DESCRIPTION: This course is an exegetical study of Romans that seeks to develop confidence in interpreting the Greek text and familiarity with the purpose, structure, and main themes of the epistle (e.g., gospel, sin, grace, law, and Israel). There will be a discussion of pertinent issues such as the New Perspective on Paul, the use of diatribe, Jew/Gentile relations, the role of Romans in Paul's mission, the relationship of Romans to other Pauline letters, and various hermeneutical methods.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The ability to exegete NT Greek texts is an invaluable tool for the teaching and preaching of the gospel. Romans explores the foundation of Christian discipleship and enriches ministry and mission.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Having successfully completed this course, students will have demonstrated (1) the ability to exegete selected Greek texts of Romans; (2) a familiarity with the distinct content (e.g., sin, grace, law, Israel, gospel) and literary structure (e.g., placement of ch. 5, inclusion of ch. 16) of Romans and its portrayal of Paul's gospel and apostolic mission; and (3) a basic understanding of the Greco-Roman and Jewish cultural and historical settings that provide insights for interpreting Romans.

COURSE FORMAT: The course meets twice weekly for-two hour sessions. Students will actively engage in class discussions based on regular translation and exegesis of the Greek. A Working Exegetical Paper will be developed into a final Formal Exegetical Research paper.

REQUIRED READING:

Donfried, Karl P., ed. The Romans Debate. Rev. ed. Peabody, MA: Hedrickson, 1991.

Fitzmyer, Joseph. Romans: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. Anchor Bible 33. New York: Doubleday, 1993.

Westerholm, Stephen. Understanding Paul: the Early Christian Worldview of the Letter to Romans. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2004.

See 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.

Donfried, K. P. & P. Richardson, eds. Judaism and Christianity in First Century Rome. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1998.

Gaventa, Beverly Roberts. "Romans." In The Women's Bible Commentary, edited by Carol Newsom and Sharon Ringe, pp. 313-20. Louisville: Westminster/John Knox, 1992.

Grenholm, Christina & Daniel Patte, eds. Gender, Tradition and Romans. New York: T&T Clark, 2005.

Khiok-khng, Yeo, ed. Navigating Romans through Cultures. New York: T&T Clark, 2004.

Jewett, Robert. Romans. Hermeneia. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2006.

Sanders, E. P. Paul and Palestinian Judaism. Minneapolis: Fortress, 1977.