Biblical Research Paper

Order Description

BST 2010
Paper #2 – Biblical Research Paper
Key Info:
– MLA Format.
– Double spaced, 12 pt. font.
– 6-8 pages in length.
– No less than 5 citations from academic sources.
– The paper is to be about a specific passage of OT Scripture.
– The paper is due no later than November 17th.
Overview:
The key goal of this class is two-fold.
It is our desire that every student enrolled in the course will develop a working knowledge of the Old Testament. We want students to be able to:
– Highlight key individuals in the narrative.
– Communicate the significant movements of the nation of Israel.
– Identify the major themes seen throughout the OT.
– Point out the Messianic expectation seen in the Jewish faith.
It is also our desire that all students in this course will acquire the skills to adequately study and research the Scripture in an academic manner. This includes the
following skills:
– Knowing where/how to find academic research material, such as commentaries, expositional studies, and online research journals.
– Properly citing academic sources within a research paper.
– Presenting key information about the Biblical text in an intentional and organized manner.

 

Guidelines for Paper construction:

– Introduction
o Title/Author (Do scholars agree and what is YOUR opinion)?
o Date (Do scholars agree and what is YOUR opinion)?
o Literary style/Genre
o Setting
? Geographic location (where did this happen)?
? Cultural Context/ Historical Setting (what were the larger historical developments going on in that time period)?
? Audience (who was the message intended for)?

– Content
o What is the structure of the book… what are the main sections?
o Who are the key individuals?
o What has happened and what has been said before the highlighted passage?

[Transition this to the specific passage of the paper].

– Specific Passage
o What is the primary message of the paper’s passage?
o What are key/primary words used?
o What is the immediate and long term response(s) to the message?
o What do scholars ultimately conclude from this passage?

– Application
o Did this passage have a legacy with its original audience? Did it point to anything or anyone to come later on?
o How does this passage relate to us today?
o How do you apply the message of this message to your specific life?
Possible Bible Passages:
Choose one
– Genesis 12:1-3
– 1 Kings 8:41-43
– Psalm 22:27-31
– Ezekiel 18:29-32

Final Instructions:
Remember, it is crucial that your paper follow the rubric laid out above! Academic sources cited properly are pivotal to the success of this paper. As well, the layout
and organization of this paper will show the intentionality of your work. Those who follow this plan will prove that they have understood the underlying goal of this
course. Finally, remember that both Professor Benbow, the Library staff, and the Academic Skills Center are incredibly valuable resources. All are committed to your
development and your growth. Use them!