Course Description
An historical-exegetical study of the life and letters of Paul, the relation between Acts and the Pauline epistles, early non-Pauline Gentile Christianity, Pauline theology, and its lasting impression on Christianity.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Additional readings and a research paper along with more extensive examinations to reflect the additional responsibilities.
Athena Title
Life and Letters of Paul
Prerequisite
Junior or senior standing or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students will analyze the conventions of rhetoric and letter writing in the ancient world and how Paul adapted these forms in his correspondence with early Christian communities.
- Students will assess the challenges and possibilities of reconstructing Paul’s life using his letters, the narrative in Acts, and other historical sources.
- Students will engage with the history of Pauline interpretation through exploring how interpretations of Paul’s letters have evolved over time and situate contemporary perspectives within this broader interpretive tradition.
- Students will investigate Paul’s moral teachings and their influence on the development of Christian ethics, considering their relevance to modern ethical discussions.
- Students will strengthen the ability to critically analyze Pauline texts using historical, literary, and theological methods, fostering deeper engagement with New Testament studies.
- Students will improve the ability to articulate complex ideas about Paul’s letters and theology clearly and effectively in both written and oral discussions.
Topical Outline
- a. Introduction to the course
b. The Book of Acts
c. Paul’s Letters: 1 and 2 Corinthians
d. Paul’s Letters: Philemon and 1 Thessalonians
e. Paul’s Letters: Galatians and Philippians
f. Paul’s Letters: Romans
g. Deutero-Pauline Letters: 2 Thessalonians, Colossians, Ephesians
