Biblical Literature (BL)

BL501 - Interpreting Genesis to Song of Solomon.  This initial course in Biblical Literature lays a foundation for study of the Bible by introducing Bible study methods. It begins with a focus on the biblical covenants and God’s kingdom program. Our examination of the Pentateuch will focus on the great attributes of God and his gracious plan for redemption of sinful humanity. The historical books will show how God works among His people, blessing obedience and chastening the disobedient. We will conclude with a focus on the fear of the Lord and the practical lessons found in the Wisdom Books and Psalms.  Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501 and 502. 4 credits or 4 Learning Units.

BL501X - Interpreting the Old Testament I: Genesis - 2 Samuel.  Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501 and 502.  2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL501Y - Interpreting the Old Testament 2: 1 Kings Through Song of Solomon.   Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501 and 502, Recommended pre-requisite: BL 501X.   2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL502 - Interpreting the Prophets and Gospels.  This course in Biblical Literature builds on the foundation of BL 501 showing how God’s redemptive and kingdom programs are carried forward and advanced by the Prophets and Gospels. Students will discover how the promises of God concerning the Messiah are fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The study of the Gospels will demonstrate how Jesus' teachings, miracles, parables, death and resurrection advance the great story of the Bible. The course will include practical application of biblical truths encouraging students to have a meaningful encounter with God’s word and grow spiritually. Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501, BT502, Recommended pre-requisite: BL 501.  4 credits or 4 Learning Units.

BL502X - Interpreting the Old Testament 3: The Prophets.  Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501 and 502, Recommended pre-requisite: BL 501.   2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL502Y - Interpreting the New Testament 1: The Gospels.  Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501 and 502, Recommended pre-requisite: BL 501, Bl 501X.  2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL503 - Interpreting Acts to Revelation.  This course in Biblical Literature builds on the foundation of BL 501 and 502 showing how God’s redemptive and kingdom programs are carried forward and advanced through the church in the Apostolic Period. The Book of Acts, Paul's Epistles, the General Epistles, and Revelation will be studied with a view to discovering how they advance and complete the story of the Bible. The course will include practical application of biblical truths encouraging students to have a meaningful encounter with God’s word and grow spiritually. Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501, BT502, Recommended pre-requisite: BL 501, BL 502.  4 credits.or 4 Learning Units.

BL503X - Interpreting the New Testament 2: Epistles 1.  Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501 and 502, Recommended pre-requisite: BL 501, BL 502.  2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL503Y - Interpreting the New Testament 3: Epistles 2.  Recommended pre-or co-requisite: BT501 and 502. Recommended pre-requisite: BL 501, BL 502, BL 503X.  2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL524 - Exposition of the Psalms. Throughout the history of Judaism and the Church, the book of Psalms has occupied a special place within the lives of believers. In the Psalms, we find encouragement, comfort, hope, and inspiration as they express the whole range of human experience and emotions. But that’s not all. More recent interpretation of the Psalms, in conjunction with very ancient methods, is reopening whole new vistas in how to read the Psalms. In this class, we will explore these ancient/new strategies in order to gain some striking insights into the teachings of this very familiar book. 2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL541 - Life of Christ. The life of Jesus Christ is the very foundation of biblical Christianity. This course is devoted to the study of the life and teachings of Jesus as recorded in the four Gospels. We will focus on the major events and turning points in His ministry and provide an interpretation of His parables and discourses. The historical, cultural, and geographical setting will provide a context for our interpretation and understanding of Jesus' ministry. 2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL543 – Exposition of Romans.  This course is designed to lead the student in a study of the book of Romans. The structure and argumentation of this all-important epistle will be considered. Special emphasis will be given to the major doctrinal themes and ethical issues with a view to practical application to the local church and its ministry. 2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL555 (2) - Hope as Exiles: Exposition of 1 Peter.  This course is an expository study of 1 Peter, with attention to the Greek and English language, theological themes, literary structure, hermeneutical issues, and relationship to other parts of the Bible. Emphasis will also be placed on practical relevance for society, the church, and church ministry/leadership. Both Greek and non-Greek students can take this course. 2 credits or 2 Learning Units.

BL570 - Select Topics in Biblical Literature (special limited-time electives)