BIL - Biblical Literature

A study of the Old Testament, highlighting the cultural background underlying the books of the Old Testament. Topics include major archaeological finds, Old Testament culture as it relates to today's culture, and the foundational relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament.

This course covers the literature of the New Testament. Special attention will be given to the life of Christ and the history of the early church, including the life of Paul.

This course comprises daily lectures on a tour to the Near East with Israel as the main focus. It involves a study of actual Biblical sites, especially those revealed by archaeological excavations. While the major emphasis will be the biblical history in its geographical setting, much will be learned about the religions of Judaism and Islam, the present social structures of society in Israel, and the existing tensions between Jew and Arab.

The course is a physical and topographical study of the lands of the Old and New Testament with a blending of historical and ethnic backgrounds. Although the concentration of study will be on Canaan or Israel proper, a general survey of the Semitic and Mediterranean world will be included. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.

This course engages the Old Testament books of Psalms and Proverbs with a view to personal and corporate spiritual formation. Prerequisite: BIL-101.

This course is a general introduction to the Bible. Topics to be covered include a general survey of the content of the Bible, the significance of the Bible with reference to the concepts of inspiration, revelation, canonicity, and infallibility, and a review of the history of Spanish versions of the Bible.

This course presents an overview of the Old Testament. The authorship, date, historical background, design, and redemptive theme of each book along with associated map studies will be addressed. Not open to students with credit in BIL-101.

This course is an overview of the New Testament with emphasis on key people, events, dates, and themes of the various sections. Included in this is a historical review of the intertestamental period which helps define the spiritual, political, and sociological matrix of the New Testament. The major themes of each book will be discussed along with map studies of major geographic features, towns, and political boundaries. Not open to students with credit in BIL-102.

This course will explore Biblical passages which exemplify major themes of the Bible in order that the student will gain an overall understanding of the message of this significant historical, literary, and religious text. Themes which will be explored include the nature of God, creation, sin and human nature, covenant, the Messiah, atonement, faith, eternal life and the resurrection, hope, and the ethic of love. The impact of these themes on history and current life will be emphasized.

This course is an introduction to basic principles of biblical interpretation. It emphasizes the application of these principles to personal Bible study and provides an important basis for the preparation of sermons and Bible studies.

A study of assumptions, procedures, and guidelines to be used in understanding the Bible. Emphasis is upon refinement of the student's skills in observation and interpretation. The course is designed to develop the student's ability to study the Scriptures accurately, systematically, and independently as a basis for all further personal and professional use of the Bible. Prerequisites: BIL-101, BIL-102, BIL-120 or department permission. Not available to students with credit in BIL-202.

Students will learn the principles and steps of the Inductive Bible Study Method, including observation, interpretation, and appropriation. The course will also provide theological foundations of the nature and authority of scripture. Prerequisite: BIL-101 and BIL-102 or permission of the department. Not available to students with credit in BIL-201.

This course reviews, develops, and refines the skills involved in Inductive Bible Study. Students will survey a medium length book of scripture, cultivate the process of observation and survey, expand their skills of interpretation, and formulate concrete applications. To aid the process of application, students will employ a basic template for teaching a Bible study lesson in a Sunday school or small group context. Students will also discuss a theology of scripture and views on the process of interpretation. Prerequisite: BIL-201 or BIL-202

An investigation into the methods and details of the science of archaeology. Special interest will be expressed in explorations of the last hundred years in the Near East with special attention given to how these findings relate to Scripture. Chronologically, the time covered will be from about 10,000 BC to 200 AD. Prerequisite: BIL-101 or permission of instructor.

This course surveys the life, ministry, letters, and thinking of the apostle Paul as found in the book of Acts and his own letters.

A course exploring the methods of teaching the Bible to adults seeking life change. The course content includes adult learning theory, adult teaching methods, and small group leadership skills. As part of the course each student completes a segment of practice teaching both in and out of the classroom which is evaluated professionally with an eye toward improvement. Prerequisites BIL-101 and BIL-102.

An advanced study of the lands of the Biblical text with focus on the land of Israel. Emphasis will be given to the geographical and topographical features of the land that bring insight and understanding to major events in the Old Testament, the ministry of Jesus, and the journeys of Paul. Additional focus will be given to the historical and cultural implications of these Biblical events. Subjects of interest would include how geography and topography affected the settlement of people groups, trade and travel, internal and international war, economic advancement, social and religious customs, and the spreading of the gospel to the Gentile world. Pre-requisite BIL-101 and BIL-102.

This course will investigate the importance and development of the city of Jerusalem from its initial settlement through the modern era. Particular attention will be given to Jerusalem's geographical setting and archaeological remains. In addition, the city's theological significance for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam will be discussed. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.

The objective of this museum course is to examine first-hand the evidence that illuminates the context of the biblical narrative. Cultures of interest include those of Syria-Palestine, Transjordan, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean world. This class may be repeated one time in a subsequent semester upon permission of the professor. Travel and entrance fees required. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.

In this course, you will identify the content and message of Paul's letter to the Colossians. Students will describe the dual nature of Jesus the Messiah and explain the value of relationship and union with Jesus Christ found in Paul's letter to the Colossians.

In this course, you will identify the content and message of Paul's letter to the Ephesians. Students will describe central focus of Jesus the Messiah in all of history and explain God's eternal plan of salvation in Ephesians.

The first five books of the Bible are studied as organized wholes. The origin of the world, the creation of man, the calling of Israel, and her place in the plan of redemption are noted throughout. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.

A study of each of the historical books from Joshua to Esther, tracing the history of Israel from the entrance into Canaan through the exile and return. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.

An intensive study of the Gospel of Mark, with attention given to the parallel accounts in Matthew and/or Luke. Examination of unique material in the first and third gospels. Special note will also be made of various solutions to the synoptic problem and to such concepts as the Messiah and the Kingdom of God. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.

A study of the Gospel of John and the three Epistles. Such concepts as Logos, truth, life, light, and love will be given special attention. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.

This course uses the inductive approach to study the book of Genesis. The inductive lessons help the student reflect on key passages of Genesis, seeking practical applications. Special attention is given to the theological theme of creation.

Explores worship in the Old and New Testaments in context with other worship patterns of the day. Traces liturgy, Scripture, music, sacred sign-acts, symbolism, festivals, and sacred space as elements of worship through Bible history. Also examines passages relevant to understanding a biblical theology of worship.

This course will examine how the political, social, cultural and religious history of ancient civilizations within the biblical narrative affect biblical interpretation. Particular focus will be given to the historical events that engage the people and the land of Syria-Palestine. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102. BIL-280 recommended.

An investigation of life in the biblical world. This investigation will focus on questions such as: How did they worship? What types of architecture did people build? What occupations did they have? What did they wear? What types of art and literature did they create? Special attention will be placed on topics that bring understanding to the interpretation of the biblical narrative. This class may be repeated one time in a subsequent semester upon permission of the professor. If taught abroad, travel and participation fees will be required. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.

A study of the history and literature of the period between Malachi and the New Testament. Special emphasis will be on the background from which New Testament movements came. Offered alternate years. This course satisfies either Old or New Testament requirements.

This course prepares students to perform basic research in which they learn to use Off Campus Library Services (OCLS), electronic periodical indexes, and information resources. Students will identify and select appropriate material for inclusion in a college level research project which will be submitted at the conclusion of the course.

The office and function of Hebrew prophecy is noted and the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel are studied in the light of their own times. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.

The twelve books designated as minor are studied in similar manner as the Major Prophets. Prerequisite: BIL-201 or BIL-202 or permission of instructor. Offered alternate years.

Primarily a study of the Book of Acts. Attention will be given to the development of the concept of the church, as well as its historical setting in the first two centuries of the Christian era. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.

A detailed and analytical study of James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.

A careful study of the Revelation and its relationship to the book of Daniel and to other apocalyptic writings. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of instructor. Offered alternate years.

This course is an inductive study of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Special focus will be placed on outstanding events and teachings in the life of Christ. Major events will be studied including His miracles, crucifixion, and bodily resurrection. The course will cover Christ's teachings including His parables, the Sermon on the Mount, and the Olivet discourse. The course will also examine the synoptic program and the humanity and divinity of Christ. The principles and methods of inductive Bible study will be explained and practiced throughout this course.

A detailed and analytical study of the wisdom books in the Old Testament, specifically, Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of department.

A detailed and analytical study of the Book of Psalms. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.

A detailed and analytical study of Paul's letters to the Romans and the Galatians. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of department.

A detailed and analytical study of Paul's letters to the Corinthians and the Thessalonians. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.

A detailed and analytical study of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.

A detailed and analytical study of Paul's letters to Timothy and Titus. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.

A detailed and analytical study of Hebrews. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.

A study of selected New Testament passages in the original Greek. This course expands vocabulary and builds depth in one's understanding of Greek morphology, syntax, and semantics. Prerequisite: Beginning Greek competence or permission of department. Can be repeated.

This course covers a specialized and advanced topic in biblical studies that is not covered in the normal curriculum. It is always offered with a subheading and is repeatable under a different subheading. Prerequisite: BIL-202.

Individually arranged research into biblical problems, languages, and/or doctrines. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.

This class will be held in the land of Israel and will require student participation in archaeological field work. While digging, areas of focus will include archaeological techniques and methods, and the analysis of pottery and stratigraphy. In addition, the interpretation of stratigraphy and artifacts at key archaeological sites in Israel will be considered as well as current debates and discussions among archaeologists. Prerequisite: BIL-101 and BIL-102 or permission of Division.

This course offers an in-depth exegesis of the Gospels. Special attention is given to their content, literary context, and historical background. Different approaches used to study the Gospels throughout church history will be explored. The student will also apply the Gospels for diverse ministries in the church and for personal growth.