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Title: BIB 301: Introduction to the Old Testament
Subtitle: Exploring the Foundations of King Jesus’ Kingdom
Course Name & Level: Introduction to the Old Testament, Bachelor Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: King Jesus, Old Testament, Covenant
1. Introduction:
This course provides an in-depth introduction to the Old Testament, covering its structure, themes, and historical context. Students will explore key events, figures, and the theological significance of the Old Testament scriptures.
2. Course Description:
An introductory course focusing on the major books, characters, and events of the Old Testament, providing foundational knowledge for understanding King Jesus’ Kingdom and His Great Commission.
3. Course Purpose:
To provide students with foundational knowledge of the Old Testament and its central themes.
4. Course Objectives:
To explore the content, structure, and major themes of the Old Testament in the context of King Jesus’ Kingdom.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Covenant: A solemn agreement between God and His people, foundational to the relationship depicted throughout the Old Testament.
- Patriarchs: Key figures such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob who are the ancestors of the Israelites.
- Exodus: The departure of the Israelites from Egypt under Moses’ leadership, a pivotal event in the Old Testament.
- The Law: The commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai, forming the basis of the Israelite legal and ethical system.
- Prophets: Individuals chosen by God to deliver His messages and guidance to the people of Israel.
- Kingdom of God: Central theme in the teachings of Jesus, rooted in the Old Testament covenants and promises.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to the Old Testament: Overview of the Old Testament’s structure, authorship, and historical context.
- Genesis: Study of creation, the fall, the patriarchs, and the early history of Israel.
- Exodus and the Giving of the Law: Exploration of Israel’s slavery in Egypt, the Exodus, and the covenant at Sinai.
- Historical Books: Overview of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, and the rise of the monarchy in Samuel and Kings.
- Wisdom Literature: Introduction to Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon, focusing on their literary styles and themes.
- Major and Minor Prophets: Study of the prophetic books, their messages, and historical settings.
- King Jesus in the Old Testament: Examination of how the Old Testament points forward to the coming of King Jesus and His Kingdom.
- Covenant and Kingdom: Understanding the concepts of covenant and kingdom as they develop throughout the Old Testament.
7. Assessments with Descriptions:
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key figures, events, and themes in the Old Testament.
- Reflection Papers: Written reflections on specific books or themes within the Old Testament.
- Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on a chosen topic related to the Old Testament.
- Midterm Exam: An exam covering the first half of the course material.
- Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering the entire course.
- Participation: Active participation in class discussions and group activities.
8. Research References:
- An Introduction to the Old Testament by Tremper Longman III and Raymond B. Dillard. eBook format. MLA Citation: Longman, Tremper III, and Raymond B. Dillard. An Introduction to the Old Testament. 2nd ed., Zondervan, 2006.
- Old Testament Theology: Basic Issues in the Current Debate by Gerhard F. Hasel. eBook format. MLA Citation: Hasel, Gerhard F. Old Testament Theology: Basic Issues in the Current Debate. 4th ed., Eerdmans, 1991.
- The Pentateuch: An Introduction to the First Five Books of the Bible by Joseph Blenkinsopp. eBook format. MLA Citation: Blenkinsopp, Joseph. The Pentateuch: An Introduction to the First Five Books of the Bible. Anchor Bible Reference Library, 1992.
- Introduction to the Old Testament as Scripture by Brevard S. Childs. eBook format. MLA Citation: Childs, Brevard S. Introduction to the Old Testament as Scripture. Fortress Press, 1979.
- The Old Testament: A Historical, Theological, and Critical Introduction by Richard S. Hess. eBook format. MLA Citation: Hess, Richard S. The Old Testament: A Historical, Theological, and Critical Introduction. Baker Academic, 2016.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a solid understanding of the Old Testament, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
