This unit will focus on understanding the significance and transformative role of the Bible for Christian spiritual growth. Key themes in the faith of ancient Israel and the early Christian communities will be explored through examining particular Biblical stories and bringing these into critical engagement with contemporary experiences of God. Such themes to be explored include: the experience of God in prayer; calling; grace, sin and forgiveness; suffering; hospitality and strangers; prophecy and power; reconciliation and the reign of God; conversion and transformation; community and hope.

Upon successful completion of this unit, it is expected that students will be able to:
1. reflect critically on a range of theological themes within the Bible
2. rigorously exegete specific texts
3. relate critical reflection on biblical texts to their own life experience and spiritual development
4. develop a specific topic of research in a critically rigorous, and self-directed manner
5. demonstrate competence in the methodology of advanced research in the discipline of Biblical studies

PreRequisites / Co-Requisites / Prohibited Combinations: BH 101 or BN 101

Assessment: One 6000 word essay 100 %

• Teacher: Tim McCowan