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Title: BIB 811: The Historical Jesus: Context and Impact
Subtitle: Examining the Life and Legacy of Jesus in Historical Perspective
Course Name & Level: The Historical Jesus: Context and Impact, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Historical Jesus, Context, Impact
1. Introduction:
This course explores the life, context, and impact of Jesus of Nazareth. Students will examine historical sources and scholarly perspectives to gain a deeper understanding of Jesus’ historical significance.
2. Course Description:
An advanced course focusing on the historical context and impact of Jesus of Nazareth. Emphasis is placed on critical examination of historical sources, scholarly interpretations, and the enduring influence of Jesus’ life and teachings.
3. Course Purpose:
To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical Jesus, his context, and his lasting impact on history and theology.
4. Course Objectives:
To critically examine the life and context of Jesus of Nazareth and explore his historical and theological significance.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Historical Jesus: The reconstruction of the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth through historical methods.
- Second Temple Judaism: The Jewish religious and cultural context during the time of Jesus.
- Synoptic Gospels: The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which share similar content and structure.
- Messiah: The anointed one in Jewish tradition, anticipated as a savior and deliverer.
- Crucifixion: The Roman method of execution by which Jesus was put to death.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to the Historical Jesus: Overview of the course and its objectives.
- Historical Sources for Jesus: Examination of primary sources, including the Gospels, non-canonical writings, and historical texts.
- Second Temple Judaism: Study of the religious, social, and political context of Judaism during the time of Jesus.
- Jesus’ Birth and Early Life: Exploration of the historical and cultural context of Jesus’ birth and upbringing.
- Jesus’ Public Ministry: Analysis of Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and interactions with various groups.
- The Kingdom of God: Examination of Jesus’ central message about the Kingdom of God.
- Parables and Teachings: In-depth study of the parables and key teachings of Jesus.
- Miracles and Healings: Analysis of the accounts of miracles and healings attributed to Jesus.
- Jesus’ Passion and Crucifixion: Examination of the historical context and significance of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion.
- Resurrection and Early Christian Beliefs: Exploration of the resurrection accounts and their impact on early Christianity.
- Scholarly Perspectives on the Historical Jesus: Review of key scholarly works and debates on the historical Jesus.
- Impact and Legacy of Jesus: Study of the enduring influence of Jesus’ life and teachings on history and theology.
7. Assessments with Descriptions:
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and historical details about 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 the historical Jesus and his 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, 1994.
- Theissen, Gerd. The Shadow of the Galilean: The Quest of the Historical Jesus in Narrative Form. eBook format. MLA Citation: Theissen, Gerd. The Shadow of the Galilean: The Quest of the Historical Jesus in Narrative Form. Fortress Press, 1987.
- The Historical Figure of Jesus by E.P. Sanders. eBook format. MLA Citation: Sanders, E.P. The Historical Figure of Jesus. Penguin Books, 1993.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of the historical Jesus, his context, and his impact, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
