DESCRIPTION: This course introduces students to the basic principles and practice of exegesis of the Greek New Testament. Attention will be given to equipping students with knowledge of the various aims and assumptions, and tools and techniques of New Testament interpretation.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: An ability to engage and interpret faithfully the Greek New Testament is foundational to responsible teaching and preaching, and to appropriating Christian Scripture.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Having successfully completed this course, students will have demonstrated (1) knowledge of and practice with various interpretative methods, tools, and techniques of New Testament exegesis; (2) skill in making exegetical decisions in particular problems or questions in New Testament interpretation; and (3) ability to reflect and think through how theology and praxis arise from the interpretation of Scripture, thus bridging the gap between the ancient text and modern readers.

COURSE FORMAT: The primary focus of the course will be on student preparation and presentation of assigned material. The course meets twice weekly for two-hour sessions for some lectures and discussions.

REQUIRED READING:

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

Gorman, M. J. Elements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide for Students and Ministers. Rev. & expanded ed. Peabody: Hendrickson, 2009.

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

González, Justo L. Santa Biblia: The Bible through Hispanic Eyes. Nashville: Abingdon, 1996.

For assignments in the course, the student will be required to use some of the exegetical tools listed in the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Programs" (available at http://schedule.fuller.edu/sot/ecds/Ling-Exeg-Biblio.html and in the Academic Advising office).

1. Completion of regular assigned readings and assignments for class (10%)

2. Two working interpretive exercises on selected passages (2-3 pages each) (20% each)

3. A critical review of González, Santa Biblia (4-5 pages) (15% of final grade)

4. An exegetical essay on a NT text (12-15 pages) (35% of final grade)