THEO321: Synoptic Gospels and Johannine Study

Course Description

In this course, we will explore the life and teachings of Jesus as presented in the four canonical Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. We will examine the distinct theological perspectives and literary structures of each Gospel in their historical and cultural contexts. The goal of this class is not only about rigorous academic work but also about taking the content from the classroom to our everyday life situations.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the distinctiveness of each Gospel.
• Examine the theological themes in the Gospels.
• Collate the Synoptic Gospels with the Gospel of John.
• Apply critical scholarly methods to Gospel texts.
• Discuss the implications of Jesus’ teachings for contemporary faith and practice.

Required Texts

1. The Holy Bible (any reputable translation, e.g. NIV, ESV, NRSV)
2. Introduction to the New Testament by Raymond E. Brown
3. Jesus and the Gospels: An Introduction and Survey by Craig L. Blomberg

Recommended Texts

1. The Gospel of Matthew: A Commentary on the Greek Text by R.T. France
2. The Gospel of Mark: A Commentary on the Greek Text by R.T. France
3. The Gospel of Luke: A Commentary on the Greek Text by I. Howard Marshall
4. The Gospel according to John by D.A. Carson
5. Jesus and the Eyewitnesses: The Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony by Richard Bauckham
6. The Synoptic Problem: A Way through the Maze by Mark Goodacre

Weekly Lesson Plan

Week 1: Introduction to the Gospels

Week 9: Mid-Term Exam Week

• Mid-term exam covering material from Weeks 1-8

Week 10: Spiritual Life Retreat

• No classes

Week 13: Reformation Day

• No classes

Week 18: Final Exam Week

Assignments and Grading

• Reading Assignments: Weekly readings as listed
• Quiz: 5-6 in any given week (10%)
• Midterm Exam: Covering Weeks 1-8 (25%)
• Final Exam: Covering Weeks 11-17 (25%)
• Research Paper: 12-15 pages on a specific theme or passage in the Gospels (due Week 16) (30%)
• Class Participation: Regular attendance and active participation in discussions (10%)

Grading Scale

• A: 93-100%
• A-: 90-92%
• B+: 87-89%
• B: 83-86%
• B-: 80-82%
• C+: 77-79%
• C: 73-76%
• C-: 70-72%
• D+: 67-69%
• D: 63-66%
• D-: 60-62%
• F: Below 60%
  

Policies

Attendance Policy

Regular attendance and active participation in classroom discussions are crucial for your success in this course. It demonstrates that you are actively engaging with the reading assigned to you for each class. You are expected to attend all class sessions. If you must miss a class, please inform the instructor in advance through various means of communication such as texting, phone calls, or email. More than three unexcused absences will result in a deduction of your participation grade by 10% per absence. Excessive absences may result in a failing grade for the course.

Tardiness

You are expected to arrive in the classroom 5 minutes before the class begins each morning. We start our class with a short morning devotion. Arrival during or after the devotion will be considered tardiness. The accumulation of three tardiness will be counted as one class absence which will result in losing grade points for the course. 

Plagiarism Policy

Plagiarism is a serious academic offense and will not be tolerated. Plagiarism includes using someone else’s work or ideas without proper citation. Any instances of plagiarism will be reported to the dean’s office. The offender will be given a chance to right the wrong before taking serious actions which includes resulting in a failing grade for the assignment and may result in further disciplinary action according to the seminary’s academic policies.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is expected in all your work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. All work submitted must be your own. Violation of academic integrity policies will result in severe consequences, including but not limited to receiving a failing grade on the assignment or in the course, and potential expulsion from the seminary. If you are academically struggling, we are here to help you. Seeking help is better than being caught cheating and living with guilt. Please come to see me if you need help!

Course Schedule and Changes

This syllabus serves as a guide for the course and is subject to change. Any changes will be announced in class or through official communication channels. It is your responsibility to keep up with any modifications and attend all class sessions.