DESCRIPTION: This course constitutes an introduction to the nature, structure, and message of the New Testament Gospels in their historical, literary, and canonical contexts. (This section of NS500 is open for enrollment only to first-year School of Psychology students.)

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Central to our understanding of Jesus, the Gospels are important documents for all believers. Those who complete this course should gain a more comprehensive understanding of the life of Jesus, his teachings and miracles, and the kingdom of God, all of which will enhance the student's theological world and ministry.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Having successfully completed this course, students should be able (1) to articulate the character of the Gospels as witnesses to Jesus Christ; (2) to demonstrate familiarity with the historical background, content, structure, and message of each of the New Testament Gospels; and (3) to demonstrate developing skill in the interpretation of the Gospels as appropriate for effective leadership in Christian communities.

COURSE FORMAT: The course, which consists of lectures and discussion, will meet weekly for three-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

Aland, Kurt. Synopsis of the Four Gospels. Greek-English, 7th ed. United Bible Societies, 1984;
OR the same synopsis in English only.

Berger, Klaus. Identity and Experience in the New Testament. Fortress, 2003.

Johnson, Luke T. The Writings of the New Testament: An Introduction. Rev. ed. Fortress, 1999.

Stanton, G. N. The Gospels and Jesus. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 2002.

Green, J. B., S. McKnight, and I. H. Marshall, eds. Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels. InterVarsity Press, 1992.

Johnson, Luke T. Religious Experience in Earliest Christianity. Fortress, 1998.

1. Read the English text of all Gospels in their entirety at least once.

2. One paper (1500 words) on a topic related to the historical Jesus and the Gospels (30%).

3. An outline of the Gospel of Mark (15%).

4. One short written assignment (1000 words) on a topic of interest that relates the Gospel material to psychology (15%).

5. A critical review of Berger (1500 words; 20%).

6. A reflection paper that integrates the Gospels, theology and psychology (1200 words; 20%).