Course Description: Although primarily a study of what Jesus taught, attention is given to the literary and environmental background of his teaching, the historical life of the teacher, and the contemporary validity of what he taught.

Prerequisite Course(s) & requirements other than coursework: Junior standing or permission of the Department.

J. Jeremias, Jerusalem during the Time of Jesus

V. Tcherikover, Hellenistic Civilization and the Jews

Bart Ehrmann, Jesus: Apocalyptic Prophet of the New Millennium

A modern translation of the New Testament (see the instructor for a list)

1. To introduce students to the modern, critical study of the significance of Jesus.
2. To enable students to understand the historical background of the ministry of Jesus.
3. To enable students to interpret the teachings of Jesus within his context.
4. To examine the sociopolitical factors which impacted Jesus’ life, ministry and death.

1. Modern Studies of Jesus (since 1800)
2. The Greco-Roman Context of the Ministry of Jesus
3. Judaism within the Roman Empire

1. Judaism within Palestine
2. Judaism outside Palestine

1. Jesus as a Teacher-Prophet

1. Key events in the life of Jesus
2. The teachings of Jesus (select passages)
3. Interpretations of Jesus in Paul and the Early Church

1. Summation & Conclusion

The University of Georgia insisted upon the highest standards of moral conduct in all its courses. In keeping with the University Honor Code and Academic Honesty Policy, each student is expected to do his/her own academic work and to acknowledge fully any assistance and/or any academic resource. All academic work must meet the standards contained in "A Culture of Honesty." Each student is responsible to inform themselves about those standards before performing any academic work.

1. Each student must complete all required reading.
2. Each student is expected to participate fully each day in class discussions.
3. Each student is expected to attend every class session. (Students are allowed one unexcused absence per credit hour.)
4. Students should notify the instructor as soon as possible if personal crises or academic conflicts (e.g., two examinations on the same day) arise.
5. Make-up examinations will be considered on an individual basis.

1. Two examinations: a midterm and a final examination (32% per examination)
2. A term paper on either a topic or a passage (32%)
3. Class attendance and participation (4%)