Winter 2008/Pasadena
NE526
Downs
NE526: 1 CORINTHIANS (English text). David J. Downs.
DESCRIPTION: This course will offer a detailed study of the English text of 1
Corinthians, with particular attention given to the letter's socio-historical
setting, its theological argument, and its continuing significance for the
Christian church.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will have demonstrated (1)
a thorough knowledge of the content and literary structure of 1 Corinthians;
(2) an understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which this
epistle was composed; (3) an appreciation of some of the distinct theological
emphases of the letter; and (4) an ability to interpret 1 Corinthians as both
human word and holy Scripture.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: First Corinthians addresses numerous theological and
ecclesiological issues confronting the church both ancient and modern. Skillful
exegesis is crucial for responsible teaching and preaching.
COURSE FORMAT: The course, which consists of lectures and discussion, will
meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING:
- Furnish, Victor Paul. The Theology of First Corinthians.
Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1999.
- Vander Broek, Lyle D. Breaking Barriers: The Possibilities of Christian
Community in a Lonely World. Grand Rapids: Brazos, 2002.
- Course reader.
- One of the following commentaries:
- Collins, Raymond F. First Corinthians. Sacra
Pagina Series 7. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical, 1999.
- Hays, Richard B. First Corinthians. Interpretation: A Bible
Commentary for Teaching and Preaching. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1997.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Gorman, Michael. Elements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide
for Students and Ministers. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2001.
- Murphy-O'Connor, Jerome. St. Paul's Corinth: Texts and Archaeology.
3rd rev. and exp. ed. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical, 2002.
- Thiselton, Anthony C. First Corinthians: A Shorter Exegetical and
Pastoral Commentary. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2006.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Class preparation and participation (10%).
- An essay (1,500 words) addressing one socio-cultural or theological issue
in 1 Corinthians (20%).
- An exegetical paper (2,500 words) on an approved pericope of 1 Corinthians
(40%).
- An open-book, take-home final exam (30%).
PREREQUISITES: None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective for MDiv; fulfills Biblical Studies
requirement (NTBK) for MA in Theology.
FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes.
This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (10/07)