New Testament Survey Course Connects Students Across Africa and India
Survey of the New Testament Equips Global Students Through Harbinger Institute
HARBINGER INSTITUTE (Online via Zoom)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — January–March 2026 — The Nashville Church of Christ, through its educational ministry, Harbinger Institute, recently concluded an eight-week Survey of the New Testament course led by Dr. Larry D. Mathis, an elder of the congregation. The course brought together students from across Africa and India, reflecting the continued global reach of the Church’s teaching efforts.
Designed as a foundational study, the course provided a structured overview of all 27 books of the New Testament by placing them in their historical and chronological context. Engaging the Book of Acts as the central framework, students traced the establishment, growth, and spread of the early church from Jerusalem to Rome. This approach enabled participants to see how each New Testament book fits within a unified narrative, offering clarity and cohesion in their study of Scripture.
The course emphasized both understanding and application, equipping students with knowledge to teach others. Key topics included the apostles’ commission, the establishment of the church in Acts 2, and the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul
“The purpose of this course is to deepen the student’s understanding and appreciation of Scripture, Jesus Christ, and the first-century church tracing its establishment, growth, and spread from Jerusalem to Rome so that these truths may be clearly understood and faithfully taught.”
—Dr. Larry D. Mathis
As students progressed through the Book of Acts, they engaged in a chronological method of study, pausing to examine New Testament books in their proper historical setting. For example, students read the Book of James alongside Acts 12, reinforcing the relationship between the narrative of Acts and the writings of the early church. This method strengthened their ability to understand Scripture as a connected and coherent whole.
Throughout the eight-week course, students participated in focused sessions covering the New Testament authors, the role of the apostles, the Great Commission, examples of conversion, and the organization and unity of the early church. Additional attention was given to practical themes such as leadership, spiritual growth, and faithful service within the body of Christ. By the conclusion of the course, students were equipped with an understanding of the material and the tools to teach it, fulfilling one of the program's primary goals.
Despite geographic distance and time zone differences, participants demonstrated strong commitment and engagement. Students completed readings, contributed to discussions, and reflected thoughtfully on the material, strengthening both their knowledge and their faith.
One participant shared, “The depth of study has challenged me in ways I did not expect. Each lesson connects Scripture so clearly that I feel like I am seeing the New Testament come together as one story.”
The successful completion of this course highlights a growing global interest in accessible biblical education. In regions where formal training opportunities may be limited, efforts like this provide essential support for developing knowledgeable and faithful leaders in the Lord’s Church.
This course reflects the continuing mission of the Nashville Church of Christ, through Harbinger Institute, to carry out the work of teaching and equipping leaders worldwide, preparing faithful servants to serve with knowledge, conviction, and Christ-centered purpose.