DESCRIPTION: Basic principles and practice of exegesis in the Greek New Testament, with attention to methodological and bibliographical resources. Students will exegete specific portions of the Greek New Testament. The original passages will include different genres of the New Testament literature, e.g., historical narrative, parables, epistles, apocalyptic. The purpose is to equip the student with knowledge of both the tools and the techniques of exegesis. In the actual practice of exegesis special attention will be given to how exegetical decisions are made, as well as to underlying hermeneutical questions involved in moving from exegesis to sermon.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: All ministry in Christian communities requires an ability to interpret biblical texts. Thus, deepening one's exegetical skills is invaluable for teaching, preaching, and pastoral care in general.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Having successfully completed this course, students will be able to (1) describe basic exegetical methods for interpreting New Testament texts; (2) articulate central concerns, strengths, and weaknesses of a range of approaches comprising New Testament interpretation; (3) demonstrate basic knowledge of hermeneutics for bridging the gap between the ancient text and modern readers; (4) demonstrate skills in the exegesis of New Testament texts at a level that is appropriate for effective leadership in Christian communities.

COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet twice a week for two-hour sessions for lecture, discussion, and practicum.

REQUIRED READING:

Green, Joel B., ed. Hearing the New Testament: Strategies for Interpretation. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1995.

Hagner, Donald A. New Testament Exegesis and Research: A Guide for Seminarians. Pasadena, CA: Fuller Seminary Press, 1999.

Erickson, Richard J. A Beginner's Guide to New Testament Exegesis. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2005.

One of the two following books:

González, Justo L. Santa Biblia: The Bible through Hispanic Eyes. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1996. Or

Powell, Mark Allan. What Do They Hear? Bridging the Gap Between Pulpit and Pew. Nashville: Abingdon, 2007.

The following resources will be used throughout the quarter:

Aland, K., et al. The Greek New Testament. 4th ed. United Bible Societies, 1993 [UBS4].

or Nestle, E. & K. Aland. Novum Testamentum Graece. 27th ed. Deutsche Bibelstiftung, 1993 [NA27].

Danker, F. W. A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature. 3d ed. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press, 2000 [BDAG].

Wallace, D. B. Greek Grammar beyond the Basics: An Exegetical Syntax of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1996.

See also the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Programs" available at http://documents.fuller.edu/sot/ecds/094/Ling-Exeg-Biblio.html and in the SOT Academic Advising office.