DESCRIPTION:

This course will introduce the content, structure, and interrelationship of the four Gospels. In addition to considering and employing methods important to the study of the Gospels, we will explore the theological and literary purposes of each Gospel and their historical value as sources for the life of Jesus of Nazareth. (This section of NS500 is open for enrollment only to first-year School of Psychology students.)

Central to our understanding of Jesus, the Gospels are important documents for all believers. Those who complete this course should gain a more comprehensive understanding of the life of Jesus, his teachings and miracles, and the kingdom of God, all of which will enhance the student's theological world and ministry.

The course, which consists of lectures and discussion, will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

Aland, Kurt. Synopsis of the Four Gospels. Greek-English, 7th ed. United Bible Societies, 1984. OR the same synopsis in English only.

Johnson, Luke T. The Writings of the New Testament: An Introduction. Rev. ed. Fortress, 1999.

Berger, Klaus. Identity and Experience in the New Testament. Fortress, 2003.

Johnson, Luke T. Religious Experience in Earliest Christianity. Fortress, 1998.

Barton, S. C. The Spirituality of the Gospels. SPCK, 1992.

Green, J. B., S. McKnight, and I. H. Marshall, eds. Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels. InterVarsity Press, 1992.

Ladd, G. E. A Theology of the New Testament. Rev. ed. Eerdmans, 1993.

Stanton, G. N. The Gospels and Jesus. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 2002.

1. One paper (1500 words each) on topics related to the historical Jesus and the Gospels (30%).

2. Two short written assignments (800 words each) on a topic of interest which relates the Gospel material to psychology (15% each).

3. A comparative book review of Berger and Johnson (1500 words; 20%).

4. A final examination covering lectures and reading (20%).

Permission of advisor--first-year School of Psychology students.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in New Testament 1 (NT1).

Yes.