Video Summary

Prayer and Introduction to the Course

Opening Prayer

Acknowledgment of God's presence and control amidst chaos in society, particularly during the pandemic.

Emphasis on the need for security in Christ as violence and unrest occur in cities.

A call for students to prepare themselves to be instruments of proclaiming the gospel, which is seen as the solution to humanity's fundamental problems.

A request for blessings over students and their families, ensuring safety and peace throughout the semester.

Course Overview

Introduction to administrative tasks and expectations for the course ahead. The instructor expresses enthusiasm about sharing transformative experiences from previous classes.

Discussion on syllabus details, including a focus on Pauline Epistles, Acts, and their application in students' lives. The aim is to deepen understanding of these texts.

Course Content Details

Syllabus Breakdown

The course will cover special introductions, eschatological perspectives, and key theological themes found within Acts and Paul's letters. Lecture materials will be provided online via Moodle.

Recommended Textbooks

Khar DeVos: "The Pauline Eschatology" - strongly recommended as essential reading material for understanding course content.

Herman Ruter Boss: "Paul: An Outline of His Theology" - another critical text that should be available in student libraries or purchased if necessary.

Richard B Gaffin: "Tool by Faith, Not by Sight" - a thin but valuable book that will also be part of required readings. Students are encouraged to obtain it despite its brevity.

Additional Reading Materials

Chapter two from Perspectives on Pentecost will be provided in PDF format; no purchase necessary for this text.

A reader compiled by the instructor containing 11 articles will supplement learning; students are expected to engage with this material through reflection papers (1–2 pages).

Introduction to Biblical Theology and Course Overview

Course Materials and Reading Assignments

The course includes five different books, with a focus on selected chapters from each. Students are encouraged to explore additional content if interested.

Recommended readings include "Redemptive History and Biblical Interpretation" by Khar Boss and "Resurrection and Redemption: A Study in Paul Ology" by Richard Gaffner. Also mentioned is "Paul and Jesus" by Herman der Boss.

Course Structure and Midterm Details

The course will cover New Testament theology, particularly focusing on Paul's theology, with a midterm exam scheduled after the first five weeks of classes. The midterm will consist of true/false questions based on covered material.

Students will have approximately one hour to complete the midterm, which will contain around 30 questions; it may be open book but time constraints could limit this option.

Weekly Assignments

For the next seven weeks, students are required to read the Bible, specifically Acts and all Pauline epistles at least once during the semester. Reflection papers on assigned articles must also be submitted weekly.

Each student must create a synopsis for each Pauline epistle that includes themes, audience background, dates, and outlines; there is no strict length requirement for these synopses.

Grading Breakdown

The grading structure consists of reflection papers (15%), project synopses (10%), midterms (25%), and finals (50%). This totals 100% for the course grade distribution. Students should submit their reflection papers weekly via Moodle for better organization.

Project Format Flexibility

Students can choose various formats for their project presentations such as charts or PowerPoint slides as long as they include necessary content like themes and issues addressed in each epistle. This flexibility aims to accommodate different learning styles while ensuring comprehensive coverage of topics discussed in class.

Course Overview and Expectations

Reflection Papers and Grading

The instructor emphasizes that reflection papers are for personal exercise, encouraging students to think critically about their readings without fear of right or wrong answers.

Students are reminded that the reflection paper is based on the reader assigned for the course, with no additional projects required at this time.

Project Deadlines

The project synopsis is due on December 7th, but early submissions are welcomed. Clarification is provided regarding the final exam format.

Exam Format

The final exam will consist of an essay question; however, details are still being formulated as the course progresses.

The midterm will be a true/false format, ensuring students understand key concepts covered in class.

Lecture Structure and Content

Lecture Notes and PowerPoint Usage

The instructor plans to use PowerPoint slides during lectures but reassures students that all information will also be available in lecture notes.

Students are encouraged to listen actively rather than take extensive notes during introductory lectures.

Break Time

A 10-minute break is announced before continuing with the lecture content.

Understanding Scripture Interpretation

Contextual Background

The course assumes prior exposure to biblical texts such as the Book of Acts and Pauline epistles, which will inform discussions.

Deepening Understanding

Emphasis is placed on developing skills to interpret scripture deeply rather than merely reading for devotional purposes.

Students should aim to understand both individual verses (trees) and broader themes (forest), enhancing their ability to interpret scriptures effectively.

The Purpose of Study: Expedition vs. Application

Distinction Between Lectern and Pulpit

The focus of this course is on "expedition"—the exploration and understanding of scripture—rather than direct application or preaching.

Historical Distance Consideration

Two critical factors in interpretation include historical distance from original writings and contemporary relevance, guiding how students approach scriptural texts.

Understanding Historical Distance and Contemporary Relevance in Scripture Interpretation

The Role of Historical Distance

Emphasizes the importance of making historical distance explicit when interpreting scripture, allowing for a deeper understanding of context.

Highlights that while historical distance is made explicit in academic study, contemporary relevance becomes more implicit; this contrasts with preaching where contemporary relevance is emphasized.

Shifting Perspectives in Interpretation

Discusses the necessity to switch perspectives between historical distance and contemporary relevance depending on the context of study or preaching.

Introduces major areas for deepening understanding of Acts and Paul's writings, including questions about authorship, date, place of origin, and intended audience.

Contextual Considerations

Stresses the significance of understanding background elements such as language, style, and chronology when studying biblical texts.

Points out that chronological order in the New Testament does not reflect the actual dates of writing; thus, context must be carefully considered.

Cultural and Religious Background

Underlines the need to understand the religious, political, and cultural makeup of first-century Mediterranean society for accurate interpretation.

Discusses distinctions within Judaism during this period—Palestinian versus Hellenistic—and their implications for scriptural interpretation.

The Community Aspect of Biblical Interpretation

Collective Understanding vs. Individualism

Argues that interpretation should be a communal endeavor rather than an individualistic one; it’s essential to avoid personal interpretations detached from broader church teachings.

Reinforces that interpretation belongs to the church community as a whole rather than being solely based on personal revelations or insights.

Historical Context in Canon Formation

Notes that decisions regarding which books were included in the New Testament canon were made collectively by early church leaders over several centuries.

Emphasizes that recognizing this communal aspect is crucial for proper biblical interpretation today.

Ecumenical Undertaking

Describes biblical interpretation as an ecumenical task involving unity across geographical locations and historical periods within Christianity.

Challenges Within Denominational Interpretations

Divergent Understandings

Acknowledges existing denominational differences stemming from varied interpretations; highlights examples like differing views on baptism among Pentecostals and Reformed traditions.

Learning from History

Encourages appreciation for past interpretations while learning from both successes and mistakes without absolutizing any single perspective.

Understanding the Community Aspect of Biblical Interpretation

The Role of Community in Scripture

Emphasizes that biblical interpretation is a communal endeavor rather than an individual pursuit, highlighting the importance of the church community in understanding scripture.

Stresses the need for careful and methodical study of scriptures, focusing on their intended function rather than merely background information.

Intent and Purpose of Pauline Letters

Questions the authorship and intent behind Paul's letters, emphasizing the significance of understanding their primary purpose.

Critiques liberal interpretations that suggest a mix of divine and human words in scripture, asserting that the Bible is solely God's word.

Importance of Structure in Interpretation

Highlights that understanding the structure and intention behind biblical documents is crucial for proper interpretation.

Warns against peripheral studies overshadowing textual meaning; introductory questions should not detract from core interpretations.

The Methodology for Interpreting Scripture

Redemptive Historical Approach

Discusses how critical traditions can overwhelm text analysis, leading to a loss of essential meanings within scripture.

Introduces Christological biblical theology as a focus on what authors like Luke and Paul intended to convey through their writings.

Revelation Through Scripture

States that these writings serve as revelations from God about Jesus Christ's person and work throughout history.

Defines "gospel" broadly beyond just four books, indicating its role as God's power for salvation (Romans 1:16).

Distinctive Characteristics of Biblical Theology

Unique Approach at Reformed Theological Seminary

Identifies redemptive historical or biblical theological approaches as distinctive features of Reformed Theological Seminary's methodology.

Clarifies that interpreting documents as God's word requires an understanding rooted in redemptive history.

Reform View of the World: Understanding Biblical Theology

Overview of Reform Worldview

The reform worldview begins with the concepts of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation, emphasizing God's redemptive work throughout history.

This redemptive history is illustrated through God's actions in Israel and later Palestine, highlighting the historical unfolding of divine revelation.

Key Aspects of Biblical Theology

A biblical theological approach focuses on understanding scripture within its historical context, emphasizing a historical process as a distinguishing concern.

Revelation is described as a historical process involving verbal communication from God that is both spoken and written; it emphasizes the significance of history in understanding scripture.

Production and Manuscripts

The production of scripture reflects a covenant community's record of God's revelation over time, contrasting with texts like the Quran or Book of Mormon that claim direct heavenly origin.

Unlike singular copies found in other religious texts, the Bible has numerous manuscripts which contribute to discussions about its authenticity and interpretation.

Contextual Study in Biblical Theology

Biblical theology requires attention to texts within their redemptive-historical context—understanding how God’s plan unfolds through scripture leading to Christ.

Each scriptural unit should be interpreted concerning its role in revealing God's plan culminating in Christ's incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension.

Importance of Redemptive Historical Context

The Old Testament foreshadows Christ's coming; thus, interpreting scripture must consider this overarching narrative focused on Jesus as the Messiah.

Emphasizing redemptive historical context is crucial for accurate interpretation; it aligns readers closer to what scripture intends to reveal.

Revelation as Historical Disclosure

Hebrews 1 and 2 are cited as key biblical statements supporting a theological approach that views revelation as historically grounded rather than timelessly abstract.

Revelation serves not just as an isolated truth but reveals insights about God’s nature and humanity within specific historical conditions.

Timelessness vs. Historical Conditioning

While some truths may seem timeless (e.g., Jesus' constancy), they are rooted in specific historical events—Jesus’ life was prophesied and fulfilled historically.

The discussion refutes claims that revelation exists outside history; instead, it emphasizes God's ongoing activity as creator and redeemer throughout time.

Revelation and God's Redemptive Activity

Understanding Revelation in Context

Revelation is intrinsically linked to God's activity, serving as a testament or interpretation of past redemptive actions.

The context of revelation emphasizes God's role as both creator and redeemer, highlighting His ongoing work in the world.

God’s existence is characterized by absolute self-sufficiency and independence; He has no origin and exists eternally.

Verbal revelation is derivative, meaning it arises from God's actions throughout history, emphasizing the connection between word and deed.

Historical Process of Revelation

Revelation unfolds as a historical process, rooted in God’s work to redeem humanity, beginning with creation and culminating in Christ's work.

Scripture represents a complete historical organism rather than isolated oracles; it should be viewed as a cohesive narrative of redemption.

The speaker acknowledges that understanding these concepts may take time but encourages engagement with biblical theology for deeper insight.

Biblical Foundation for Redemption History

The assertion from Hebrews 1:1–2 highlights the historical nature of revelation: God spoke through prophets before ultimately speaking through His Son.

Key factors include:

The reality of revelation as a historical process ("long ago" vs. "in these days").

Christ being the eschatological endpoint of this process.

Diversity in modes and genres within scripture must be acknowledged.

Approaches to Scriptural Interpretation

Emphasis on preaching the gospel rather than moralistic interpretations; Christ should be central to all sermons derived from scripture.

A distinction is made between grammatical/literary approaches versus redemptive-historical methods; the latter must take precedence due to its foundational importance in understanding scripture's intent.

While grammatical and literary methods are valid, they should operate within the framework established by redemptive history.

Unity in Scripture

Discussion transitions into biblical theology focusing on unity—specifically doctrinal unity—as integral to interpreting scripture accurately.

Understanding the Unity of Scripture

The Concept of Self-Interpreting Scripture

The interpretation of scripture should be done through scripture itself, ensuring a safe and coherent understanding.

This unity is described as redemptive historical or covenantal historical, emphasizing its significance in understanding biblical texts.

Beyond Non-Contradictory Propositions

Unity in scripture transcends merely being a set of non-contradicting propositions; it embodies a deeper redemptive historical context.

Recognizing this unity involves acknowledging the organic unfolding of historical processes reported in scripture.

Historical Context and Understanding

Affirming the unity of scripture means recognizing the underlying historical process that informs its revelations.

Differences in numerical accounts (e.g., years in Egypt) should not distract from the essential message regarding God's actions throughout history.

Importance of Redemptive Historical Context

Understanding a text requires situating it within the history of revelation and redemption, which is crucial for grasping its meaning.

Old Testament figures must be viewed through their roles in redemptive history rather than moralistic interpretations.

Methodological Considerations in Biblical Theology

Preaching from Old Testament narratives necessitates placing them within their redemptive historical context to avoid superficial applications.

The term "biblical theology" can imply an independent discipline but should be understood as part of a broader methodological approach across theological studies.

Historical Biblical Theology: An Overview

The Emergence of Historical Biblical Theology

Historical biblical theology is a relatively recent development, particularly within traditions grounded in biblically sound presuppositions.

This discipline can be traced back over a hundred years, with significant contributions from Gerhardus Vos, who is considered the father of reformed biblical theology.

Vos was the first professor of biblical theology at Princeton, teaching from 1893 to 1932 and establishing foundational concepts in this field.

Contextual Challenges and Misunderstandings

The term "biblical theology" emerged in the late 19th century amidst movements aimed at overturning classical Christian orthodoxy, leading to some reservations about its use.

Emphasizing Vos's work does not imply a rejection of previous theological insights; rather, it highlights continuity with earlier traditions dating back to the early church.

The Historical Character of Salvation

Biblical theology emphasizes that salvation is rooted in historical reality, which has been a point of contention since early church conflicts with Gnosticism.

Early Christians recognized that salvation and faith depend on God's actions throughout history, culminating in Christ's work.

Knowledge of God and Its Implications

Understanding salvation involves recognizing that it depends not only on knowledge about God but also on what He has accomplished historically through Christ.

This perspective challenges notions like Gnosticism that suggest special knowledge is necessary for salvation.

The Unique Nature of Christianity

Christianity presents a unique understanding of truth that often conflicts with surrounding philosophical traditions, as seen during Paul's visit to Athens (Acts 17).

Since the Reformation, there has been an implicit biblical theological approach that acknowledges revelation as an organically unfolding process.

Significance of Vos's Contributions

Vos emphasized the importance of understanding revelation as an organic process rather than static truths. His work laid groundwork for future theological exploration.

Understanding Biblical Theology

The Nature of Biblical Theology

Biblical theology is described as an "organically unfolding process" that has significant methodological implications, emphasizing its necessity rather than being a luxury.

It is not merely one approach among many; biblical theological method is essential and should not be treated as a trial-and-error method.

The speaker critiques theological elitism, asserting that true biblical theology does not involve esoteric insights but rather an orientation called forth by the text itself.

Correct Handling of Scripture

Emphasizing the importance of correctly handling the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15), the speaker highlights that this right handling is central to biblical theology.

The term "biblical theology" should be understood more as an adjective describing a hermeneutical approach rather than a strict methodology.

Approach vs. Methodology

The discussion shifts to viewing biblical theology as an approach or orientation, focusing on how one engages with the text rather than adhering to rigid methodologies.

This approach recognizes various methodological levels and procedures, accommodating different perspectives while maintaining a macro view.

Sermon Construction and Interpretation

Biblical theology does not prescribe a standard sermon format; instead, it allows for diverse interpretations leading to varied forms of sermons based on scriptural understanding.

Encouragement is given for deeper engagement with biblical theology to enhance message delivery and interpretation relevance in personal life.

New Testament Focus in Biblical Theology

A focus on New Testament studies will address questions regarding historical redemption and covenant history within biblical theology.

Key discussions will include how to honor the historically progressive nature of biblical revelation in relation to the New Testament's endpoint.

Revelation Process Comparison

In contrast to the Old Testament's historical process of revelation, which spans over a millennium, the New Testament emphasizes reaching an endpoint in this revelatory journey.

This distinction highlights that while Old Testament documents reflect ongoing development, New Testament writings are concerned with culmination points in revelation.

Understanding the Eschatological Nature of New Testament Revelation

The Context of New Testament Writing

The New Testament was written in a relatively short time frame, approximately one generation or less than a century, which may reflect differences in its content compared to the Old Testament.

Focus on Christ's Work

The central theme of the New Testament is the person and work of Christ, encompassing everything from the Gospels to Revelation. This includes an emphasis on the eschatological nature of Christ's work.

Eschatology in New Testament Revelation

The revelation within the New Testament culminates in Christ’s coming, highlighting its eschatological significance as it represents an endpoint in God's revelational process. Hebrews 1:2 emphasizes that God has spoken through His Son at the end of ages.

Progression from Humiliation to Exaltation

There is a notable progression within the New Testament narrative, moving from John the Baptist's ministry to Jesus' earthly ministry and then into the apostolic church as documented in Acts. This reflects a transition from humiliation to exaltation, marking a significant shift from God's wrath to grace.

Critique of Carl Barth's Theology

Carl Barth’s theology denies any historical transition between wrath and grace, proposing instead a timeless perspective that lacks sympathy within reform circles due to his rejection of historical Christology. This view contrasts sharply with traditional interpretations that recognize this critical transition.

Centrality of Christ’s Death and Resurrection

The primary focus for New Testament writers is not on developmental patterns but rather on the climactic events surrounding Christ’s death and resurrection, which are seen as pivotal moments in redemptive history that fulfill Old Testament prophecies. Everything else remains secondary or tertiary by comparison.

Post-Resurrection Perspective

All documents within the New Testament are written from a post-resurrection viewpoint, emphasizing their connection to redemption history following Jesus’ resurrection and ascension into heaven. This perspective shapes how these texts relate back to earlier biblical narratives and prophecies concerning Christ's role as fulfillment and consummation of Old Testament history.

Understanding the New Testament's Perspective on Christ

The Post-Resurrection Viewpoint

The Gospels, even those focused on events prior to the resurrection, are written from a post-resurrection perspective. This is particularly evident in the Gospel of John.

Key passages such as John 21 and 7:39 illustrate this viewpoint, emphasizing that all four Gospels share this characteristic.

Diverse Witnesses to Christ

The New Testament serves as a diverse synchronic witness to both the crucified and exalted Christ, highlighting its role as a redemptive historical record.

This diversity reflects various perspectives on Christ and the culmination of covenant history from a post-resurrection standpoint.

Synchronic vs. Diachronic Perspectives

The term "synchronic" indicates that these writings do not focus on chronological order but rather present a unified view of Christ after His resurrection. This contrasts with "diachronic," which would consider historical development over time.

Even disciples who were contemporaneous with Jesus wrote their accounts with an understanding shaped by His resurrection, linking events to eschatological significance.

Apostolic Witness and Its Implications

The apostolic witness emphasizes the exaltation of Christ from a synchronic perspective, focusing on what it means for believers today rather than merely recounting past events.

The term "witness" (marria) implies more than just observation; it denotes an authoritative testimony that establishes truth about Christ's nature and work.

Challenges in Defining 'Witness'

There is hesitation in contemporary scholarship regarding the use of "witness" due to influences like Karl Barth’s views, which suggest a separation between revelation and scripture, framing biblical accounts as mere human testimonies rather than divine truths.

Barth's approach has led some scholars to view scripture as fallible human accounts instead of infallible witnesses to God's revelation, creating tension in how we understand biblical authority today.

Importance of Reliable Testimony

Despite critical traditions' hesitations about using "witness," it remains essential for understanding the New Testament's reliability and authority; it signifies truth that can be trusted in spiritual matters.

In John 5:39–47, Jesus underscores that scriptures testify about Him, reinforcing that true witness points towards eternal life found in Him rather than merely serving as historical documents or personal testimonies alone.

Understanding the Witness of Moses and Jesus

The Relationship Between Moses and Jesus

Jesus asserts that belief in Moses is essential for believing in Him, as Moses wrote about Him. He challenges the Pharisees on their lack of faith in Moses' testimony.

The Pharisees are accused of not truly accepting Moses' witness, despite claiming to follow his law. This contradiction highlights their failure to recognize the connection between Moses and Christ.

Apostolic Witness and Authority

The New Testament presents a dual witness: Jesus’ personal testimony and the apostolic witness, both affirming His identity. This establishes a foundation for understanding authority within Christian teachings.

The authority of the apostles is equated with that of Jesus, indicating that their writings carry equal weight as His words. This underscores the significance of apostolic writings in conveying divine truth.

Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is described as a "spirit of truth," reinforcing the unity among Christ, the Spirit, and the apostles regarding authority. Their testimonies are seen as infallible and inspired by God.

New Testament texts (e.g., Romans, James) are recognized not merely as human letters but as divinely inspired scripture, emphasizing their role in revealing God's word.

Diversity of Witnesses in Scripture

The New Testament serves fundamentally as a witness to an exalted Jesus. It comprises 27 books considered infallible due to their divine inspiration.

Acknowledging diverse witnesses (Matthew, Mark, Paul, Peter, Luke) enriches our understanding by highlighting each author's unique perspective while maintaining a unified message about Christ.

Importance of Human Instrumentality

While recognizing human authorship adds depth to biblical texts, it should not overshadow their divine origin. Paul's assertion emphasizes that receiving his preaching is akin to receiving God's word directly.

Understanding this dynamic helps clarify how human instrumentality contributes meaningfully to scripture without diminishing its divine authority or purpose.