TRS6502 - New Testament Theology

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the texts and theology of Paul and John.
Analyse the contributions of modern theologians and historians to our understanding of New Testament theology.
Discriminate between the theology of Paul and John and also between their positions and those of Jewish theology of the time.
Explain why this literature has become so significant for subsequent thinkers (Christians and others) to this day.

Content:

This module supplements the coverage of the synoptic Gospels in TRS 5502 Reading the New Testament by considering the significant theological contributions of John and Paul. Exploring Pauline and Johannine theology and ecclesiology, the module will engage with the rich complexities of the early Church, with exposure to such themes as Jewish backgrounds, fringe-groups, scriptural and textual foundations, worship and prayer practices. As a Level 6 module, it engages with the subject matter in a critical, analytical manner grounded in close reading.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The course will be taught in plenary sessions which will make use of a blend of teaching and learning methods. These will normally include: lecture-style presentations by the tutor; seminar-style discussion of a particular topic; informal prepared presentations by students, followed by discussion; formal assessment by presentation to the rest of the group; other exercises as appropriate to material and group. Guidance on reading in preparation for each session and activity will be given; and learning will be supported where appropriate by VLE and other electronic resources. Guidance on research and essay-writing will be embedded in the learning and teaching process throughout the module; and may also be supported by tutorial guidance on essay plans and feedback on the first assignment.

Seminars/workshops
Contact hours: 32
Group size: 20
Guided independent study:
Hours: 168
Further details relating to assessment:
Assessment 1: The textual analysis comprises: (a) historical and background information on the text and its author(s); (b) a critical analysis of the text itself (form, composition, dating, etc.); and (c) the role of the text in shaping and/or bearing testimony to the development of Christianity in the first/second century.

Assessment:

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Hannah Hunt
Level - 6
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered -