DESCRIPTION:

This course is an introduction to the task of New Testament exegesis. It provides the student not only exposure to and practice in the various methods of interpreting the Greek New Testament, but also a familiarity with the larger issues of the validity and usefulness of these methods. Special emphasis is placed on weighing the various kinds of evidence to produce an exegetical judgment, and awareness of the reference tools available to assist in this task.

The ability to exegete the Greek New Testament is one of the most important tools for responsible preaching and teaching. There can be no good theology without good exegesis.

The course will be a combination of lectures, in-class demonstration of various exegetical methods, and discussion of exegetical assignments. The class will twice a week for four-hour sessions for five weeks.

Green, J. B., ed. Hearing the New Testament: Strategies for Interpretation. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1995.

Hagner, D. A. New Testament Exegesis and Research: A Guide for Seminarians. Pasadena, 1999.

Extended Syllabus (available in the bookstore).

See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic Advising office.

Danker, F. W. Multipurpose Tools for Bible Study. Rev. and exp. ed. Minneapolis: Fortress, 1993.

1. Notes and in-class quizzes on reading assignments.

2. Written assignments on various elements of exegesis.

3. An exegesis paper, not exceeding twelve pages in length, which demonstrates proper knowledge and use of the methods and tools covered in this course. A list of allowed passages will be given in class.

LG512.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Hermeneutics (HERM).

None.