Synoptic Gospels (BN2075L)

Content

This unit offers exegetical study of one of the New Testament synoptic gospels, usually Mark. Students develop advanced exegetical skills through close reading of selected gospel texts. Students engage with central issues in gospel studies, including the history of the gospel tradition, the relationship between the synoptic gospels, source analysis, forms, historical settings, narrative design, and distinctive theological perspectives. Students are encouraged to reflect on how their learning might be applied in preaching or other contexts. Students with knowledge of Greek have the opportunity to use the language for reading and study.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

Prerequisites: 18 points in the discipline of New Testament (BN)

Pedagogy

The unit will combine presentations by the lecturer with exegetical workshops and student presentations.

Indicative Bibliography

• Bond, Helen K. The First Biography of Jesus : Genre and Meaning in Mark's Gospel. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2020.
• Boring, M. Eugene. Mark: A Commentary. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2006.
• Moloney, Francis J. Mark: Storyteller, Interpreter, Evangelist. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, 2004.
• Nickle, Keith F. The Synoptic Gospels: An Introduction. 2nd rev. and expanded ed. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2001.
• Rhoads, David, Joanna Dewey, and Donald Michie. Mark As Story: An Introduction to the Narrative of a Gospel. 3rd ed. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 2012.
• Sanders, E.P., and Margaret Davies. Studying the Synoptic Gospels. London: SCM Press, 1989.
• Yarbro Collins, Adela. Mark: A Commentary. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2007.

Assessment