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Title: BIB 604: Biblical Theology and Contemporary Issues
Subtitle: Engaging with Modern Challenges through Scriptural Insights
Course Name & Level: Biblical Theology and Contemporary Issues, Master Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Biblical Theology, Contemporary Issues, Kingdom of God
1. Introduction:
This course explores the intersection of biblical theology and contemporary issues, examining how scriptural insights can inform and address modern challenges. Students will engage with both ancient texts and current events through the lens of King Jesus and His Kingdom.
2. Course Description:
An advanced course focusing on the application of biblical theology to contemporary issues, emphasizing the relevance of scriptural principles in today’s world. Students will analyze current events and societal challenges through a biblical framework.
3. Course Purpose:
To equip students with the ability to apply biblical theology to contemporary issues, fostering a deeper understanding of how scriptural principles can inform modern challenges.
4. Course Objectives:
To explore and analyze contemporary issues through the lens of biblical theology, and to develop practical applications of scriptural insights for addressing modern challenges.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Biblical Theology: The study of the theological themes and messages of the Bible as a unified whole.
- Contemporary Issues: Modern challenges and topics of societal concern, such as ethics, social justice, and environmental stewardship.
- Ethics: Moral principles that govern behavior, informed by biblical teachings.
- Social Justice: The pursuit of fairness and equality in society, grounded in scriptural mandates.
- Stewardship: The responsible management of resources, based on biblical principles of creation care.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to Biblical Theology: Overview of the field and its significance for contemporary issues.
- Ethical Foundations in Scripture: Examination of biblical principles of ethics and morality.
- Social Justice in the Bible: Exploration of scriptural mandates for justice and equality.
- Environmental Stewardship: Study of biblical teachings on creation care and environmental responsibility.
- Gender and Family Issues: Analysis of contemporary gender and family issues through a biblical lens.
- Technology and Faith: The impact of technological advancements on faith and biblical responses.
- Human Dignity and Sanctity of Life: Biblical perspectives on the value and sanctity of human life.
- Economic Justice: Examination of biblical principles for economic fairness and equity.
- Church and Society: The role of the church in addressing contemporary societal challenges.
- Global Issues and Missions: Application of biblical theology to global concerns and the Great Commission.
7. Assessments with Descriptions:
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and principles related to biblical theology and contemporary issues.
- Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
- Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on a chosen contemporary issue, analyzed through the lens of biblical theology.
- 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.
- Presentation: A presentation on a contemporary issue and its biblical theological implications.
8. Research References:
- Biblical Theology: A Canonical, Thematic, and Ethical Approach by Andreas J. Köstenberger. eBook format. MLA Citation: Köstenberger, Andreas J. Biblical Theology: A Canonical, Thematic, and Ethical Approach. Kregel Academic, 2012.
- Social Justice Handbook: Small Steps for a Better World by Mae Elise Cannon. eBook format. MLA Citation: Cannon, Mae Elise. Social Justice Handbook: Small Steps for a Better World. InterVarsity Press, 2009.
- Creation Care: A Biblical Theology of the Natural World by Douglas J. Moo and Jonathan A. Moo. eBook format. MLA Citation: Moo, Douglas J., and Jonathan A. Moo. Creation Care: A Biblical Theology of the Natural World. Zondervan Academic, 2018.
- The Bible and Ethics in the Christian Life: A New Conversation by Bruce C. Birch, Jacqueline E. Lapsley, Cynthia Moe-Lobeda, and Larry L. Rasmussen. eBook format. MLA Citation: Birch, Bruce C., et al. The Bible and Ethics in the Christian Life: A New Conversation. Fortress Press, 2018.
- Global Mission Handbook: A Guide for Crosscultural Service by Steve Hoke and Bill Taylor. eBook format. MLA Citation: Hoke, Steve, and Bill Taylor. Global Mission Handbook: A Guide for Crosscultural Service. InterVarsity Press, 2009.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of biblical theology and its application to contemporary issues, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
