B115 Introduction to the New Testament (3 credits)
B115 Introduction to the New Testament (3 credits) Prerequisites: None This course transfers to the University of Saskatchewan. Fall 2013 Fridays, 6:00-9:00; Saturdays 9-4:30 Nov 22-23; Dec 6,7; 13-14
Jeromey Q. Martini, Ph.D. [email protected]
Course Description: A foundational course introducing students to the literature, content, theology, and historical and social backgrounds of the New Testament. The course also introduces students to the processes behind the NT’s composition, preservation, and canonization. Course Outcomes: By the end of this course, the student will be able to: • Identify the basic genre, structure, and content of the NT books; • Explain how the NT became preserved and subsequently canonized; • Identify and chart chronologically important socio-‐historical events from the Jewish and Greco-‐Roman worlds relevant to the NT; • Recognize and define vocabulary peculiar to NT studies; • Demonstrate critical reading and research skills of both ancient and contemporary texts; • Argue exegetically in a logical, clear, written format; • Present ideas intelligently and respectfully both in small groups and online. Relationship to Horizon’s Mission: This course prepares students for Christian leadership by teaching them to interpret the NT faithfully and relevantly, challenging them to grow in Christ-‐like character as they apply the NT to their lives, requiring them to model healthy social interaction (online and in groups), and equipping them to share exegesis of the NT – a foundational ability for Christian ministry. Required Readings: The New Testament. (Any version.)
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Arthur G. Patzia and Anthony J. Petrotta. Pocket Dictionary of Biblical Studies (Downers Grove, IVP, 2002). Mark Allan Powell, Introducing the New Testament: A Historical, Literary, and Theological Survey (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2009). In-‐class readings selected from: Bart D. Ehrman, The New Testament: A Historical Introduction (Toronto, ON: Oxford University Press, 2008). Luke Timothy Johnson, The Writings of the New Testament: An Interpretation, rev. ed. (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1999). Course Assignments and Evaluation: Read the New Testament
10%
The most important activity for studying the New Testament is to read the New Testament itself. Follow the assigned readings in the Reading Log and attempt to read an entire NT book in a single sitting. Complete this assignment and, except for Matthew and Luke, you will have read the entire NT by the end of term! Readings are due before class each Monday. In the “Tests” section of Populi, answer what percentage of the reading you accomplished for any given reading log. Textbook Reading
10%
Follow the prescribed reading out of Powell. At the end of the course – no later than 18 December 11:59:59 – declare on Populi (“Tests”) what percentage of the reading you accomplished. Textbook Quizzes and Online Discussions
30%
Using Populi, complete the assigned out-‐of-‐class quizzes and participate in online discussions based on readings from Powell. Students can begin them at any time, but quizzes and posts must be completed by 11:59:59 of their due date. (See the discussion grading rubric below.) Major paper
30%
Using 5 approved secondary sources, write a 5-‐page exegetical paper on a 5-‐10 verse passage from a New Testament book. Your paper must reference a biblical dictionary article, a journal article, and a critical commentary. DO NOT QUOTE FROM ANY WEBSITES. AT ALL. We will discuss in class how to write an exegetical paper.
2
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
The University Learning Centre in the Murray Library will proof-‐read your paper up to 1 week before it is due. You must make an appointment. Final exam
30%
Exam based on lectures and textbook readings. This exam must be completed according to HCS Policies, including an appropriate Proctor to supervise the exam. It must be sent with the signed Proctor declaration, postmarked no later than 1 March 2014. Send to: Dr. Jeromey Martini Horizon College & Seminary 1303 Jackson Ave Saskatoon, SK S7H 2M9 Time Estimates In-Class Time Reading NT Textbook Quizzes Discussion Paper Exam
30hrs 12hrs 25hrs 2hrs 2hrs 15hrs 10hrs
3
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Course Outline (subject to modification): Nov 22-‐23
Dec 1 (Sunday) 11:59PM Dec 6 (Friday – BEFORE class) 5:59PM Dec 6-‐7 Dec 13 (Friday – BEFORE class) 5:59PM Dec 13-‐14
Dec 22 (Sunday) 11:59PM Dec 23-‐Jan 5 Jan 12 (Sunday) 11:59PM Jan 19 (Sunday) 11:59PM
Powell Reading
NT Reading Quiz Discussion Weekend One: Text and Canon of the New Testament How Our Bible Came to Us (Canadian Bible Society presentation) Symbolic World of the New Testament Gospels/Acts Chapters 1, 2, 3 Mark 1-‐16 Formation of the New Testament Chapters 4, 6, 8 John 1-‐21 Quiz Powell ch. 4 Did Mark end at Mark 16.8? Weekend Two: Pauline Traditions Chapters 9, 10 Acts 1-‐28
Weekend Three: General Epistles Apocalypse Chapters 11, 12
Chapters 13, 14, 15 Chapters 16, 17
Jan 26 (Sunday) 11:59PM Feb 2 (Sunday) 11:59PM Feb 9 (Sunday) 11:59PM Feb 16
Chapters 19, 20
Feb 23 (Sunday) 11:59PM
Chapters 28, 29
Feb 28 (Friday) 11:59PM
Final Paper Final Exam
Chapters 21, 22 Chapters 23, 24 Chapters 26, 27
Romans 1-‐16
Quiz Powell ch. 12 Christmas Break – NO work assigned 1, 2 Corinthians Quiz Powell ch. 13 Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1, 2 Thessalonians 1, 2 Timothy Titus Hebrews Quiz Powell ch. 23 James Quiz Powell ch. 1, 2 Peter 27 1, 2, 3 John Jude Revelation
Ephesians/Colossians relationship Women in Ministry
How has my understanding of Revelation been challenged?
4
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Grading Scheme for Online Discussions The student demonstrates a solid understanding of the topic under discussion The student advances the discussion, contributing meaningful comments relevant to the topic The student interacts with others’ comments respectfully and charitably The student interacts with others’ points without forcing her/his own agenda The student communicates in correct English
(poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent)
5
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Horizon College/University of Saskatchewan Assessment of Student Work 90-‐100% [Exceptional] – a superior performance with consistent strong evidence of: • a comprehensive, incisive grasp of the subject matter; • an ability to make insightful critical evaluation of the material given; • an exceptional capacity for original, creative and/or logical thinking; • an excellent ability to organize, to analyze, to synthesize, to integrate ideas, and to express thoughts fluently. 80-‐89% [Excellent] – an excellent performance with strong evidence of: • a comprehensive grasp of the subject matter; • an ability to make sound critical evaluation of the material given; • a very good capacity for original, creative and/or logical thinking; • an excellent ability to organize, to analyze, to synthesize to integrate ideas, and to express thoughts fluently. 70-‐79% [Good] – a good performance with evidence of: • a substantial knowledge of the subject matter; • a good understanding of relevant issues and a good familiarity with the relevant literature and techniques; • some capacity for original, creative and/or logical thinking; • a good ability to organize, to analyze and to examine the subject material in a critical and constructive manner. 60-‐69% [Satisfactory] – a generally satisfactory and intellectually adequate performance with evidence of: • an acceptable basic grasp of the subject material; • a fair understanding of the relevant issues; • a general familiarity with the relevant literature and techniques; • an ability to develop solutions to moderately difficult problems related to the subject material; • a moderate ability to examine the material in a critical and analytical manner. 50-‐59% [Minimal Pass] – a barely acceptable performance with evidence of: • a familiarity with the subject material; • some evidence that analytical skills have been developed; • some understanding of relevant issues; • some familiarity with the relevant literature and techniques; • attempts to solve moderately difficult problems related to the subject material and to examine the material in a critical and analytical manner, which are only partially successful. Under 50% [Failure] – an unacceptable performance See: http://www.usask.ca/calendar/exams&grades/gradingsystem/ Exegesis, Thesis and Strength of Argument (60%) Thesis Statement (well developed and appropriate to the biblical passage) Argument (clearly and logically demonstrated; student makes a convincing case to support the paper’s thesis; makes arguments appropriate to the topic) Secondary Sources (used thoughtfully; selected judiciously; all sources in the bibliography are used in the paper’s body. Student identifies and discusses meaningful issues related to the thesis/passage, addresses alternate interpretations and challenges to thesis) Exegesis (thoughtful; student makes keen observations from the biblical text; demonstrates awareness of and wrestles with key exegetical issues; when appropriate, makes use of other ancient primary sources) Organization, Format and Style (40%) Spelling/Punctuation/Sentence Structure/Grammar Coherence (student arranges thoughts in organized sentences and paragraphs; links paragraphs throughout to demonstrate consistency and logical flow) Format (student types paper and includes essential elements such as thesis, statement, page numbers, spacing, consistent documentation of sources, etc.) Writing style (student is articulate, avoids conversational language, slang, contractions, etc.)
Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent
Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent
6
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Bibliography: NT Introductions and Theologies Paul J. Achtemeier, Joel B. Green, and Marianne Meye Thompson, Introducing the New Testament: Its Literature and Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2001). M. Eugene Boring, An Introduction to the New Testament: History, Literature, Theology (Louisville, KT: Westminster John Knox Press, 2012). Gary M. Burge, Lynn H. Cohick and Gene L. Green, The New Testament in Antiquity: A Survey of the New Testament within Its Cultural Contexts (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009). Raymond E. Brown, An Introduction to the New Testament (NY: Doubleday, 1997). G.B. Caird and L.D. Hurst, New Testament Theology (Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1994). D.A. Carson and Douglas J. Moo, An Introduction to the New Testament, 2nd ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2005). James D.G. Dunn New Testament Theology: An Introduction (Nashville, TN: Abingdon, 2009). Bart D. Ehrman, The New Testament: A Historical Introduction, 5th ed. (Toronto, ON: Oxford University Press, 2011). Joel B. Green and Lee Martin McDonald, eds., The World of the New Testament: Cultural, Social, and Historical Contexts (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 2013). Donald Guthrie, New Testament Introduction, rev. ed. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1990). Luke Timothy Johnson, The Writings of the New Testament: An Interpretation, rev. ed. (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2002). Howard Clark Kee, The Beginnings of Christianity: An Introduction to the New Testament (NY: T&T Clark, 2005). Georg Werner Kümmel, Introduction to the New Testament, trans. Howard Clark Kee (Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1996). George Eldon Ladd, A Theology of the New Testament, rev. ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1993). Frank J. Matera, New Testament Theology: Exploring Diversity and Unity (Louisville, KT: Westminster John Knox, 2007). Leon Morris, New Testament Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011). New Testament Theology monograph series (Cambridge University Press). Pheme Perkins, Reading the New Testament: An Introduction, 3rd ed. (Mahweh, NJ: Paulist Press, 2012). Mark Allan Powell, Introducing the New Testament: A Historical, Literary, and Theological Survey (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2009). Ben Witherington III, Invitation to the New Testament: First Things (Toronto: Oxford University Press, 2012). 7
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Commentary Series Although commentaries must be assessed on an individual basis, the editorial intentions of certain series make it possible to comment on their general suitability for academic writing. The following is not an exhaustive list. Anchor Bible Commentaries. Semi-‐technical; original languages transliterated; both academically rigorous and sensitive to intelligent non-‐specialists. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament. Semi-‐technical recent Evangelical series; transliterated Greek. Black’s New Testament Commentaries. Semi-‐technical; transliterated Greek; less rigorous than the Anchor Bible. Hermeneia. Technical; original languages. Don’t be fooled by its small size – this assumes much background knowledge of its readers. Always read the footnotes. International Critical Commentaries. Technical; knowledge of original languages will help. Interpretation. Non-‐technical; aimed at pastors and non-‐specialists, it deals usefully but generically with current critical issues; does not necessarily comment specifically on every verse. The IVP Commentary Series. Non-‐technical, by Evangelical scholars. (Published also as Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries and The Bible Speaks Today series.) The New American Commentary. Semi-‐technical Evangelical series; original languages in footnotes. New Century Bible. Non-‐technical; written by critical scholars and aimed at lay readers. New International Commentary on the Old Testament/ New International Commentary on the New Testament. Semi-‐technical; knowledge of original languages will help, but is unnecessary. This series is updating its publications, so there are often two independent commentaries for a given biblical book. New International Biblical Commentary. Non-‐technical Evangelical series; reasonable overview of issues. New International Greek Testament Commentaries. Technical; assumes some knowledge of Greek. New Interpreter’s Bible. A Bible commentary in 12 volumes. Non-‐technical, by first-‐rate scholars. The NIV Application Commentary. Non-‐technical Evangelical series. Mixed quality. The Old Testament Library. Semi-‐technical critical series; languages transliterated. Sacra-‐Pagina. Semi-‐technical; Roman Catholic series; critical but sensitive to the non-‐specialist. Word Biblical Commentaries. Technical; original languages; offers verse-‐by-‐verse exegesis and a separate explanation section. Articles Commentaries work systematically through an entire book of the Bible; articles, on the other 8
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
hand, speak to specific subjects or problems arising from the biblical text. The best way to access articles is through the ATLAS online database, available through our library website. See tutorials here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqcGs28aVuI http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPNMHmtwrbY Monographs Often, authors commit an entire book-‐length study to specific issues in the biblical text. These monographs are usually shelved generally in the section where commentaries are found. Bible Dictionaries Bible dictionaries give brief articles with succinct information on key topics in biblical studies. Anchor Bible Dictionary. 6 vols. (NY: Doubleday, 1992) Dictionary of New Testament Background (InterVarsity Press, 2000). Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels (InterVarsity Press, 1992). Dictionary of Paul and His Letters (InterVarsity Press, 1993). Dictionary of the Later New Testament and Its Development (InterVarsity Press, 2000). The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Revised ed. 4 vols. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament (InterVarsity Press, 1994). Words The New Testament is composed of words. Sometimes, your argument may depend upon the particular nuance of a given word. The following resources give explanations for most prominent words in the NT; most require some knowledge of Greek: Exegetical Dictionary of the New Testament. 3 vols. A Greek-‐English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, 3rd edition (2000). New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology, Revised edition. 4 vols. (*This dictionary lists terms in English; Greek words can be looked up in the index). Theological Dictionary of the New Testament/ Theological Dictionary of the Old Testament. Libraries In addition to our own library, you can find resources at the UofS libraries, including those of the Saskatoon Theological Union. See their online catalogues: UofS: http://sundog.usask.ca/ Saskatoon Theological Union: http://reindex.net/STU/rss/Portal.php 9
Jeromey Q. Martini, Ph.D. [email protected]
Course Description: A foundational course introducing students to the literature, content, theology, and historical and social backgrounds of the New Testament. The course also introduces students to the processes behind the NT’s composition, preservation, and canonization. Course Outcomes: By the end of this course, the student will be able to: • Identify the basic genre, structure, and content of the NT books; • Explain how the NT became preserved and subsequently canonized; • Identify and chart chronologically important socio-‐historical events from the Jewish and Greco-‐Roman worlds relevant to the NT; • Recognize and define vocabulary peculiar to NT studies; • Demonstrate critical reading and research skills of both ancient and contemporary texts; • Argue exegetically in a logical, clear, written format; • Present ideas intelligently and respectfully both in small groups and online. Relationship to Horizon’s Mission: This course prepares students for Christian leadership by teaching them to interpret the NT faithfully and relevantly, challenging them to grow in Christ-‐like character as they apply the NT to their lives, requiring them to model healthy social interaction (online and in groups), and equipping them to share exegesis of the NT – a foundational ability for Christian ministry. Required Readings: The New Testament. (Any version.)
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Arthur G. Patzia and Anthony J. Petrotta. Pocket Dictionary of Biblical Studies (Downers Grove, IVP, 2002). Mark Allan Powell, Introducing the New Testament: A Historical, Literary, and Theological Survey (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2009). In-‐class readings selected from: Bart D. Ehrman, The New Testament: A Historical Introduction (Toronto, ON: Oxford University Press, 2008). Luke Timothy Johnson, The Writings of the New Testament: An Interpretation, rev. ed. (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1999). Course Assignments and Evaluation: Read the New Testament
10%
The most important activity for studying the New Testament is to read the New Testament itself. Follow the assigned readings in the Reading Log and attempt to read an entire NT book in a single sitting. Complete this assignment and, except for Matthew and Luke, you will have read the entire NT by the end of term! Readings are due before class each Monday. In the “Tests” section of Populi, answer what percentage of the reading you accomplished for any given reading log. Textbook Reading
10%
Follow the prescribed reading out of Powell. At the end of the course – no later than 18 December 11:59:59 – declare on Populi (“Tests”) what percentage of the reading you accomplished. Textbook Quizzes and Online Discussions
30%
Using Populi, complete the assigned out-‐of-‐class quizzes and participate in online discussions based on readings from Powell. Students can begin them at any time, but quizzes and posts must be completed by 11:59:59 of their due date. (See the discussion grading rubric below.) Major paper
30%
Using 5 approved secondary sources, write a 5-‐page exegetical paper on a 5-‐10 verse passage from a New Testament book. Your paper must reference a biblical dictionary article, a journal article, and a critical commentary. DO NOT QUOTE FROM ANY WEBSITES. AT ALL. We will discuss in class how to write an exegetical paper.
2
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
The University Learning Centre in the Murray Library will proof-‐read your paper up to 1 week before it is due. You must make an appointment. Final exam
30%
Exam based on lectures and textbook readings. This exam must be completed according to HCS Policies, including an appropriate Proctor to supervise the exam. It must be sent with the signed Proctor declaration, postmarked no later than 1 March 2014. Send to: Dr. Jeromey Martini Horizon College & Seminary 1303 Jackson Ave Saskatoon, SK S7H 2M9 Time Estimates In-Class Time Reading NT Textbook Quizzes Discussion Paper Exam
30hrs 12hrs 25hrs 2hrs 2hrs 15hrs 10hrs
3
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Course Outline (subject to modification): Nov 22-‐23
Dec 1 (Sunday) 11:59PM Dec 6 (Friday – BEFORE class) 5:59PM Dec 6-‐7 Dec 13 (Friday – BEFORE class) 5:59PM Dec 13-‐14
Dec 22 (Sunday) 11:59PM Dec 23-‐Jan 5 Jan 12 (Sunday) 11:59PM Jan 19 (Sunday) 11:59PM
Powell Reading
NT Reading Quiz Discussion Weekend One: Text and Canon of the New Testament How Our Bible Came to Us (Canadian Bible Society presentation) Symbolic World of the New Testament Gospels/Acts Chapters 1, 2, 3 Mark 1-‐16 Formation of the New Testament Chapters 4, 6, 8 John 1-‐21 Quiz Powell ch. 4 Did Mark end at Mark 16.8? Weekend Two: Pauline Traditions Chapters 9, 10 Acts 1-‐28
Weekend Three: General Epistles Apocalypse Chapters 11, 12
Chapters 13, 14, 15 Chapters 16, 17
Jan 26 (Sunday) 11:59PM Feb 2 (Sunday) 11:59PM Feb 9 (Sunday) 11:59PM Feb 16
Chapters 19, 20
Feb 23 (Sunday) 11:59PM
Chapters 28, 29
Feb 28 (Friday) 11:59PM
Final Paper Final Exam
Chapters 21, 22 Chapters 23, 24 Chapters 26, 27
Romans 1-‐16
Quiz Powell ch. 12 Christmas Break – NO work assigned 1, 2 Corinthians Quiz Powell ch. 13 Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1, 2 Thessalonians 1, 2 Timothy Titus Hebrews Quiz Powell ch. 23 James Quiz Powell ch. 1, 2 Peter 27 1, 2, 3 John Jude Revelation
Ephesians/Colossians relationship Women in Ministry
How has my understanding of Revelation been challenged?
4
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Grading Scheme for Online Discussions The student demonstrates a solid understanding of the topic under discussion The student advances the discussion, contributing meaningful comments relevant to the topic The student interacts with others’ comments respectfully and charitably The student interacts with others’ points without forcing her/his own agenda The student communicates in correct English
(poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent) (poor) 1. . . . 5 . . . . 10 (excellent)
5
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Horizon College/University of Saskatchewan Assessment of Student Work 90-‐100% [Exceptional] – a superior performance with consistent strong evidence of: • a comprehensive, incisive grasp of the subject matter; • an ability to make insightful critical evaluation of the material given; • an exceptional capacity for original, creative and/or logical thinking; • an excellent ability to organize, to analyze, to synthesize, to integrate ideas, and to express thoughts fluently. 80-‐89% [Excellent] – an excellent performance with strong evidence of: • a comprehensive grasp of the subject matter; • an ability to make sound critical evaluation of the material given; • a very good capacity for original, creative and/or logical thinking; • an excellent ability to organize, to analyze, to synthesize to integrate ideas, and to express thoughts fluently. 70-‐79% [Good] – a good performance with evidence of: • a substantial knowledge of the subject matter; • a good understanding of relevant issues and a good familiarity with the relevant literature and techniques; • some capacity for original, creative and/or logical thinking; • a good ability to organize, to analyze and to examine the subject material in a critical and constructive manner. 60-‐69% [Satisfactory] – a generally satisfactory and intellectually adequate performance with evidence of: • an acceptable basic grasp of the subject material; • a fair understanding of the relevant issues; • a general familiarity with the relevant literature and techniques; • an ability to develop solutions to moderately difficult problems related to the subject material; • a moderate ability to examine the material in a critical and analytical manner. 50-‐59% [Minimal Pass] – a barely acceptable performance with evidence of: • a familiarity with the subject material; • some evidence that analytical skills have been developed; • some understanding of relevant issues; • some familiarity with the relevant literature and techniques; • attempts to solve moderately difficult problems related to the subject material and to examine the material in a critical and analytical manner, which are only partially successful. Under 50% [Failure] – an unacceptable performance See: http://www.usask.ca/calendar/exams&grades/gradingsystem/ Exegesis, Thesis and Strength of Argument (60%) Thesis Statement (well developed and appropriate to the biblical passage) Argument (clearly and logically demonstrated; student makes a convincing case to support the paper’s thesis; makes arguments appropriate to the topic) Secondary Sources (used thoughtfully; selected judiciously; all sources in the bibliography are used in the paper’s body. Student identifies and discusses meaningful issues related to the thesis/passage, addresses alternate interpretations and challenges to thesis) Exegesis (thoughtful; student makes keen observations from the biblical text; demonstrates awareness of and wrestles with key exegetical issues; when appropriate, makes use of other ancient primary sources) Organization, Format and Style (40%) Spelling/Punctuation/Sentence Structure/Grammar Coherence (student arranges thoughts in organized sentences and paragraphs; links paragraphs throughout to demonstrate consistency and logical flow) Format (student types paper and includes essential elements such as thesis, statement, page numbers, spacing, consistent documentation of sources, etc.) Writing style (student is articulate, avoids conversational language, slang, contractions, etc.)
Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent
Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent Poor . . . . . | . . . . . Satisfactory . . . . . | . . . . . Excellent
6
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Bibliography: NT Introductions and Theologies Paul J. Achtemeier, Joel B. Green, and Marianne Meye Thompson, Introducing the New Testament: Its Literature and Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2001). M. Eugene Boring, An Introduction to the New Testament: History, Literature, Theology (Louisville, KT: Westminster John Knox Press, 2012). Gary M. Burge, Lynn H. Cohick and Gene L. Green, The New Testament in Antiquity: A Survey of the New Testament within Its Cultural Contexts (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009). Raymond E. Brown, An Introduction to the New Testament (NY: Doubleday, 1997). G.B. Caird and L.D. Hurst, New Testament Theology (Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1994). D.A. Carson and Douglas J. Moo, An Introduction to the New Testament, 2nd ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2005). James D.G. Dunn New Testament Theology: An Introduction (Nashville, TN: Abingdon, 2009). Bart D. Ehrman, The New Testament: A Historical Introduction, 5th ed. (Toronto, ON: Oxford University Press, 2011). Joel B. Green and Lee Martin McDonald, eds., The World of the New Testament: Cultural, Social, and Historical Contexts (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 2013). Donald Guthrie, New Testament Introduction, rev. ed. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1990). Luke Timothy Johnson, The Writings of the New Testament: An Interpretation, rev. ed. (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2002). Howard Clark Kee, The Beginnings of Christianity: An Introduction to the New Testament (NY: T&T Clark, 2005). Georg Werner Kümmel, Introduction to the New Testament, trans. Howard Clark Kee (Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1996). George Eldon Ladd, A Theology of the New Testament, rev. ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1993). Frank J. Matera, New Testament Theology: Exploring Diversity and Unity (Louisville, KT: Westminster John Knox, 2007). Leon Morris, New Testament Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011). New Testament Theology monograph series (Cambridge University Press). Pheme Perkins, Reading the New Testament: An Introduction, 3rd ed. (Mahweh, NJ: Paulist Press, 2012). Mark Allan Powell, Introducing the New Testament: A Historical, Literary, and Theological Survey (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2009). Ben Witherington III, Invitation to the New Testament: First Things (Toronto: Oxford University Press, 2012). 7
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
Commentary Series Although commentaries must be assessed on an individual basis, the editorial intentions of certain series make it possible to comment on their general suitability for academic writing. The following is not an exhaustive list. Anchor Bible Commentaries. Semi-‐technical; original languages transliterated; both academically rigorous and sensitive to intelligent non-‐specialists. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament. Semi-‐technical recent Evangelical series; transliterated Greek. Black’s New Testament Commentaries. Semi-‐technical; transliterated Greek; less rigorous than the Anchor Bible. Hermeneia. Technical; original languages. Don’t be fooled by its small size – this assumes much background knowledge of its readers. Always read the footnotes. International Critical Commentaries. Technical; knowledge of original languages will help. Interpretation. Non-‐technical; aimed at pastors and non-‐specialists, it deals usefully but generically with current critical issues; does not necessarily comment specifically on every verse. The IVP Commentary Series. Non-‐technical, by Evangelical scholars. (Published also as Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries and The Bible Speaks Today series.) The New American Commentary. Semi-‐technical Evangelical series; original languages in footnotes. New Century Bible. Non-‐technical; written by critical scholars and aimed at lay readers. New International Commentary on the Old Testament/ New International Commentary on the New Testament. Semi-‐technical; knowledge of original languages will help, but is unnecessary. This series is updating its publications, so there are often two independent commentaries for a given biblical book. New International Biblical Commentary. Non-‐technical Evangelical series; reasonable overview of issues. New International Greek Testament Commentaries. Technical; assumes some knowledge of Greek. New Interpreter’s Bible. A Bible commentary in 12 volumes. Non-‐technical, by first-‐rate scholars. The NIV Application Commentary. Non-‐technical Evangelical series. Mixed quality. The Old Testament Library. Semi-‐technical critical series; languages transliterated. Sacra-‐Pagina. Semi-‐technical; Roman Catholic series; critical but sensitive to the non-‐specialist. Word Biblical Commentaries. Technical; original languages; offers verse-‐by-‐verse exegesis and a separate explanation section. Articles Commentaries work systematically through an entire book of the Bible; articles, on the other 8
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
hand, speak to specific subjects or problems arising from the biblical text. The best way to access articles is through the ATLAS online database, available through our library website. See tutorials here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqcGs28aVuI http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPNMHmtwrbY Monographs Often, authors commit an entire book-‐length study to specific issues in the biblical text. These monographs are usually shelved generally in the section where commentaries are found. Bible Dictionaries Bible dictionaries give brief articles with succinct information on key topics in biblical studies. Anchor Bible Dictionary. 6 vols. (NY: Doubleday, 1992) Dictionary of New Testament Background (InterVarsity Press, 2000). Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels (InterVarsity Press, 1992). Dictionary of Paul and His Letters (InterVarsity Press, 1993). Dictionary of the Later New Testament and Its Development (InterVarsity Press, 2000). The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Revised ed. 4 vols. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament (InterVarsity Press, 1994). Words The New Testament is composed of words. Sometimes, your argument may depend upon the particular nuance of a given word. The following resources give explanations for most prominent words in the NT; most require some knowledge of Greek: Exegetical Dictionary of the New Testament. 3 vols. A Greek-‐English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, 3rd edition (2000). New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology, Revised edition. 4 vols. (*This dictionary lists terms in English; Greek words can be looked up in the index). Theological Dictionary of the New Testament/ Theological Dictionary of the Old Testament. Libraries In addition to our own library, you can find resources at the UofS libraries, including those of the Saskatoon Theological Union. See their online catalogues: UofS: http://sundog.usask.ca/ Saskatoon Theological Union: http://reindex.net/STU/rss/Portal.php 9
