Bible for Life and Ministry (BS8001S)

Postgraduate, 24.0 points

Content

This unit introduces biblical studies through discussion of the literature and theologies of the Old and New Testaments. The background to the formation of Christian Scripture will be explored as well as the historical and geographical context of the ancient near eastern world. A selection of traditional and contemporary interpretative approaches and methods to the study of Christian Scripture will be examined. Ethical use of scripture in ministry contexts will be considered, including preaching, teaching, pastoral and spiritual care. The unit will consider contemporary applications of Christian Scripture within diverse contexts

Unit code: BS8001S

Unit status: Approved (Major revision)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Foundational

Unit discipline: Biblical Studies

Delivery Mode: Face to Face

Proposing College: Stirling College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Demonstrate an understanding of historical and cultural backgrounds of biblical worlds.

2.

Critically analyse the different styles of literature present in Christian Scripture and assess the contribution of form critical approaches to biblical texts.

3.

Assess various methods of biblical interpretation, and apply them to interpretation of specific biblical texts
4.

Examine the connections between biblical texts and biblical theology and illustrate how they are used in contemporary contexts.

5.

Using case study methodology, evaluate ethical application of Christian Scripture in ministry contexts
6.

Demonstrate an effective use of biblical studies resources, including concordances, commentaries, lexicons, theological dictionaries, maps and timelines.

7.

Articulate and illustrate a critical understanding of current scholarship in biblical studies and hermeneutical methods.

Pedagogy

Biblical studies for ministry practice introduces critical skills and analytical approaches, with an appreciation of both ancient and modern sites of contest on meaning and practical application.

Indicative Bibliography

  • Birch, Bruce C. Let Justice Roll Down: The Old Testament, Ethics, and Christian Life. Louisville: Westminster/ John Knox Press, 1991.
  • Brueggemann, Walter. Finally Comes the Poet: Daring Speech for Proclamation. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1989.
  • Enns, Peter. Inspiration and Incarnation: Evangelicals and the Problem of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2005.
  • Fee, Gordon D., and Douglas Stuart. How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. 4th ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014.
  • Fee, Gordon D. New Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors. 4th ed. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2009.
  • McKenzie, Steven L. and Stephen R. Haynes. To Each Its Own Meaning: An Introduction to Biblical Criticisms and Their Application. Louisville, KY: Westminster, 1993.
  • McKenzie Steven L., and John Kaltner eds.* New Meanings for Ancient Texts: Recent Approaches to Biblical Criticisms and Their Applications*. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2013.
  • Stuart, Douglas. Old Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors. 4th ed. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2014.
  • Thistleton, Anthony. Hermeneutics: An Introduction. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2009.
  • Wright, NT. Scripture and the Authority of God: How to Read the Bible Today (rev & exp ed.), HarperOne, 2011.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Essay

Essay (thematic) 1000 words.

0 15.0
Essay

Essay 2500 words

0 40.0
Critical Review

Critical Review 1000 words

0 15.0
Oral Presentation

Oral presentation 1500 words

0 30.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Maggie Kappelhoff on 9 Apr, 2020

Unit record last updated: 2021-06-07 08:43:49 +1000