Details for BIB523 Historical Books of the Old Testament

Many of the Old Testament books are dedicated to the history of Israel from the time of conquest through to exile. This subject will examine the books of Joshua, Judges, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, Ezra and Nehemiah—a vast array of books and times! It will also specifically investigate the major events and people in Old Testament history.

Quick Stats

• Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
• Course code: BIB523
• Credit points: 10

Subject Coordinator

Prerequisite

The following courses are prerequisites:

• BIB401—Introduction to the Bible OR BIB402 Introduction to Israel's Scriptures (Old Testament) OR BIB403 Introduction to the New Testament OR BIB404 Old Testament Foundations OR BIB405 New Testament Foundations

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Critically analyse the message, content, and composition of the OT Historical Books (specifically, Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, Ezra & Nehemiah);
2. Explain and evaluate key concepts in biblical historiography;
3. Assess and explain the literary aspects of biblical narrative;
4. Critically analyse the construction of characters in the OT Historical Books;
5. Explain and exegete both the primary biblical materials and secondary literature of the OT Historical Books from a range of perspectives. Include application to the contemporary church and world.

Subject Content

• Introduction to the OT Historical Books
• Reading Hebrew narrative & character analysis
• Historiography: issues in reading Old Testament history
• Cultural Background to Old Testament historical narratives, including the post-exilic context of Ezra-Nehemiah
• Major themes of the OT Historical Books
• Kings and prophets in the OT Historical Books
• Selected analysis and exegesis
• Contemporary relevance of the OT Historical Books for Christian spirituality today

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Face to Face (onsite)
• Distance/E-learning (online)
• Intensive (One week: 7 hours per day for 5 days = 35 class hours + approx 85 hours out of class time for research, writing, exam preparation and execution, ancillary activities associated with completion of assigned tasks)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

• Reading Responses (20%) 
• Contemporary Presentation (30%) 
• Major Exegesis (50%) 

Prescribed Text

• Primary readings provided