In the process appropriate critical issues are identified and considered. Also the role of the intertestamental period is considered. In addition to recognizing unity in biblical revelation, the goal is also to be able to relate better any part of the Bible to its central message of salvation history, while we preach and teach the Bible as Holy Scripture. A consideration of contemporary issues in biblical criticism in relation to the interpretation of Scripture. Topics include historical criticism, form criticism, redaction criticism, and insight on how the New Testament uses the Old Testament.
Special attention is given to criticism and the evangelical scholar.
An evaluation of the usefulness of critical assumptions and methods is included. Guidance is provided in working with issues that are important in preparing for research in biblical studies at the doctoral level. An examination of the religious, social, and other cultural dynamics, which together with critical events explain the rise and development of the church from Pentecost to the arrest of the apostle Paul. An effort is made to correlate themes of the relevant Pauline letters with events which gave rise to those themes and to the letters themselves. Emphasis is placed on understanding the spiritual dynamic of the early church.