General Biblical Theology

This course aims to acquaint people new to Biblical Theology, a branch of biblical studies that has gained much attention in recent years. The phrase "biblical theology" has existed for a very long time and can be interpreted in various ways. On one level, biblical theology is just the theology given in the Bible; it is biblical instruction. However, Biblical Theology is defined as a distinct branch of biblical studies to distinguish it from Systematic Theology. Systematic Theology examines the teaching of the Bible in its final, comprehensive whole and asks, "What does the Bible teach about X?" Systematic Theology is tasked with providing the answer: what the Bible teaches about God, Christ, salvation, the Trinity, the church, etc.

On the other hand, Biblical Theology considers the Bible as a tale and a revelation that is unfolding, and its work involves tracing the development of this story and revelation. It is also driven by time and chronology—how the story or a particular theme (such as the creation and new creation; promise and fulfilment; exile and return; rest, unrest, and final rest; the absence and return of God's presence) evolves and unfolds. It considers how each book of the Bible adds to "the overarching story" and its developing plotline. It notes ideas along the way that are picked up and expanded by the following authors. It recognises the emergence of notions, mental processes, and symbols or imagery that first have perhaps a suggestive relevance but are later imbued with deeper meaning.