SYLLABUS
HOMI 960: Biblical Hermeneutics and Exposition
Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary
June 4-8, 2007
Dr. Donald Fowler
Office (434) 582-2668
Email dfowler@liberety.edu
Course Description: A study of the principles for accurate interpretation and appropriate
application and delivery of Scripture in its various settings or genre. Problems created by
various literary forms, cultural differences, and theological issues will be considered.
Preaching will be engaged with personal examination, employment of forms in light of
literary, cultural and theological issues.
Course Objectives:
1. To develop an understanding of the principles involved in validly interpreting a
text.
2. To develop the ability to apply those principles to God’s Word in order to
understand its meaning correctly.
3. To develop the ability to weigh the relative merits of alternative interpretations of
a given passage objectively.
4. To develop the ability to discuss differences of opinion regarding interpretations
of a passage in an open and non-dogmatic manner.
5. To be able to use the above understandings and skills effectively in preaching,
teaching and counseling.
Grading
Book Review
Term Paper
Manuscripts
Examination
10%
30%
30%
30%
Pre-course Assignments:
The two book reviews are to be submitted the first morning of the class.
1. Read Lawrence Crabb, Understanding People, Grand Rapids: Zondervan, and write a
10 page evaluation of the book that will include at least 3 pages at the end evaluating
truths affecting your approach to ministry.
2. Read carefully, The Art of Preaching Old Testament Narrative by Steven
Matthewson, Grand Rapids: Baker.
3. Read carefully, Sidney Greidanus, The Modern Preacher and the Ancient Text.
Grand Rapids: Eerdmans. This will be the primary text for the class. Write a five
page critical analysis of this book giving in details the strengths and weaknesses of
the book.
Class assignments
Attend all classes and prepare for a comprehensive examination covering the
contents of the textbook and class lectures.
Post-course assignments
1.
2.
You will manuscript and deliver in typed format four sermons on assigned
passages. You should try to create in written form an exact replica of what
you would have presented orally. The sermon should be between 20 and 30
minutes when read from the paper.
You will write a 20 page paper explaining your view of the best method for
preaching the biblical text. You will need to cite at least 15 sources.
Turabian form should be used.
You will have 6 weeks to complete the course requirements following the modular.
Exact dates will be provided in class.