COURSE DESCRIPTION COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES COURSE OBJECTIVES

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1 Page 1 Birmingham Theological Seminary Birmingham Alabama NT2022: New Testament I Sep 11 Dec 13; 5:30-7:30 PM Dr. Morris Johnson Fall 2013 Cell: Fax: mjohnson0415@bellsouth.net COURSE DESCRIPTION The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the background, content, and criticism of the Gospels and of Acts, including an introduction to biblical hermeneutics. COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES 1. The student is thoroughly familiar with the content of the four Gospels and Acts. 2. The student understands the background, history, literature, and other introductory aspects of the New Testament era. 3. The student has an introductory knowledge of the different critical approaches toward the New Testament materials. 4. The student has an introductory knowledge of the basic genres of the New Testament. 5. The student is able to interpret and apply the Gospels and Acts into a modern context. COURSE OBJECTIVES Knowledge: 1. Be familiar with the historical, religious and cultural setting in which early Christianity was formed. 2. Know the major arguments for the traditional authorship and dating of the Gospels as well as alternative proposals. 3. Know the central themes and structure of each Gospel. 4. See the unity of the major themes of the Gospels and the distinctive theological contributions and perspectives of each author. 5. Learn good research methods for developing biblical theology. 6. Know the basic procedures used in critical methods of Gospel study and the strengths and weaknesses of these approaches. 7. Understand the relationship between exegesis, biblical theology and systematic theology.

2 Page 2 Feelings/Attitude: 1. Convinced of the importance of a sound understanding of the theology of the Bible for the future of the Church. 1. Develop a greater love for Scripture. 2. Begin reshaping your thinking to conform more closely to the biblical world view. 3. Motivated to continue a lifetime of studying the New Testament. Action: 1. Able to study a Bible book to find its theology and themes, without reading other parts of the Bible into it. 2. Able to communicate clearly the central teachings of the Gospels and the distinctive contributions of each book. COURSE TEXTS Required Textbooks: Carson, D. A. and Douglas J. Moo. An Introduction to the New Testament.2 nd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, ISBN (pp , ) Wenham, David and Steve Walton. Exploring the New Testament. Vol 1.A Guide to the Gospels and Acts.2 nd ed. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, ISBN (pp , ) Read the Gospels in two of the following modern translations: NASB, ESV, NIV, TNIV, HCSB, RSV. Bible Software: Logos Bible Software. Bronze You can purchase Logos collections for a discount through BTS.

3 Page 3 Using Bible Software A training guide with step by step instructions for doing common Bible study tasks with Logos Bible software. Logos Bible Software training videos, Training videos on various aspects of using Logos Bible Software. Researching and Writing a Term Paper: Badke, William B. Research Strategies. Finding Your Way Through the Information Fog. Third edition. San Jose: iuniverse, ISBN Excellent suggestions on doing research and writing a research paper. The electronic edition [ costs only $6.00. A free abridged version [ is also very good. COURSE REQUIREMENTS 1. Reading a. Textbooks and Other Required Readings The required readings are listed in the class schedule. Readings should be completed in preparation for each class, so you will get the most out of lectures and be able to participate fully in the discussions. b. New Testament Read all 4 Gospels and Acts in two different modern Bible translations from the following list: NASB, ESV, NIV, TNIV, HCSB, RSV, NRSV. Paraphrases (e.g. Living Bible, The Message) are not acceptable. c. Reading Log Keep a reading log listing the date on which you completed each reading assignment. Turn in this reading log on the last day of class. To receive full credit, each section must be read by the date specified in the class schedule. Late reading logs will lose 50% credit. Logs will not be accepted more than one week late.

4 Page 4 2. Class Participation All students are expected to make meaningful contributions to class discussions. During part of many classes, there will be discussions in small groups or the whole class about topics raised by the reading and the lectures. You should complete the reading assignments on time so you are prepared to participate in the discussions. Special arrangements for makeup work will only be considered for extraordinary medical circumstances. Quizzes will be given periodically throughout the course, usually at the beginning of classes. These quizzes will treat the lectures and reading materials covered during the class periods since the previous quiz. These quizzes will typically be given near the beginning of the class sessions. No make ups will be given for these quizzes, so do be present and on time. 3. REFLECTION Guidelines: Due September 24, 2013 Purpose: to allow students to think and follow their thoughts throughout the Gospels. Biblical Text: Mark 10:45 Guidelines: 1. Students should meditate on the passage itself. 2. Students should consider the immediate context of the text. 3. Students may consider the impact of the Gospels as a whole, but must use only the Bible---no external sources or discussions with persons. 4. Students should record their observations. Recording is only for the purpose of tracing thoughts and to submit to the professor as proof that reflection took place. Recording observations may be done in numerical sequence. There is no need to refine or edit observations. Just make a list. 5. All observations must be related to the text, rather than other texts or theological subjects. 6. Students may/should keep a list of questions/issues to ask/solve, but should not answer the questions or solve the issues as a part of this assignment. The point is to reflect and think. 7. Students must submit a one-page summary of their thoughts to the professor on September 25. This may be done with a summary statement at the top, followed by a list of observations or reflections. Format for Submission: Name Title: Reflection on Short Summary of Thoughts List of observations/reflections (not necessarily in any order or form)

5 Page 5 5. TERM PAPER: Due November 26, 2013 Students must research and present cogently a term paper on one of the following subjects. The paper guidelines also follow: Jesus on Discipleship Jesus on Eschatology: The Olivet Discourse Jesus on Prayer The Miracles of Jesus: Their Significance, function, and interpretation. Jesus use of the Old Testament (Specific to one Gospel or a general presentation) The Gospel according to Jesus The Formation of the Canon Note: Papers must reflect the student's ability to do critical assessments of the issue, interaction with the sources, and the ability to present their cases in their own personal style. At least 20 pages typed Outline: The term paper should have this broad outline including these elements 1. Introduction to the subject 2. Hypothesis to be developed 3. Points essential to substantiating the hypothesis 4. Conclusion reflecting your hypothesis and the substantiating point 5. Bibliography 6. Examination Questions: New Testament Introduction MID TERM EXAMINATION: October 15, 2013 The exam must be turned in by the date and time it is due. 1. Explain how life for Jews in the First Century was changed after the Dispersion of 586 B.C. Be sure to indicate who was responsible for the specific changes and what impact they had on Jewish life. This includes a brief survey of Judea's occupying power during the Intertestamental period. (Note: the question is the abiding influence of the Intertestamental Period, not simply a survey of what happened during that time} 2. Discuss whether or not the Early Church (pre 300 A.D.) had confidence in the Scriptures. Discuss some of the issues related to the nature of Scripture canonization; attitude toward the Old Testament; and the basis on which the Early Church could accept and follow the New Testament, {note: this question deals with what the Early Church considered Scripture And their attitude toward the emerging Canon of Scripture} 3. Define "Gospel" in light of your reading and the class discussion. Illustrate your definition using the Synoptic Gospels to show what a Gospel is and why there are multiple Gospels. {note: this has two important parts, that should be integrated: 1) define Gospel; 2) how do you know from the Gospels your definition is correct} 4. From your understanding of the Life of Jesus, explain Jesus' relationship to the major institutions of Jewish life including, the religious/political sects, the Temple and the Synagogue, the common people, the Roman Government and its officials. Illustrate your answers to clarify and substantiate your points.

6 Page 6 FINAL EXAMINATION: December The exam will be a take home exam, due December 10, You will be asked what time you completed the exam, as well as questions about other assignments due by the end of the semester (reading). 1. The Gospels are very selective in their presentation of the story of Jesus. What guided the selectivity? Why do you think the writers included what they did? What did they want us to know about Jesus? 2. What are some of the major difficulties in interpreting parables and miracles? What is your approach to each? 3. Why do you believe we can accept the Gospels' presentation of Jesus as accurate Be sure to interact with some of the major positions that discredit the Jesus of the Gospels, explaining why you accept or reject their approach. 4. Explain some reasons why you believe Jesus has had such an impact in history {note: this question calls for thinking about various areas life and culture, as history, law, politics, art, literature and others, as well as the impact the church has had}. GRADING: Mid Term Exam 25% Reflection Assignment 10% Term Paper 25% Final examination 20% Reading Text/Quizzes and Other 20% GRADING SCALE: A Outstanding B Good C Needs improvement D Below Expectations F Failing work EXPECTATIONS FOR WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS 1. Style Written work should follow the style described in Kate L. Turabian, A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses and Dissertations. Your writing must be free of spelling and punctuation errors and adhere to the basic rules of English grammar. Write in a clear, straight-forward style appropriate to academic prose (cf. Shrunk and White, Elements of Style). Writing should be well organized and present a clear and coherent argument. Written assignments with significant deficiencies in style will receive a lower grade. 2. Physical Format The title page should include the title of the paper, the name of the course, the name of the

7 Page 7 professor, the date of submission, your name. Papers must be typed in 12 point Times Roman typeface, double spaced, with 1 inch margins. All pages must be stapled together. Do not use paper clips, a binder or a cover. Students must retain a copy of all assignments (photocopy or computer file). 3. Documentation of Sources In research papers, all sources must be cited in bibliographic footnotes in Turabian style. Reflection papers do not require formal citations. You can use computer software, such as Library Master to automatically format the citations. 4. Assignments All written assignments are due at the beginning of class on the specified due date. The grade for late assignments will be reduced 1 grade point per week late (e.g. A will be reduced to B). Reading log credit will be reduced 50% if late and will not be accepted more than one week late. Answers to reflection questions will not be accepted late. Extensions will be considered only in extreme cases such as a death in the family, the hospitalization of yourself or a member of your immediate family, or a prolonged illness for which you require treatment by a physician. Extensions will not be granted due to the demands of ministry, work or other courses. If you feel you have a legitimate reason for a late paper, attach an explanation in writing to the paper. Do not explain your reasons at the beginning of class, by phone or by voice mail. All course materials must be submitted by the last day of class. Thereafter, course materials may be submitted for up to six (6) weeks after the end of the semester directly to the office of the Registrar with the permission of the professor. If a student submits course materials after the end of the semester but within the six (6) weeks grace period, the student s grade will be lowered by one letter grade. The course materials will not be accepted after the six (6) week grace period and a failing grade will be posted to the student s transcript. CLASS SCHEDULE: Date: Passage/Topic: Reading Due: Lecture Due: Assignment Due: Sept -The nature of the 10 New Testament (NT) -Formation of the NT canon -Historical background to the NT

8 Page 8 Sept 17 Sept 24 -Basics of biblical hermeneutics -Culture and religions of the NT world -What is a Gospel? -Criticism of the Gospels -Criticism of the Gospels (continued) -The Quest of the Historical Jesus -The life of Jesus -Researching New Testament theology -Wenham-Walton, Wenham-Walton, Wegner, Carson-Moo, Klein, Wenham-Walton, Gospel of Mark (first Bible version) -Carson-Moo, "Historical Jesus" -Wenham-Walton, Wenham-Walton, Gospel of Matthew (first Bible version) -Hermeneutics -Form Criticism -New Testament Theology Quiz Oct 1 -Synoptic Gospels -Wenham-Walton, Gospel of Luke (first Bible version) -Gospel of Mark (second Bible version) -Bible study with Logos Bible Software -Turabian formatting with Library-Master Quiz Oct. 8 -Synoptic Gospels -Carson-Moo, Brown, Carson-Moo, Brown, Gospel of Matthew (second Bible version) Oct 22 -Synoptic Gospels -Carson-Moo, Brown, Gospel of Luke (second Bible version) -Wenham-Walton, Carson-Moo, Brown, Gospel of John (first Bible version) -Reflection Mid Term Exam Oct. 29 -Gospel of John -Gospel of John (second Bible version) Quiz

9 Page 9 Nov 5 -Gospel of John Nov 12- Acts Both Bible versions Exploring 1: Introduction, , Quiz Nov 19 Acts Exploring 2:3-20, 23-29, 31-45, Introduction, , Nov 26 The Life of Paul Term Paper Dec 03 The Life of Paul Reading Log Due Dec 10 Final Exam RECOMMENDED READING New Testament Theology and Introduction: Alexander, Desmond, Brian S. Rosner, D. A. Carson and Graeme, Goldsworthy, eds. New Dictionary of Biblical Theology.Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, Brown, Raymond E. An Introduction to the New Testament.New York: Doubleday, ' Joel B. Green and Scot McKnight, eds. Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels, Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, Ladd, George Eldon. A Theology of the New Testament.Revised edition. Grand Rapids, MI: 1993.

10 Page 10 Metzger, Bruce Manning. The New Testament: Its Background, Growth, and Content. 2nd edition. Nashville: Abingdon, Morris, Leon. New Testament Theology.Grand Rapids, Mi.: Zondervan, Witherington, Ben, III. The Jesus Quest.The Third Search for the Jew of Nazareth.Second ed. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, Wegner, Paul D. The Journey From Texts to Translations. The Origin and Development of the Bible.Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 2000, pp Hermeneutics and Biblical Interpretation: Fee, Gordon D. and Douglas Stuart.How to Read the Bible for all its Worth. Third edition. Grand Rapids, ML: Zondervan, Fee, Gordon.New Testament Exegesis.Revised Edition. Louisville, KY: Westminster/John Knox, Klein, William W., Craig L. Blomberg and Robert L. Hubbard, Jr. Introduction to Biblical Interpretation. Revised ed. Dallas: Nelson, Osborne, Grant R. The Hermeneutical Spiral.A Comprehensive Introduction to Biblical Interpretation.Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, Gospel Interpretation: Aland, Kurt, ed. Synopsis of the Four Gospels. Stuttgart: United Bible Society, Blomberg, Craig L. Jesus and the Gospels: An Introduction and Survey. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, Burge, Gary M. Interpreting the Gospel of John. Guides to New Testament Exegesis.Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, McKnight, Scot. Interpreting the Synoptic Gospels.Guides to New Testament Exegesis.Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, Guides to Commentaries: Carson, D. A. New Testament Commentary Survey.6 th ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, Matthew Commentaries: Blomberg, Craig. Matthew. New American Commentary.Nashville; Broadman and Holman, Carson, D. A. "Matthew." In The Expositors Bible Commentary, vol. 8, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Zondervan, Also published as a separate 2 volume commentary.

11 Page 11 France, R. T. Matthew. Tyndale New Testament Commentaries. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Eerdmans, Hagner, Donald. Matthew. 2 vols. Word Biblical Commentary. Dallas: Nelson, Keener, Craig S. A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew.Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, Keener, Craig S. Matthew.IVP New Testament Commentary. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, Morris, Leon. The Gospel According to Matthew.Pillar New Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, Mounce, Robert H. Matthew. New International Biblical Commentary.Hendrickson, Nolland, John. The Gospel of Matthew.New International Greek Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, Smith, Robert H. Matthew. Augsburg Commentary on the New Testament.Augsburg Fortress, Mark Commentaries: Brooks, James A. Mark, New American Commentary. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, Cranfield, C.E.B. The Gospel According to Mark.Cambridge Greek Testament Commentaries.Cambridge University Press, Evans, Craig. Mark 8:27-16:20. Word Biblical Commentary. Dallas: Nelson, France, R. T. The Gospel of Mark.New International Greek Testament Commentary.Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, Geulich, Robert. Mark 1:1-8:26. Word Biblical Commentary. Dallas: Nelson, Lane, William L. The Gospel of Mark.The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Eerdmans, Luke Commentaries: Bock, Darrell L. Luke. 2 vols. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament, Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, Green, Joel B. The Gospel of Luke.The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Eerdmans, Leifeld, Walter A. "Luke." In The Expositors Bible Commentary, vol. 8, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Zondervan, Also published as a separate volume. Marshall, I. Howard.Commentary on Luke.The New International Greek Testament

12 Page 12 Commentary. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Eerdmans, Morris, Leon. Luke. Tyndale New Testament Commentaries. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Eerdmans, Nolland, John. Luke. 1 vols. Word Biblical Commentary. Dallas: Nelson, John Commentaries: Barrett, C. K. The Gospel According to St. John. An Introduction Commentary and Notes on the Greek Text. Second ed. Philadelphia: Westminster, Brown, Raymond E. The Gospel According to John.2 vols. Second ed. The Anchor Bible, no. 29A-B. Garden City, N. Y.: Doubleday, Bruce, F. F. The Gospel of John.Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, Carson, D. A. The Gospel According to John.Pillar New Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, Keener, Craig S. The Gospel of John: A Commentary. 2 vols. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, Kostenberger, Andreas J. John. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Baker, Kruse, Colin G. John. Tyndale New Testament Commentaries. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, Morris, Leon. The Gospel According to John. The English Text With Introduction, Exposition and Notes. The New International Commentary on the New Testament.Edited by F. F. Bruce. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Eerdmans, Ridderbos, Herman. The Gospel of John: A Theological Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1997.