solely on Peter's words ignores his intended audience.
  • A discussion with someone who misapplies Deuteronomy illustrates this point; they argue continuity from Old Testament Israel to modern-day believers without recognizing contextual shifts.

Original Meaning vs. Current Application

  • The distinction between original meaning and current application is emphasized as critical for proper theological interpretation. Each text must be understood within its historical context before drawing contemporary applications.
  • Recognizing this difference helps prevent sectarian movements from distorting biblical teachings through selective interpretations.

Conclusion on Interpretative Framework

  • Understanding theological frameworks laid out by Paul provides clarity on how early church teachings apply today, especially concerning Gentile inclusion into faith narratives.
  • A brief mention indicates an upcoming resource will clarify distinctions between various biblical texts' meanings and applications further aiding comprehension among congregants.

Understanding the Context of Paul's Epistle to the Romans

Introduction and Overview

  • The discussion begins with a focus on understanding the original meaning of biblical texts and their application in contemporary contexts. This is crucial for effective biblical exegesis.
  • A break is announced at 7:13 PM, resuming at 7:23 PM, indicating a structured approach to the class schedule.

Key Themes in Romans

  • The epistle to the Romans is characterized as more than just a letter; it holds significant doctrinal weight due to its content and purpose. Understanding who the recipients are is essential for interpretation.
  • The Roman church is described as unique because it comprises both Jewish and Gentile believers, contrasting with other churches founded by Paul that were predominantly Gentile. This mixed composition influences how Paul addresses different groups within his letters.

Distinction Between Audiences

  • Paul often addresses Jews directly in his writings, which can be identified through specific passages where he critiques their reliance on the law while also addressing Gentiles' inclusion in God's plan. Understanding this distinction aids in interpreting Romans accurately.
  • Historical context reveals that during Paul's missionary journeys, he frequently encountered rejection from Jewish communities, leading to a greater number of Gentile converts in most churches he established. However, Rome's church includes a notable Jewish presence alongside Gentiles who have accepted Christ as Messiah.

Scriptural References

  • Specific verses are highlighted where Paul speaks directly to Jews (Romans 2:17–24) and contrasts them with Gentiles (Romans 3:9). These references illustrate Paul's dual audience approach within his epistle, emphasizing that both groups are under sin but also part of God's redemptive plan.
  • The importance of recognizing whom Paul addresses at any given moment cannot be overstated; it shapes our understanding of his arguments throughout Romans and clarifies theological implications for both Jews and Gentiles alike.

Conclusion on Audience Awareness

  • As discussions progress into various passages (e.g., Romans 1:5–6), it's evident that some sections are directed specifically towards Gentiles, reinforcing their role within the early church alongside Jewish believers. This duality enriches our comprehension of early Christian identity and community dynamics as articulated by Paul.

Pablo y la Iglesia de Roma

Pablo se dirige a los gentiles

  • Pablo menciona que ha querido visitar a la iglesia en Roma, pero ha sido impedido. Este pasaje indica su intención de predicar tanto a judíos como a gentiles.
  • Se destaca que Pablo presenta el evangelio de manera diferente a judíos y gentiles, lo cual es crucial para entender su ministerio.

Origen de la Iglesia en Roma

  • Es importante señalar que Pablo no fundó la iglesia en Roma; él no conocía personalmente a sus miembros al escribirles.
  • La iglesia probablemente se originó con los 3,000 judíos convertidos durante el Pentecostés (Hechos 2), quienes regresaron a Roma y formaron una comunidad cristiana.

Composición de la Iglesia

  • La mezcla de judíos y gentiles en la iglesia se debe a que fue establecida por judíos mesiánicos convertidos por Pedro.
  • No hay registros históricos que indiquen que algún apóstol fundara esta iglesia, lo cual plantea preguntas sobre su origen.

Contexto Histórico

  • En Romanos 15:15, Pablo se identifica como ministro del evangelio para los gentiles, reafirmando su misión hacia ellos.
  • La epístola fue escrita durante el tercer viaje misionero de Pablo, un contexto relevante para entender su mensaje.

Expulsión de Judíos y Cambio Demográfico

  • Al final del segundo viaje misionero, Pablo conoce a Priscila y Aquila, quienes fueron expulsados de Roma por Claudio. Esto marca un cambio significativo en la composición demográfica de la iglesia.
  • La expulsión ocurrió antes de que Pablo escribiera su epístola. Para ese momento, muchos judíos habían dejado Roma, resultando en una mayoría gentil dentro de la comunidad cristiana.

Conclusiones sobre el Mensaje Apostólico

  • El orden cronológico es clave: primero fue la expulsión de los judíos y luego se escribió la carta. Esto explica por qué muchos judíos mesiánicos abandonaron la iglesia debido a las circunstancias históricas.

Understanding the Composition of the Roman Church

The Majority Gentile Church

  • The majority of the Roman church at the time of Paul's writing was composed of Gentiles, with Jews no longer being the predominant group.
  • This shift occurred after a significant expulsion of Jews from Rome, which affected the church's demographic composition.

Founders and Early Influences

  • The founders of the Roman church were Jewish converts from Acts chapter 2 who returned to Rome and established a mixed congregation that later included Gentiles.
  • Priscilla and Aquila, key figures in early Christianity, likely played a role in communicating issues within this community to Paul.

Apostolic Succession Debate

  • A critical point raised is against the Catholic Church's claim of an unbroken apostolic succession leading back to Peter; it argues that no apostle founded the Roman church.
  • This challenges traditional views on what constitutes a "true" church based on historical lineage or succession.

Expulsions and Community Dynamics

  • Despite expulsions, not all Jews left Rome; some remained, leading to ongoing tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers as indicated in Romans 14.
  • Conflicts arose due to differing doctrinal understandings between these groups within the church community.

Contextual Understanding through Inductive Method

  • Emphasizes the importance of understanding context when interpreting biblical texts; knowing who was addressed (a mixed community) is crucial for accurate interpretation.
  • The letter was written during Paul's third missionary journey, highlighting its historical context and relevance for understanding its content better.

Missionary Journey of Paul

Paul's Stay in Corinth

  • Paul stayed in Corinth for a year and six months, teaching the word of God as noted in Acts 18:11.
  • During this time, Gallio was the proconsul of Achaia, and the Jews conspired against Paul, bringing him to trial.

Historical Context

  • Gallio served as proconsul between 51 and 52 AD, indicating that Paul left Corinth during this period.
  • After leaving Corinth, Paul traveled to Cenchrea where he cut his hair due to a vow he had made.

Paul's Missionary Travels

  • Paul's third missionary journey primarily took place in Ephesus, where he spent three years—his longest stay anywhere.
  • This duration is confirmed by Acts 20:31, where Paul mentions warning the people day and night for three years.

Events Leading to Departure from Ephesus

  • Paul had to leave Ephesus due to a riot instigated by locals who shouted against him for two hours.
  • Following the riot's cessation, he called his disciples together before departing for Macedonia (Acts 20).

Writing of Romans

  • While in Greece (Corinth), after three months of travel and facing plots against him from Jews, Paul wrote the Epistle to the Romans around 56 AD.
  • The timing is supported by greetings found in Romans chapter 16 which reference individuals connected with Corinth.

Key Figures Mentioned

  • Phoebe is introduced as a deaconess from Cenchrea who likely delivered Paul's letter to Rome (Romans 16:1).
  • Gaius is mentioned as Paul's host; his connection with Corinth is further established through references in First Corinthians (1:14).

Conclusion on Timing and Location

  • The analysis concludes that Paul's letter was written from Corinth between 55 or 56 AD based on historical context and personal connections outlined within the text.

Understanding the Epistle to the Romans

Context and Timing of the Letter

  • The letter is directed towards Rome, specifically mentioning Sencrea as a port of Corinth from where it was sent. This geographical context is crucial for understanding its audience.
  • The dating of the epistle is discussed, with references to different years (55, 56, 57) based on Paul's proconsulate timeline. A preference for 56 is expressed as a central point.

Methodology in Writing

  • Emphasis on understanding the methodology behind the epistle's writing process; it's important to recognize how letters were composed during this time.
  • Reference to Romans 16:22 highlights that Tercio assisted Paul in writing this letter, indicating collaborative authorship which can influence textual interpretation.
  • The significance of dictation in letter writing is noted; sometimes scribes may alter wording or use synonyms due to their own interpretations or spelling uncertainties. This could lead to variations in text across different letters attributed to Paul.

Structure and Themes of the Epistle

  • The structure of Romans includes various themes:
  • Chapters 1-2 discuss God's wrath.
  • Chapters 3-5 focus on Abraham's promises fulfilled through Christ.
  • Chapters 6-7 address sin and believers.
  • Chapter 8 covers spiritual law.
  • Chapters 9-11 elaborate on God's salvation plan for Israel.
  • Chapters 12-15 provide Christian advice.
  • Chapter 16 concludes with greetings and final remarks.

Purpose Behind Writing

  • The motivation for writing Romans stems from its strategic location as a political center; all roads led to Rome, making it an ideal place for spreading theological ideas throughout the empire. This underscores Paul's intent for his teachings to reach a wider audience through this influential church.
  • Ultimately, Paul aimed to present "the gospel of grace" through this epistle, emphasizing its foundational role in Christian theology and outreach efforts within Roman society at that time.

Conclusion and Next Steps

  • A brief mention about concluding thoughts on methodology and chronology related to Romans leads into practical assignments for students regarding infographics related to previous lessons learned about missionary journeys using tools like Canva or Genely. This indicates an ongoing educational approach following the lecture content discussed earlier in class sessions.

Infographic Assignment on the Inductive Method

Overview of the Assignment

  • The task involves creating an infographic that addresses seven key questions regarding the Epistle to the Romans:
  • Who is the author?
  • When was it written?
  • How was it written?
  • Why was it written?

Resources for Completion

  • Students have three sources to assist in completing this assignment:
  • A PowerPoint presentation.
  • A detailed document authored by the instructor on the same topic.
  • The recorded class session, which will be available for review.

Guidelines for Infographic Creation

  • Emphasis is placed on keeping text minimal to maintain visual appeal; infographics should not be cluttered with excessive text.
  • Key elements should include:
  • Important keywords and verses.
  • An aesthetically pleasing design similar to previous assignments (e.g., first missionary journey).

Expectations for Responses

  • Each question should be answered succinctly but with enough detail to provide context, such as including references like Romans 1:1 and names of early church figures (e.g., Irenaeus, Clement, Eusebius).
  • Avoid lengthy texts; responses should remain concise and visually organized.

Upcoming Class Focus

  • Next week's class will cover "The Promised Gospel in the Old Testament."
  • Students are expected to prepare for a study of Romans chapters 1:1–17 during this upcoming session.