B9258A Lukan Literature and Theology

⇒ Back Course Disciplines

This course unit enables students to study the two-volume work Luke-Acts which encompasses a Gospel and an early Christian theological history. It builds upon at least one previous unit on the New Testament and can advance Biblical Studies for students in AQF Level 9 programs.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Account at an advanced level for the complex historical, religious, and social background of Luke-Acts
2. Explain the various literary forms used in the construction of Luke-Acts
3. Interpret the theological themes of Luke-Acts
4. Exegete select passages from the Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles using appropriate methodologies
5. Construct liturgies, homilies, or biblical discussion group materials on Luke-Acts

Weekly Topics

1. Introduction to course unit; authorship of Luke-Acts; genre; date of writing; historical, literary, and theological unity of this two-volume word
2. Historical, religious, social context of the Christian community of Luke-Acts: geography, ethnic, religious, socio-economic, and historical background.
3. Gospel of Luke: outline, structure and narrative shape. Infancy Narrative: Luke 1-2. Parallels: annunciation, birth accounts. Cf. with Matt 1-2; Hymns: John the Baptist; Mary the Theotokos; Simeon & Anna.
4. Preparation for Jesus’ public ministry: Luke 3:1-4:13. Proclamation by John the Baptist;Jesus’ baptism; Lukan genealogy; temptations in the desert
5. Jesus’ healing and preaching ministry in Galilee – Luke 4:14-9:50 Jesus announces his ministry in Nazareth synagogue, 4:16-30; sermon on plain; miracles and parables; first two Passion predictions; teachings on discipleship
6. Journey to and mission in Jerusalem – Luke 9:51-21:38 Mission of “the 70”; Good Samaritan; Martha and Mary; teaching; healing; prayer; forgiveness parables; third Passion prediction; Jerusalem ministry
7. Luke’s passion, death and resurrection narrative – Luke 22:1-24:53; The Last Supper; agony in the garden; arrest and trials; Jesus’ crucifixion and death; resurrection appearances.
8. Acts of the Apostles - narrative, thematic, theological links with the Gospel; Pentecost and the early Jerusalem community – Luke 1:1-8:1a.
9. Acts 8:2a-15:35. Missions in Samaria and Judaea; Paul’s first missionary journey; First Council of Jerusalem.
10. Acts 15:36-21:14. The Church expands into Europe: Paul’s second and third missionary journeys.
11. Acts 21:15-28:31. Paul in Jerusalem and journey to Rome; theological themes of Luke-Acts
12. Application; Themes of Luke-Acts for preaching; faith education; liturgical year; prayer