Winter 2011/Houston

OT502

Dearman

OT502: HEBREW PROPHETS. Andy Dearman

DESCRIPTION: This survey course studies the Hebrew prophetic literature, focusing on the Latter Prophets (Isaiah-Malachi), but giving some attention as well to the Former Prophets (Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings). Students examine the historical, literary, and theological perspectives of selected texts and reflect on them as part of Israel’s witness to God’s work in the world.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The course seeks to induct students into the study of the Old Testament in a way that will excite them with its significance and inform and motivate them for further study in seminary, in their lives, and in their ministry.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing the course will have demonstrated that they:

1. have a knowledge and understanding of the Prophetic books in the Old Testament;

2. are able to interpret those books using a range of appropriate interpretive approaches, including ones that reflect the diversity of contexts from which the text can be read;

3. have reflected on the nature of these books as both human word and holy Scripture;

4. have articulated some reflection on the significance of this part of the Bible for their discipleship and ministry.

COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet Thursday evenings for lecture and discussion, 6:00—9:30 PM.

REQUIRED READING:

NRSV or TNIV Bible. 500 pp. of reading.

Arnold, B. T, & H. G. M. Williamson, ed., Dictionary of the Old Testament: Historical Books (InterVarsity Press, 2005). 250 pp. of selected reading; $60.00 ISBN: 978-0-8308-1782-5.

Gowan, Donald G., Theology of the Prophetic Books: The Death and Resurrection of Israel (Westminster John Knox, 1998). 240 pp. $29.95 ISBN: 0664256899.

O’Brien, Julia M., Challenging Prophetic Metaphor: Theology and Ideology in the Prophets (Westminster John Knox, 2008). 220 pp. $24.95 ISBN-13: 978-0664229641.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Blenkinsopp, Joseph, A History of Prophecy in Israel (Revised ed.; Westminster John Knox, 1996). $29.95 ISBN: 978-0664244798.

ASSIGNMENTS: 1. Weekly preparation, attendance, and participation are required components of the course, 10% . 2. Examination on Former Prophets, 30%. 3. Examination on Latter Prophets, 30%. 4. Critical Review of O’Brien; 8-10 pp., 30%.

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MDiv core requirement in Old Testament "b" (OTB).

FINAL EXAMINATION: No.

This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification.