DESCRIPTION:

The class is intended for students with no prior university-level study of scripture and is designed to introduce such students to the context of early Christianity and the basic content of the literature that comprises the New Testament canon. Class time will focus on key issues in understanding the New Testament and the primary persons, events, and issues or themes expressed within it.

Acquaintance with the New Testament writings in their social and religious context is essential for understanding the Christian message and proclaiming or teaching it with clarity. The subject matter of this class is foundational to all Christian ministry, but also is important in the development of one's personal spirituality.

The course will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00-4:50 p.m. (March 31 through June 12) Lecture, discussion, and occasional slides of ancient New Testament locations will comprise the class time.

Aland, Kurt. Synopsis of the Four Gospels. American Bible Society, 1987. Pick either the English-only, Greek-only, or Greek and English edition according to the student's ability and interest.

Brown, R. E. An Introduction to the New Testament. (Anchor Bible Reference Library.) Doubleday, 1997.

NRSV or NIV or New Jerusalem Bible recommended for reading.

Brown, Schuyler. Origins of Christianity: A Historical Introduction to the New Testament, 2nd rev. ed. Oxford University Press, 1993.

Ehrman, Bart D. The New Testament: A Historical Introduction to the Early Christian Writings. Oxford University Press, 1997.

_________. The New Testament and Other Early Christian Writings: A Reader. Oxford University Press, 1998.

Ferguson, E. Backgrounds of Early Christianity. 2nd ed. Eerdmans, 1993.

Koester, H. New Testament Introduction (2 Vols.). Fortress Press, 1982; vol. 1 rev. ed., 1996.

Porter, S. E. and McDonald, L. M. New Testament Introduction. (IBR Bibliographies 12.) Baker, 1995.

Three short 3-4 page papers, two exams (mid-semester and final, or two well researched papers on approved topics), and a short quiz on locations of New Testament cities and provinces.

None. This course is not open to students who have completed NS500 and/or NS501.

Elective. Meets the NT requirement for the M.A.C.L. in Integrative Studies.

Yes (optional research paper in lieu of exam possible upon approval).