Spring 2008/Pasadena
NE506
Downs
NE506: NEW TESTAMENT EXEGESIS: 1 CORINTHIANS. David J. Downs.
DESCRIPTION: This course will offer a detailed study of the Greek 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 the Greek text 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 discussion and lectures, will
meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING:
- 1 Corinthians. 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).
- 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:
- Fee, Gordon. The First Epistle to the
Corinthians. The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand
Rapids: Eerdmans, 1987.
- Thiselton, Anthony C. The First Epistle to the Corinthians. The New
International Greek Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2000.
- See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic
Advising office.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Furnish, Victor Paul. The Theology of First Corinthians.
Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1999.
- Gorman, Michael. Elements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide for
Students and Ministers. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2001.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Regular preparation for and participation in class discussions of exegesis
of the text, including translation of the Greek (10%).
- Three papers (ca. 1,500 words each) dealing with issues of Greek grammar,
syntax, exegesis, and theology (20% each = 60%).
- Take-home final exam (30%).
PREREQUISITES: LG512, NE502, and NS501.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MDiv core requirement in New Testament
Exegesis (NTE).
FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes, take-home.
This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (1/08)