New Testament Scripture

Preparatory Homework
In preparation for the December 9 class on New Testament Scripture taught by Patrick Russell, Ph.D., you are asked to read the following:  

• The entire Gospel of Mark
  (It is the length of a modern short story, so it can be read in its entirety in an hour or so.)
• Chapters 4-6 in the Gospel of John
• Chapters 1-3 in Paul’s Letter to the Galatians
• Chapters 2-4 in the Letter of James
• Chapters 9, 11, and 15 in the Acts of the Apostles

Practicum in Spiritual Formation
The class spiritual formation time will explore the practice of "lectio divina" or "divine reading." This is an ancient Catholic tradition which many, including Pope Benedict XVI, find extremely valuable to growth in the spiritual life. The class will partake in this exercise.

Class Notes
Dr. Russell used these handouts...

• The structure of the Gospel according to Mark
• A synopsis of the baptism story in the Gospel accounts

... and these PowerPoint files for his presentation.

• Introduction to the New Testament - the Gospel according to Mark
• The Gospels according to Matthew and Luke
• The Gospel according to John

Audio Recordings
Audio recordings of this day's activities are available here. If you would like to purchase a copy of this four-CD audio set for $20, please call the OEC at 608-821-3160.

Introduction, Addressing some Concerns from O.T. session (19:50)
Introduction to the Gospels (38:00)

The Gospel of Mark (18:35)
Mark (cont'd 2) (7:20)
Mark (cont'd 3) (36:00)
Mark (cont'd 4) (10:35)

The Gospels of Matthew and Luke (30:00)
Matthew and Luke (cont'd 2) (29:15)

The Gospel of John (21:20)
John (cont'd 2) (47:10)

Faith vs. Works (14:25)


Spiritual Formation Homework
For ongoing spiritual formation, participants are asked to continue with the practices fostered in previous months and to meditate on Scripture three times per week for 20 minutes using the Lectio Divina approach.