Module THEO3341: The New Testament and Christian Ethics

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO3341: The New Testament and Christian Ethics

Prerequisites

• Either Introduction to Biblical Studies (THEO1931) or New Testament Theology (THEO2051).

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To develop the students' understanding of the ethical and moral norms and values of the New Testament
• To analyse individual texts and norms within a broader framework of socio-historical and theological considerations considerations
• To enable students to engage critically with contemporary attempts to appropriate New Testament ethics.

Content

• What kind of ethics did New Testament writers presuppose, propagate and defend? What ways of moral reasoning do we detect, as early Christians negotiate their norms in dialogue with traditional authorities and their cultural contexts? And in what ways can these norms still be binding or inspiring for contemporary Christians? In this course we will gain an overview of ethical and moral concerns in the various New Testament texts in their socio-historical context. Through the analysis of selected texts and by engaging with a variety of scholarly voices we will learn about NT debates surrounding such issues as slavery, sexuality and gender, violence and non-resistance, and wealth and poverty.

Learning Outcomes

• A coherent and detailed knowledge of the historical roots and theological shape of NT ethics, and of the main ethical teaching of the NT, informed by the most recent research and methodologies.

• An ability to practise the skills of interpretation and argument necessary for the critical appropriation of NT ethics today.

• Skills in the acquisition and interpretation of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.

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.
• Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding both through preparation and through interaction with students and staff, promoting awareness of different viewpoints and approaches.
• Formative essays develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills 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.
• Summative essays assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Summative seminar presentations enhance the ability to select relevant academic information and develop skills of oral communication and presentation, including the employment of relevant media.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

■ 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