Students in Biblical Studies
140
should attain a basic knowledge of:
1. the
content and character of major New Testament writings
2. the social and cultural world of early Christian traditions
3. the religious context in which early Christianity developed
4. the diversity of early Christian presentations of Jesus and the significance
of these differences
5. the content and character of early Christian writings not included in the New
Testament
6. the historical, social, and religious context in which Jesus lived
7. methods used by scholars to interpret the New Testament
8. scholarly debates over the life and teachings of the historical person of
Jesus
9. ways in which New Testament writers read and interpreted Old Testament writings
and
grow in their ability to:
10. read ancient texts critically
11. appreciate the interplay of society, culture, and religion
12. examine their own religious positions.
This
course is an introduction to the New Testament and to the historical context and culture
of
the people who wrote it. We will
read texts from the New Testament as ancient documents written to address
specific Christian communities in specific times and places so that we can understand the relationship between
historical contexts and religious thinking and writing.
That approach may be new and,
perhaps, uncomfortable. You are
encouraged to ask questions, challenge
assumptions, and carefully consider different ways of reading the Bible.
While not assuming familiarity with the Bible,
the course recognizes that these writings have
profoundly influenced western culture and have special religious significance
for many people. Students come to
the class with a wide range of experience
and different perspectives on the Bible
That diversity provides a rich opportunity
for exploring different viewpoints and expanding one’s understanding
of the texts.
However, it also means that for a genuine spirit of inquiry and learning
to exist members
of the class must respect one another even as they disagree.
