This module forms an introduction to the study of the Bible, the primary source of authority within Christian theology. Students are introduced to other approaches (e.g., systematic or historical theology), but the module focuses on biblical theology, taking a narrative approach to explore how key biblical themes (particularly through the lens of the kingdom) are unfolded within an overarching story of the mission of God. A goal is for students to appreciate more clearly the narrative structure of Christian doctrine and to use this biblical-theological knowledge to develop their understanding of how the doctrines examined can apply to ministry practice and personal spirituality, such as their own purpose and location within the mission of God.

This module provides a broad biblical and theological foundation for subsequent study and feeds into biblically focused modules at Levels 5 and 6.

The module aims to:

• enable students to describe the overall “storyline” of the Bible and introduce central Christian beliefs and how they fit within the overall Bible story;

• consider how the gospel of Jesus Christ is understood within the Bible’s storyline; engage in reflection on personal and practical implications of where contemporary believers belong within the overall mission of God.