BIB 611: The Historical Jesus and His Context

Title: BIB 611: The Historical Jesus and His Context

Subtitle: Understanding Jesus within His Historical and Cultural Milieu

Course Name & Level: The Historical Jesus and His Context, Master Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Historical Jesus, Cultural Context, First-Century Judaism

1. Introduction:

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the historical Jesus, examining His life and ministry within the cultural, political, and religious context of first-century Judaism. Students will gain a deeper understanding of how these contexts shaped Jesus’ teachings and actions.

2. Course Description:

An advanced course focusing on the historical and cultural background of Jesus of Nazareth. Students will study the social, political, and religious environment of the first century to better understand the life and ministry of Jesus and His significance within His historical context.

3. Course Purpose:

To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical Jesus and His cultural context, enhancing their ability to interpret the New Testament accurately.

4. Course Objectives:

To explore the historical, cultural, and religious contexts of Jesus’ life and ministry, and to understand how these contexts influenced His teachings and actions.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Historical Jesus: The reconstruction of the life and teachings of Jesus by critical historical methods.
• Second Temple Judaism: The form of Judaism that existed during the Second Temple period, from the rebuilding of the temple in 516 BCE to its destruction in 70 CE.
• Messianism: Beliefs and expectations regarding the coming of a Messiah, a savior figure in Jewish tradition.
• Roman Empire: The political and social context in which Jesus lived, including its impact on Jewish society.
• Synoptic Gospels: The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which share similar content and structure.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to the Historical Jesus: Overview of the historical approach to studying Jesus.
• Sources for the Life of Jesus: Examination of primary sources, including the New Testament, and non-Christian sources.
• Historical and Cultural Contexts: Exploration of the social, political, and religious environment of first-century Palestine.
• Jesus and Second Temple Judaism: Study of Jewish beliefs, practices, and expectations during Jesus’ time.
• Jesus’ Birth and Early Life: Analysis of the historical accounts of Jesus’ birth and early years.
• The Ministry of John the Baptist: Understanding the role and influence of John the Baptist on Jesus.
• Jesus’ Teachings and Parables: Examination of key teachings and parables of Jesus within their historical context.
• Miracles and Healings: Study of the nature and significance of Jesus’ miracles and healings.
• The Passion and Resurrection: Historical analysis of the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
• Jesus’ Impact and Legacy: Exploration of the immediate and long-term impact of Jesus’ life and ministry.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key historical and cultural contexts related to the life of Jesus.
• Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
• Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on a chosen aspect of the historical Jesus.
• 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 significant aspect of Jesus’ historical context.

8. Research References:

• Jesus and the Victory of God by N.T. Wright. eBook format. MLA Citation: Wright, N.T. Jesus and the Victory of God. Fortress Press, 1996.
• The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant by John Dominic Crossan. eBook format. MLA Citation: Crossan, John Dominic. The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant. HarperOne, 1992.
• Jesus: A Revolutionary Biography by John Dominic Crossan. eBook format. MLA Citation: Crossan, John Dominic. Jesus: A Revolutionary Biography. HarperOne, 2009.
• The Birth of the Messiah: A Commentary on the Infancy Narratives in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke by Raymond E. Brown. eBook format. MLA Citation: Brown, Raymond E. The Birth of the Messiah: A Commentary on the Infancy Narratives in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Yale University Press, 1999.
• The Jewish War by Flavius Josephus. eBook format. MLA Citation: Josephus, Flavius. The Jewish War. Translated by G.A. Williamson, Penguin Classics, 1959.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of the historical Jesus and His context, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.