Welcome to an exciting voyage through the New Testament, guided by the esteemed Dr. Malan van Rhyn, a lecturer at the Reformed Theological Academy (GTA). With nearly four decades of experience in the Reformed churches and the pinnacle achievement of a PhD in New Testament studies, Dr. Malan van Rhyn invites you to explore the depths of God’s revelation and the application of His word. This course is an academic offering that transcends traditional learning; it is a call to delve into the divine mysteries presented through the scriptures.
Introduction to the Course
Throughout this course, we aim to introduce you to the world of the New Testament as an integral part of God’s revelation to His church. You will learn to interpret the 27 books of the New Testament within their historical context, literary nature, and revelatory purpose. Our approach is not merely an overview but offers deep insight into each book, focusing on the authors, original readers, themes, and contemporary relevance.
“The main goal is to guide you into the world of the New Testament as part of God’s revelation to His Church.” – Dr. Malan van Rhyn
Foundational Questions of Faith
We begin this journey with fundamental questions: Who is God? What is the nature of humanity? How is the Bible composed, and why do we believe in its divine inspiration? Understanding these questions is pivotal to grasping the relationship between the Old and New Testaments and recognising the Bible’s function as a unified narrative of God’s salvation plan.
Deep Dive into Each Book
We undertake a thorough study of each New Testament book, including:
The Gospels
Acts
Paul’s Epistles
General Epistles
Revelation
Key Areas of Focus
For each book, the course examines:
Authorship and Audience
Themes and Messages
Historical and Social Background
Relevance for Faith and Church Life Today
We also address intriguing questions like why there are four Gospels instead of just one. This exploration will enrich your understanding of the Gospel’s diverse perspectives and the unified message they convey.
Understanding God’s Salvation Plan
The course delves into how God’s salvation plan is revealed in His word. You will explore the grammatical-historical method and the socio-historical method of scriptural interpretation, explaining why the former is favoured within our studies.
A Reformed Historical Approach
Our approach is rooted in a Reformed revelation-historical perspective, where you will learn to interpret each book in light of God’s salvation history, with Jesus Christ as the centerpiece of scripture. This method not only equips you with knowledge but also nurtures your personal relationship with God and enhances your spiritual growth through the workings of the Holy Spirit.
Course Structure and Expectations
The course comprises:
15 Online Lecture Sessions
Completion of 2 Assignments
A Semester Test
Final Examination
All study materials, including notes, videos, and class recordings, are accessible via our learning platform, ad Fontes. This platform ensures a rich, supportive learning environment.
Resources and Support
Participants will have access to online libraries and resources to aid successful completion of the course. The program is suitable for any believer eager to immerse themselves in God’s word and serves as an introduction to further theological study at the GTA.
A Spiritual Calling Beyond Academics
At GTA, theological training is perceived not only as an academic pursuit but as a spiritual vocation. The course aims to equip you to understand and interpret the word of God, with themes like salvation through Jesus Christ, the kingdom of God, the work of the Holy Spirit, the new life in Christ, and living as a church according to God’s word being central throughout.
Join Us for an Enriching Journey
We sincerely hope you will join us for this enriching journey through the New Testament. May this course offer eternal value, strengthening and enriching you with the truth and light of His word—the joyful Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Meet Dr. Malan van Rhyn
Dr. Malan van Rhyn is passionate about seeing students grow in their understanding and application of God’s word. He eagerly anticipates meeting you in class and embarking on this enlightening path together.
The invitation stands; join us at the Reformed Theological Academy for a course that promises not just academic growth but also profound spiritual enrichment. Your journey through the New Testament awaits, under the expert guidance of Dr. Malan van Rhyn.
