Introductory course in which students read entire New Testament
or representative selections. Mainly provides opportunity to
interact closely with a primary text which has strongly
influenced and shaped world history, culture, literature, and
politics; will also explore some critical perspectives in New
Testament studies.
Athena Title
Reading the New Testament
Semester Course Offered
Offered every even-numbered year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students should be able to analyze the content and argumentative strategies of the books of the New Testament, evaluating their key themes, literary forms, and historical claims.
By the end of this course, students should be able to critically examine the historical, cultural, and religious contexts of the New Testament, assessing how they shaped the formation and development of early Christianity.
By the end of this course, students should be able to engage with and assess various academic methodologies and interpretive perspectives in New Testament studies, including historical-critical, literary, and sociological approaches.
By the end of this course, students should be able to compare and contrast different interpretations of New Testament texts, demonstrating critical thinking in analyzing their significance for religious and historical discourse.
By the end of this course, students should be able to construct well-supported arguments in written and verbal discussions about the meaning, historical development, and contemporary relevance of New Testament writings.
Topical Outline
Introduction to the academic study of the Bible
Methodologies
Gospels
Pauline Epistles
Hebrews
Acts
General Epistles
Revelation
