The Synoptic Gospels

Catalog description

Taught by DSPT. This lecture course first reviews critical and methodological issues in the study of the Synoptic Gospels. Exegesis of selected passages will be used to provide in-depth understanding of the origins of the Synoptic traditions and their theology, ecclesiology and eschatology as seen in the life, Passion, and Resurrection of Jesus and in the early Church. This discussion will include the Christological titles, the miracles of Jesus, the parables of the Kingdom, the Sermon on the Mount, the Passion Narrative, and the Resurrection Narrative. Students will be expected to provide a one-page response to eight selections of readings to be posted on moodle. By the end of the course the student will have an understanding of the first-century historical background to the gospels in the Jewish and Greco-Roman worlds and be able to discuss the historical and theological issues of the Synoptic Gospels against the background of first-century Judaism. Evaluation will be based on the weekly essays (25%), a mid-term (20%), an 8-12 page research paper (25%), and a final examination (30%). [Introduction to New Testament or equivalent - consult with professor if in doubt; PIN code required; 25 max enrollment]