Engaging with the New Testament (BS0142W)

Content

This unit is the second of a sequence of two that introduces students to some of the tools and perspectives employed in the study and interpretation of the Bible, both Old and New Testaments. While developing interpretive and hermeneutical skills, students will be introduced to the narrative sweep of Scripture, detailing certain key figures and events within the biblical canon, setting biblical books in context and engaging sympathetically with different forms of biblical literature. Students will employ these perspectives to examine the relevance of the Bible today. Together, the two units will introduce students to:

1. The nature of Biblical Text
2. An overview of content and the general organization of Biblical texts.
3. Tools for biblical interpretation such as dictionaries, commentaries and surveys
4. Interpretive and hermeneutical skills and techniques This second unit focuses on reading and interpreting the New Testament, emphasizing its narrative ark, particular genres encourages students to apply their developing interpretive skills to personal and contemporary issues.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

This unit is second in a sequence of two units (BS0141W and BS0142W) that together introduce students to the study and interpretation of the Bible. It is expected that students work through these units in sequence.

Pedagogy

Lectures, seminars, tutorials.
The delivery strategy will also utilise field trips and excursions to provide students with the opportunity to explore biblical texts in various contexts and settings.

Indicative Bibliography

• Achtemeier, P C, J B Green and M Meye Thompson, Introducing the New Testament: Its literature and theology. Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 2001.
• Boring, M. Eugene. An Introduction to the New Testament: History, Literature, Theology. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2012.
• Coggins, R and J L Houlden (eds.) A dictionary of biblical interpretation. London: SCM, 1990.
• Collins, R F Introduction to the New Testament. London: SCM Press, 1983.
• Fee, G D and D K Stuart, How to read the Bible for all it’s worth. 3rd edn. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2003.
• Finzel, H. Unlocking the Scripture: Three Steps to Personal Bible Study. Colorado Springs, Victor, 2003.
• Gorman, M.J., Elements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide for Students and Ministers. Peabody: Hendrickson, rev. edn, 2009.
• Lawrence, Louise J. The Word in Place: Reading the New Testament in Contemporary Contexts. London: SPCK. 2009
• Pennington, Jonathan T., Reading the Gospels Wisely. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2012
• Schneiders, S.M. The Revelatory Text: Interpreting the New Testament as Sacred Scripture. San Francisco: Harper, 1991

Assessment