Old Testament Foundations

The aim of this subject is to familiarise students with Israel’s Scriptures as a coherent narrative that is of crucial importance to Christians (pun intended!). While this subject includes a discussion of every book in Israel’s Scriptures, it goes beyond this to look at how the character of God is communicated and traces significant themes throughout. We will also look at how to read Hebrew narrative and poetry, and at the influence of cultural background on interpretation.

Unit Content

Outcomes

  1. Describe the overall content, storyline and significance of Israel’s Scriptures (Old Testament);
  2. Outline how Israel’s Scriptures came into existence and their canonical structure;
  3. Define the overall historical, cultural and social context of Israel’s Scriptures;
  4. Examine the contents of Israel’s Scripturesl;
  5. Summarise the key themes, structure and developments of a book of Israel’s Scriptures;
  6. Discuss principles and insights derived from study of Israel’s Scriptures for contemporary life and ministry.

Subject Content

  • Story of the Old Testament
  • How to Read the Old Testament
  • Behind the Scenes
  • Who is Yahweh
  • In the Beginning
  • Exodus, the Law and Worship
  • From Conquest to Kingship
  • The Major Prophets
  • Book of the Twelve
  • Exile and Beyond
  • Wisdom Literature
  • The Story Continues

Quick Info

  • Course code: BIB104
  • Credit points: 10

Prerequisites

  • Primary readings provided

Assessment Methods

  • Weekly Quizzes (25%)
  • Major Essay (50%)
  • Sermon (25%)