This course offers an exploration of selected biblical texts and themes from the Old and New Testaments, especially in relation to forthcoming lectionary readings and their uses in preaching. The emphasis will be on detailed analysis of those texts and themes and on introducing participants to key critical issues in reading the Bible in a church environment today.

6 x 2 hour lectures, and 1 x 4 hour study morning over 6 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

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The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Critical commentary (1000 words) - 50%

■ Reflective project (1000 words) - 50%

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the critical commentary, but a flexible deadline can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

■ There is no alternative to the reflective project but a flexible deadline can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

This course aims to:

■ Provide participants with the opportunity to explore main themes and texts of the Old and New Testaments;

■ Enable participants to discuss the basic critical issues and concepts involved in reading and interpreting biblical texts;

■ Encourage participants to integrate their understanding of biblical texts in relation to lectionary readings and other uses in worship.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Identify the context and main themes in selected texts of the Old and New Testaments;

■ Discuss the basic critical issues and concepts involved in interpreting biblical texts in a church-based environment;

■ Engage reflectively with the biblical literature and its uses for preaching.