Assignment (1): An essay taken from a list of topics, critically discussing the appropriate application of a text from Paul's epistles to an ethical or pastoral dilemma, drawing on material studied in the module. (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4)

Assignment (2): A reflective discussion giving the rationale for a `product' such as a work of art, outline for group study etc.that enables insight into reading the Bible among children, young people or families. (Learning Outcomes 2, 3, 4)

Ballard, P.H., & Holmes, S.R. (2005), The Bible in Pastoral Practice, London: DLT.
Holgate, D. & Starr, R. (2006), Biblical Hermeneutics, London: SCM.
Marshall, I. H., Travis, S.H. & Paul, I. (2002), Exploring the New Testament vol. 2: The Letters and Revelation, London: SPCK.
Pattison, S., Cooling, M. & Cooling, T. (2007), Using the Bible in Christian Ministry: A Workbook, London: DLT, units 8-11, 15-16.
Thompson, J.W. (2006), Pastoral Ministry according to Paul, Grand Rapids: Baker.
Woodman, S.P. (2008), The Book of Revelation, London: SCM.

150 hours, of which 15 will be active lectures and learning groups, 64 fieldwork hours, and the rest independent study.

This module returns to a New Testament focus, this time on the letters and the book of Revelation. Theseare considered in the light of their background in the first-century Roman empire and with a view to their resonance and applicability to Christian life and ministry today. The nature of Paul's ministry, the gospel he preached, and his approach to pastoral concerns in the life of his churches are examined and assessed, with a view to understanding how his approach may helpfully inform our approach to Christian ministry today. Particular attention is given to the difficulties of the book of Revelation and a critical assessment of various strategies for reading it. The dangers and potential of `apocalyptic' theology and thought in contemporary culture are explored. The discussion of approaches to biblical interpretation over the first two levels is built on in this module by a deeper examination of hermeneutical theory, and especially of the contemporary perception of the crucial place of the reader and his/her social location in the event of making `meaning' from `texts' of any kind. This leads into a focus on some of the more difficult settings in which those involved in Christian ministry or community work find themselves needing to deploy the Bible in a transformative and sensitive way, aware of the diversity of responses to it. These will include group discussion or teaching sessions among children, young people or families, and situations where guidance from the Bible is sought in ethical decision-making or pastoral encounter. Students will be expected to bring to bear insights from other modules on human growth, learning and faith development on the specific issue of the use of the Bible in such settings. The importance of developing and encouraging a practical yet also spiritual wisdom, drawing on Scripture but also on other theological and `secular' sources, will be stressed. The module will conclude with the presentation of a special project on which the student has been working (see above).

On-site library and internet access to Staffordshire University Library
PCs with standard suite of University software providing access to e-mail, the internet, word processing, etc.
Rooms with access for disabled students, and suitable for group work