Details for Biblical Hermeneutics

This paper introduces students to basic principles of genre sensitive biblical interpretation, including the ability to use grammatical and lexical tools, based on an elementary understanding of biblical languages. The paper also seeks to make contemporary application of the biblical text. 

Awards offering Biblical Hermeneutics

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

• Bachelor of Contemporary Ministry
• Diploma in Biblical Studies (Level 6)

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

This paper introduces students to basic principles of genre sensitive biblical interpretation, including the ability to use grammatical and lexical tools, based on an elementary understanding of biblical languages.  The paper also seeks to make contemporary application of the biblical text.

Outcomes

 Students should be able to:

1. summarise the critical approaches to the study of the biblical text and canon
2. demonstrate critical engagement with both the primary biblical materials and secondary literature from a range of perspectives
3. apply hermeneutical principles to interpret passages of Scriptures in the light of their historical and grammatical context.
4. apply the hermeneutical disciplines for the preparation of sermons and bible studies within different contexts 

Subject Content

1. Introduction to schools of criticism

2. Historical criticism and biblical history

3. Literary and ideological criticisms

4. Exploring postcolonial hermeneutics and indigenous/Maori readings

5. Sample exegesis from an OT and a NT book

6. Contemporary application of biblical texts 

This course may be offered in the following formats

Lectures, group  discussions, online engagement

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis College.

Assessment Methods

Major Essay 50% (2500 words); Creative Project  25%(1500 words); Exam 25% (1 hour)

Prescribed Text

see text list

Representative References

Brueggemann, W. An Introduction to the Old Testament: The Canon and Christian Imagination, Minneapolis: Westminster/John Knox, 2003.

Fee, G. and Stuart, D. How to Read the Bible for all its Worth. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 2003.

Fee, G. New Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors, Minneapolis: Westminster John Knox Press; 3rd Ed, 2002.

Grey, J. Them, Us & Me: How the Old Testament Speaks to People Today. Sydney: APSS/ SCD Press, 2008.

Hayes, J.H. & Holladay, C.R. Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner’s Handbook, 3rd ed, Minneapolis: Westminster John Knox Press, 2007.

Klein, W.W., Blomberg, G.L. Hubbard, R.L. Introduction To Biblical Interpretation: Revised and Expanded.  Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2004.

Nogalski, J. ‘Reading the Book of the Twelve Theologically: The Twelve as Corpus: Interpreting Unity and Discord’, Interpretation, 61 no 2, (Apr 2007),  115-122.

Osbourne, G.R. The Hermeneutical Spiral: A Comprehensive Introduction to Biblical Interpretation, IVP Academic; Rev Ed, 2006.

Patte, D., et al. Global Bible Commentary. Nashville: Abingdon, 2004.

Soulen, R.N. Handbook of Biblical Criticism, 3rd ed., Minneapolis: John Knox, 2001.

Stuart, D.K. Old Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors, 3rd ed, Minneapolis: Westminster John Knox Press, 2001.

Wilson, T.A. ‘The law of Christ and the law of Moses: Reflections on a recent trend in interpretation’, Currents in Biblical Research, 5 no 1 Oct 2006, p 123-144.

Journals:

Currents in Biblical Research

Journal for the Study of Old Testament

Journal for the Study of New Testament

Interpretation