Course Description
The nature, content, and problems of New Testament literature, with particular attention given to its canonization and textual transmission.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Additional readings and a research paper will be assigned along with more extensive examinations to reflect the graduate students' additional responsibilities.
Athena Title
New Testament Literature
Prerequisite
Junior or senior standing or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered every even-numbered year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students will analyze the process by which the 27 books of the New Testament were selected, focusing on the historical context, criteria for canonization, and the debates surrounding which books were accepted or rejected.
- Students will investigate the diversity of texts and early Christian communities before the formalization of the New Testament canon, and how different groups viewed and used these texts as Scripture.
- Students will critically examine the theological, historical, and ecclesiastical criteria that influenced the decision-making process for including or excluding particular books from the New Testament canon.
- Students will explore specific New Testament books that faced challenges to their acceptance, such as Hebrews, Revelation, and 2 Peter, and understand the reasons behind their delayed or contested inclusion.
- Students will reflect on how the formation of the New Testament canon shaped Christian theology, beliefs, and practices, and how it continues to influence modern Christianity.
- Students will develop an awareness of the implications of having a fixed New Testament canon, considering both the unity and diversity of early Christianity, and how the canon contributes to our understanding of the development of Christian thought and identity.
Topical Outline
- . I. Christian Manuscripts in Early Christianity
II. The Development and Closing of the New Testament Canon
III. Christian Teaching and Practice with 27 New Testament Books
