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. (This section of NS500 is open for enrollment only to first-year School of Psychology students.)

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Having successfully completed this course, students should be able (1) to articulate the character of the Gospels as witnesses to Jesus Christ; (2) to demonstrate familiarity with the historical background, content, structure, and message of each of the New Testament Gospels; and (3) to demonstrate developing skill in the interpretation of the Gospels as appropriate for effective leadership in Christian communities.

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 weekly for three-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.

Lohfink, Gerhard. Jesus and Community: The Social Dimension of Christian Faith. Fortress, 1984.

Johnson, Luke T. The Writings of the New Testament: An Introduction. Rev. ed. Fortress, 1999.

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

Berger, Klaus. Identity and Experience in the New Testament. Fortress, 2003.

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

Johnson, Luke T. Religious Experience in Earliest Christianity. Fortress, 1998.

1. One paper (1500 words) on a topic related to the historical Jesus and the Gospels (30%).

2. An outline of the Gospel of Mark (15%).

3. One short written assignment (1000 words) on a topic of interest that relates the Gospel material to psychology (15%).

4. A book review of Lohfink (1500 words; 20%).

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