Courses

The letters of 1-2 Timothy and Titus, known collectively as the Pastoral Epistles, provide a unique glimpse into Pauline ideas about ministry within the early church. These letters, addressed by Paul to two of his protegees, have long been a source of wise counsel for people in Christian ministry, but also a source of some controversy in modern theological discussion. This course provides an in-depth study of these New Testament letters, attempts to situate them within their original contexts, and provide readers with a clearer understanding of their meaning and continued relevance for the church. Topics to be covered include but are not limited to: the authenticity of the Pastoral Epistles, their relationship to the other Pauline writings, their depiction of pastoral ministry and church leadership, Paul’s vision for men and women in the church, and various literary and theological themes found throughout these letters.

Knowing

• Have a good understanding of the content of the Pastoral Epistles and their relationship to the other Pauline letters.
• Understand the Pastoral Epistles in their socio-historical context and their relevance for the church today.
• Gain awareness of important critical, exegetical, and theological issues related to the interpretation of the Pastoral Epistles.

Being

• Be shaped intellectually and spiritually by a deeper encounter with Scripture.
• Become more adept at reading and expositing texts from the New Testament.

Doing

• Read and gain mastery of the content of the Pastoral Epistles.
• Engage with relevant commentaries and biblical/theological scholarship on the Pastoral Epistles.
• Identify and explain important theological themes, as well as controversial passages/issues, within the Pastoral Epistles.