Spring 2009/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
- basic exegetical skills for interpreting New Testament texts;
- awareness of the diversity of methods in biblical exegesis;
- basic knowledge of hermeneutics: bridging the gap between the ancient text
and modern readers;
- 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/091/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:
- Prepared weekly writing assignments for each class (30%)
- A short paper on a text assigned in class (30%)
- 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. (1/09)