Professor: The Rev. Dr. John R. Muñiz, D. Min., Adjunct Professor 940 Summit Avenue Jersey City, New Jersey 07307 Munizjohn57@gmail.com 201-936-8885 NOTE: I am here to help you be successful! I can do all things through Christ which strenghenth me (Philippians 4:13, NKJV, 1960) Todo lo puedo en Cristo que me fortalece (Filipenses 3:14, Reina Valera, 1960) Description of course: NTSE507-Philippians: The Cross and Joy of Ministry This course will examine Paul s reason(s) for rejoicing in the midst of his most trying circumstances under captivity and possible death. This course will also examine the historical, cultural, and theological points that are found in this Epistle. In these days of tension and potential martyrdom regarding the Christian proclamation, many will need to take another look at this inspiring Epistle that exhorts us to rejoice in the Lord. Page 1 of 6
Learning Outcomes: NTSE507-Philippians: The Cross and Joy of Ministry Students will be able to discuss the main themes of the Epistle and make application to their daily living and practice as a Christian. Also, the students will have the capacity to preach exegetical sermons from Philippians in order to encourage and inspire their congregations or those who they will come in contact. At the end of the course, students will be able to: 1. Discuss the main themes of the Epistle. 2. Understand the key theological points and be able to communicate it effectively and persuasively. 3. Make applications in one s historical and cultural setting. 4. Continue to develop critical thinking skills 5. Be a better committed Christian serving one s community and working with others Required Materials: Silva, Moisés. Philippians (Baker Exegetical Commentary on The New Testament), Second Edition. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2005. Bible, A good translation like the New International Version, The New Revised Standard Version, or the English Standard Version Resource materials: Bruce, F. F. Philippians. Peabody, Mass.: Hendrickson, 1989. Fee, G. D. Paul s Letter to the Philippians. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1995. O Brien, P. T. The Epistle to the Philippians. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1991. Thielman, F. The NIV Application Commentary: Philippians. Grand Rapids, MI, Zondervan, 1995. Witherington, B., III. Friendship and Finances in Philippi: The Letter of Paul to the Philippians. Valley Forge, PA: Trinity Press International, 1994. Course requirements: In order to have a satisfactory grade, the following must be accomplished: 1. Assist all classes. This is a one week course. Page 2 of 6
2. NOTE: Read the commentary (215 pages) before the beginning of class. A discussion will be held regarding the main themes of the book. A short paper will be due during the week. Details will be given at the first session. 3. Read the book of Philippians in two different translations and note the differences. 4. Prepare a short presentation regarding the following (this will be collected on the first day and graded): a. Theme and occasion of letter b. Who was Epaphroditus? c. The purpose(s) of the letter d. Paul is in prison at the time of writing Philippians, where was he? e. What are some of the theological themes that are covered in this letter? f. Specifically, the structure and meaning of Philippians 2:6-11 g. What did Paul say against the Judaizes? What did he called them? h. What were the key exhortations given by Paul? 5. Submit a final paper that will be discussed in class and submitted after two weeks of the last class. 6. Evaluate the course. 7. NOTE: is subject to be changed for the benefit of the class and course goals to be achieved. Methodology of the course: The following will be done during the week of class: 1. Group discussions and presentations. 2. Lectures will be given in PowerPoint and general discussions. 3. Each person will be required to participate and make significant contributions in the class discussions, in the group settings, and in their writings. 4. Students are to develop a potential sermon or presentation regarding a main theme of the Epistle. Criteria for evaluation: Besides the deliverables, each student will receive points for attendance, class participation, and discussions in groups. Each task will be awarded 100 points for a total of 600 points. The grade will be as shown in the following table: Page 3 of 6
Grade Percentage Points acquired A 90-100% 360-400 B 80-89% 320-359 C 70-79% 280-319 D 60-69% 240-279 F 0-59% 0-239 First Session: Calendar of activities 1. Introduction of the course 2. Introduction of each student 3. First lecture given 4. Small groups discussions 5. Group presentations 6. Collection of presentations that was due on first day of class Second Session 2. Second lecture given Third Session 2. Third lecture given Fourth Session 2. Fourth lecture given Page 4 of 6
Fifth Session 2. Fifth lecture given Sixth Session: Short Paper due 2. Sixth lecture given Seventh session: 2. Seventh lecture given Eighth Session: 2. Eighth lecture given Ninth Session: 2. Ninth lecture given Tenth Session: Discussion of final paper that will be due in two weeks Page 5 of 6
2. Tenth lecture given Eleventh Session: 2. Eleventh lecture given Twelfth Session: Wrap-up and evaluation 2. Twelfth lecture given NOTE: I am here to help you! Please feel free to call me with any questions. Shalom! Page 6 of 6