CLAS LEC 8 P1

Overview of Short Assignment

• The initial assignment will be descriptive in nature.

• Focus will not be on making arguments but rather on describing specific texts.

• Incorporation of various provided materials is encouraged.

Required Elements for Paper

• Selection of Texts: Choose one text from the provided list.

• Author and Date: Attempt to identify the author and the date of the selected text, where possible.

  • Acknowledge that some texts may lack clear authorship and dating.

• Historical Context: Discuss the historical context surrounding the text, including:

  • Prompting issues for the text.

  • Historical background relevant to the genre (e.g., apocalyptic, epistolary).

• Genre Identification: Identify the genre of the text, noting any characteristics (e.g., martyrdom narratives).

Key Considerations for Textual Analysis

• Key Ideas and Arguments: What is the text about?

  • Identification of critical issues that it raises or addresses.

  • Explore the usefulness of the text in the study of early Christianity.

• Outline Requirement: A brief outline or table of contents summarizing the chosen text must not exceed one page.

Class Engagement and Participation

• Importance of attendance: 15% of the overall grade.

• Encourage classmates to be active participants in discussions for better comprehension of the material.

• A reminder that engagement helps in grasping complex topics effectively.

Understanding of Pauline Letters

• Occasional Letters: Paul's letters are written to address specific issues in particular communities/contexts in the first century.

• Recognize that extrapolation from these letters into different historical contexts is a secondary interpretive act.

Themes in 1st Corinthians

• Unity and Division: Issues addressed include the nature of community, conflicts, and specific problems cited by Chloe's people.

• The letter addresses theological principles along with social conduct within the church.

Analysis of Acts 18

• Paul’s Arrival in Corinth: Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla, who are tentmakers, highlighting their shared trade.

• Preaching in the Synagogue: Paul’s rejection by the Jews leads him to focus on Gentiles after confronting opposition.

• Proconsul Gallio's Dismissal: A significant event where Gallio refuses to adjudicate a religious dispute among Jews about Paul's teachings.

Summary of Paul’s Missionary Work

• A lengthy stay (18 months) in Corinth is noted, showcasing the challenges and successes in preaching.

• Key individuals become followers including members of the synagogue.

Reflections on Understanding Key Themes

• Students are encouraged to ask questions about challenging passages, particularly regarding the interpretation of key verses such as love and salvation.

• Exploration of foundational theological concepts within cultural contexts of the texts examined, including how they relate to contemporary discussions.