What will i learn??

• Distinguish between different literary genres in the Bible. Trace the historical development of the biblical canon. Interpret biblical passages contextually and responsibly. Relate biblical teachings to contemporary Christian life and ethics. Defend the reliability and inspiration of Scripture

Description

Course Description

This course provides a foundational understanding of the Bible as the inspired Word of God. It introduces students to the nature, structure, origin, composition, interpretation, and authority of the Scriptures. Students will explore the historical and cultural background of the Old and New Testaments, the process of canonization, principles of biblical interpretation (hermeneutics), and the relevance of the Bible in contemporary Christian life and ministry.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the origin, nature, and authority of the Bible.

2. Identify and describe the structure, divisions, and main themes of the Old and New Testaments.

3. Explain the historical, cultural, and geographical backgrounds of biblical writings.

4. Appreciate the process of canonization and preservation of the biblical text.

5. Apply sound principles of interpretation to various biblical texts.

6. Demonstrate the relevance of the Bible to personal faith and ministry.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Distinguish between different literary genres in the Bible.

• Trace the historical development of the biblical canon.

• Interpret biblical passages contextually and responsibly.

• Relate biblical teachings to contemporary Christian life and ethics.

• Defend the reliability and inspiration of Scripture.

Course Outline (Unit Breakdown)

Unit 1: Introduction to the Bible

• Meaning and definition of “Bible” and “Scripture”

• Overview of the Old and New Testaments

• Importance and uniqueness of the Bible in Christianity

• Major divisions of the Bible and their purposes

• The Bible as the Word of God (Inspiration and Authority)

Unit 2: Origin and Development of the Bible

• The divine and human aspects of Scripture

• Historical background of biblical revelation

• The process of writing, transmission, and translation

• Oral traditions and written documents

• Canonization: Old and New Testament canons

Unit 3: Structure and Content of the Old Testament

• The Pentateuch (Law): Genesis to Deuteronomy

• Historical Books: Joshua to Esther

• Poetic and Wisdom Books: Job to Song of Solomon

• Prophetic Books: Major and Minor Prophets

• Central themes: Creation, Covenant, Law, and Prophecy

Unit 4: Structure and Content of the New Testament

• The Gospels and their portraits of Jesus

• Acts of the Apostles: The birth and growth of the Church

• Pauline Epistles: Theology and Christian living

• General Epistles: Faith and endurance

• Revelation: Apocalyptic vision and eschatology

Unit 5: Historical and Cultural Backgrounds

• The ancient Near Eastern world of the Old Testament

• Intertestamental period (400 silent years)

• The Greco-Roman world of the New Testament

• Geography of biblical lands (Israel, Egypt, Mesopotamia)

• Jewish culture, religion, and politics in biblical times

Unit 6: The Inspiration, Authority, and Inerrancy of Scripture

• Theories of inspiration (verbal, dynamic, plenary, etc.)

• The authority of Scripture in doctrine and life

• The infallibility and trustworthiness of the Bible

• The role of the Holy Spirit in understanding Scripture

Unit 7: Principles of Biblical Interpretation (Hermeneutics)

• Meaning and necessity of interpretation

• Historical-grammatical method

• Contextual and theological interpretation

• Common interpretive errors and how to avoid them

• Application of biblical truth in modern life

Unit 8: The Bible and Modern Translations

• History of Bible translation (Septuagint to modern versions)

• Major English translations and their characteristics

• The importance of language and context in translation

• Use of study Bibles, concordances, and commentaries

Unit 9: The Unity and Message of the Bible

• Central themes: Redemption, Covenant, Kingdom of God, and Salvation

• Typology and prophecy fulfillment in Christ

• The progressive revelation of God’s plan

• The relationship between the Old and New Testaments

Unit 10: The Relevance of the Bible Today

• The Bible in personal devotion and discipleship

• The Bible as a guide in moral and ethical decision-making

• The Bible and social transformation

• Biblical worldview and contemporary issues

Teaching and Learning Methods

• Lectures and class discussions

• Group presentations and projects

• Scripture reading and reflection journals

• Case studies and contextual analysis

• Audio-visual and online resources

Assessment Methods

• Class participation: 10%

• Quizzes and assignments: 20%

• Mid-semester exam: 30%

• Final exam/project: 40%

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