DESCRIPTION: This course, taught in Spanish, constitutes an introduction to
the nature, structure, and message of the New Testament Gospels in their
historical, literary, and canonical contexts. Students will be introduced to
methods that are particularly profitable for study of the Gospels. Special
consideration will be given to the nature and relevance of the Gospels' witness
to the life of Jesus of Nazareth.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The Gospel narratives contain the
foundational building blocks of our Christian faith. The life, death, and
resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth are what give relevance to our ministry;
without them we have nothing. An understanding of the Gospels is thus
indispensable not only in teaching and preaching, but in developing a
biblically informed theology that equips us for everyday Christian living.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Having successfully completed this course, students should
be able to (1) articulate the character of the Gospels as witnesses to
Jesus Christ; (2) demonstrate familiarity with the historical background,
content, structure, and message of each of the New Testament Gospels; (3)
demonstrate developing skill in the interpretation of the Gospels as
appropriate for effective leadership in Christian communities; and (4) apply
Jesus' proclamation to Christian life in community today.
COURSE FORMAT: The course will consist of a combination of lectures and
hands-on application of methods for studying the Gospels. Discussion and active
participation of students will be expected. The course will meet Thursdays and
Fridays, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., October 15 and 16, November 12 and 13, and
December 3 and 4, 2009.
REQUIRED READING: