Details for BIB252 The Prison Epistles

The letters of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon were written from prison and yet deal with some of the most liberating concepts imaginable. Time spent with these letters will be richly rewarded and equip us for life in multiple dimensions; spiritual, relational, personal and corporate. We will examine how these four letters from captivity have the power to free readers from unconscious imprisoning ideas.

Quick Stats

• Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
• Course code: BIB252
• Credit points: 10

Subject Coordinator

Prerequisite

The following courses are prerequisites or corequisites:

• BIB101—Introduction to the Bible OR BIB102 Introduction to Israel's Scriptures (Old Testament) OR BIB103 Introduction to the New Testament OR BIB104 Old Testament Foundations OR BIB105 New Testament Foundations

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Explain concepts of ecclesiology through exegetical and thematic study of the Prison Epistles;
2. Illustrate the role and function of Christians as portrayed in the Prison Epistles, as members of the body of Christ and the broader community;
3. Analyse the literary and theological structure of a Prison epistle through sound exegesis and engagement with a wide variety of sources;
4. Explain the biblical and theological context of each Prison epistle and detail the content unique to each;
5. Describe the historical background and social context of the local churches at Ephesus, Philippi and Colosse.

Subject Content

1. Explore the background of Roman imprisonment in general and Paul’s imprisonment specifically
2. An exegetical study on the letter to the Philippians
3. An examination of the Asian churches and Paul’s church planting there
4. An exegetical and thematic study on the letter to the Ephesians
5. An exegetical study on the church in Colossae in general and the letter to the Colossians and Philemon specifically

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