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.

Unit code: BN9076L

Unit status: Approved (New unit)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Elective

Unit discipline: New Testament

Proposing College: Australian Lutheran College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Describe , in a nuanced way, the theological perspectives and narrative dynamics of one or more synoptic gospels

2.

Interpret gospel texts using advanced exegetical methodologies

3.

Critically evaluate scholarship relating to a contested issue in the study of the gospels

4.

Develop, research, and defend a thesis about a gospel using primary and secondary sources

5.

Critically reflect on how exegesis of the gospels can be applied in a ministry context

Unit sequence

Prerequisites: 18 points either from a relevant discipline in Field B or in New Testament Greek. Prohibited with BN9075L.

Pedagogy

The unit combines 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

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Oral Presentation

Exegetical presentations and reflection

2000 25.0
Report

Report evaluating scholarship relating to a contested issue

1500 15.0
Essay

Research-based exegesis

4500 60.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 7 Oct, 2025

Unit record last updated: 2025-10-07 08:40:14 +1100