Looks at the New Testament in its historical, philosophical and religious context to set the stage for an encounter with the New Testament as a living, dynamic set of documents that are authoritative and transforming in our lives. Works with each of the New Testament books to gain a general idea of genre, structure and content. Psalms and Epistles 3 hours Inductive studies provide the foundation for this course. In the first half the course covers selected psalms representative of the various types of psalms including an investigative study of the theology of Israel reflected in this worship material. The second half of the term focuses on a New Testament epistle.
Attention is given to the teaching, preaching, and worship resource in each book.
Prophets and Revelation 3 hours Inductive study of a selected Old Testament prophet and New Testament book in historical context. The book of Revelation is studied the second half of the semester. Attention is given to the teaching, preaching, and worship resource in each book. Investigates the origins of Mennonite life and ideas with particular attention to the relationship of Mennonites with other Anabaptist groups. Studies the biblical foundations for nonresistance, peacemaking, and justice, and the variety of historical and current positions taken regarding war and violence.