NS502
Spittler

NS502: NEW TESTAMENT LITERATURE. Russell P. Spittler.


DESCRIPTION:

A first course intended for students with no prior university-level study of Scripture. Teacher and students alike will seek increased familiarity with the nature and contents of each New Testament book, watching particularly for how literature rises from history. This approach leads to the development of an exegetical instinct. The overall aim is to fit students for a lifetime of informed, fruitful study of the New Testament.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
Since the New Testament is the primary source document for the Christian movement, finer knowledge of its content and theology will deepen personal spirituality and expand resources for communicating the gospel.

COURSE FORMAT:
The course will meet at 1:00-2:50 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays for lecture and discussion.

REQUIRED READING:
New Testament. NRSV, RSV, NIV, or NAB suggested.

Aland, Kurt. Synopsis of the Four Gospels. American Bible Society. Comes English-only, Greek-only, or in an edition with Greek and English on facing pages. Pick the one best suited for you. If in doubt, await the first class session before purchase. Use for studying the gospels comparatively.

Drane, John. Introducing the New Testament. San Francisco: Harper Collins, 1992. Compact, informative, useful illustrations, critical summaries.

"Resources for the Study of the New Testament," a course syllabus and related materials.

RECOMMENDED READING:
Carson, D. A., Douglas J. Moo, and Leon Morris. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992. Recent bibliography.

Green, Joel, Scott McKnight, and I. Howard Marshall. Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1992. An excellent reference.

Hawthorne, Gerald F. Dictionary of Paul and His Letters. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1992. Companion volume to DJG.

Martin, Ralph P. New Testament Foundations: A Guide for Christian Students. 2 vols. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1975, 1978. Thorough review of critical issues.

ASSIGNMENTS:
Periodic projects designed to get students into the biblical text and a 100-item multiple-choice final exam.

PREREQUISITES:
None. This course is not open to students who have completed NS500 and/or NS501.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
Elective.

FINAL EXAMINATION:
Yes.