DESCRIPTION: This course explores exegetical methodology and hermeneutical theory for the study of the Epistle to the Ephesians. By way of readings, lectures, and most especially detailed exegesis of the Greek text of Ephesians, students will solidify their skills with the tools and techniques required for exegesis. Special attention will be given to the unique characteristics of Ephesians, its literary and rhetorical forms, its theology, and its historical and canonical settings.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: As a result of completing this course students should (1) understand more about the literary features of Ephesians; (2) better understand the historical and cultural situations in which Ephesians was written; (3) understand such text-critical issues as have arisen in the text of Ephesians; (4) better understand and appreciate the theology of Ephesians and its contribution to the theology of the NT and the church, and thus use the book better in their ministries as well as move towards a deeper obedience to Scripture in their lives; (5) develop their abilities in interpreting the Bible; and (6) apply and solidify their earlier learning of the Greek language and the various exegetical methods and practices with the hope that this will develop more enthusiasm for reading the Bible.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Skillful exegesis is essential to one's understanding of the New Testament and is indispensable to responsible teaching and preaching that derives from readings of the New Testament.

COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions. The course will be a combination of lectures, discussions of prepared assignments, and working through the book of Ephesians in the Greek New Testament.

REQUIRED READING:

Lincoln, Andrew T., and A. J. M. Wedderburn. The Theology of the Later Pauline Letters. New Testament Theology. Cambridge University Press, 1993.

O'Brien, Peter T. The Letter to the Ephesians. Pillar New Testament Commentary. Eerdmans, 1999.

Extended use of the Greek resources in the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic Advising office or at "www.fuller.edu/sot/ecds/072/Ling-Exeg-Biblio.html."

Erickson, R. J. A Beginner's Guide to New Testament Exegesis. InterVarsity Press, 2005.

Fee, G. D. New Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors. 3rd ed. Westminster/John Knox, 2002.

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

Hoehner, Harold W. Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament. Baker Academic, 2003.

Lincoln, Andrew T. Ephesians. Word Biblical Commentary 42. Word, 1990.

1. A journal that will include (a) 10 translations (14.25%), (b) 5 reflections, observations, and questions (14.25%), and (c) 1 exegetical exercise (14.25%)

2. A translation exam (14.25%)

3. A 3500-4000-word exegetical paper on an assigned Ephesians pericope (43%)