The Bible Study Method

Metanarrative Discipleship

Bible 9

Mr. O’Brien

Email:

Course Summary

Bible 9 has a two-fold purpose. First,this class prepares learners to be good stewards of the Bible. Students will be able to come to the Scriptures prayerfully, seek the Scriptures properly, and apply the Scriptures faithfully. Second,it equips students to “play the proper role” in God’s Big Story. The Triune God of Scripture has called His people to join His mission for His glory. This course willhelp students comprehend how this is applicable within the various contexts of life.

Year at A Glance

1st Semester

A Definition of Hermeneutics

Survey of Interpretive Methods

A Critique of Interpretive Methods

Argumentation in Favor of the Historical-Grammatical Method

Grasping the Literary Context

Grasping the Historic Context

Creating Biblical Applications

2nd Semester

The BIG STORY of Redemptive History

A Disciple’s Role in God’s Big Story

Essential Information

  1. Materials: Students will need a study Bible. Unless an exception is given (KJV), the NIV will be used on all quizzes and tests. Students must also acquire a 3-Ring Binder with dividers.
  1. Technology: All students should create a shortcut on their computers to the CSY BIBLE app and, if desired, download this app to their phones (highly recommended). This will give students 24/7 availability to homework assignments, exegetical engagements, video lectures, projects, and extra credit opportunities. In addition, students will be able to take in-class polls, experience online learning games, and look at memorable class moments.

Shortcut for Computer:

App for Phone:

  1. Flash drive: A flash drive is highly recommended in order to back up files.
  1. Assignments and Grading: All work must be typed (12 point) following the standard report format for CSY’s English Department.

Quarterly Grading Chart

% / Category / Description
25 / 2 or 3 Quizzes / Quizzes will primarily be based upon classroom notes; it is essential for students to seek clarification immediately on any concepts that they struggle with.
25 / Quarterly Test / Towards the end of each quarter, students will have a summative exam.
25 / 1 or 2 Major Project(s) / Projects are usually experiential and communal in nature. These will vary from quarter to quarter.
15 / Homework / Homework assignments will be diverse; students will usually have required reading from a book that supplements the course material; they will also have periodic exegetical assignments on Scriptures that are connected to the course content. Finally, students will have occasional assignments that involve familial input in order to invite a student’s family into his or her educational experience.
10 / Opening Entries / These are given to students during every class period. If a student misses an entry, he or she is responsible to make it up.
5 / Extra Credit Opportunity / Students will be given one extra credit opportunity per quarter. This opportunity will normally be posted on the CSY Bible blog.
  1. Student Sources:

Kent, Paul. Know Your Bible: All 66 Books Explained and Applied. Uhrichsville, OH: Barbour Publishing, 2008.

Nielson, Jon. Bible Study: A Student’s Guide. Phillispburg, NJ: P & R Publishing, 2013.

Schaeffer, Francis A. The Mark of the Christian. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Books, 1970.

Sproul, R.C. Knowing Scripture. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Books, 2009.

  1. Discussion Guidelines – SMILES

SEEK the Truth

MASTERPrecision

INCLUDE the Voice of All

LOVEOthers

ENGAGEArguments, Not Persons

STAYon Topic

  1. Classroom Expectations: All students will sign a classroom agreement form. This signature demonstrates that the students know and understand the classroom standards. These expectations call learners to practice stewardship, accept responsibility, and promote social heath for the glory of God. The motive behind these expectations is to help students perpetually grow as witnesses of Christ. For this reason, Mr. O’Brien will lovingly keep the students accountable. When students breach the classroom contract, they will fill out an ONLINE infraction form; thisreflective process will help students think through their actions, which ought to enable them to experience growth. Students are also expected to fill out a make-up homework form if they do not turn in an assignment on time for any reason.

SPECIFICClassroom Expectations

Practice Stewardship

1) Do not bring food into the classroom unless given permission; the only time you may eat in this classroom is during a class party or after a break.

2) Do not throw items in class.

3) Do not sit or stand on top of the desks or go behind the teacher’s desk.

4) Clean up the area around your desk before you leave the classroom; make sure the desk is in the proper spot.

5) Request permission if you want to borrow an item from the teacher or from a student.

Accept Responsibility

1) Bring the necessary Bible materials to class and take everything that belongs to you when you leave the classroom.

2) Be on time; when you enter the classroom, go to your seat and work on your journal or exegetical engagement.

3) Acquire a pass before you leave the classroom.

4) Follow the tech expectations. Cell phones may only be used when the teacher gives permission. Outside of these times, it should stay in the technology basket.

5) Fill out a make-up form if your homework is late.

Promote Social Health

1) Do not sharpen your pencil during a classroom discussion.

2) Remember, the bell does not dismiss you from class; the teacher will let you know when are permitted to leave.

3) Use the gift of language in a way that glorifies God.

4) Follow the handbook on Boy-Girl Relationships.

5) If you violate a classroom expectation, fill out the online infraction form before you leave the classroom.

About Your Teacher

I grew up in Quincy, IL. After “Living like a Corinthian” in my youth, the Spirit of God opened up my depraved eyes and enabled me to embrace the Lord Jesus while I was at Southern Illinois University. Instead of continuing my pursuit of a business degree in order to open up a night club, God changed the affections within my heart. I had a fresh hunger to learn more about the God of the gospel. Hence, I journeyed to Dallas, Texas to attend Christ for the Nations. Towards the end of my time at CFNI, I met a virtuous sweetheart named Brooke. Brooke and I united in the covenant of marriage a little over two years later. As a newly wedded couple, Brooke graciously supported my endeavor to continue an education at Criswell College; as a result, I received a BA in Biblical Studies. Her encouragement was also immensely instrumental in helping me to complete a Master’s Degree in Theology at Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary.

Brooke and I eventually moved from Dallas to Santa Rosa, CA, where I taught the Bible to HS students and Brooke served as a stay at home mom. After two years, the Lord transitioned us again; I acceptable a HS Bible position in York, PA at Christian School of York; my family and I also joined CityView Community Church, where I currently serve as an elder on the pastoral team.

At the present, Brooke and I have four children. Malachi was born in Texas;Selah was born in California, and Isabella was born in Pennsylvania. Recently, Aidan joined the family; there must be something special about PA because this is the first state to give us two kids. Our youngsters are hectic and hilarious, and one of their favorite things to do is camping, which conveniently gives them an avenue to be energetic and wild in memorable ways. Brooke enjoys creating all-natural skin products for her business and dancing before the Lord; my prime interests are reading theological and philosophical writings and playing basketball and ping pong. As a family, our ultimate goal is to bring glory to the Triune God of Scripture in every sphere of life.