Fall 2008/Pasadena
NE502
Shaules

NE502: EXEGETICAL METHOD AND PRACTICE. William J. Shaules.


DESCRIPTION: This course combines a study of biblical interpretation with a practicum in which students will complete an exegetical project. The course is designed to prepare students for further exegetical work in both academic and pastoral settings.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Having successfully completed this course, students will have demonstrated

  1. basic exegetical skills for interpreting New Testament texts;

  2. awareness of the diversity of methods in biblical exegesis;

  3. basic knowledge of hermeneutics: bridging the gap between the ancient text and modern readers;

  4. an understanding of the Bible as both human and divine.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: All ministry in Christian communities requires an ability to interpret biblical texts. Thus, deepening one's exegetical skills is invaluable for teaching, preaching, and pastoral care in general.

COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet twice a week for two-hour sessions for lecture, discussion, and practicum.

REQUIRED READING:
Gorman, Michael J. Elements of Biblical Exegesis. Peabody: Hendrickson, 2001.

Haynes, Stephen R., and McKenzie, Steven L., eds. To Each Its Own Meaning: An Introduction to Biblical Criticisms and Their Applications. Rev. and expanded ed. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1999.
The following resources will be used throughout the quarter:
Aland, K., et al. The Greek New Testament. 4th ed. United Bible Societies, 1993 [UBS4];

or Nestle, E. and K. Aland. Novum Testamentum Graece. 27th ed. Deutsche Bibelstiftung, 1993 [NA27].

Danker, F. W. A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature. 3d ed. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2000 [BDAG].

Wallace, D. B. Greek Grammar beyond the Basics: An Exegetical Syntax of the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996.
See also the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Programs" available at http://www.fuller.edu/sot/ecds/084/Ling-Exeg-Biblio.html.

RECOMMENDED READING:
Danker, Frederick W. Multipurpose Tools for Bible Study. Rev. and expanded ed. Fortress, 1993.

Green, Joel B., ed. Hearing the New Testament: Strategies for Interpretation. Eerdmans, 1995.

Hagner, Donald A. New Testament Exegesis and Research: A Guide for Seminarians. Fuller Seminary Press, 1999.

ASSIGNMENTS:
  1. Prepared weekly writing assignments for each class (30%)

  2. A short paper on a text assigned in class (30%)

  3. A 10-15 page exegetical paper (40%)

PREREQUISITES: LG512.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MDiv core requirement in Hermeneutics (HERM).

FINAL EXAMINATION: None.

This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (9/08)