DESCRIPTION: This course, taught in Spanish, introduces the study of the book
of Acts, the letters of the New Testament, and the book of Revelation. Emphasis
is placed on the theology of each of these documents, giving attention to what
unifies them as well as to what makes each of them unique. Questions such as
the authorship, occasion, genre, and structure of each document are considered
insofar as they inform the interpretation of its contents. Paul's life and
thought are given special attention due to his prominence in this portion of
the New Testament.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will have demonstrated (1)
a fundamental knowledge of the contents of Acts, the NT letters, and
Revelation; (2) an appreciation for the unity and diversity that characterizes
the witness of these documents to Jesus Christ; (3) an understanding of the
implications of literary genre for how one is to read and interpret these
documents; (4) an acquaintance with some of the historical, cultural,
religious, and other factors that shaped the growth and development of the
early church, the various issues it confronted, and the impact all this had
upon its theology.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: An understanding of these documents is foundational
for developing a biblically informed theology that equips one for preaching and
teaching, for thinking carefully and creatively about Christian faith in
today's world, and for faithful Christian discipleship.
COURSE FORMAT: Lectures and discussion of the assigned primary and secondary
readings; student participation is expected. The class meets twice a week for
two-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING: