Exploring the Bible (BS1003L)

Content

The core purpose of this unit is to introduce students to the Old and New Testament writings. In this process students will be introduced to basic tools and approaches used in biblical studies, focusing on reading the biblical text as literature while giving attention to its historical context in the quest to discern its theological intent. Attention will be given to selected key Old Testament themes especially within Genesis. Study of the New Testament will concentrate on the gospels, Paul’s letters and Revelation and selected key themes within them. The development of the Old Testament and New Testament canons and the relationship between them as Christian Scripture will be explored. Along the way the unit will challenge the learners to a broader and deeper understanding and appreciation of the Bible and its place within Christian faith and life and as well as the implications of their learning for use of the Bible in Christian education.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

Course relationship: A level 1 unit in undergraduate theology and ministry courses

Prohibited combinations : Old Testament Introduction and New Testament Introduction or equivalent

Pedagogy

Coursework, lectures, webinars, discussions Online—engagement with online learning materials, including audio/video, tasks, forums, and asynchronous discussion with lecturer.

Indicative Bibliography

• The Bible, preferably the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) or Today’s New International Version (TNIV) and preferably in the form of a study Bible.
• Achtemeier, Paul J., Joel B. Green, and Marianne Meye Thompson. Introducing the New Testament: its literature and theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans. 2001.
• Arnold, Bill T., and Brian E. Beyer. Encountering the Old Testament: a Christian survey. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker. 2008.
• Burnette-Bletsch, R. Studying the Old Testament: a companion. Nashville: Abingdon Press. 2007.
• Drane, John. Introducing the Old Testament. 3rd ed. Oxford, UK: Lion. 2011.
• Drane, John. Introducing the New Testament. 3rd ed. Oxford, UK: Lion. 2010.
• Elwell, Walter A., and Robert W. Yarbrough. Encountering the New Testament: a historical and theological survey. 3rd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker. 2013.
• Evans, Craig A., and Stanley E. Porter, eds. Dictionary of New Testament background. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. c.2000.
• Hayes, Christine E. Introduction to the Bible. The Open Yale Courses Series. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2012.
• Metzger, Bruce M., and Bart D. Ehrman. The text of the New Testament: its transmission, corruption, and restoration. 4th ed. New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2005.
• Powell, Mark Allan. Introducing the New Testament: a historical, literary, and theological survey. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2018
• Rogerson, J,W. An Introduction to the Bible. Abingdon, Oxon and New York, NY: Routledge, 2014.

Assessment