LIFE OF PAUL SYLLABUS
Spring 2008
Instructors: Tony Fajkus, Tom Bedford, and Doug Davenport.
TEXTS:
“The Apostle Paul”, by Dow Robinson
NASB Bible
OPTIONAL REFERENCES:
“Paul, Apostle of the Heart Set Free”, F. F. Bruce
The “Diary” Series by Gene Edwards
DESCRIPTION: A course of study in the Life of Paul as outlined in the Book of Acts. His epistles, other New Testament books and other historical documents will provide a context and backdrop from which to study Paul’s life and its’ effects.
PURPOSE: To train the student of the Bible in the chronology of Paul’s life, emphasizing the important role of the Holy Spirit. In addition the major theological themes of Paul’s life and ministry will be explored and how all of this can help us become better disciples
COURSE OUTLINE:
WEEK 1. Overview and Purpose of Class. Intro: pages 1 – 14. (Dow Robinson)
Jan 21
Key Ideas
Why take this class?
Why are you here? Your expectations.
Class administration, homework, books, handouts, etc. [Read Acts]
Discuss – “What can I learn about being a disciple from Paul’s life?”
\
WEEK 2. Introduction – Overview of Paul.
Jan 28
Key Ideas
Apostle of Grace
Church Builder
Relational Apostle
Writer
His effects
Remarkable Characteristics
Discuss “Why are churches in America weak?”
WEEK 3. Background.
Feb 4
Key Ideas
Jewish Politics and Religion
Four Religious/Political Groups among the Jews.
Five Issues that Made the World Ready for the Gospel
Early Background of Paul’s Life
Pauline Kerygma – the Gospel that Paul Preached
Discuss syncretism
WEEK 4. The Conversion of Paul. Chapter 1: pages 15 – 21. (Dow Robinson)
Feb 11
Key Ideas
Background of Pentecost
The Christian Diaspora
When Paul meets Jesus
Paul’s new Life
Discuss “Does it Matter How a Disciples’ Spiritual Life Starts?”
Watch Acts 1-9 Video
WEEK 5. Paul – His Early Christian Years.
Feb 18
Key Ideas
Paul’s Preparation for Ministry
Work of the Antioch Church
Famine Relief
Setting Apart Ministers for the Work
Discuss “The Problems with Current Church Methods of Raising Up Leaders”.
WEEK 6. Paul, And The First Apostolic Trip. Chapter 2 & 3: pages 22 – 34. (Dow Robinson)
Feb 25
Key Ideas
First Missionary Journey Detailed
Travel to Asia Minor [Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, & Derbe]
Return to Antioch
Judaizers Come
Violation of Church Autonomy
Discussion on Churches being Autonomous.
WEEK 7. Religions and Philosophies Paul Encountered.
Mar 3
Key Ideas
Religions Paul Encountered
Philosophies Paul Encountered
Heresies of the Early Church
Discussion “Is it Important to Know What the People Believe When You go Into Different Cultures?
WEEK 8. Paul’s Second Apostolic Journey. Chapter 4: pages 35 – 45. (Dow Robinson)
Mar 17
Key Ideas
Traveling By Land – Visiting the First Churches
Macedonian Call – Who’s in Charge?
Travel to Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth.
Paul’s return to Jerusalem and then Antioch.
Discussion: “What are some of Paul’s Patterns for Ministry we see on this trip?”
WEEK 9. Paul’s Third Apostolic Journey. Chapter 5: pages 46 – 54. (Dow Robinson)
Mar 24
Key Ideas
Paul’s third Apostolic Phase
Pastors of Ephesus
Paul Travels to Galatia
Progress in Ephesus
Christianity takes on Black Magic
What’s next for Paul?
Paul’s company to Jerusalem
Discuss “The Church’s Impact on Culture”.
WEEK 10. Paul The Captive. Chapter 6 & 7: pages 55 – 71. (Dow Robinson)
Mar 31
Key Ideas
Nazarite vow
The Jewish Uprising
Nearing the end of Paul Public Ministry
Watch Acts Video
WEEK 11. Paul Goes To Rome. Chapter 8: pages 72 – 80. (Dow Robinson)
Apr 7
Key Ideas
Ship wreck. Life on the High Seas
Arrival in Rome
Recap Paul’s Life
Watch Acts Video
WEEK 12. Paul’s Final Days. Chapter 9: pages 81 – 93. (Dow Robinson)
Apr 14
Key Ideas
First Roman Captivity
Second Roman Imprisonment
Discussion on the most important aspect of Paul’s imprisonment.
WEEK 13. Concluding Reflections on Paul’s Life.
Apr 21
Key Ideas
His personality
Four themes he emphasized
WEEK 14. Paul’s Theology. Chapter 10: pages 94 – 100. (Dow Robinson)
Apr 28
Key Ideas
Pauline Concepts of Ministry
Pauline Theology on the Church
WEEK 15. Paul’s Theology (con’t).
May 5
WEEK 16. Final
May 12
ATTENDANCE: Since several principles we learn in later chapters build upon guidelines we learn earlier in our studies, it is very important that students try their best to be present for classes each week. If you must miss a class for a valid reason, please contact your instructor before class and make arrangements to get the material covered.
LATE HOMEWORK:
Late homework will be accepted, but a grade penalty will be given. No late work will be accepted beyond the final without a reasonable excuse.
STUDENT EVALUATION:
Your grade in the Life of Paul class will be determined by the following factors and assignments:
Three research papers. Each will be a minimum of three (3) pages typed, double spaced (12 pt).
The first paper will be a book report from one of the “Diary” series books by Gene Edwards. [Due Feb. 25th]
The second paper will be on the letter to the Ephesians, with Bibliography. You will address two things in your paper:
The historical background of the letter and the Ephesian church.
Pauline ecclesiology as found in Ephesians.
The third paper will be on “What I have learned about being a disciple who builds the church from Paul’s life”.
Grading of paper: 25% grammar and mechanics, 25% presentation & 50% content.
Homework – as given.
Quizzes – as announced
A Final
Grading of course
Homework - 25%
Quizzes - 15%
Papers (3) - 40%
Final - 20%