Term 6 – Eternal Life in Jesus’ Name
Introduction
This term focusses mostly on the works of John, starting with his profound and beautiful gospel. John’s books were written as the church faced increasing opposition from the Jewish people and from the Roman Empire. We look at how the early church prepared itself for difficult times, whilst looking ahead to the climax of Jesus’ second coming that will make real a hope we all share – the promise of eternal life with Jesus in a sinless world which reflects the wonders of the Garden of Eden.
Summary of Sessions
- An introduction to John. Its structure and some of its key texts, showing John’s purpose – to declare Jesus as the word of God who becomes flesh to achieve a triumphant victory of love over evil.
- Going Deeper – Jesus’ Sayings and Miracles. Understanding the significance of the seven ‘I am’ sayings and the seven signs or miracles.
- Reaching the Heart. How John saw Jesus, and the meaning he attaches to Jesus’ death and resurrection.
- Staying Strong Under Pressure. Peter and John’s Christ-centred encouragement to embattled churches under their care.
- Encouragement in Difficult Times. As the NT period draws to a close, Christians and apostles encourage each other whilst enduring persecution.
- The New Improved Covenant. The message of Hebrews: how Christianity relates to the Old Covenant – and why it is better.
- Apocalypse! An overview of apocalyptic texts in the NT and Revelation, giving a feel for its apocalyptic structure and survey of its interpretations.
- Old Worlds and New. In an epic end to an epic story, we return to God’s big picture: considering Jesus as king; linking Revelation back to Eden; and reviewing the term, year, and course.
