The Johannine Literature

THL307

This subject examines the Johannine literature within the New Testament (the Gospel and epistles of John; Revelation). It addresses literary and historical evidence that Johannine Christianity was a distinctive development within early Christianity with its own literature. Emphasis is given to the setting, genre, content and theology of the Gospel and letters of John, supplemented by a comparative introduction to the book of Revelation.

Duration

One Semester

Availability

Semester 2 every odd year

Subject Points

8

Core/Elective

Elective

Delivery Mode

On site at St Francis College Milton; or Externally – log in to listen and participate or view the lecture via video later.

Prerequisites

THL106 and at least one 200-level subject

An Introduction to the Johannine Gospel and Letters / Jan van der Watt, 2007. [ISBN: 9780567030375]

The year of publication and ISBN given corresponds to the copy placed in Closed Reserve at the Roscoe Library; there may be other valid ISBNs that differ because of a different publisher or format. Please contact your lecturer or the Roscoe Library staff to confirm text before purchasing. If purchasing, we recommend that you use booko.com.au.

Prescribed Texts

An exegetical essay

A research essay

Assessments

Content

This subject will cover the following topics:

  • The place and shape of Johannine Christianity in the context of first-century Christianity

  • The relationship of Johannine Christianity to Judaism, the Graeco-Roman world and other expressions of early Christianity

  • The authorship, genre and provenance of the Gospel and letters of John and Revelation

  • An examination of the Gospel of John, the three letters of John and the book of Revelation from literary, historical and theological perspectives

  • The literary, historical and theological interrelations between the Gospel of John, the letters of John and Revelation

  • Central themes of Johannine theology

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

  • be able to demonstrate a critical and informed understanding of issues relating to the interpretation of the Johannine literature;

  • be able to demonstrate familiarity with evidence indicating the history, development and distinctiveness of Johannine Christianity;

  • be able to demonstrate critical appreciation of the distinctiveness of the Gospel of John;

  • be able to discuss similarities and differences between the Gospel of John, the Johannine epistles and Revelation, including their literary, historical and theological relationships;

  • be able to discuss major theological and ethical themes in the Johannine literature and critically evaluate their contemporary relevance;

  • be able to demonstrate advanced competence in the exegesis and interpretation of biblical texts through critical engagement with primary biblical materials and constructive engagement with secondary literature; and

  • be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills.