An Advanced Study in Galatians: Part One

Course Headline: Identifying the Messiah Community

Course Instructor: N. T. Wright
Course Title: An Advanced Study in Galatians: Part One

Discovering the Essence of the Early Christian Movement: A Deep Dive into Paul's Letter to the Galatians 🧐✨

Dive into the Past, Shape Your Present ⏳➡️✍️

Paul’s letter to the Galatians stands as a cornerstone text for understanding the theological and communal dynamics of the early Christian movement. In this advanced online course led by the esteemed scholar N. T. Wright, we embark on an intellectual odyssey through the pages of Galatians, uncovering the intricate tapestry of early Christian thought and practice.

Course Overview:

• Historical Context: Explore the historical and cultural backdrop against which Paul's letter was written, setting the stage for understanding its significance. 📜🏛️

• Theological Debate: Grapple with the central theological debate of the time—the role of Torah in the community of believers, and the inclusion of Gentiles within this new faith. 🧐🤝

• Identity Formation: Delve into how Paul articulates the identity of those “in the Messiah,” and the implications for understanding membership in the messianic community. 🤔👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

• Language and Interpretation: Engage with Paul's use of language, particularly the terms 'faith' and 'righteousness,' and how their meanings were contested in the early church. 📖🔍

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Galatians: Unpack the complex arguments presented by Paul in his letter, with a focus on the first half up to 3:18. 🎓🗝️

• Community Formation: Analyze how Paul envisions an inclusive community that transcends ethnic and cultural barriers, drawing from the promise to Abraham. 🤝⚖️

• Foundational Theology: Explore key Christian doctrines—Trinity, Incarnation, Atonement, and final destiny—as they were being thought through in their infancy. 🌱🕊️

Course Structure:

This course is meticulously structured to guide you through the dense yet profound text of Galatians. With over 20 lectures, Prof. Wright breaks down Paul's argument with clarity and depth, addressing:

• The Social Definition of 'Faith' and 'Righteousness': Understand how these terms were socially defined in the Greco-Roman world and what they meant for early Christians. 📈🔍

• Interfaith Squabble: Reflect on the interfaith tensions that arose over circumcision and the Law, and how these issues are still relevant today. 🤯🔥

Practical Application & Resources:

• Greek Lexicon: Utilize Greek-English dictionaries to deepen your understanding of the original language of Galatians. 📖🔗

• Concept Reflection Prompts: Engage with thought-provoking prompts designed to help you internalize and apply these teachings to your own life and faith community. 🧠✏️

Join Us on This Journey:

Embark on this transformative journey through the letter to the Galatians, as we seek to understand its profound implications for the early Christian movement and for us today. With a blend of historical context, theological exploration, and practical application, this course is an essential resource for any serious student of scripture or Church history. 🛣️🚀

Enroll now and take the first step towards a deeper understanding of one of the most pivotal texts in early Christianity with N. T. Wright's "An Advanced Study in Galatians: Part One." Your journey into the heart of Christian origins begins here. 🗺️❓