DESCRIPTION: This course, offered in Spanish, is an introduction to the method and practice of New Testament interpretation. It focuses upon the tools and skills necessary to understand the Greek New Testament, while building an appreciation for their relevance in moving from exegesis to sermon. Students receive guidance in assessing the various types of evidence in making exegetical judgments, in the proper use of reference tools, and in recognizing the role of presuppositions in exegesis.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: As a result of taking this course, students should know how to (1) use the critical apparatus of the Greek New Testament (NA²⁷/UBS⁴), and understand the textual history it presupposes; (2) nuance their understanding of NT language through application of semantics and linguistics; (3) refine their previous knowledge of Greek by asking (and answering) pertinent questions of the text; (4) apply research on the history and society of NT times to their understanding of specific passages; (5) discern the importance of social location in approaching to the NT text; (6) apply various contemporary interpretive methods to the NT text; and (7) handle Scripture responsibly in preaching and in pastoral contexts.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Anyone who wishes to establish a biblical basis for ministry must become aware of the impact of method and approach upon one's reading of the NT.

COURSE FORMAT: Roughly one-third of class time will be dedicated to lectures on method, two-thirds to hands-on application. A high degree of student participation is expected. In addition to general reading and preparation of assigned passages, students will be given specific areas in which to do in-depth exegetical work. The work in these areas will then be presented and discussed in class. Class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

Greek New Testament (UBS⁴ ok, Nestle-Aland²⁷ preferred).

Fee, G. Exégesis del Nuevo Testamento: Manual para Estudiantes y Pastores. Miami: Editorial Vida/Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992.

Cervantes Gabarrón, José. Sinopsis Bilingüe de los Tres Primeros Evangelios con los Paralelos del Evangelio de Juan. Estella, Navarra (Spain): Verbo Divino, 1999.

See also the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Programs" available at http://www.fuller.edu/sot/ecds/084/Ling-Exeg-Biblio.html.

1. Notes from weekly assignments (30%).

2. Two exegesis papers reflecting one's grasp of the skills of exegesis and effective use of major tools, to be done on passages selected from list provided in class. Maximum length: 10 pp. (35% each).