DESCRIPTION: This course will introduce the content, structure, and interrelationship of the four Gospels. In addition to considering and employing methods important to the study of the Gospels, we will explore the theological and literary purposes of each Gospel and their historical value as sources for the life of Jesus of Nazareth.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course should enable students (1) to better know and understand the Gospels; (2) to develop ability in interpreting the Gospels through reading and critical interaction via historical, cultural, literary and other methods; (3) to become more skilled in reading the Gospels theologically in view of their contexts; (4) to see more clearly the nature of the Gospels as both human word and holy Scripture.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Central to our understanding of Jesus, the Gospels are important documents for all believers. Those who complete this course should gain a more comprehensive understanding of the life of Jesus, his teachings and miracles, and the kingdom of God, all of which will enhance the student's theological world and ministry.

COURSE FORMAT: The course, which consists of lectures and discussion, will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

Aland, Kurt. Synopsis of the Four Gospels. Greek-English, 7th ed. United Bible Societies, 1984.
OR the same synopsis in English only.

Powell, M. A. Fortress Introduction to the Gospels. Fortress Press. 1998.

Stanton, G. N. The Gospels and Jesus. Oxford University Press. 2nd ed. 2002.

Theissen, G. The Shadow of the Galilean: The Quest for the Historical Jesus in Narrative Form. Fortress Press. 1988.

Course Reader.

Bockmuehl, M. This Jesus: Martyr, Lord, Messiah. InterVarsity Press, 1996.

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

Green, J. B., S. McKnight, and I. H. Marshall, eds. Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels. InterVarsity Press, 1992.

1. Two 800-word writing assignments (15% each).

2. One exegetical/theological paper (1500 words) on a given pericope from the Gospels (30%).

3. One written review of Theissen, G. The Shadow of the Galilean (20%).

4. A final examination covering lectures and reading (20%).