Biblical Studies

An introduction to the serious study of the Bible in its historical, cultural, and literary context. The course emphasizes the essential content, structure, and theological message of the books of the Bible. Students are introduced to the practice of biblical exegesis and to the geography and archaeology of the lands of the Bible. This course is designed for general students.  Must receive a grade of C- or higher to fulfill the General Education Christian Formation requirement

A study of the history, methods, and principles of biblical interpretation. Students will develop skills in interpreting different genres in both the Old and New Testaments. Other topics include the authority of the Bible as the Church's Scriptures and the relationship between the Testaments.

This course is a study and travel experience of the Holy Lands (the region around and including modern Israel), one of the most significant places in both the ancient and contemporary worlds. As the sacred lands for three major religious traditions, this region has been the setting for defining events in religious history, not to mention the central context for much of what is described in the Bible. This course includes a study of the region, geography, and culture of the Holy Lands (both past and present), with attention to how such experience may contribute to the interpretation of biblical texts. Attention will also be given to students' interaction with different cultures and peoples of the region. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Experience (CE) requirement. Fee: Additional fee required.

An exegetical study of selected New Testament narratives, including the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. This course will give specific attention to the canonical and theological context of these books in relation to other books of the New Testament and the rest of the Christian canon.

An exegetical study of selected New Testament letters. This course will emphasize the occasion, purpose, and theological message of a few different letters on a rotating basis.

An exegetical study of selected Old Testament narratives, including texts from the Torah and/or the Historical Books. This course will give specific attention to the canonical and theological context of these books in relation to other books of the New Testament and the rest of the Christian canon.

An exegetical study of the prophets of the Old Testament. The course will include an overview of the history of the prophetic movement and the primary message of selected writing prophets.

An exegetical study of the psalms and writings of the Old Testament. This course will offer a selected study of materials from one or both of these collections, focusing on their canonical and theological significance.