Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have a foundational understanding of key themes and stories in the New Testament, as well as an appreciation for its historical and cultural context.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook or journal for note-taking
• Pens or pencils
• Access to the New Testament (printed or digital)
• Art supplies (colored pencils, markers, paper) for creative activities
• A quiet space for reading and reflection
• Prepare a list of key figures and stories from the New Testament to discuss

Activities

• Story Mapping:

  Choose a story from the New Testament, such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan or the story of Jesus feeding the 5000. Create a story map that outlines the main characters, setting, conflict, and resolution. This visual representation will help solidify the student's understanding of the narrative structure.

• Character Profiles:

  Select several key figures from the New Testament, such as Jesus, Peter, Paul, or Mary. Create a character profile for each, including their background, key events they were involved in, and their significance in the New Testament. This activity encourages deeper engagement with the text.

• Artistic Expression:

  After reading a passage from the New Testament, encourage the student to express their understanding through art. They can create a drawing, painting, or collage that represents the themes or messages of the passage. This allows for creative exploration of biblical concepts.

• Discussion and Reflection:

  Engage in a discussion about the themes present in the New Testament, such as love, forgiveness, and redemption. Encourage the student to reflect on how these themes are relevant in their own life. This can be a guided conversation or a journal prompt for personal reflection.

Talking Points

• "The New Testament is a collection of writings that focus on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, as well as the early Christian church."
• "Key themes in the New Testament include love, grace, forgiveness, and the importance of faith."
• "The Parables of Jesus are stories that convey moral and spiritual lessons; they are a unique way He taught the people."
• "Understanding the cultural and historical context of the New Testament helps us better appreciate its messages."
• "The letters (or epistles) written by Paul and other apostles provide insight into the challenges and beliefs of early Christians."
• "The New Testament encourages us to live out our faith through actions and relationships with others."