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RELN 208

I. Course Title: Introduction to the Bible (GE)

II. Course Number: RELN 208

III. Credit Hours: 3 credits

IV. Prerequisites: None

V. Course Description: 

A survey of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and the New Testament. This course explores the contents, primary themes, and historical development of each, and places the contents of each within the context of the historical period in which each text was written.

Note(s): General Education and Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course.

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

Among the most important religious documents in history, the Bible has influenced the historical development of many cultures and continues to inform many social and political debates. Therefore, a basic understanding of the Bible’s contents is critical for any informed citizen. This course offers a history of the Bible’s development and a survey of its contents.

Topics in this course include (but are not limited to):

  1. The structure and primary themes of the Bible
  2. The ancient historical contexts of the Bible
  3. What the Bible can teach us about the cultures that produced it
  4. The process through which the Bible took its final forms
  5. The Bible’s continued use and influence

VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:

This course will focus on the careful, critical, and historical examination of the Bible. To accomplish this, students can expect:

  1. Lecture and discussion led by the instructor
  2. Small group discussion
  3. Individual and group oral presentations
  4. Informal and formal writing assignments
  5. Journals
  6. Individual and collaborative research activities involving library and Internet searches

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

Students will:

  1. Students will identify the primary themes, people, and events reflected in the Bible.
  2. Students will recognize how the Bible reflects and illuminates the ancient cultures from which it emerged.
  3. Students will recognize the processes that brought the Bible together and then how it developed into its present forms.

VIII. Assessment Measures:

A variety of assessment tools will be used. These may include quizzes/exams, writing assignments, presentations, and research papers, among others.  

Review and Approval

August 2020

March 01, 2021

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