DESCRIPTION: This course is an exegetical study of the Gospel of John, which alternates interpretation of selected passages of the Greek text with lecture and discussion of the basic themes of the Gospel.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will have demonstrated (1) a fundamental knowledge of the content and structure of the Gospel of John; (2) an acquaintance with a range of cultural and historical matters that may inform our understanding of the text; (3) further practice in and development of skills in interpreting the text; (4) an ability to reflect theologically upon the central themes of the Gospel and its portrait of Jesus; and (5) an appreciation of how we may better read, use, and obey this portion of Scripture.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: For many Christians the most beloved of our Gospels is John, prized above all for its distinctive portrayal of Jesus. Increased competence in interpretation of the text of the Gospel, familiarity with its main themes, and an understanding of its distinctive features will contribute to informed preaching and teaching from the Gospel, as well as to a deeper understanding of the Gospel and of its distinctive portrait of Jesus for all readers of the text.

COURSE FORMAT: There will be two main aspects to the course: (1) Class discussion of the text, including translation of the Greek; (2) Lectures to facilitate understanding of the text. The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

The Gospel of John. A good modern translation (RSV; NRSV; NIV; etc.) and a critical text of the Greek New Testament (either a UBS 4th edition or Nestle-Aland 27th edition).

See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic Advising office.

Beasley-Murray, George. John. Waco: Word, 1987.

Brown, Raymond E. The Gospel According to John. Anchor Bible. 2 vols. New York: Doubleday, 1966, 1970.

Talbert, Charles H. Reading John: A Literary and Theological Commentary on the Gospel of John and the Johannine Epistles. New York: Crossroad, 1992.

1. Regular preparation for and participation in class discussions of exegesis of the text, including translation of the Greek.

2. Three written assignments dealing with issues of Greek grammar, syntax, exegesis, and theology; 66% of the final grade.

3. A final examination; 33% of the final grade.