Catholic Scriptures: An Introduction (UniSA)

In this course, students will examine the First and Second Testaments as enduring sacred texts, while analysing contemporary Scriptural interpretation and the Catholic educational implications of the Scripture studied. Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of key literary genres, themes and structures of the First and Second Testaments. The Pentateuch's central place in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures is explored (especially the Books of Genesis and Exodus), including the contrast between literalist and contextualist approaches to Scriptural interpretation and the role of the Historical-metaphorical approach. This is linked with understanding the various worldviews which shape Scriptural interpretation. The study of the Second Testament includes a survey of First-Century CE Judaism and the Jewish context of Jesus, prior to exploration of the historical development of the Gospels. The close links between the First Testament and the Gospels are examined, especially through the study of Matthew's Gospel. The course also explores the relevance of these early Christian texts and communities for contemporary Catholic school settings and Religious Education programs.