To the enlightenment period

5 Credits

Module Content:

Although there is a focus in this module on the pre-1700 period – there will be points when there will need to be engagement with more recent biblical interpretation alongside it. Some examples of this are given below.

1. Use of OT in the NT and in post-biblical Judaism.
2. Development of the canons of the Hebrew Scriptures and the NT. Place of the Apocrypha.
3. The theological relationship(s) between the OT and NT and implications for Christian-Jewish relationships.
4. Methods of interpretation of scripture in the patristic period.
5. An overview (using selected examples) of the influence of the Bible on the history, society, culture, art and literature of Europe during the period 400-1700 AD.
6. The impact of vernacular translations – and their importance for the Reformation.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module students will be able:

• To evaluate the relationship between the biblical canon and the communities of faith.
• To reflect critically on the presuppositions and categories which inform and determine interpretation.
• To appreciate the process of biblical interpretation as a community based activity.
• To demonstrate an informed appreciation of how different methods of interpretation have been used in the past and present.
• To evaluate approaches to dealing with biblical texts which appear problematic for contemporary interpreters (i.e. it is the ‘texts’ not the ‘approaches’ which are problematic).
• To appreciate the Bible’s impact on European culture.
• To appreciate the complexities of the relationship between the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament.
• To have developed a grounding for using the Bible in ministry.

Methodology:

Part-time Mode A:

This module will be taught through a series of lectures and student-led seminars. Students will be required to participate and lead class seminars and also to take part in collaborative small groups and independent study which will focus on close textual readings.

There will be a joint seminar with each of the other two strands – Theology and Christian Practice in Church and Society

Part-time Mode B:

This module will be taught through workbook and DVD lectures. Students will also contribute to online seminars and will be required to engage in independent study of set texts. Students will also be required to take part in collaborative small groups and independent study which will focus on close textual readings.

There will be a joint seminar with each of the other two strands – Theology and Christian Practice in Church and Society

Assessment: 2,500 words of coursework (e.g. essay, exegesis, sermon or project as agreed by course leader) Contact Hours: 20 Student Work Load: 100 - 120 hrs