DESCRIPTION: This course is intended to introduce students to Middle Eastern
sites that form the background of the events recounted in the Bible, from the
archaeological remains of the Davidic kingdom to the sites of Jesus'
ministry.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Firsthand engagement with the lands of the
Bible allows the text to take on added dimensions and deeper meaning. By
extension, such engagement improves preaching and other forms of proclamation.
It is one thing to teach or preach about Isaiah's prophecies or Jesus'
activities from the text, and quite another to be able to describe their
contexts from first-hand experience.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course successfully will
demonstrate knowledge of biblical history and geography, and the ability to
articulate the significance these items, as well as archaeology, for
understanding the Bible. They will also be able to describe how their encounter
with the lands of the Bible has changed them.
COURSE FORMAT: Two meetings prior to departure will present introductory and
overview information and discuss advance reading. The course will take place in
Israel and Jordan over the course of two weeks during the summer quarter.
REQUIRED READING: