DESCRIPTION: This is one course of a two-course sequence designed to provide a basic introduction to the New Testament, including not only the traditional elements of "introduction" such as author, date, provenance, background, structure, and use of sources, but also the theologies of the various writings. The orientation is both historical and exegetical. The present course is devoted to the four Gospels, and it traces their origin, interrelationship, and theological distinctives. Some attention will be given to the hermeneutical problem of preaching from the Gospels today.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: As a result of taking this course, students should (1) become familiar with the genesis and nature of the four Gospels; (2) understand their message better; and (3) be able to use the Gospels more effectively in preaching and teaching in today's world.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: An understanding of the Gospels is indispensable not only in teaching and preaching, but in developing a biblically informed theology that equips one for everyday living.

COURSE FORMAT: The course is based mainly around the lectures, but discussion with the active participation of the student will also be expected. The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

Aland, , Kurt, ed. Synopsis of the Four Gospels: Greek-English Edition. . . . 10th ed. United Bible Societies, 1993 [Nestle-Aland26 and the RSV2].

The first half of the following two books, which are also useful for New Testament 2 (NS501):

Brown, R. E. An Introduction to the New Testament. Doubleday, 1997.

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

Gerhardsson, B. The Reliability of the Gospel Tradition. Hendrickson, 2001.

Hagner, D. A. "Interpreting the Gospels: The Landscape and the Quest" (to be handed out in class).