DESCRIPTION: This course is an introduction to the New Testament books from Acts to Revelation. In addition to the traditional elements of "introduction," the methods of interpretation appropriate to some of the books will be discussed, and their theological content will be surveyed. The career of Paul as a missionary and theologian will receive special attention.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: In this course students are to obtain (1) a fundamental knowledge of the content and literary features of these books; (2) an appreciation of how the gospel is variously contextualized to the diverse historical and cultural situations of the apostolic church; (3) an ability to use various critical methods and develop effective theological arguments; (4) an ability to draw lessons from those books for our preaching of the gospel today; and (5) a desire to study the Scriptures more deeply and obey their teachings with a greater conviction.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: A careful study of the New Testament books in full consideration of the critical issues such as historical background, literary structure, social setting, and theological debate involved in them is foundational for Christian preaching and teaching as well as for a life of discipleship.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture and discussion. The class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

Brown, R. E. An Introduction to the New Testament. New York: Doubleday, 1997.

Barrett, C. K. Paul: An Introduction to His Thought. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1994.

Hawthorne, G. F., R. P. Martin, and D. G. Reid, eds. Dictionary of Paul and His Letters. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1993 (several relevant articles).

Martin, R. P. and P. H. Davids, eds. Dictionary of the Later New Testament & Its Developments. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1997 (several relevant articles).

Achtemeier, P., J. B. Green, and M. M. Thompson. Introducing the New Testament: Its Literature and Theology. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2001.

Bruce, F. F. Paul: Apostle of the Heart Set Free. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1977.

Ferguson, Everett. Backgrounds of Early Christianity. 3d ed. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2003.

Meeks, W. A. The First Urban Christians: The Social World of the Apostle Paul. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1983.

1. Reading for each class.

2. Two essays of approximately 7-8 pages each (25% each).

3. Final examination (50%).