BIB 842: Power Dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles

Title: BIB 842: Power Dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles

Subtitle: Analyzing the Early Church’s Leadership and Authority

Course Name & Level: Power Dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Acts of the Apostles, Power Dynamics, Early Church

1. Introduction:

This course offers an in-depth exploration of power dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles. Students will examine the leadership, authority, and influence within the early church.

2. Course Description:

An advanced course focusing on the power dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles. Emphasis is placed on understanding the early church’s leadership structure, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the exercise of authority.

3. Course Purpose:

To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of power dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles, enabling them to apply these insights in their ministry and leadership roles.

4. Course Objectives:

To explore and analyze the leadership and authority within the early church as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles, enhancing students’ ability to integrate these principles into their ministry practices.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Power Dynamics: The ways in which power is distributed and exercised within a group or organization.
• Authority: The legitimate or accepted use of power within an organization or community.
• Early Church: The community of believers in Jesus Christ during the first century, particularly those described in the New Testament.
• Holy Spirit: The third person of the Trinity, who empowers and guides believers.
• Apostolic Leadership: The leadership exercised by the apostles in the early church, characterized by spiritual authority and guidance.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Power Dynamics in Acts: Overview of the course and its objectives.
• Biblical Foundations of Power and Authority: Examination of the concept of authority in the Old and New Testaments.
• The Role of the Holy Spirit in Acts: Study of the Holy Spirit’s empowerment and guidance in the early church.
• Apostolic Leadership: Analysis of the leadership exercised by the apostles, including Peter and Paul.
• Miracles and Signs: Exploration of the role of miracles and signs in establishing authority and credibility.
• Conflict and Resolution: Examination of conflicts within the early church and how they were resolved.
• Persecution and Power: Study of the early church’s response to persecution and its impact on power dynamics.
• The Jerusalem Council: Analysis of the decision-making process and its implications for leadership.
• Community Life and Shared Authority: Exploration of how the early church practiced communal living and shared leadership.
• Expansion of the Church: Examination of the spread of Christianity and the establishment of new communities.
• Paul’s Missionary Journeys: Study of Paul’s leadership and influence in the growth of the early church.
• Challenges in Early Church Leadership: Exploration of the challenges faced by early church leaders and their responses.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and biblical teachings on power dynamics.
• Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
• Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on a chosen aspect of power dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles.
• 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 power dynamics in the early church.

8. Research References:

• The Acts of the Apostles: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary by Ben Witherington III. eBook format. MLA Citation: Witherington, Ben III. The Acts of the Apostles: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary. Eerdmans, 1998.
• The Spirit and the Church: Reflections on Acts by John Stott. eBook format. MLA Citation: Stott, John. The Spirit and the Church: Reflections on Acts. IVP Books, 2007.
• The Early Church and Its Expansion by F.F. Bruce. eBook format. MLA Citation: Bruce, F.F. The Early Church and Its Expansion. Eerdmans, 1961.
• Paul and the Faithfulness of God by N.T. Wright. eBook format. MLA Citation: Wright, N.T. Paul and the Faithfulness of God. Fortress Press, 2013.
• Acts: An Exegetical Commentary by Craig S. Keener. eBook format. MLA Citation: Keener, Craig S. Acts: An Exegetical Commentary. Baker Academic, 2012.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of power dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.