Biblical Studies

Biblical Literature

LIT 2371 – Biblical Literature: Old Testament Poetry and Wisdom Literature	Credit 3
Prerequisite: REL 1210 or instructor approval
A course designed to acquaint the student with the book of Psalms and a selection of the Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament. Special attention will be given to the character of Hebrew poetry. Some consideration will also be given to the hymns and wisdom literature of surrounding Ancient Near Eastern cultures. The course will satisfy 3 hours humanities general education requirement. Gordon Rule – 3000 words. Required second year course.

REL 1210 – History & Geography: Old Testament	Credit 2
This course is designed to provide the student with an introductory survey of the Old Testament, focusing especially on the history of Israel and the geographical and Ancient Near Eastern setting in which that history unfolds. Required first year course.

REL 1240 – History & Geography: New Testament

Credit 2

The Books of Luke and Acts serve as the basis of the course. The course is designed to acquaint the student with the travels and teaching of Jesus as set forth in Luke and the geography of Palestine in His day. Also, it follows the travels of the apostles with special emphasis given to the travels of Paul. The course extends from the birth of Christ to Paul’s Roman imprisonment. Required first year course.

REL 2257 – New Testament Epistles: 1 Corinthians	Credit 2
Prerequisite: REL 1240 or instructor approval
This is a textual exegesis of 1 Corinthians. The course will consider the historical context of Paul’s correspondence with the Corinthian church, the problems the Corinthian Christians encountered in their social environment and the teachings of the apostle in this epistle. The study will provide the occasion to study carefully various aspects of the New Testament church, such as its origin, conditions of membership, growth, work, organization, worship, leadership, discipline, and mission. Required second year course.

REL 2264 – New Testament Epistles: Ephesians & Colossians	Credit 2
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 1240 or instructor approval
Based on the books of Ephesians and Colossians. God’s eternal purpose, as unfolded in Christ and the church and made known through the Holy Spirit, is the theme. A general view of God’s scheme of redemption from creation to consummation is presented. Required second year course.

REL 3221 – The Law of Moses	Credit 1 or 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
Primary emphasis in this course is on the content of Mosaic law, its religious significance, and its covenantal structure. Attention will also be given to the function of the Law of Moses in Israelite history and society, to theories about the composition of the Pentateuch, and to other Ancient Near Eastern legal materials. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3222 – Old Testament Historical Books	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
This course consists of an intensive study of Israelite history from the time of the Conquest through the period of the Exile and Return. Attention will also be given to the larger context of Ancient Near Eastern history, to selected historical and chronological problems in the biblical texts, and to the literary study of historical narrative. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3227 – Old Testament Prophets: Minor Prophets	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
This course is designed to provide the student with an introduction to the institution of prophecy in the Old Testament, as well as a textual study of each of the so-called Minor Prophets. Special emphasis is placed on the historical background of each of the prophets and on the prophetic interpretation of Israelite history. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3231 – The Book of Job	Credit 1-3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and LIT 2371 or instructor approval
The primary emphasis in this course is a textual study of the book of Job. The student will also be introduced to the issues of theodicy, and to other parts of the Bible that address the problems of evil and suffering. The course will also provide a sampling of the vast amount of modern art and literature that has been stimulated by the book of Job. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3249 – Synoptic Gospels	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
A study of Matthew, Mark, and Luke in the light of the Synoptic problem. Attention is given to the particular perspective and distinctive features of each Gospel, as well as to the chronological and critical issues surrounding their origin and interrelationship. Special consideration is given to the common themes of the Synoptics as witnesses to the life and teaching of Jesus. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3253 – The Gospel and Epistles of John	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
Special attention is given to the authorship and date of John, to a thorough mastery of the content of the book, and to the value of John as evidence to the deity of Christ. The purpose, background, and content of the three Epistles are carefully studied. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3256 – New Testament Epistles: 2 Corinthians, 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1240, REL 2264, and REL 2257; or instructor approval
This course is a textual and historical study of Paul’s writings that are devoted to extensive discussion of ministry. The study of 2 Corinthians concentrates on Paul’s defense of his apostleship and his view of evangelism that emerges from that defense. The study of the letters to Timothy and Titus explores the challenges evangelists in early Christianity faced as Christianity spread. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3258 – New Testament Epistles: James, Peter, Jude	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
A thorough study is made of James, First and Second Peter, and Jude. It deals with perfection through tests in the everyday Christian life (James), with the trials of persecution (1 Peter), and with truth versus myth and problems of false teachers (2 Peter and Jude). (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3260 – New Testament Epistles: Galatians, Philippians & Philemon	Credit 2
Prerequisites: REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
Galatians, Philippians, and Philemon are the basis of this course. Special attention is given to the relation of the promise to Abraham, the law, and the gospel as set forth in Galatians; personal godliness, and the development of character, the social impact of the gospel, and faith are emphasized in the other two epistles. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3261 – New Testament Epistles: 1 and 2 Thessalonians	Credit 2
Prerequisites: REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
This textual exegesis of the Thessalonian letters is designed to acquaint the student with the early development of Paul’s thought. Special emphasis is placed on the doctrine of Christ’s second coming and other aspects of eschatology that created a controversy in the early church. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3716 – Biblical Interpretation	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of the history, principles and methods of biblical interpretation. Special attention will be given to practical hermeneutical rules and precepts, including biblical authority, and how to apply these principles to modern life situations in society and in the church. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 3910 – Introduction to Biblical Research	Credit 3
Prerequisite: REL 1210 or instructor approval
An introduction to the fundamentals of research methods. This course will also examine major bibliographical and reference sources, including computerized records, necessary for biblical and religious research.

REL 4217 – Critical Introduction: Old Testament	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2782 or instructor approval
This course covers the two technical areas of Biblical Introduction: General Introduction, including the study of text, canon, inspiration and inerrancy; and Special Introduction, including the study of authorship, date, destination and cultural conditions of the individual books of the Old Testament.

REL 4228 – Old Testament Prophets: Major Prophets	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
Continuation of REL 3227. The primary objective of this course is to acquaint the student with the writings of the major prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel). Each time the course is taught one of these books will be chosen as the focus for the semester’s study. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 4229 – Old Testament Prophets: Daniel and Zechariah	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
The primary objective of this course is to acquaint the student with the writings of the major prophets (Daniel and Zechariah). Each time the course is taught one of these books will be chosen as the focus for the semester’s study. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 4247 – Critical Introduction: New Testament	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1240 and REL 2782 or instructor approval
This course covers the two technical areas of Biblical Introduction: General Introduction, including the study of text, canon, inspiration and inerrancy; and Special Introduction, including the study of authorship, date, destination and cultural conditions of the individual books of the New Testament.

REL 4254 – Romans	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210, REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
The book of Romans is thoroughly studied. Emphasis is given to the fulfilling of God’s promises to Abraham and to the relationship of Jews and Gentiles as recipients of spiritual promises through Jesus Christ, the seed of Abraham. The theme of salvation through faith in Christ and its meaning is thoroughly discussed. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 4255 – Hebrews	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210, REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
This course is introduced by a study of certain laws and principles laid down in Leviticus and Numbers. It provides the student with a clear concept of the typical and religious significance of the law of Moses, with special attention to the Levitical priesthood and that of Melchizedek. The course further considers the two covenants and finished sacrifice of Jesus Christ. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 4259 – Book of Revelation	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210, REL 1240 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
Various schools of interpretation are considered briefly. The text is carefully studied. Emphasis is placed upon the persecutions and trials of the church, and upon the final triumph through Christ, together with the final destruction of the wicked. Speculative theorizing of a millennial kingdom upon earth is examined. (Pass/Fail grading option available on 1 hour credit)

REL 4900 – Independent Directed Study in Biblical Literature	Credit 1–3
Prerequisite: Instructor approval
This course offers the advanced student an opportunity to do independent research under the direction of a member of the Biblical Studies faculty. This course may be repeated once.

REL 4930 – Selected Topics in Biblical Literature	Credit 1–3
Course contents depend on student’ needs. May be repeated once with different content.

REL 4933 – Selected Topics: Bible Seminar	Credit 1
Prerequisite: Junior or senior status
Course content varies each semester. Satisfies part of the daily Bible requirement for upper-division non-Bible majors. Does not count toward requirements for bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies. May be repeated four times with different content.

Religious Thought

REL 2782 – Introduction to Christian Evidences	Credit 2
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 1240 or instructor approval
Designed to acquaint the student with two special lines of argumentation, internal and external evidence, which support the view that Christianity is of supernatural origin. The internal evidence and its appeal to the rationality of man finds emphasis. The student gains an insight into the basic issue between Naturalism and Supernaturalism. Required second year course.

REL 3131 – American Sects & Cults	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 or REL 1240 or instructor approval
Modern day cults, such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormonism and the New Age Movement are studied. An examination of their concept of man, and their claims to special revelation are made. Authoritative writings in these fields are examined and some debates studied.

REL 3308 – World Religions	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 or REL 1240 or instructor approval
This course provides intensive study of several major world religions including Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, as well as comparative analyses of their sacred literature, rituals, and cultural manifestations. Gordon Rule – 3000 words.

REL 3460 – Philosophy of Religion	Credit 3
Prerequisite: PHI 1010 or instructor approval
A philosophical approach to the study of religion, emphasizing both the problems posed and the solutions offered.

REL 3719 – Religious Thought I	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1210 and REL 2264 or instructor approval
This course acquaints the student with various millennial theories. A study is made of the promises to Abraham, the throne of David, the kingdom, and the events which take place at the return of Christ.

REL 3797 – Religious Thought II	Credit 3
Prerequisite: REL 2264 or instructor approval
This course acquaints the student with major views which have been influential in the history of Christianity. Special attention is given to Calvinism, Arminianism, and some of the major doctrines of Roman Catholicism.

REL 4907 – Independent Directed Study in Religious Thought	Credit 1–3
Prerequisite: Instructor approval
Course is subject to the availability of faculty directors. A student wishing to take an independent study course is required to submit a written proposal to the faculty member whom he/she is requesting to serve as director of the independent study. May be repeated once.

REL 4931 – Selected Topics in Religious Thought	Credit 1–3
Course contents depend on student’ needs. May be repeated once with different content.

Church History

REL 3503 – Church History: Ancient and Medieval	Credit 3
Prerequisite: REL 1240 or instructor approval
This course is a survey of the history of Christianity from the New Testament era through medieval times. Attention is given to historically influential men and movements, theological and organizational developments, relation of church and state, the rise of monasticism and the papacy, the division of East and West, and religious thought and institutions on the eve of the reformation.

REL 3504 – Church History: Reformation and Modern	Credit 3
Prerequisite: REL 1240 or instructor approval
Continuation of REL 3503. This course is a survey of the history of Christianity from the Protestant Reformation to the present. Attention is given to the reformation, the growth of modern denominationalism, Protestant scholasticism, pietism, the enlightenment, romanticism, revivalism, and American Christianity.

REL 3568 – Restoration History: Nineteenth Century	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1240 or instructor approval
In this study of American religious history, special emphasis is placed upon various primitivist religious movements out of which grew what is known as “the Restoration Movement.” Special emphasis is given to the work of men such as Barton W. Stone, Thomas and Alexander Campbell, and David Lipscomb. The student is introduced to the literature of this period and to the division which resulted in “the Christian Church” and “churches of Christ.”

REL 3569 – Restoration History: Twentieth Century	Credit 3
Prerequisites: REL 1240 or instructor approval
Continuation of REL 3568. This is a study of the Restoration Movement in the 20th century, beginning with the formal recognition of division in 1906, and focusing on the churches of Christ. Special attention is given to major controversies in the movement, including premillennialism and institutionalism, as well as to the work of important figures such as H. Leo Boles, N. B. Hardeman, and Foy E. Wallace, Jr.

REL 4905 – Independent Directed Study in Church History	Credit 1–3
Prerequisite: Instructor approval
Course is subject to the availability of faculty directors. A student wishing to take an independent study course is required to submit a written proposal to the faculty member whom he/she is requesting to serve as director of the independent study. May be repeated once.

REL 4932 – Selected Topics in Church History	Credit 1–3
Course contents depend on students’ needs. May be repeated once with different content.