Contact hours will consist of interactive presentations, discussion, group work and critical debate with the aim of enabling development of advanced work-related skills and competencies. Directed learning resources will be provided via Blackboard for continued study, reflection and student engagement between taught sessions.

Oasis College Library and on-line access to Staffordshire University Library
Access to ICT and use of Blackboard
Rooms with access for disabled students

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. There will be particular attention to hermeneutics and sensitivity to the various genres of Bible literature when exploring values and beliefs in work with people.

Camery-Hoggatt, Jerry (2007), Reading the Good Book Well: A Guide to Biblical Interpretation, Nashville TN, Abingdon Press.
DeSilva, David A. (2004), An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods & Ministry Formation, Downers Grove, IL, InterVarsity Press.
Gowan, Donald E. (1998), Theology of the Prophetic Books: The Death and Resurrection of Israel, Louisville, KY, Westminster John Knox Press.
Kahl, Brigitte (2010), Galatians Reimagined: Reading with the Eyes of the Vanquished, Minneapolis, MN, Fortress Press.
Kraybill, Nelson (2010), Apocalypse and Allegiance: Worship, Politics, and Devotion in the Book of Revelation, Grand Rapids, MI, Brazos Press.
Sharp, Carolyn J. (2010), Wrestling with the Word: The Hebrew Scriptures and the Christian Believer, Louisville, KY, Westminster John Knox Press.
Stulman, Louis, et al (2010), You Are My People: An Introduction to Prophetic Literature, Nashville, Abingdon
Thiselton, Anthony C. (2009), Hermeneutics: An Introduction, Grand Rapids, MI; Eerdmans.

1. Individual Presentation (15 minutes) weighted at 25% (Learning Outcomes 2, 4)
A 15 minute critically informed presentation of a use of the Bible in Christian ministry relevant to the student's particular context (equivalent to 2000 word essay)

2. An Assignment of 2,000 words, weighted at 25% (Learning Outcomes 1,2 and 3)
A written reflection on the use of the Bible in Christian ministry relevant to the student's context.

3. A final Assignment of 3,500 words, weighted at 50% (Learning Outcomes 3 and 5)
An essay on the use of the Bible in Christian ministry, with particular attention to hermeneutics