...Havrelock Associate Professor Department of English raheleh@uic.edu Office 1909 University Hall Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 1:00-2:00 pm Professor Scott Grunow Lecturer Department of English Cobelli@aol.com Course Description This introductory class presents a literary perspective on the Bible. Texts from the Bible stand at the center of analysis, while accompanying textbooks help us to contexualize biblical materials within history. Each week revolves around a particular theme with one lecture on the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and one on the New Testament. Themes include creation, birth, the hero, the mountain, the community, the Temple, suffering, and the end of time. As we place biblical texts in their historical contexts, we will consider the Bible as a literary work with distinct genres, themes and conventions. The thematic connections between the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament will be explored at the same time that differences in their style and message are investigated. While reading the Bible, we will develop a vocabulary for discussing literary texts as well as a vocabulary specific to texts from the ancient world. This lively and pluralistic course provides a thorough introduction to the literature of the Bible. Course Objectives The Bible is a central text that has influenced literature, history, and global politics. This course instructs students in reading and interpreting the Bible according to its structure and...
Words: 2487 - Pages: 10
...Essence of the New Testament: A Survey (2012), and the New Testament documents. Chapter 1: How We Got the New Testament 1. How many documents does the New Testament consist (1)? 27 2. The New Testament was written approximately between AD ¬¬¬_45___ and _100___ (1). 3. What materials were the New Testament documents written upon (1)? Leather and paper scrolls 4. What are the original New Testament document called (1, 2)? autograph 5. What is a codex in reference to the early New Testament writings (2)? Modern day books 6. What is the name of the Latin codex collection (2)? Ta Bibla 7. In the study of the New Testament, to what does the term canon refer (2)? Authoritive books 8. What three languages did God choose as the media for his self-revelation (2)? Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek 9. The Old Testament was primarily written in ____Hebrew__ (2). 10. Parts of the Old Testament were written in __Aramaic____ (2). 11. The New Testament was written in __Greek____ ______(2). 12. New greek______ ______was the language of the common people during the first century AD (2). 13. Why do you think God allowed the autographs to vanish (3)? To avoid biliolatry 14. In spite of the absence of the autographs, approximately 5,000 Greek manuscripts and an additional 13,000 fragments of the New Testament documents exist, providing significant manuscript evidence for New Testament scholars (3). compared to early writings 15. Motivators for canonizing the New Testament include the heretic...
Words: 1404 - Pages: 6
...LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DIVINITY Theology of Missions Submitted to Edward L. Smither, PhD In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the completion of GLST 500-D09 Global Studies Survey By Shaun Podunavac April 10, 2016 Table of Contents Chapter 1-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3 Chapter 2-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 Chapter 3-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 Chapter 4-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7 Chapter 5-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8 Bibliography--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10 Chapter 1. Scripture and Missions Throughout the Holy Bible, there have been a plethora of references to the mission of the church. The role of missions throughout the evolution of the Christian faith has been an integral aspect of its spread throughout the nations. Before the Messiah came to Earth so save us from our sins, God anointed several of his people to spread His word to the masses. Those that may not know of the wonders of God could be reached through the continued role of missions for God. The call of Abram is a fundamental...
Words: 2408 - Pages: 10
...D.Min. Project Prospectus Sharon L. Smith I. Title: Bridging the Gap: A Pilot Project Aimed at Mutually Equipping Church and Business Leaders for Kingdom Impact II. The Context: Followers of Jesus Christ who possess a divine calling, talents, and gifts to work and serve God through specific voluntary or paid vocations in the workplace face daily opportunities to impact the Kingdom of God. When believers walk by faith and obedience in the revelation that God’s divine presence and purpose is with them daily in their work lives, God empowers them to lead change that can transform lives, businesses, and even nations. Believers clearly see this truth in the lives of Abraham, Joseph, Daniel, and Nehemiah. The Great Commission (Matt. 28) commands believers to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every person. This directive includes Holy Spirit-empowered witness in the marketplace with signs, wonders, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit in operation. As His priests (1 Pet. 2:5; Rom. 12:1-2), God calls believers ordained for the twenty-first century workplace to worship and serve Him through their actions, words, and works. God’s Word calls for excellence in whatever a person does (Col. 3:17). Fruitfulness follows when believers root biblical ethics in excellence, and practice it in relationships and business decisions. Anthropologists and missiologists are observing major global shifts causing leaders to revise their understanding of the notion of culture...
Words: 4498 - Pages: 18
...the Course Hermeneutics NBST 610 – B10 LUO By Joseph G Misiaszek L23730440 15 September 2013 Fee, Gordon D., and Douglas Stuart. How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. 3rd ed. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2003. The Bible was written for everyone to read is the belief of Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart as they wrote this book to help ease the average person into reading the Bible for understanding, thus making the Bible more accessible and more applicable to the everyday layperson. Fee and Stuart break down their book into logical divisions as they start with the need to interpret and selecting a good translation. They take the time to walk the reader through the different translations, not only showing the differences in them but also walking the reader through choosing a translation that is best. They do this by answering the seven questions of language: original language, receptor language, historical distance, formal equivalence, functional equivalence, free translation, and theory of translation. From choosing translations the authors logically break down the Bible into genres and discuss how to exegesis each type of genre accordingly. Another strong aspect of this book is the fact that the authors have used numerous amounts of Scriptural references in their text, thus allowing the reader to apply the techniques discussed right away to Scripture. In chapter two, not only do Fee and Stuart cover different translations, they assert that the key...
Words: 1854 - Pages: 8
...Given its status as a significant religious text, it is unsurprising to find at least somewhat of an emphasis on moral reform within the Old Testament. Perhaps far more interesting, however, is a consideration of the political implications contained underneath these morality-based commentaries. In certain passages, for example, the Hebrew Bible seems to undoubtedly prioritize social justice. At the same time, however, one might find encouragement of aid for the needy but an allowance for the preservation of the status quo. Through an analysis of several passages from the Old Testament, one can see that despite a prevalent insistence on respect for religious authority, the Hebrew Bible largely uses its prophecies to argue for a radical transformation of the political power structure. A call for a complete rejection of the status quo is evident as far back as Deuteronomy. In its Chapter 18, for example, Deuteronomy “detestable ways of the nations” in the Hebrew G-d-given land are criticized, while it is said that G-d will drive out those nations” (Deut. 18:9-12). Though somewhat vague in language, such indicates that nations doing...
Words: 1445 - Pages: 6
...Liberty University Book Review: Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament Submitted to Dr. Gary Schnittjer in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for OBST 515 Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary by CURTIS TERRY Lynchburg, Virginia Tuesday February 18, 2014 Table of Contents Introduction 3 Summary 3 Critical Interaction5 Conclusion8 Bibliography9 Introduction Dr. Christopher J.H. Wright love for Hebrew scripture played a major role in his decision to write Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament. Dr. Wright wrote that he was saddened that so many Christians love Jesus but know so little about who he thought he was and what he had come to do. Dr. Wright background is one of Anglican descent born in Belfast, North Ireland during World War II. He is the son of missionaries and a graduate of Cambridge. Dr. Wright was ordained by the Anglican Church of England in 1977 and has served in the capacities of high school teacher, associate pastor, Old Testament scholar. Dr. Wright has served at Union Biblical Seminary in India as seminary professor and served as Principal of All Nations Christian College from 1993-2001. Dr. Wright has authored numerous books and currently serves as the International Director for Langham Partnership International. This paper will provide a review of Dr. Wright’s Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament by providing a summarization of the work and provide an analysis of various theological topic discussed by Dr. Wright...
Words: 1895 - Pages: 8
...2nd Semester) Prof. W. K. LI Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science The University of Hong Kong Chapter 1: The Genesis of Statistics Part 1/2: The Genesis of Statistics Prof. W. K. LI (SAAS) CCST9039 (14-15, 2nd) Chapter 1, part 1/2 1 / 17 (I) The Genesis of Statistics What is Statistics ? Why bother ? Origin of the word same as “Status” = State i.e. Collection of figures that describe the situation of the state Ancient records of statistical activities: Babylon, the Old Testament, · · · · · · . Prof. W. K. LI (SAAS) CCST9039 (14-15, 2nd) Chapter 1, part 1/2 2 / 17 (I) The Genesis of Statistics From the book of “Numbers” in the Old Testament (1300BC?) “And the Lord spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the tabernacle of the congregation, on the first day of the second month, in the second year . . . saying, Take ye the sum of all the congregation to the children, after their families, by the house of their fathers, with the number of their names, every male by their polls; From twenty years old and upward, all that are able to go forth to war in Israel; thou and Aaron shall number them by their armies” A Census ! Prof. W. K. LI (SAAS) ( ) (Latin – “censere” means to tax) CCST9039 (14-15, 2nd) Chapter 1, part 1/2 3 / 17 From Moore & Notz (2009) Prof. W. K. LI (SAAS) CCST9039 (14-15, 2nd) Chapter 1, part 1/2 4 / 17 (I) The Genesis of Statistics The word “Statistics” was coined by the German Scholar...
Words: 768 - Pages: 4
...like to present four examples from both the Old Testament and the New Testament. Then from these examples and other reading materials, which perspective of the dichotomy the Church privilege shall be evident. Let me introduce the first example of the dichotomy, which compares the Book of Proverbs and the Old Testament as a whole. As the name Hebrew bible suggests, the Old Testament mostly concerns about the history of the Israelite people. For example, one of the most important parts in the Old Testament is the Pentateuch, the five books of Moses that focuses on the history of Jewish people. In these books, it appears that God chooses the Israelites among all the races of men. He leads the Israelites out of slavery and suffering in Egypt and brings them back to the Promised Land. He also makes a covenant with them on Mount Sinai, thus indicating the special status of the Israelites. In Exodus 3:6, God says to Moses: “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” In this sentence, God specifically addresses that He is the God of the Israelites people and shows his favor toward them. This is a good example of particularism. Furthermore, later in the Old Testament the books of Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Samuel and Kings all narrate the Jewish history and interaction with God in details. Therefore, we can claim that the Old Testament is somehow particular. Nevertheless, in the Old Testament, there is one book, the Book of Proverbs, which...
Words: 1928 - Pages: 8
...SEMINARY IPAJA, LAGOS, NIGERIA. COURSE TITLE: OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS COURSE CODE: OT 614 COURSE LECTURER: PASTOR AKINOLA TOPIC: BOOK SUMMARY OF “A STUDY OF THE MAJOR AND MINOR PROPHETS OF THE OLD TESTAMENT” by Emmanuel Itapson & George E. Janvier prepared by: AYOBAMIJI JOSEPH OLUWAGUNNA March 2013 CHAPTER 1 It is pertinent to have a good understanding of hermeneutics in order to have a correct content and context concepts in the interpretation of the prophets. Because the Bible is quite uniquely different from all other types of literature – its divine Authorship and inspiration, being the major distinguishing feature and prominent hallmark, the interpretation requires divine guidance. Inspiration is the act of the Holy Spirit in leading a man to record the message of God in written documentary while Interpretation is the act of a man in determining the meaning as intended by God in the original passage and how it applies to us today. Interpretation involves skill, but more critically involves Spirit in keeping to rightness. The grammatico-historical method is generally applicable in Biblical hermeneutics to both basic, broad types of writings contained in Biblical literature. Categorized broadly as prose and poetry. Further insights is gained when there is understanding of the literature type being interpreted. Features of Old Testament prophecy: • Bible prophecy is for both CURRENT...
Words: 4169 - Pages: 17
...following the lifestyle of a diligent wise man or one of a lazy fool is presented throughout the readings of Proverbs. “All wisdom, even things related to everyday practical matters, begins with the fear of the Lord (1:7). Therefore, Hebrew wisdom literature taught people not only how to make good choices in life but also how to make godly choices.”(The essence of the Old Testament) Solomon, wrote most of the Proverbs, is well known for the wisdom gifted him by God upon requesting it. According to the Bible Solomon’s wisdom was divinely granted and surpassed that of all other sages (1kgs 4:29-34). Even Jesus accepted the historicity of the biblical account of Solomon’s wisdom (matt12:41), and thus, there is little reason from scripture to question Solomon as the author/originator of the proverbs attributed to him.( The essence of the Old Testament). The contrast between wisdom and folly is often a Sharp contrast between righteousness and wickedness for example; the diligent person is wise while the sluggard is a fool or the one who holds his tongue is wise while the fool hastens to speak. (The essence of the Old Testament).I have often heard the definition of wisdom being knowledge applied. We can memorize scripture, teach classes, even preach from the pulpit; however, until we apply in our hearts what we know to be truth, wisdom will never be accounted unto us. As we progressed to knowledge we lost sight of the truth. When speaking about diligence and wisdom Solomon frequently...
Words: 937 - Pages: 4
...Worldview Assignment What is a worldview? The term “worldview” can be defined numerous ways all depending upon who is answering this question. After reading this week’s chapters we learn that a world view is made up for 3 components, all of which can define the term. First, a worldview is a person’s philosophy on life. Second, it is a framework that a person brings to decision-making. Third it is the way a person interprets life and the world around them. The question of origin can be answered within the first chapters of the Bible. In Genesis 1:3-19, we read of the creation of the Heavens and Earth. God saw a formless, empty darkness and filled it with His creations. We then read in Genesis 2:7 that God created man from the dust of the Earth to start populating the Earth he had shaped. The second question that of identity, can be explained in Psalm 8:4-8. Mankind was created to rule over the animals, not to be subjugated by them. We are also taught of identity in 1st Timothy chapter 2 (1 Timothy 2:1-15). In this chapter we learn to identify ourselves as individuals and as Christians. Our purpose on Earth is to know God. We are taught this in the book of John (John 17:3). God didn’t create us so we would not look to Him, He created us to follow Him and look to Him for guidance in our everyday lives. Our purpose is also to teach others about Christ and bring non-believers to Him (Matthew 5:14-16). We are to be a light for God and shine our lights for others to see. ...
Words: 696 - Pages: 3
...Review of Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament by Christopher J.H. Wright James Pruch Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary May 2012 Introduction Dr. Christopher J. H. Wright (Ph. D., Cambridge) is an Old Testament scholar, an ordained Anglican ministry, and is the director of international ministries with the Langham Partnership International. In Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament, Wright seeks to display the continuity between the Hebrew Scriptures and Jesus’ self-understanding. Wright maintains that Jesus’ self-understanding rooted in the history of salvation that God planned and worked for Israel. This review will show that Wright’s book provides the reader with a rich understanding of Jesus’ unique identity as the Hebrew Messiah and gives helpful insights for understanding how the OT should be viewed from the Christian perspective. Brief Summary Wright’s thesis is that one cannot fully know the story of Jesus unless he sees “it in the light of a much longer story which goes back for many centuries.”1 He works this out in five chapters, which he summarizes at the end of the book: We have seen that the Old Testament tells the story which Jesus completed. It declares the promise which he fulfilled. It provides the pictures and models which shaped his identity. It programmes a mission which he accepted and passed on. It teaches a moral orientation to God and the world which he endorsed, sharpened, and laid as the foundation for obedient discipleship.2 He argues...
Words: 2160 - Pages: 9
...The first seven chapters of 1 Samuel speak of Samuel’s life from birth through his Judgeship. Samuel was a good Judge and also prophet. The text in (The Essence of the Old Testament: A Survey, pg. 164),” The failures of the judges’ era is illustrated in the rebellious ways of Eli and his sons, which are set in contrast to the successful judgeship of Samuel (1 Samuel 7:3-17 NIV.)”He was used by God because he was obedient when the Lord spoke to him. He led the people to a renewal of covenant at Mizpah, and helped them to claim victory over the Philistines. However when Samuel grew old and appointed his sons, Joel and Abijah as judges over Israel, they were not the men that Samuel was, they were dishonest and took bribes. (1 Samuel Chapter 8 NIV) The elders of Israel met with Samuel at Ramah. They said to him, “You are old and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.” The Israelites wanted a king, like everyone else. God would tell Samuel to give them the king that they wanted. In verse 9 of Chapter 8, God also told him to warn Israel about a monarchy but, it didn’t matter them. “The events surrounding the selection of Saul for king (9:1-10:16) demonstrate that he was the people’s choice, more than God’s choice for king. The people seemed to focus on Saul’s outward appearance (9:2) rather than his heart (16:7). Saul had a strong beginning, even the spirit of God was manifest in him on a few occasions however, he...
Words: 589 - Pages: 3
...Hebrew teachings on the subject of diligence and laziness, and on wisdom and folly, we find in the Old Testament Books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes hold many teachings on these issues and how we should conduct ourselves, accordingly. In Proverbs 6:6-8 we read, “Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter.” (NLT). God’s point is that we should work ahead, prepare ourselves for the days to come, not to be lazy and wait on others to care for us. The book of Proverbs is a book of wisdom, or as Hindson & Yates referred to as “teacher’s manual of wise sayings”. We find the theme or motto of this book in chapter 1:7, “Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” The first nine chapters of the book of Proverbs tells us that wisdom is treasured and that we should seek it. These chapters reflect on Solomon’s wisdom and practical applications, such as: warnings about being foolish and lazy; direction and balance in our lives; the benefits of being faithful; just to mention a few of the topics. Chapters 10 through 20 remind us that wisdom is practical and that we should follow it; while chapters 23 – 24 tell us that wisdom is helpful and should be heeded. The last six chapters of Proverbs we see wisdom as ethical and we should just do it. The book is a road map for the right...
Words: 912 - Pages: 4
