Full course description
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The Gospel of John stands apart from the other three Gospels, giving a different, though complementary account of Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection. In light of its unique voice amongst the Gospels, John has been of central importance for the history of Christian thought, providing key verses and images for the Church’s theological contemplation. This course explores the Gospel of John in its theological and historical contexts and equips students to become more adept, insightful readers of the Gospel. The course is attentive to themes that run throughout the Gospel and provides a coherent reading of the Gospel, treating it as a literary masterpiece meant to be read with its major goal in view: that you, the reader, come to know and understand that the Logos became flesh for your sake. Students will come away from the course better informed and ready to intelligently read and understand the Gospel.
Course Content
Unit 1: Historical Background, Literary and Theological Themes, the New Creation
Unit 2: Wedding at Cana, Samaritan Woman, Feeding of 5000 and Bread of Life
Unit 3: Healing, “I Am”, Man Born Blind
Unit 4: Jesus as Gate and Shepherd, Lazarus, Anointing for Death
Unit 5: Love, Unity, and Jesus’ Arrest
Unit 6: Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Final Chapter
Course Format
- Seven weeks in duration; first week for orientation.
- Up to 20 students in each course.
- Video lectures.
- Supplemental readings are provided to encourage further exploration, internet links provided for all readings.
- Written assignments (200-250) required.
- Facilitator-moderated weekly Zoom sessions with participants.
Participation Requirements
- View the lecture for each unit.
- Read assigned texts; keep notes, questions, and comments for class discussions.
- Answer weekly discussion question.
- Respond to weekly unit assignment.
- Attend weekly Zoom for each unit. If you cannot attend, you can still meet the participation requirements.
- Complete the course evaluation.
Time Expectations
3 to 5 hours per week, depending on your learning style and schedule.
Course Certificate
An electronic certificate of completion awarding 35 contact hours will be available in course when completing all course requirements.
Area: Scripture