Introduction to the New Testament (BN8000T)

Postgraduate, 24.0 points

Content

This unit introduces students to the literature and theology of the New Testament. Students will study all four Gospels and Acts, the Epistles and Revelation within a broad perspective, examining issues of genre, source, ancient worldview and theology. Special attention will be paid to the ways the insights of critical biblical scholarship relate to the theological understanding of these texts in their original context. Skills and tools for exegesis will be introduced and developed throughout the unit. Attention will also be paid to issues of canonicity and New Testament manuscripts.

Unit code: BN8000T

Unit status: Approved (Minor revision)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Foundational

Unit discipline: New Testament

Delivery Mode: Face to Face

Proposing College: Trinity College Theological School

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Learning outcomes

1.

Describe the historical, cultural, religious and theological world of the New Testament.
2.

Identify the genre, setting and theological themes of particular New Testament books in conversation with the whole
3.

Demonstrate an awareness of critical skills and tools for exegesis, including relevant reference tools and resources
4.

Integrate methodological understandings, skills and theological reflection in the study of a New Testament passage
5.

Analyse a text and construct an argument for interpretation, in conversation with other interpretations.

Pedagogy

Lectures, seminars, tutorials

Indicative Bibliography

  • Achtemeier, Paul J., Joel B. Green, Marianne Meye Thompson. * Introducing the New Testament: Its Literature & Theology.* Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2001.
  • Carter, Warren & Amy-Jill Levine. * The New Testament: Methods & Meanings.* Nashville: Abingdon, 2013.
  • Gorman, Michael J. * Elements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide for Students and Ministers.* Rev. ed. Peabody: Hendrickson, 2009. eBook
  • Hayes, J.H. & Carl R. Holladay. * Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner’s Handbook.* 3rd ed. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2007.
  • Johnson, Luke T. * The Writings of the New Testament: An Interpretation.*. 3rd ed. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2010.
  • Moloney, Francis J. * Reading the New Testament: A Primer for Pastors, Religious Educators, and Believers.* Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2015.
  • Rowland, Christopher. Christian Origins. 2nd ed, London: SPCK, 2002.
  • deSilva, David. An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation, Illinois: Intervarsity Press, 2004. (recommended for purchase)
  • Klauck, H. J. Ancient Letters and the New Testament: A Guide to Context and Exegesis, Waco, Texas: Baylor, 2006.
  • Metzger, B. The Canon of the New Testament: Its Origin, Development, and Significance, Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1997.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Exegetical Essay - Exegetical essay

Exegesis paper (2000 words)

 2000 40.0
Forum - Forum, tutorial discussion

class participation in forum and tutorial discussions

 1500 20.0
Written Examination - Take-home Examination

Take-home Examination (2500 words)

 2500 40.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 11 Jul, 2024

Unit record last updated: 2024-07-11 11:53:05 +1000