Courses

This course leads students through a detailed reading of the book of Genesis with a view to its theological, historical and literary interpretation and significance. In order to equip students for interpreting this foundational book we will take into account critical matters & methodologies, ancient Near Eastern parallels and the canonical context of the book as the introduction to the Pentateuch and all of Christian Scripture. We will also focus on several questions throughout our study: What does Genesis say about science and the origins of life on earth? What does Genesis teach concerning the nature of humanity? How does an understanding of Genesis impact our worldview? What does Genesis teach us about God’s Covenant(s) with humans? In this course we will examine the literary structure, authorial purpose(s) and theological significance of the book of Genesis, in order to underscore its continuing relevance for the church and society today.

Knowing

• To have a thorough knowledge of the contents and message of Genesis
• To gain familiarity with the assumptions, methods and conclusions of modern critical scholarship on Genesis
• To gain an introductory knowledge of relevant Ancient Near Eastern Literature: One will read an English translation of the most important extra-biblical documents for a proper understanding of Genesis within its ancient Near Eastern context.

Being

• To embrace the contemporary relevance of Genesis for the Church today
• To grow closer to God through study of Genesis

Doing

• To be able to discuss the relation of Genesis 1-11 to ancient Near Eastern mythology and modern science
• To be able to interpret Genesis in its original contexts
• To be able to apply the message of Genesis to contemporary audiences