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Religion: Biblical Studies Course Descriptions

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RELB 101, 102 Bible Survey (2,2)

A book-by book survey of both Old and New Testaments designed to provide a foundation for other religion courses for those students who have not had secondary Bible. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 160 Jesus and the Gospels (3)

An introductory study of Jesus' life and teaching through the close readings of the four canonical gospels. (Fall and Spring Semesters)

RELB 170 Celebrating the Experience of Scripture (3)

An exploration of the stories, hymns, poetry and sayings that make up the Christian Bible. Students learn that the texts emerged from human experience while exploring possible connections to contemporary faith and life. (Spring Semester)

RELB 280 World Religions (3)

A general course dealing with world religions and contemporary expressions of faith; the distinctions between cult, sect, and denomination; and the place of dialogue and mission in a religiously pluralistic world. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 294 Topics in Religion (1-4)

Designed for students who wish a course not listed in the regular offerings. A selected topic in religion will be explored. (Offered as needed)

RELB 295 Independent Study in Religion (1-3)

Study on an independent basis in collaboration with the instructor on a topic in biblical studies at the lower division level. (Offered as needed)

RELB 307 Exile and Return: Introduction to the Old Testament (3)

An interdisciplinary introduction to the Old Testament with emphasis on the narratives and wisdom writings. While learning the history of Israel as a people, students will explore the theological convictions that created this sacred text. (Spring Semester)

RELB 310 Hebrew Prophets (3)

An introduction to the sixteen prophetic books of the Old Testament. As agents of change in their societies, the prophets challenged economic exploitation and other forms of social injustice. Students will consider people who speak within the prophetic tradition today. (Fall Semester)

RELB 325 Jewish Apocalyptic Writings: Daniel (3)

Apocalyptic literature was first created by Jewish communities as they wrestled with the problem of evil. After a brief overview of apocalyptic writings found the Old Testament, students will study this unique style by doing a close reading of the book of Daniel.

RELB 335A Old Testament Prophets - Early (3)

Suggested background: Minimum of 6 semester hours in college Bible or equivalent. A study of the writings of the early Old Testament prophets arranged in chronological order. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 336 Old Testament Prophets - Later (3)

Suggested background: Minimum of 6 semester hours in college Bible or equivalent. A study of the writings of the later Old Testament prophets arranged in chronological order. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 345 Worship and Witness: Introduction to the New Testament (3)

Prerequisite: RELB 160. An introduction to the theological convictions of the earliest Christians through a study of the literature found in the New Testament. Students will consider the social situations of the writers and their churches, as well as the convictions concerning Jesus Christ which shaped their writings. (Fall Semester)

RELB 385 Christian Ethics and Modern Society (3)

The nature and principles of the Christian life as revealed in the New Testament and historically developed in the Christian community, with application to problems of personal conduct and to family and social institutions. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 405 Acts and the Epistles (3)

A detailed examination of the exciting stories of the first-generation Christians as they struggled to spread their faith. Students will study Acts and all of the epistles of Paul. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 410 Biblical Theology (3)

Prerequisite: Restricted to theology and religion majors. An in-depth study of many of the theological concepts of both the Old and New Testaments. A study of the God-man, the nature of His kingdom, the Trinity, and the way of salvation. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 425 Christian Apocalyptic Writings: Revelation (3)

Christians modified Jewish apocalyptic literature by including and emphasizing the life and work of Jesus Christ. In this course, students will be challenged to learn principles for interpretation and to experience this final book of the Bible as they explore its relevance for contemporary faith and life. (Spring Semester)

RELB 491 Seminar in Contemporary Theology (3)

Prerequisite: RELB 410. Restricted to theology and religion majors. An analytical study through group discussion of subjects and topics current in theological circles today. (Offered through External Degree only)

RELB 494 Topics in Religion (1-4)

Designed for students who wish a course not listed in the regular offerings. A selected topic in religion will be explored. (Offered as needed)

RELB 495 Independent Study in Religion (1-3)

Study on an independent basis in collaboration with the instructor on a topic in biblical studies at the upper division level. (Offered as needed)