Using the Bible

The Bible has been used to support all kinds of perspectives with varying degrees of responsibility. This course looks at the  use of the Bible in theological arguments. It will examine how the  Bible is APPLIED in conciliar and other church documents, as well as in  statements by ecumenical groups, sermons, and film. Some attention will be given to the variety of interpretive  methods in the history of the Church, but the main focus is the use (and abuse) of the Bible in contemporary theological argumentation. Topics include, e.g., Eucharistic debates, Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, the role of women in the Church, and responses to war. Drawing on the rich variety of contemporary hermeneutical options, the  course aims to enrich students' exegetical skills and critical ability when making theological arguments and using church documents. The course is team-taught by a Lutheran professor of New Testament and a Catholic professor of theology. Lectures, discussions, short papers, final take-home exam.