Romans

DETAILS

• Exegetical Papers:
  • Writing papers focused on specific passages, showcasing exegetical and hermeneutical skills.
• Theological Reflections:
  • Engaging in reflections on key themes, connecting the ancient text to contemporary theological discussions and personal faith.
• Class Discussions:
  • Active participation in discussions, sharing insights, questions, and reflections.
• Research Project:
  • Undertaking a research project exploring a specific theological theme or ethical issue in Romans.
• Final Presentation:
  • Culminating the course with a final presentation, synthesizing knowledge and presenting practical applications.

CURRICULUM

1. Introduction to Romans:
   • The course begins with an introduction to the historical and cultural context of the book of Romans. Students will explore the background, purpose, and circumstances surrounding Paul’s writing of this epistle.
2. Exegesis and Hermeneutics:
   • Emphasis will be placed on exegetical methods and hermeneutical principles as students engage with the text verse by verse. This will involve exploring the original language, historical context, and literary structure of Romans.
3. Theological Themes:
   • Students will delve into the major theological themes presented in Romans, including justification by faith, the righteousness of God, the role of the law, and the transformative power of the Gospel.
4. Ethical Implications:
   • The ethical teachings within Romans will be examined, exploring how Paul’s theological framework informs Christian conduct and ethical decision-making.
5. Practical Application:
   • The course will bridge the gap between theology and practice, encouraging students to apply the teachings of Romans to contemporary issues and challenges faced by individuals and Christian communities.
6. Comparative Theology:
   • Students will engage in comparative theology, exploring how the theological perspectives presented in Romans align with or differ from other biblical texts and theological traditions.
7. Historical Impact:
   • Explore the historical impact of Romans on Christian thought, theology, and the development of Christian doctrine throughout the centuries.

PREREQUISITES

1. Foundational Biblical Studies:
   • Successful completion of foundational courses in biblical studies to ensure students possess a fundamental understanding of scripture, biblical interpretation, and historical context.
2. New Testament Survey:
   • Prior completion of a New Testament survey course to familiarize students with the overall structure, themes, and content of the New Testament, providing a broader context for studying the book of Romans.
3. Hermeneutics and Exegesis:
   • Proficiency in hermeneutical principles and exegetical methods to enable in-depth verse-by-verse analysis of the text, ensuring students can engage with the original language and literary structure of Romans.
4. Systematic Theology:
   • Completion of foundational courses in systematic theology to establish a solid theological framework. This will aid in understanding and grappling with the theological depth presented in the book of Romans.
5. Introduction to Pauline Epistles:
   • Familiarity with Pauline literature, including an introduction to the style, themes, and overarching theological perspectives found in the epistles of the Apostle Paul.
6. Ethics and Christian Living:
   • Previous exposure to courses on Christian ethics and Christian living to facilitate a deeper understanding of the ethical teachings in Romans and their practical applications.
7. Historical Theology:
   • Knowledge of historical theology to appreciate the historical impact of Romans on Christian thought and doctrine throughout the centuries.
8. Research and Writing Skills:
   • Proficiency in research and writing skills, as demonstrated by successful completion of research projects and papers in previous coursework.
9. Class Participation Skills:
   • Ability to actively engage in class discussions, share insights, and contribute meaningfully to theological conversations.
10. Intermediate Biblical Greek (Optional):
    • While not mandatory, familiarity with biblical Greek can enhance the student’s ability to engage more deeply with the original language of the text in the course of exegetical studies.

These prerequisites are designed to ensure that students entering the “Romans” course have a solid foundation in biblical studies, theology, and related disciplines. This foundation will enable them to fully engage with the complex theological themes presented in the book of Romans.