Jesus and His Teaching
Theology & Religious Studies 115
Saint Mary’s College of California, 2012
Professor: Michael Barram, Ph.D. Email: (preferred)
Office: Dante 335Campus Phone: ext. 4458
Office hours: Mondays and Fridays, 12:45–2:15 pm; andby appointment
Student Disability Services extends reasonable and appropriate accommodations that take into account the context of the course and its essential elements, for individuals with qualifying disabilities. Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Student Disability Services Director at (925) 631-4164 to set up a confidential appointment to discuss accommodation guidelines and available services. Additional information regarding the services available may be found at the following address on the Saint Mary’s website: ca.edu/academics/academic-advising-and-achievement/student-disability-services.html
I. COURSE DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE
Among Christians and non-Christians alike, Jesus of Nazareth has long been considered one of the world’s most insightful, challenging, and memorable teachers. This course consists of anin-depth exploration of various teachings attributed to Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), such as the Sermon on the Mount, parables, and other memorable statements. Students will study a range of Jesus’ teachings as they appear in their respective Gospel contexts, learning to employ various interpretive methods and techniques in order to understand them better. Further, students will have opportunity to explore how Jesus’ teachings have been interpreted and appropriated. Attention will also be given to the potential import of these teachings for contemporary Christian belief and practice.
The core curriculum at Saint Mary’s College of California is designed so that students will meet two sets of learning outcomes related to the college’s “Theological Understanding” learning goals. The first set of outcomes—“Christian Foundations”—is met by students who have taken the prerequisite for upper-division Theology & Religious Studies (TRS) courses, namely, TRS 97: “The Bible and Its Interpretation.” This present course (TRS 115: “Jesus and His Teaching”) is designed to enable students to meet the “Theological Explorations” learning outcomes (see 1 and 2 below), the second set of core curriculum learning outcomes related to the “Theological Understanding” learning goals.As such, this class will enable students to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of one or more aspects of Christian tradition and/or another religious tradition or traditions, acquired through focused study in a sub-field of theology or religious studies; and
- Demonstrate an ability to explore religious questions from a believer’s point of reference and from the critical perspective of the academy.
Students in this course will meet the first outcome by means of semester-long training in biblical studies, a foundational and crucial sub-field of theological studies. The course is focused on Jesus’ most famous teaching in the Synoptic Gospels—with primary attention given to his parables and the Sermon on the Mount. Students can anticipate gaining thorough familiarity with these biblical texts and traditions, and they will begin to develop the kind of hermeneutical awareness and core interpretive skills needed for advanced biblical scholarship. Thus, students will not only learn the content of these texts, they will learn how to interpret them—even as they explore how they have been interpreted.
Students in this course will meet the second outcome through exploring—and learning to reflect deeply upon—how Jesus’ parables and Sermon on the Mount can be and have been understood by a range of interpreters. Students will consider the import and significance of these texts from the perspective/s of believers, that is, from the vantage point of those who understand these texts as a form of revelation about the nature and character of God, as a window into the human situation, as guide for life, and so forth. Interpretive questions of this nature are inherently theological, ethical, existential, communal, and personal. Also, students will learn to explore texts as budding biblical scholars, incorporating analytical methods (e.g., literary, historical) and critical tools (e.g., scholarly commentaries) standard in the academy.
As part of the larger process of meeting the two aforementioned “Theological Explorations” learning outcomes, students in this particular course will have opportunities to develop and demonstrate a working knowledge of:
(1) key teachings of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels (e.g., Sermon on the Mount and parables)
(2) content, themes, and fundamental interpretive issues pertaining to the Synoptic Gospels
(3) literary, socio-historical, and cultural contexts of the biblical texts under examination
(4) key questions, concerns, methods, and techniques of modern biblical interpretation
(5) how Jesus’ teachings have been interpreted over time
Moreover, students will develop and demonstrate:
(6) an awareness of and sensitivity to a range of issues that confront readers of these texts
(7) an ability to engage in critical reading and analysis of the biblical text and its interpreters
(8) serious and sustained engagement with the theological, existential, and ethical content and claims of Jesus’ teaching and its interpreters
(9) an ability to assess and discuss religious, moral, and philosophical questions, concerns, and differences knowledgeably, openly, and respectfully
(10) a greater recognition of and appreciation for the role and significance of Jesus’ teaching in both the Christian tradition and in Western society
II. REQUIRED TEXTS
1)Bible (a “Study Bible” edition is strongly recommended) in one of the following translations: (preferably) New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) or New American Bible (NAB);(less preferable, but also acceptable) New International Version (NIV) orNew English Translation (NET). (A number of translations and editions of the Bible are not acceptable for this class, including the King James Version [KJV]. Consult with the professor to ensure that your Bible is appropriate for this course.) The SMC bookstore has a number of copies of an excellent study Bible for purchase: The Access Bible(New Revised Standard Version with the Apocrypha), Updated Edition.Edited by Gail O’Day and David Petersen. New York: Oxford University Press, 2011.
2) The Shadow of the Galilean, by Gerd Theissen. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2007.
3)Parallel Lives of Jesus, by Edward Adams. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2011.
4)Additional readings may be assigned, either in printed or online form, as the course progresses.
III. COURSE REQUIREMENTS AND CRITERIA FOR GRADING
Four basic components will contribute toward the overall course grade:
1. Assignments and Quizzes (15%): Approximately 15% of the overall grade will be oriented to assignments (and quizzes, if applicable). During the semester, you will often be given a short assignment related to the reading for the next class or other course material. These assignments will take different forms, as stipulated by the professor—e.g., a summary of the reading assignment; a response to one or more questions; or, a personal reaction/response to the reading. Completion of these assignments should enhance learning,and students should approach them with that goal in mind. As a rule, adequately completed assignments will receive full credit, but no late work will be accepted.
“Speaker Series” Evening Events: All students are required to attend at least two of the following evening events related to the course. Both of the two evening events are worth one and one-half (1.5) regular daily assignments. Normally, written responses will be required in order to receive credit. (Students are encouraged to complete a third evening event for extra credit worth one daily assignment.)
Brief quizzesmay be given at various points in the semester to encourage students to complete the reading assignments; they may or may not be announced in advance. No make-up quizzes will be offered.
2. Exam 1 (25%): The exam will include both “objective” and essay questions based on the assigned readings and activities as well as in-class information. A study guide will be provided in advance of the exam.
3. Exegetical Explorations (40%): Each student will completetwopapers related to specific biblical passages, as assigned. Specific instructions will be forthcoming. Late papers will not be accepted.
4. Exam2 (20%): The exam will include both some “objective” questions and a significant essay portion designed to allow students to articulate their learning throughout the course.
These four components are weighted approximately as follows:
1. 15%—Assignments and Quizzes
2. 25%—Exam 1
3. 40%—Exegetical Explorations (Two papers)
4. 20%—Exam 2
100% of total course grade
In general, the following grading scale is used in this course. (On written work [e.g., exegetical papers and essay questions on exams], letter grades correspond to the middle of a given grade scale. For example, a “C” paper translates to a grade of 75% [the middle of the “C” scale”]; a “B-” paper receives an 81%, and so forth.)
A 94-100 / B+ 88-89 / C+ 78-79 / D+ 68-69 / F 0-59A- 90-93 / B 83-87 / C 73-77 / D 63-67
B- 80-82 / C- 70-72 / D- 60-62
NOTE REGARDING GRADING: Although effort on coursework is noted, appreciated, and admired, academic grades are based on achievement, not effort. In line with Saint Mary’s College of California standards, an “A” denotes “excellent” achievement in all respects (i.e., outstanding mastery of content, organization, grammar and style, etc.). A “B” grade signifies achievement that is “above average” (i.e., solid work overall, with relatively minor deficiencies in terms of content, organization, grammar and style, and so forth). A “C” grade is awarded for “satisfactory” work (i.e., achievement at a basic level, though with some significant deficiencies with respect to content, organization, grammar and style, etc.). The “D” grade is for “marginal” and/or “unsatisfactory” work (inadequate achievement, with major deficiencies with respect to content, organization, grammar and style, etc.). In line with these criteria, grades above a B- indicate uncommonly strong student achievement.
NOTE ON DUE DATES: As noted, late work will not be accepted. If you are going to miss a class or your printer breaks, please email me a copy of the assignment before the start of the class in which it is due (or by the date and time the assignment is due).
NOTE REGARDING ATTENDANCE: Daily attendance is required for adequate participation and learning in this class. Even though no specific percentage of the grade is assigned to attendance, it will be taken into account in assigning overall course grades. Students should expect that course grades will be lowered to the next grade level (e.g., B to B-; C+ to C) for each absence accrued in excess of three (for any reason).Students who havemore than five absences will fail the course.
IV. ADDITIONAL NOTES AND EXPECTATIONS
Classroom Style: This course incorporates a variety of classroom styles, including lecture, large and small group discussion, and perhaps even seminar. More than one style may be utilized during a given class session. Students should be prepared to participate in a variety of learning environments.
Minimum Homework Expectations: This class meets for 1 hour per session. The student and faculty handbooks both stipulate that a minimum of 2 hours of homework is expected for each hour of in-class time. Thus a student aiming for an average grade should expect to devote a minimum of two hours of outside work for each in-class session (i.e., a minimum of 6 hours of focused homework per week, in addition to the 3 hours spent in class per week). Careful reading of assigned materials is essential for success in the course. Students should be aware that readings will not necessarily be treated thoroughly in class lecture or discussion; therefore, it is imperative that all readings be completed thoroughly. Taking at least brief notes on assigned readings (whether in the margins of the Bible or book, or on a separate sheet of paper) is strongly recommended, as is reading the marginal notes in The Access Bible.
Academic Honesty: This course presupposes the Honor Code of Saint Mary’s College (see Student Handbook; plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Students are encouraged to consult the professor and other relevant resources (e.g., online sites) concerning appropriate academic behavior.
In-Class Discussions: The subject of this class is at once fascinating and potentially controversial. Students usually bring with them a range of perspectives, allegiances, and interests concerning the topics to be addressed, and it is imperative that class participants treat one another with respect and dignity. Students should expect to engage in honest and energetic debate, but personal attacks are never appropriate.
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices: Since cell phones and other electronic devices not directly related to classroom learning are distracting to everyone, they are not to be used during class sessions unless explicit permission to do so has been granted by the professor. Violation of this policy will result in a lower grade in the course.
V. COURSE SCHEDULE NOTE: The schedule is tentative and subject to revision.
Mon Feb 6Orientation to the Course; Syllabus
WedFeb 8The Shadow of the Galilean; The Historical Context of the Gospels
Readings:
Theissen, pp. 1-35
Barram, “A Brief Introduction to theStudy of the Bible”
Barram, “A Brief Introduction to theCanon of the Bible”
Fri Feb 10The Shadow of the Galilean; Judaism and Hellenism
Readings:
Psalm 137
Ecclesiastes 4:1-4
Mark 1:1-8; 4:13-21, 33-35;6:7-29; 10:2-12, 17-31
Matthew 6:24
Luke 6:20-26; 8:1-3; 14:25-35
Theissen, pp. 36-81
MonFeb 13The Shadow of the Galilean
Readings:
Exodus 19:3-6
Mark 2:13-17, 23-28; 3:1-6; 4:26-29; 5:25-34; 7:1-15, 24-30;
10:13-16, 35-45; 12:13-17
Matthew 5:38-48;8:5-13; 11:2-19, 28-30; 23:13-15, 23-28
Luke 14:12-24
Theissen, pp. 82-113
WedFeb 15The Shadow of the Galilean
Readings:
Mark 3:1-6; 6:35-52; 8:1-9; 11:15-19, 27-33; 12:28-34;14:55-59
Matthew 5:21-30; 6:1-21, 24-34; 7:1-5, 12; 10:1-15, 34-42; 13:44-46;
19:27-30; 21:28-32; 25:31-46
Luke 10:23-24;17:20-21
Secondary Texts: Theissen, pp. 114-147
FriFeb 17The Shadow of the Galilean
Readings:
Psalm 22:1-21, 27-31
Mark 12:13-17
Matthew 27:15-26
Mark 15:16-39
Luke 1:46-55
Daniel 7:1-28
Psalm 139
Theissen, pp. 148-183
** MonSept. 20 EVENING LECTURE (7:30–9:00pm, Soda Center) ** Tom Poundstone
“Whatsoever You Did to the Least of These: Art, Ethics, and the Parable of the Sheep and
Mon Feb 20The Gospel of Mark
Readings:
Malachi 3:16–4:6
Isaiah 40:1-5
Psalm 2
Mark 1:1–8:26
Adams, pp. 41-51
Wed Feb 22The Gospel of Mark
Readings:
Daniel 7:9-14
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Isaiah 42:1-9; 52:7–53:12
Psalm 22:1-31
Mark 8:27–16:8
Adams, pp. 51-60
FriFeb 24Introduction to the Four Gospels
Readings:
Adams, chapters 1–2
MonFeb 27The Gospel of Matthew
Readings:
Isaiah 9:1-7; 11:1-9
Matthew 1:1–28:20
WedFeb 29The Gospel of Matthew
Readings:
Matthew 1:1–13:53
Adams, pp. 61-70
FriMar 2Further Discussion of the Gospel of Matthew
Readings:
Matthew 13:54–28:20
Adams, pp. 70-81
MonMar 5The Gospel of Luke
Readings:
Luke 1:1–24:53
WedMar 7The Gospel of Luke
Readings:
Isaiah 58:6-14; 61:1-11
Luke 1:1–5:11; 7:36-50; 6:12-49; 9:18-62; 10:25–11:13; 12:13-34
Adams, pp. 82-92
FriMar 9The Gospel of Luke
Readings:
Luke 14:1–16:31; 18:18-30; 19:1-10; 22:1–24:53
Adams, pp. 92-101
Mon Mar 12Test 1
WedMar 14Moving Toward Exegesis
Fri Mar 16Moving Toward Exegesis
MonMar 19Narrative Criticism Practice
Readings:
Mark 10:17-31
Wed Mar 21Redaction Criticism Practice
Readings:
Mark 10:17-31
FriMar 23Consultation of Commentaries
Readings:
Commentary readings on Mark 10:17-31
(from Donahue/Harrington; Hare; Edwards; and Marcus)
MonMar 26Introduction to Parables
Readings:
Mark 4:1-34
Matthew 13:1-52
Luke 8:4-15; 13:18-21
Matthew 7:24-27; 20:1-16; 21:28–22:14; 25:1-30
Luke 6:47-49; 11:5-13; 12:13-21; 13:6-9; 14:7-14; 14:28-33; 15:2-32;
16:1-13; 16:91-31; 17:7-10; 18:1-14
WedMar 28Reading Parables
Readings:Matthew 16:1-20; 22:1-14
FriMar 30Reading Parables
Readings:Luke 12:13-21; 14:7-14
MonApr 2Easter Break – No Class
WedApr 4Easter Break – No Class
FriApr 6Easter Break – No Class
MonApr 9Easter Break – No Class
WedApr 11Reading Parables
Readings:
Luke 15:1-32
FriApr 13Reading Parables
Readings:
Matthew 25:31-46
MonApr 16Parable Roundtable
Readings:
Luke 10:25-37
WedApr 18Parable Roundtable
Readings:
Luke 16:19-31
Fri Apr 20Parable Roundtable
Readings:
Matthew 18:23-35
MonApr 23Parables in Artistic Interpretation
Readings:
Matthew 25:31-46
Luke 15:1-32
WedApr 25Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount; Blessings & Woes
Readings:
Matthew 5:1-7:27
Luke 6:1-49
FriApr 27The Sermon on the Mount: Chapter 5
MonApr 30The Sermon on the Mount: Chapter 5
WedMay 2The Sermon on the Mount: Chapter 6
FriMay 4The Sermon on the Mount: Chapter 6
MonMay 7The Sermon on the Mount: Chapter 7
WedMay 9The Sermon on the Mount: Chapter 7
FriMay 11Discussion of Jesus’ Teaching: Themes and Insights
WedMay 16 (9:00 am – 11:00am) – Test 2
Barram – TRS 115: Jesus and His Teaching Page 1