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:
  1. Regular preparation for and participation in class discussions of exegesis of the text, including translation of the Greek (10%).

  2. Three papers (ca. 1,500 words each) dealing with issues of Greek grammar, syntax, exegesis, and theology (20% each = 60%).

  3. 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)