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Title: BIB 861: Studies in the Major Prophets
Subtitle: Insights and Theological Themes from the Major Prophets
Course Name & Level: Studies in the Major Prophets, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Major Prophets, Old Testament, Theological Themes
1. Introduction:
This course delves into the writings of the Major Prophets, examining their historical context, theological themes, and prophetic messages. Students will gain a deeper understanding of their significance within the biblical narrative.
2. Course Description:
An advanced study of the Major Prophets, focusing on their historical background, theological contributions, and relevance to contemporary issues. Emphasis is placed on in-depth analysis and critical interpretation.
3. Course Purpose:
To provide an advanced understanding of the Major Prophets and their theological messages within the context of King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
4. Course Objectives:
To critically analyze the Major Prophets and explore their theological themes and contemporary relevance.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Major Prophets: The books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel, known for their length and significant theological contributions.
- Prophetic Literature: Writings that contain the messages of prophets, including visions, oracles, and symbolic actions.
- Exegesis: Critical interpretation and explanation of biblical texts.
- Theological Themes: Central ideas and concepts conveyed in the prophetic writings, such as justice, covenant, and restoration.
- Historical Context: The cultural, political, and social circumstances in which the prophets delivered their messages.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to the Major Prophets: Overview of the course and its objectives.
- Historical Context of the Major Prophets: Examination of the historical and cultural background of the prophetic writings.
- Isaiah: Themes of Justice and Restoration: In-depth study of the Book of Isaiah, focusing on its themes of justice, messianic prophecies, and restoration.
- Jeremiah: The Prophet of the New Covenant: Analysis of the Book of Jeremiah, highlighting its message of repentance, judgment, and the new covenant.
- Lamentations: Theological Reflections on Suffering: Exploration of the Book of Lamentations and its theological insights on suffering and hope.
- Ezekiel: Visions of God’s Glory: Study of the Book of Ezekiel, focusing on its visionary experiences and themes of divine glory and judgment.
- Daniel: Faithfulness in Exile: Examination of the Book of Daniel, emphasizing its narratives of faithfulness and apocalyptic visions.
- Theological Themes in the Major Prophets: Analysis of central theological themes across the Major Prophets.
- Contemporary Relevance of the Major Prophets: Discussion on how the messages of the Major Prophets apply to contemporary issues.
- Exegesis and Interpretation: Techniques for critically interpreting the prophetic texts.
- Case Studies in Prophetic Literature: Analysis of specific passages and their theological implications.
- Research Methodologies for Biblical Studies: Examination of research methods applicable to the study of the Major Prophets.
7. Assessments with Descriptions:
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and methodologies.
- Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
- Research Proposal: Development of a research proposal on a chosen topic related to the Major Prophets.
- Literature Review: Comprehensive review of existing literature related to the research topic.
- Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on an advanced topic in the study of the Major Prophets.
- Midterm Exam: An exam covering the first half of the course material.
- Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering the entire course.
- Participation: Active participation in seminar discussions and group activities.
- Presentation: A presentation on a significant aspect of the Major Prophets.
8. Research References:
- Isaiah 1–39: With an Introduction to Prophetic Literature by Marvin A. Sweeney. eBook format. MLA Citation: Sweeney, Marvin A. Isaiah 1–39: With an Introduction to Prophetic Literature. Eerdmans, 1996.
- Jeremiah: A Commentary by Walter Brueggemann. eBook format. MLA Citation: Brueggemann, Walter. Jeremiah: A Commentary. Eerdmans, 1998.
- Ezekiel: A Commentary by Paul M. Joyce. eBook format. MLA Citation: Joyce, Paul M. Ezekiel: A Commentary. T&T Clark, 2007.
- Daniel: A Commentary by John J. Collins. eBook format. MLA Citation: Collins, John J. Daniel: A Commentary. Fortress Press, 1993.
- The Theology of the Book of Isaiah by John Goldingay. eBook format. MLA Citation: Goldingay, John. The Theology of the Book of Isaiah. InterVarsity Press, 2014.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students engage deeply with the Major Prophets, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
