(2hrs)

Instructor: Stephen Edging

COURSE DESCRIPTION

A literary, historical and theological introduction to the book of Acts and its place in the Bible.  Lectures will describe the progress of the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).  Special attention will be paid to the church’s understanding of its nature and mission, the work of the Holy Spirit in guiding and equipping the church, and the church’s relations with Judaism, Hellenism, and the Roman Empire. 

COURSE OBJECTIVES

·       Summarize the structure and content of the book of Acts.

·       List key facts related to the historical background of the book of Acts, including the internal and external evidence related to its authorship, audience and date.

·       Describe the literary characteristics of the book of Acts.

·       Describe the teaching of the book of Acts and its place in the Bible.

·       List, describe and demonstrate the component skills for writing interpretive essays in Biblical Studies.

KEY READINGS

Required

Keddie, Gordon.  You are my Witnesses: The Message of the Acts of the

Apostles.  PLACE OF PUBLICATION???: Evangelical Press, 2000.

NIV Study Bible.  Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1985.

          Maps pp. 1641–1701: “Countries of People Mentioned at Pentecost”, “Philip’s

          and Peter’s Missionary Journeys”, “The Spread of the Gospel [A.D. 35–60]”,

          “Paul’s First Missionary Journey”, “Paul’s Second Missionary Journey”,

          “Paul’s Third Missionary Journey”, “Paul’s Journey to Rome.”  

          Historical Timeline pp. 1664–1665: “Timeline of Paul’s Life [including dates

          of his writings].”

Recommended

Stott, John W.  The Message of Acts: The Spirit, the Church and the World. 

          Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994