DESCRIPTION: This course introduces the student to a critical study of the
four New Testament Gospels, including (1) major interpretive approaches in
current Gospel research; (2) the distinctive literary and theological
characteristics of the Gospel portraits; (3) the historical setting of the
Gospel writers; (4) critical issues involved in "history of Jesus" research;
and (5) the relationship between faith and history and the relevance of Jesus
for today.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Upon successful completion of the course
students should be able to (1) interpret the Gospels utilizing the methods of
historical and literary criticism; (2) identify the leading literary and
theological themes of each Gospel narrative; (3) distinguish between the Jesus
of history and the Christ of faith and the respective roles assigned to each;
(4) appreciate the Gospel narratives as vehicles of theological reflection
for the church.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: This course is basic to anyone who desires to live as
a disciple of the One whom the Gospels proclaim "Christ." Not only will the
student be a better interpreter of the life and teachings of Jesus but a more
astute observer of the way the four evangelists shaped and contextualized their
respective christologies. In this way Gospel interpretation becomes a catalyst
for the application of contemporary insight into the significance of Jesus.
COURSE FORMAT: The course is primarily lecture in format, utilizing an
inductive approach that takes up critical issues of Gospel interpretation in
the process of reading the Gospels themselves. The Gospels will be read and
studied as narratives with their own literary and theological integrity,
allowing each to contribute its own unique Christological perspective to the
church's overall understanding of Jesus. The course will meet weekly for a
three-hour session.
REQUIRED READING: