Courses

Introduces the content, structure, and theology of the Pentateuch and Old Testament Historical Books through close reading of the Bible in contemporary translation. Texts are situated within Israel’s historical development and the ancient Near Eastern context, emphasizing narrative flow, major theological themes, and canonical relationships. Attention is given to interpretive issues, historical background, and theological significance for Christian faith and ministry. Students trace God’s redemptive purposes through representative passages from Genesis through Esther and apply these writings to teaching, preaching, and contemporary Christian life.

An in-depth theological study of a major theme (or closely related group of themes) traced across the Old Testament. Students engage biblical texts in contemporary translations, evaluate scholarly perspectives, and develop coherent theological reflection attentive to canonical shape and contemporary contexts.

Examines the message, theology, and literary forms of Old Testament prophetic and poetic books through close reading of the English Bible. Emphasizes historical context, Hebrew poetry in translation, wisdom traditions, and canonical theology in order to interpret prophetic proclamation and poetic expression for teaching and ministry.

Builds on prior biblical Hebrew study through close reading of selected Old Testament texts, emphasizing syntax, discourse, semantics, and literary structure. Students apply advanced grammatical and lexical analysis to extended Hebrew passages and develop exegetical competence through sustained engagement with prose and poetry. The course cultivates the ability to move from detailed textual observation to theological synthesis and responsible interpretation for teaching, preaching, or scholarly work.

Develops advanced exegetical competence in the Pentateuch through sustained analysis of selected Hebrew narrative and legal texts. Engages literary, historical, theological, and methodological issues central to Genesis through Deuteronomy while refining skills in translation, textual analysis, and theological interpretation. Applies corpus-specific interpretive methods to complex passages and evaluates ongoing scholarly debates concerning authorship, composition, and theological coherence. Emphasizes responsible communication of the enduring significance of the Pentateuch for academic, ecclesial, and contemporary contexts.

Develops advanced exegetical competence in the Hebrew text of the Former and Latter Prophets. Examines narrative and poetic genres, literary structures, historical contexts, and theological themes across prophetic literature. Applies established exegetical methods to selected texts from Joshua through Kings, Isaiah through Ezekiel, the Twelve, and Daniel, with attention to interpretive challenges and contemporary theological significance.

Develops advanced exegetical competence in the Hebrew text of the wisdom and poetic books with emphasis on exegetical method and theological interpretation. Analyzes poetic structure, wisdom themes, and literary features in selected texts from Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, and related writings, applying linguistic, historical, and literary tools for responsible exposition.

Provides an opportunity for students to engage critically with emerging issues, debates, and developments within a specific academic discipline. Students will explore contemporary topics that shape the Church’s witness, theological reflection, and vocational practice in today’s world. Emphasis is placed on integrating biblical and theological perspectives with scholarly inquiry, fostering spiritual formation, and cultivating leadership rooted in humility and social responsibility.

Advanced exegetical study of a selected Old Testament book or corpus in the original language. Emphasizes grammatical-syntactical analysis, textual issues, theological interpretation, and contemporary significance. Course focus varies by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.