The Story of the Bible
Approaching the Bible as a story allows us to see ourselves and our world within its narrative. This is not at the expense of critically assessing the text, the module has been crafted in reference to Bible commentaries and the work of biblical theologians. A story cycle is how the course has been developed and each week builds upon the previous one, culminating in seeing the meta-narrative of the Bible as a story of creation and new creation.
This module seeks to combine biblical studies with personal and communal devotion reading. This is accomplished through following a Bible reading plan as the foundation of the module called “The Story of the Bible.”
Living out the Bible's story
Each day participants will have a reading which over 8 weeks will take them through the story of the Bible, highlighting major themes. Each week, Integration Groups will discuss the theme for the week, and at the weekly module facilitation this theme will be expounded upon by a skilled facilitator. Books chapters and podcast episodes will also be required to continue to explore the themes.
Assessment
Participants will choose one of the following for assessment. If you are interested in further study after the program, we suggest the paper writing option:
- Write a 1,000 word paper on one of the themes from the Story of the Bible. The aim of this paper is for the student to express what they have learned and how this might apply to their own life, ministry, or the world in some way. Sources mentioned throughout the module and from the textbook are expected. Marks will be awarded for academic sources from outside of the suggestions which are engaged with and add to the paper’s subject. Footnotes or endnotes and a short bibliography is expected of any works quoted. Student’s can choose which referencing system they use as long as it is uniform throughout the paper.
- A 10-minute presentation on one of the themes from the Story of the Bible. This will need to include a PowerPoint or some sort of visual aid with the presentation. It will also be expected to refer to any sources that might have been mentioned for the week that is being presented on and provide a list of sources as a slide at the end of the presentation. Original material found on the subject is also encouraged to be included.
Module textbook
Scripture and the Authority of God - N.T. Wright