Module THEO3051: THE LETTER TO THE ROMANS

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO3051: THE LETTER TO THE ROMANS

Prerequisites

• New Testament Greek and Exegesis (THEO1161) or equivalent.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To examine how selected shorter passages in Romans fit into or reflect broader issues in Pauline theology.
• To attempt to distinguish between rhetorical argument and statements arising from the specific context of Paul's ministry.
• To interpret theology in Romans in relation to early Jewish thought.
• To develop student understanding of New Testament Greek through reading.

Content

• This module serves as an exegetical introduction to Romans and therefore, in the first instance, addresses questions of how Paul's argument is formulated and structured.
• In addition to improving students' exegetical skills, this module is designed to sharpen their critical awareness of the theological issues which the epistle raises.
• In the lectures and discussions on selected passages, special attention will be drawn to the following problems: (1) whether or not one can speak of a 'Pauline theology', (2) Paul's use of rhetorical conventions, (3) Paul's indebtedness to and tension with contemporary forms of Judaism, (4) the hermeneutical implications of Romans for Jewish-Christian dialogue.

Learning Outcomes

• A systematic and detailed knowledge of the assigned passages, recognising difficulties in interpretation where they occur, and understanding how they contribute to Paul's argument.
• Critical evaluation of ways in which Romans stimulates theological reflection.

• Exegetical skills.
• Skills in translation.

• Generic linguistic skills.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information. In this module they also facilitate reading of Greek.
• Through small-group discussion, tutorials provide feedback on student work and the opportunity to discuss specific issues in detail, enhancing student knowledge and writing skills.
• Formative essays and exegetical exercises develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in exegesis, in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

One exegesis and one essay on a chosen passage and theme, respectively (2000-2500 words each) in the Michaelmas and Epiphany terms

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University