This module will provide a critical evaluation of key literary, historical and theological aspects of biblical interpretation and discuss communicative considerations in using the Bible in Christian Ministry. Participants will have opportunities to develop interpretive and communicative skills employed in teaching and preaching roles.

This module will continue the three inter-related learning strategies for the programme. Taught workshops will consist of interactive presentations, discussion, and critical debate. Tutorials will allow discussion of the individual research students are undertaking to prepare their assignments. Independent study will allow reading around selected topics, the development of individual responses to the reading and the preparation for the assessed presentation and essay.

Oasis College Library
On-line access to Staffordshire University Library
Access to ICT
Rooms with access for disabled students

Presentation:
A 15 minute presentation of a use of the Bible in Christian ministry relevant to the student's particular context [Learning Outcomes 2, 4]

Written assignment: (Final assessment)
A 2,000 word critical analysis of practice. [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3]

Ballard, Paul, (2006), The Bible in Pastoral Practice: Readings in the Place and Function of Scripture in the Church, Eerdmans, Grand Rapids, MI.
Briggs, Richard (2003), Reading the Bible Wisely, SPCK, London.
Davis, Ellen F. & Hays, Richard B. edd. (2003), The Art of Reading Scripture, Eerdmans, Grand Rapids, MI.
DeSilva, David A. (2004), An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods & Ministry Formation, IVP, Downers Grove, IL.
Fee, Gordon, & Stuart, Douglas (20032), How to Read the Bible for all its Worth, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, MI.
Pattison, Stephen (2007), Using the Bible in Christian Ministry, Darton Longman & Todd, London.