B7253 The Four Gospels

Unit code B7253

Unit name The Four Gospels

Unit weighting 9 cp

Prerequisites 9 cp

Exclusions B5152 Survey of the Synoptic Gospels; B7252 Synoptic Gospels

Curriculum objective This course unit builds on any introductory course unit in biblical studies. It enables students to develop the ability to research in Biblical Studies through reading the four New Testament Gospels in the light of relevant contemporary scholarly literature and accepted exegetical methodologies.

Learning outcomes At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Interpret the way that the historical, socio-cultural and religious background of the New Testament period influenced the development of each of the four gospels
2. Identify the principal literary forms and theological themes of the four gospels of the New Testament to show how they communicate their theological content
3. Exegete selected passages from the four gospels using an accepted methodology
4. Integrate secondary literature on the four gospels to interpret selected gospel passages or themes
5. Apply insights gained from the critical study of the four gospels to contemporary Christian preaching, teaching and spirituality

Content

1. The historical, geographical and socio-cultural context of the 1^st century CE Roman Empire and the religious context of 1^st century CE Palestinian Judaism.
2. The literary genre of Gospel and the literary forms within the New Testament gospels.
3. The distinctive theological themes of each of the four gospels.
4. Exegesis of selected passages or themes from the four gospels using an accepted methodology
5. The application of critically researched knowledge of the Gospels to various church activities.

Assessment profile In this unit, the required assessment tasks will enable students to demonstrate how successfully they can:

1. Critically review scholarly literature discussing an aspect of the historical, socio-cultural and religious background of the New Testament period, with reference to one or more of the gospels [Outcomes 1 and 4]
2. Interpret a selection of related pericopes from one or more of the four gospels for their theological themes and their application to the contemporary culture, ecclesial or secular [Outcomes 2, 4 and 5]
3. Exegete a significant passage from one of the four Gospels, using accepted methodology to show the distinct theological interests of the Gospel chosen. [Outcomes 2, 3, and 4]