B115 Introduction to the New Testament
B115 Introduction to the New Testament Fall 2012, Term B 3 Credit Hours Prerequisites: None
Jeromey Q. Martini, Ph.D. [email protected]
This course transfers to the University of Saskatchewan.
Course Description:
www.codexsinaiticus.net/en
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. Textbooks: The New Testament. 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). Course Outcomes:
By the end of this course, the student will better:
understand • the basic genre, structure, content, and major themes of the NT books; • how the NT became preserved and subsequently canonized; • the general religious and socio-‐historical milieu in which the NT was composed, Jewish and Greco-‐Roman; • how particular incidences may have occasioned particular NT documents; • new vocabulary peculiar to NT studies; • how better to research and interpret the NT. appreciate • how complex are the processes behind the construction of the English NT; • how complex – and how much work – it is to interpret the NT; • both the diversity and unity of the NT; • each NT author’s distinctive style and contribution to the NT; • the NT’s relevance for Western history and contemporary religious practice. practise • critical reading of both ancient and contemporary texts;
th
Image of the 4 -‐ century Codex Sinaiticus, containing the earliest surviving complete copy of the NT. View the entire manuscript online:
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
• • • • •
researching in the history and literature of the NT; identifying and using appropriate secondary sources for further study; arguing in a logical, clear, written format; presenting ideas orally, publicly; in person and online; participating with others in small-‐group discussions.
Requirements: 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 19 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 dates. (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. We will discuss in class how to write an exegetical paper. 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. Course Outline (subject to modification: follow the outline on Populi): 2
Date 12 November 13 November 14 November 15 November 18 November 19 November 20 November 21 November 22 November 25 November 26 November 27 November 28 November 29 November 2 December 3 December 4 December 5 December 6 December 9 December 10 December
11 December 12 December 13 December 16 December 17 December
18 December 19 December 20-‐21 December
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini Reading Assignments Topic Remembrance Day Observed – No Class Powell ch. 1 Texts & Canon of the NT Powell ch. 2 Powell ch. 3 Symbolic World of the NT Quiz – Powell ch. 1 Post Discussion of links 2.1 & 2.2 NT reading log: Mark 1-‐16; John 1-‐21; Acts 1-‐28 Canadian Bible Society Powell ch. 4 Powell ch. 6 Gospels and Acts Powell ch. 8 Powell ch. 9 Quiz – Powell ch. 4 Post Discussion of link 6.4 – did Mark end at 16.8 ? (Why) Does it matter ? NT reading log: Rom 1-‐16; 1 Cor 1-‐16 Gospels and Acts (con’t.) Powell ch. 10 Powell ch. 11 Powell ch. 12 Powell ch. 15 Quiz – Powell ch. 12 Post Discussion of links 10.2 & 10.3 – pseudepigraphy NT reading log: 2 Cor 1-‐13; Gal 1-‐6; Eph 1-‐6; Php 1-‐4; Col 1-‐4 Powell chs 13-‐14 Pauline Traditions Powell ch. 16 Powell ch. 17 Powell ch. 22 Quiz – Powell ch. 17 Post Discussion of link 16.1 – Ephesians/Colossians relationship NT reading log: 1 Thess 1-‐5; 2 Thess 1-‐3; 1 Tim 1-‐6; 2 Tim 1-‐4; Titus 1-‐3; Phlm 1; Heb 1-‐13 Powell chs 19-‐20 Powell ch. 21 Powell ch. 23 Powell ch. 24 Quiz – Powell ch. 23 Other Canonical Witnesses Post Discussion of link 21.5 – women in ministry Major Paper NT reading log: James 1-‐5; 1 Pet 1-‐5; 2 Pet 1-‐3; 1 John 1-‐5; 2 John 1; 3 John 1; Jude 1; Rev 1-‐22 Powell chs 26 and 28 Powell chs 27 and 29 Apocalypse Quiz – Powell ch. 27 (completed before midnight) Exam Preparation Day Textbook Reading Declaration (declare by midnight) Final Exams
3
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
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)
New Testament Reading Log Declaration
Answer on Populi
I read _______ % of Mark 1-‐16; John 1-‐21; Acts 1-‐28 between 13-‐19 November 2012.
NT Reading Log 1
I read _______ % of Rom 1-‐16; 1 Cor 1-‐16 between 19-‐25 November 2012.
NT Reading Log 2
I read _______ % of 2 Cor 1-‐13; Gal 1-‐6; Eph 1-‐ 6; Php 1-‐4; Col 1-‐4 between 25 November-‐3 December 2012.
NT Reading Log 3
I read _______ % of 1 Thess 1-‐5; 2 Thess 1-‐3; 1 Tim 1-‐6; 2 Tim 1-‐4; Titus 1-‐3; Phlm 1; Heb 1-‐13 between 3-‐10 December 2012.
NT Reading Log 4
I read _______ % of James 1-‐5; 1 Pet 1-‐5; 2 Pet 1-‐3; 1 John 1-‐5; 2 John 1; 3 John 1; Jude 1; Rev 1-‐22 between 10-‐17 December 2012.
NT Reading Log 5
5
Jeromey Q. Martini, Ph.D. [email protected]
This course transfers to the University of Saskatchewan.
Course Description:
www.codexsinaiticus.net/en
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. Textbooks: The New Testament. 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). Course Outcomes:
By the end of this course, the student will better:
understand • the basic genre, structure, content, and major themes of the NT books; • how the NT became preserved and subsequently canonized; • the general religious and socio-‐historical milieu in which the NT was composed, Jewish and Greco-‐Roman; • how particular incidences may have occasioned particular NT documents; • new vocabulary peculiar to NT studies; • how better to research and interpret the NT. appreciate • how complex are the processes behind the construction of the English NT; • how complex – and how much work – it is to interpret the NT; • both the diversity and unity of the NT; • each NT author’s distinctive style and contribution to the NT; • the NT’s relevance for Western history and contemporary religious practice. practise • critical reading of both ancient and contemporary texts;
th
Image of the 4 -‐ century Codex Sinaiticus, containing the earliest surviving complete copy of the NT. View the entire manuscript online:
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini
• • • • •
researching in the history and literature of the NT; identifying and using appropriate secondary sources for further study; arguing in a logical, clear, written format; presenting ideas orally, publicly; in person and online; participating with others in small-‐group discussions.
Requirements: 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 19 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 dates. (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. We will discuss in class how to write an exegetical paper. 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. Course Outline (subject to modification: follow the outline on Populi): 2
Date 12 November 13 November 14 November 15 November 18 November 19 November 20 November 21 November 22 November 25 November 26 November 27 November 28 November 29 November 2 December 3 December 4 December 5 December 6 December 9 December 10 December
11 December 12 December 13 December 16 December 17 December
18 December 19 December 20-‐21 December
B115 New Testament Introduction J.Q. Martini Reading Assignments Topic Remembrance Day Observed – No Class Powell ch. 1 Texts & Canon of the NT Powell ch. 2 Powell ch. 3 Symbolic World of the NT Quiz – Powell ch. 1 Post Discussion of links 2.1 & 2.2 NT reading log: Mark 1-‐16; John 1-‐21; Acts 1-‐28 Canadian Bible Society Powell ch. 4 Powell ch. 6 Gospels and Acts Powell ch. 8 Powell ch. 9 Quiz – Powell ch. 4 Post Discussion of link 6.4 – did Mark end at 16.8 ? (Why) Does it matter ? NT reading log: Rom 1-‐16; 1 Cor 1-‐16 Gospels and Acts (con’t.) Powell ch. 10 Powell ch. 11 Powell ch. 12 Powell ch. 15 Quiz – Powell ch. 12 Post Discussion of links 10.2 & 10.3 – pseudepigraphy NT reading log: 2 Cor 1-‐13; Gal 1-‐6; Eph 1-‐6; Php 1-‐4; Col 1-‐4 Powell chs 13-‐14 Pauline Traditions Powell ch. 16 Powell ch. 17 Powell ch. 22 Quiz – Powell ch. 17 Post Discussion of link 16.1 – Ephesians/Colossians relationship NT reading log: 1 Thess 1-‐5; 2 Thess 1-‐3; 1 Tim 1-‐6; 2 Tim 1-‐4; Titus 1-‐3; Phlm 1; Heb 1-‐13 Powell chs 19-‐20 Powell ch. 21 Powell ch. 23 Powell ch. 24 Quiz – Powell ch. 23 Other Canonical Witnesses Post Discussion of link 21.5 – women in ministry Major Paper NT reading log: James 1-‐5; 1 Pet 1-‐5; 2 Pet 1-‐3; 1 John 1-‐5; 2 John 1; 3 John 1; Jude 1; Rev 1-‐22 Powell chs 26 and 28 Powell chs 27 and 29 Apocalypse Quiz – Powell ch. 27 (completed before midnight) Exam Preparation Day Textbook Reading Declaration (declare by midnight) Final Exams
3
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
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)
New Testament Reading Log Declaration
Answer on Populi
I read _______ % of Mark 1-‐16; John 1-‐21; Acts 1-‐28 between 13-‐19 November 2012.
NT Reading Log 1
I read _______ % of Rom 1-‐16; 1 Cor 1-‐16 between 19-‐25 November 2012.
NT Reading Log 2
I read _______ % of 2 Cor 1-‐13; Gal 1-‐6; Eph 1-‐ 6; Php 1-‐4; Col 1-‐4 between 25 November-‐3 December 2012.
NT Reading Log 3
I read _______ % of 1 Thess 1-‐5; 2 Thess 1-‐3; 1 Tim 1-‐6; 2 Tim 1-‐4; Titus 1-‐3; Phlm 1; Heb 1-‐13 between 3-‐10 December 2012.
NT Reading Log 4
I read _______ % of James 1-‐5; 1 Pet 1-‐5; 2 Pet 1-‐3; 1 John 1-‐5; 2 John 1; 3 John 1; Jude 1; Rev 1-‐22 between 10-‐17 December 2012.
NT Reading Log 5
5
