DESCRIPTION: An introduction to the exegesis of the Greek New Testament, this course seeks to equip the student with knowledge of the various tools and techniques of exegesis. Special attention will be given to the basis upon which exegetical decisions are made and to the fundamental hermeneutical questions involved in moving from exegesis to sermon. In addition, we will consider the manner in which theological commitments and social location inform exegetical study.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Skillful exegesis is essential to one's understanding of the New Testament and is foundational to responsible teaching and preaching.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: As a result of taking this course, students should (1) be familiar with the tools and techniques of exegesis; (2) develop skill in making exegetical decisions; and (3) be able to handle Scripture wisely in preaching and in pastoral contexts.

COURSE FORMAT: While the course will involve some lectures, the primary focus will be upon student preparation and presentation of assigned material. Class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

TEXTBOOKS

Black, David A. Textual Criticism: A Concise Guide. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1994.

Fee, G. D. New Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors. 3rd ed. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2002.

Green, J. B., ed. Hearing the New Testament: Strategies for Interpretation. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1995.

COURSE PACK that includes readings from the following:

Beale, G. K. The Book of Revelation. NIGTC. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1999.

Blount, Brian. Can I Get a Witness? Reading Revelation through African American Culture. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2005.

Dunn, James D. G. Romans 1-8. Word Biblical Commentary 38a. Dallas: Word.

Porter, Stanley. Idioms of the Greek New Testament. 2nd ed. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1992.

EXEGETICAL TOOLS from the Biblical Division bibliography: See "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" (available online and in the SOT Academic Advising office); some of these tools are required for assignments throughout the quarter.

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

Zerwick, M., and M. Grosvenor. A Grammatical Analysis of the Greek New Testament. 5th ed. Rome: Biblical Institute Press, 1996.

1. Regular assignments in preparation for class (25%)

2. A short exegetical working paper on a text assigned in class (35%)

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