Lesson 1
New Testament Division
PRINCIPAL EVENTS
Interval between the Old and the New Testament—four hundred years of silence. Governmentally, this period was divided between Persian, Greek, Maccabean, and Roman rule.
Prelude of angelic ministration. Message to Zacharias (Luke 1:5-20). Annunciation to Mary (Luke 1:26-38). Angelic chorus on Bethlehem's plains to shepherds (Luke 2:1-18). Warning to Joseph to flee from Herod (Matt. 2:13). The first thirty years of the life of Jesus are referred to but slightly in the Bible.
First Period.—Six months of preaching by the "forerunner," John the Baptist (Matt. 3:1-13; also parallel passages).
Second Period.—The entire life of Jesus, from the baptism at Jordan to the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. (See entire Gospel narrative.)
Third Period.—From Pentecost, the outpouring of the Spirit and admission into the church of three thousand in one day (Acts 2:1-40). Gentiles admitted to the church (Acts 10:1-48). The first persecution (Acts 5:17-40). The martyrdom of Stephen (Acts 6, 7).