200

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. Not open to students with credit in BIL-202. Prerequisites: BIL-111, BIL-112

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 extends 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. This course will also provide opportunities for students to learn the tasks of evaluating and applying interpretations. Students will consider the role of Scripture and the study of Scripture as part of spiritual formation. Prerequisite: BIL-201

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 youth and adults seeking life change. The course content includes learning theory, 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.

This course explores social justice in the context of Old and New Testament. Special attention is given to helping students develop a biblical and theological basis for engaging the pressing issues in contemporary society. Prerequisites: BIL-101, BIL-102, THE-101.

A study of the historical and geographical contexts of the biblical world. Emphasis will be given to the geographical and topographical features of the land that bring insight and understanding to the biblical narrative. Additional focus will be given to important cities and events in the lands of the Bible from the time of the Patriarchs through the 1st century AD. Prerequisite: 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.

This course is an introductory study of the Pastoral Epistles utilizing Inductive Bible Study method. Historical, cultural, grammatical, and social contexts will be addressed to interpret the text and make application for ministers and pastoral ministry. Prerequisite: BIL-202

Effective, in-depth, and theologically meaningful study of the Bible is aided by a number of specialized tools and resources. This course will give students the ability to decipher Greek and Hebrew words. Students will learn about principles and resources for finding and using relevant historical, archaeological, literary, and cultural evidence appropriate to both the Old Testament and New Testament. Finally, students will explore a variety of types of commentaries and how to employ them critically in theological interpretation.

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.