DESCRIPTION: This course will consist of two parts: (1) an overview of the
Former Prophets (Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings), with a focus upon their
thematic significance within the narrative history of Israel from the conquest
to the exile, and (2) an examination of the Latter Prophets (Isaiah-Malachi),
with an emphasis upon their historical background, social setting, thematic
content, and literary development. The course will also examine the different
modern approaches to the Hebrew Prophets and how these approaches inform the
church's understanding of these texts.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The biblical prophetic literature forms a
rich testimony to the interaction between God and his people during the
biblical period. This course will study how an understanding of this
interaction may shed light on contemporary church issues and perspectives.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Upon successful completion of this course, students will
have demonstrated the ability to (1) identify the major theological and social
themes of the Hebrew Prophets; (2) articulate the different modern approaches
to the Hebrew Prophets, including questions concerning their literary
development and historical and social settings; (3) differentiate between the
various types of literature found in the prophetic section of the Old Testament
canon; (4) articulate a basic understanding of the narrative history of Israel
from the conquest to the exile; (5) demonstrate an enhanced ability to work
with academic resources related to the interpretation of biblical literature;
and (6) articulate the diverse theological and cultural traditions represented
in biblical prophetic literature.
COURSE FORMAT: This course will be facilitated completely online, with ten
weeks of instruction aligned with Fuller's academic calendar. It will consist
of weekly course readings, occasional audio/written lectures, active
discussions, and written personal reflection.
REQUIRED READING: