This course introduces the student to the study of the origins of Christianity by means of its canonical literature, the New Testament. We will make a historical study of the New Testament documents, seeking to understand their plan, origin, purpose and content with their broader historical and cultural contexts. Appropriate interpretive method for each corpus of the New Testament will be discussed. We will also seek to clarify the theological message of each document in light of its historical circumstances. Application of this message to our present day will be explored.