An exegetical study focusing on the historical, literary, and theological dimensions of the Pauline epistles in the New Testament. Prerequisites: Introduction to the New Testament and Biblical Interpretation.

The following are intended learning outcomes specific to this course:

1. Exhibit an awareness of the political, social, geographic, and religious forces that had an impact on the spiritual and educational development of the Apostle Paul.

2. Describe the political, social, geographic, and religious contexts of the epistles written by Paul.

3. Discuss with an informed awareness the chronological and authorship issues concerning the Pauline epistles.

4. Knowledgeably describe the structure, purpose, and timeless theological message of each of the Pauline epistles.

5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact the Apostle Paul had on the Early Church and the consequent Christian faith.

6. Recognize commentaries and other works generally recommended for use when working with the Pauline epistles.

The following are competencies for Ministry as outlined in the Sourcebook for Ministerial Development that will be addressed in this course:

• Ability to identify the literary structure, theological concepts and main storyline of the New Testament. (CN3)

• Ability to describe the historical and cultural contexts of the New Testament including an ability to Biblically affirm pastoral leadership of men and women within the Church. (CN4)

• Ability to exegete a passage of Scripture using contextual, literary, and theological analysis. (CN6)

Introduction to the New Testament and Biblical Interpretation.