100 Division - Biblical Studies
These courses are offered to meet general Bible requirements and to enable students to relate the Scriptures to life. In addition, these courses provide an adequate foundation for continuing seminary studies.
BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION
101 Introduction to Hermeneutics
An introduction to the basic method of inductive study for all types (genres) of literature. Foundational steps for the interpretation of any document or literary composition are taught. This approach is designated the literal grammatical-historical approach to biblical interpretation. Stress is placed on acquiring a working knowledge of hermeneutical principles for various genres of literature used by the biblical writers in the Scriptures. 3 hours. *Introduction to Hermeneutics is a prerequisite for all- Bible electives.
BIBLE EXPOSITION
103 Old Testament Exposition I
This is the first part (Genesis – 2 Kings) of a study of the OT canon and along with 104 explores the themes of individual OT books and the progress of ideas and institutions within the OT. The study addresses history, background and matters of introduction and text pertaining to individual books. 3 hours
104 Old Testament Exposition II
Continues the study of the OT canon begun in 103, covering 1 Chronicles – Malachi. 3 hours
105 New Testament Exposition I This is the first part of the study of the themes and content of New Testament books with a focus on matters of authorship, historical setting, and background. As part of the study attention is also given to introductory matters such as the synoptic problem and the formation of the canon. This course deals with Matthew – Romans. 2 hours
106 New Testament Exposition II
Continues the study of the NT canon begun in 105, covering 1 Corinthians - Revelation. 2 hours
ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY
110 History and Theology of the Missionary Journeys
This course will be conducted via a graduate level study tour to Greece, the Greek Isles, and/or Asia Minor. Emphasis will be placed on the history and theology that impacted the expansion and establishment of the Early Church outside of Judea, Samaria, and the Galilee. The strategy of the missionary journeys by the Apostles in the Aegean world will be analyzed and discussed for ascertaining solid principles and adaptable methodology for modern missions. When offered, this course may take the place of 111 History and Geography of Ancient Israel. 3 hours
111 History and Geography of Ancient Israel
A study trip emphasizing the historical geography of Israel as represented in ancient documents (biblical, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian sources). Includes a focus on the interrelationship of history with geography during the period from the Bronze Age through the Roman Period, with special attention to settlement, economic, military, and communication aspects in ancient Israel. 3 hours
112 Biblical Archaeology
An introduction to the archaeology of the land of Israel from the time of Abraham (circa 2100 B.C.) to the establishment of the New Testament church. The course introduces the student to the basic texts and tools for studying biblical archaeology. Special consideration is given to the correlation of archaeological findings with the biblical text. 3 hours
113 Archaeology of Jerusalem
An introduction to the archaeology of the city of Jerusalem from the time of Abraham (circa 2100 B.C.) to the establishment of the New Testament church. Special consideration is given to the correlation of archaeological findings from the city of Jerusalem to the biblical text. 2 hours
114 Archaeology Field Study
This course is to be taken in conjunction with field excavation. The excavation must be one that is supervised by a school or other recognized institution. Credit is granted upon the completion of at least one week of field study per credit hour and the completion of appropriate academic studies as assigned by the professor. 2-4 hours
115 Intertestamental Period and the Bible
A course studying the history, literature, theology, and archaeology of the intertestamental period. Key issues including rabbinic hermeneutics, key groups (such as the Scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes), influential movements and philosophies are explored in their relationship to both the Bible and extra-biblical materials. A knowledge of biblical Hebrew and Greek are helpful but not required. 2 hours
119 Archaeology Seminar
Topics in the area of biblical archaeology are chosen from year to year. The course may include classroom instruction, travel to museums or archaeological conferences, discussion and presentation of a research paper. Collateral reading in archaeological texts and journals will be an essential part of the course. 1-4 hours
OLD TESTAMENT ENGLISH BIBLE
120 The Pentateuch
An examination of the Pentateuch with particular emphasis on Genesis. The arguments, purposes, and motifs of each book, as well as historicity, theology, cultural background, critical approaches, historical movements, and various exegetical controversies will be examined. Prerequisite: 101. 3 hours
121 Wisdom Literature
An analysis of the form and content of the poetic books from Job to Song of Solomon with special emphasis on historical events that shaped wisdom literature; issues of higher critical studies (authorship, date, etc.); the arguments, purposes, and motifs of each book; literary, philosophical and exegetical issues of each book; and examination of theodicy, morality, absolute truth, and narcissism in light of wisdom literature. This course will deal with the foundation of biblical attitudes and actions for the believer. Prerequisite: 101. 3 hours
122 Daniel and Revelation
A detailed exegesis of Daniel and Revelation. Special attention is given to the issues concerning higher critical studies, literary genre, and the structure of each of these books. The student will acquire an understanding of the historical setting of the books, development of the argument and purposes, characteristics or motifs of apocalyptic, various hermeneutical approaches, structure of Daniel and Revelation, and various theological approaches. Prerequisite: 101. 3 hours
124 Job
An exegetical study of the Book of Job based on the English Bible. Emphasis will be placed on establishing the historicity of Job, determining the argument and purposes of the book, and summarizing the theological and non-theological reasons formulated by Job and his friends for why suffering and chaos enter the life of a person. Prerequisite: 101. 2 hours
125 Exposition of Genesis
An examination of the argument, purposes, and content of the first scroll of Moses. Special attention will be given to the issues of higher critical studies, literary genre, and the interaction between Jewish and Christian understanding of the account. Various viewpoints concerning origin, historicity, and reliability of Genesis will be presented and evaluated. 2 hours 126-131 Study in Selected OT Books An analysis of various Old Testament books. Prerequisite: 101. 1-4 hours
133 Preaching and Teaching in the Psalms
An examination of the argument, purposes, and content of the book of Psalms. Special attention is given to the impact of the Psalter on pastoral ministry. The class is normally offered on videotape. Prerequisite: 101. 3 hours
NEW TESTAMENT ENGLISH BIBLE
140 Gospels
An examination of the history, geography, religion, culture and philosophies of the Second Temple period (c. 70 B.C - A.D. 70). Special attention focuses on the Gospels, the life of Jesus, the Herodian dynasty, and Pontius Pilate. The Jewish sects of the Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and Zealots are examined and the impact of each one on the religious life of this period is considered. Prerequisite: 101. 3 hours
141-145 Study in Selected NT Books
An analysis of various New Testament books. Prerequisite: 101. 1-4 hours
146 The Book of Romans
A thorough study of the content of this centrally important NT epistle including the major themes of condemnation, justification, sanctification, preservation, divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and the will of God as expressed in the book of Romans. Prerequisite: 101. 3 hours