Spring 2010

FTX

NE502

Newman

NE502: EXEGETICAL METHOD AND PRACTICE. Carey Newman

DESCRIPTION: This course introduces the student to the study and practice of the exegetical methodology and its application to a variety of portions of the New Testament. Emphasis will be placed upon the factors of language, history, culture, context, and their importance in the understanding of the text. An additional emphasis will be the practice of moving from exegesis to exposition and sermon preparation.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: As ministers of the Word our primary responsibility is to understand the meaning of the inspired text, to proclaim it and apply it to our own life’s setting. This requires the knowledge and application of tools, methods, and aids that will guide our process of understanding the meaning of the text and its relevance for today.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this course will have demonstrated: (1) Exegetical skills using the Greek text and a range of appropriate historical, literary, and text-critical interpretive approaches, including ones that take account of the diversity of contexts from which biblical texts can be read; (2) reflection on the significance of their exegetical work for their discipleship and ministry; (3) understanding of the text as both human word and holy Scripture.

COURSE FORMAT: This course will meet three hours a week for ten weeks for lecture, discussion, and the practice of exegesis using primarily the Gospels, Acts, and the epistles. 30 contact hours.

REQUIRED TEXTS (ca. 1,000 pp of reading):

Richard N. Soulen and R. Kendall Soulen, The Handbook of Biblical Criticism. 3^rd edition. Louisville: WJK, 2001.

Gordon Fee, New Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors. 3rd edition. Louisville: WJK, 2002.

Peter J. Leithart, Deep Exegesis: The Mystery of Reading Scripture. Waco: Baylor UP, 2009.

Scott McKnight, The Blue Parakeet: Rethinking How You Read the Bible. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2008.

Exegetical Tools from the Biblical Division bibliography: See "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" (available online and in the SOT Academic Advising office); some of these tools are required for assignments throughout the quarter.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Weekly short exegetical exercises (2-3 pages) from the Gospels, Acts, and Letters, concentrating on learning outcome 1. (30%).

2. An exegetical paper of 12 pages, concentrating on learning outcomes 1-2 (50% total).

3. Final examination, concentrating on learning outcomes 2-3. (20%)

PREREQUISITES: LG512A, B, C

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: M.Div. core HERM; M.A. Biblical Studies.

FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes.

This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (10/09)