Course Descriptions - Sacred Scripture

The Cross

Crucifx at Brent Chapel

SS 511 Pentateuch 3 credits

A study of the historical, literary and theological tradition and formation of the Pentateuch. Special attention to Genesis 1-11, the Patriarchal Narratives, and the Sinai Covenant. Exegesis of selected passages included. Theological themes, such as creation, promise, election, covenant (including the Ten Commandments). The theological relevance of Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy for the New Testament.

SS 523 Synoptic Gospels and Acts of the Apostles 3 credits

An introduction to the Synoptic Tradition throughout the Church’s history

will be presented with attention to various theories regarding the so-called

Synoptic Problem. Use of various historical and literary critical methodologies

will be discussed and evaluated for their value to Gospel study and for

understanding the theologies of Mark, Matthew, and Luke. The use of

patristic exegesis and the spiritual senses of Gospel passages examined.

Attention to Synoptic Christology, Eschatology, Ethics, Miracles stories,

Parables, Infancy Narratives, Passion Narratives, and Resurrection Narratives.

SS 553 Pauline Literature 3 credits

This course will examine the composition and theology of the letters within

the Pauline corpus: the Thessalonian correspondence, Galatians, Philippians,

Corinthian correspondence, Romans, Philemon, the Colossians, Ephesians,

Letters to Timothy and Titus. Special attention will be given to Christology,

ecclesiology, soteriology, eschatology, and ethics. Exegesis of selected

passages will be given.

Prerequisite: SS 523

SS 612 Catholic Epistles 2 credits

Composition and theology of the Petrine letters, the Letter of James

and the Letter of Jude. Exegesis of selected passages will be given.

This course will also include an overview of the composition

and theology of Hebrews. Exegesis of selected passages will be provided.

Prerequisite: SS 523

SS 623 Historical Books and Prophets 3 credits

Part one will examine the Deuteronomic History, especially the Books of

Samuel, Kings and Maccabees. Special attention will be given to King David,

the Elijah-Elisha cycles and how Maccabees reflect the theology of late

Judaism. Exegesis of selected passages. Part two will include an introduction

to the nature of prophecy, the relationship between prophecy and Israel’s

institutions, and the formation of the prophetic books. Selected passages

from Hosea, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel will be examined. Special emphasis

will be given to the themes of covenant, social justice and eschatology.

Prerequisite: SS 511

SS 651 The Book of Isaiah 2 credits

The Book of Isaiah reflects three important periods of Israelite history: Eighth

Century, Exilic and Post-exilic prophecy. This seminar will examine the

theology of Proto-Isaiah, Deutero-Isaiah and Trito-Isaiah in their respective

historical contexts. Special attention will be given to the call of the prophet,

social morality, royal narratives, eschatology, Suffering Servant songs and

messianic texts. Exegesis of key passages will highlight the respective socialtheological

message of each period.

SS 663 The Letter to the Romans 2 credits

A systematic examination of St. Paul’s letter to the Romans conducted in

seminar style. Attention will be given to the following theological themes:

Christology, pneumatology, anthropology, eschatology, soteriology and

ethics. Exegesis of selected passages will be given.

SS 723 Wisdom Literature and Psalms 3 credits

An introduction to the biblical wisdom literature and theology. An

examination of Proverbs, the Book of Job, Qoheleth, Ben SIra, the Book of

Wisdom, and the Song of Songs will be given. Exegesis of selected passages.

The course will also include an overview of the theology and spirituality of

the Book of Psalms. Special attention will be given to psalms that occur in the

New Testament.

Prerequisite: SS 511

SS 770 The Deuteronomic History 2 credits

Joshua, Judges, Samuel I-II, Kings I-II, Chronicles I-II, Ezra and Nehemiah,

and Maccabees I-II. The history of Israel and Judah in biblical times. The

Deuteronomist and his influence on the historical writings. Origin, nature,

and meaning of the monarchy in biblical thought. Importance of the Exile

and Return in biblical theology.

Prerequisite: SS 511

SS 821 Johannine Literature and Revelation 3 credits

Examination of the Gospel of John and the Johannine letters. An overview

of the composition and theology with special attention given to Christology,

ecclesiology, and sacramental theology. Exegesis of selected passages will be

provided. The composition and theology of the Book of Revelation will also be

treated with an exegesis of selected passages.

Prerequisite: SS 523

SS 831 The Book of Revelation 2 credits

An introduction to apocalyptic literature and thought with in the Judeo-

Christian tradition; A systematic study of the entire book will be conducted in

seminar style.

SS 990 Directed Study 1-3 credits