Master of Arts in New Testament

Students who lack enough coursework in biblical studies to provide adequate preparation for graduate study may be required to complete some foundational readings before the end of the first term of enrollment. This work will be assigned and assessed by the Program Director.

An online orientation includes a brief investigation of the methods and tools of New Testament research and scholarly writing. It introduces appropriate indices, journals, and reference works in the Glass Memorial Library. One unit covers bibliography, note-taking, and research writing skills.

An introduction to the theory and practice of New Testament exegesis, the tools and methods of biblical research, and the academic writing process. Students must complete this course as the first course in the graduate program in New Testament.

A study of the authorship, date, audience, and purpose of each book of the New Testament, with attention to differing approaches to these questions. The text and canon of the New Testament are also considered.

A study of the world of Christian origins. Focus is given to principle cities, institutions, movements, and individuals that contextualize the New Testament text.

A comprehensive study of the theological perspectives of the New Testament writers and the underlying unity that connects their diverse expressions.

A detailed study of the Gospel of Matthew. Through reading, writing, and individual research, students explore the meaning of the text in its first-century setting, gaining experience in using the tools of biblical study.

A study of the text of the Acts of the Apostles with special attention to the historical, cultural, linguistic, chronological, archaeological, and theological issues crucial for understanding this book. Literary features of this text are analyzed in their relation to the message of the New Testament book.

This course focuses on Paul—as author of the Epistle to the Romans —and the text of Romans itself. The course places Paul within the context of the first-century Roman imperial world (including both Jewish and pagan dynamics) and traces the rhetoric and theology of Romans in terms of this context. Students also focus on the overall movement and argumentation of Romans and place each section of Paul’s epistle within this overall movement.