Applying Scripture
Course Description:
Although graduate-level Bible scholars are typically taught to exercise keen exegetical skills, few are prompted in their studies to prioritize application. This course is a practicum that helps students obey God’s Word. Students study the Old Testament Book of Deuteronomy and learn how to do three things: 1) Think Christianly about applying Scripture; 2) Practice doing what God commands; 3) Testify from our own lives of obedience as to the benefits of knowing and fulfilling God’s Law. In essence, this is an ethics course that requires students to develop better skills of responsible exegesis.
Guiding Questions:
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What does it mean to think Christianly about applying Scripture?
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How does obeying God open our eyes to God’s wisdom? How does disobeying God blind us?
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What does it mean to choose life? How can a person actively choose life in practical ways?
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What is the Shema? Does the Shema apply to the Church or only to Israel?
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How do New Testament writers (and Jesus) treat Old Testament commands?
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Did Jesus fulfill the Law, so that we don’t have to “do” God’s commandments in Deuteronomy?
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Is it possible to apply God’s Word without taking political action? Is obedience to God a political act?