The 2026 New Testament Society of Southern Africa (NTSSA) conference, hosted recently by the University of the Free State (UFS), brought together New Testament scholars for five days of conversation, research, and collaboration. The conference provides a space for postgraduate students, early-career researchers, and established scholars to share their work and engage with current developments in New Testament studies.

Focus on Jesus in bi-optic perspective

This year’s conference theme, ‘Jesus in bi-optic perspective’, focused on comparing the Gospel of John with the Synoptic Gospels to better understand their different perspectives on the historical Jesus. This focus came from the hosting subgroup, which centres on research related to Jesus and the Gospels. The keynote speaker, Prof Paul Anderson, Professor of Biblical and Quaker Studies at George Fox University in Oregon, USA, is internationally recognised for his work on Johannine studies and the relationship between the Gospel of John and the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke).

UFS hosts NTSSA Conference once again

The goal of the conference, which is held annually in March, was to encourage the presentation of high-quality New Testament research and to create opportunities for meaningful discussion. 

“Hosting the conference at the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the UFS was particularly meaningful, as it had been some time since the university last welcomed the NTSSA”, said Dr Nina Müller van Velden, Senior Lecturer in New Testament Studies at the UFS and Chairperson of the NTSSA. Dr Müller van Velden added that the event provided postgraduate students and research fellows in the Department of Old and New Testament Studies with the opportunity to be actively involved, whether through assisting during the conference or presenting their research. It also gave faculty and staff the chance to engage with current scholarship and opened the door for future collaboration across disciplines.

Exploring diverse areas of New Testament research

The NTSSA includes five subgroups: Jesus and the Gospels, Pauline Writings, Early Christian Studies, Gender and Human Sexuality, and Postcoloniality in Africa. While the main theme guided the central discussions, participants also presented in parallel subgroup sessions. This allowed colleagues to engage across a variety of topics and areas of interest.

Programme encourages scholarly engagement

The programme included keynote lectures, main papers by established scholars, the Honorary President lecture, a panel discussion, and a book launch. These different formats allowed for both larger group conversations and smaller, more focused discussions. Time was also set aside after each presentation to encourage thoughtful feedback and engagement.

Building networks and academic collaboration

Networking formed another important part of the conference. With approximately 65 participants from across South Africa and a number of international attendees, the conference offered a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and build connections. These conversations often lead to future research collaborations, joint publications, and new academic partnerships.

Supporting postgraduate students and early-career researchers