Content

This unit allows students to apply their knowledge of NT Greek to interpreting letters of Paul. In the process they will acquire the necessary working skills, in terms of exegetical method and tools, required for interpreting biblical texts. Students will develop an understanding of significant historical, geographical, social, cultural and religious factors for the interpretation of Pauline letters; examine the social setting, literary structure, key theological ideas, and purpose of selected Pauline letters. Detailed studies in at least two of the major Pauline letters will also provide some of the biblical basis needed for studies in systematic theology and for the task of preaching and teaching the message of the New Testament.

Unit code: BN2011L

Unit status: Archived (New unit)

Points: 18.0

Unit level: Undergraduate Level 2

Unit discipline: New Testament

Delivery Mode: Face to Face

Proposing College: Australian Lutheran College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Translate accurately and explain the Greek text of selected passages

2.

Identify, analyse, and discuss the key historical, literary, theological and rhetorical features of Pauline letters

3.

Evaluate commentaries critically on the basis of the Greek text

4.

Summarise the distinctive message, key themes, and structure of Pauline letters

Unit sequence

New Testament Greek A and B are recommended At least 30 cp in Field B—Biblical Studies.

Pedagogy

Lectures, tutorials, class presentations

Indicative Bibliography

  • Aland, Barbara and Kurt Aland, eds. 1993. The Greek New Testament (with dictionary). Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft. (recommended for purchase)
  • The Bible, preferably the NRSV or the TNIV. (recommended for purchase) Please seek advice from lecturer before purchasing a Study Bible edition.

  • Ascough, Richard S. 1998. What are they saying about the formation of Pauline churches? New York, NY: Paulist.

  • Betz, Hans Dieter. 1979. Galatians: a commentary on Paul’s letter to the churches in Galatia. Hermeneia. Philadelphia, PA: Fortress.

  • Dunn, James D. G. 1988. Romans. Word Biblical Commentary. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson.

  • Fee, Gordon D. 2014. The First Epistle to the Corinthians. The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Rev. ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.

  • Fitzmyer, Joseph. 1993. According to Paul: studies in the theology of the apostle. New York, NY: Paulist.

  • ———. 2008. First Corinthians. Anchor Bible. New Haven, CT: Yale.

  • Hawthorne, Gerald F., et al, eds. 1993. Dictionary of Paul and his letters: a compendium of contemporary biblical scholarship. Downers Grove, IL: IVP.

  • Horrell, David G. 2006. An introduction to the study of Paul. 2nd ed. London: Continuum.

  • Jewett, Robert. 2007. Romans. Hermeneia. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress.

  • Keener, Craig S. 2009. Romans: a new covenant commentary. Eugene, OR: Cascade.

  • Luhrmann, Dieter. 1992. Galatians: a continental commentary. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress.

  • Schreiner, Thomas R. 1998. Romans. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker.

  • Thiselton, Anthony C. 2000. The First Epistle to the Corinthians: a commentary on the Greek text. The New International Greek Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.

  • Witherington, Ben. 1998. Grace in Galatia: a commentary on St Paul’s letter to the Galatians. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.

  • ——— . 2004. Paul’s letter to the Romans: a socio-rhetorical commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Essay

Greek word study or other appropriate assignment 700 words

0 15.0
Exegetical Essay

1 x exegetical essay 3000 words

0 65.0
Essay

Greek translations or other appropriate activity 800 words equivalent

0 20.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by John Capper on 31 Aug, 2017

Unit record last updated: 2019-10-03 11:34:38 +1000