Course Description
This course approaches the Bible as a decolonizing text that presents a vision of human dignity, justice, and peace, and that exposes and opposes the false truths of colonial regimes. It introduces students to basic methods of biblical interpretation and to elements of postcolonial interpretation, with the assumption that a thoughtful and faithful interpretation of the text forms the foundation for the passage’s extension into the life of the church through preaching.
Ready to align your preaching with a more just and inclusive approach? You're in the right spot! By taking this course, you'll develop the skills to craft sermons that resonate with a diverse congregation, fostering a more empathetic and informed community. This isn't just about preaching; it's about igniting meaningful conversations and initiating change. We'll show you how to apply postcolonial theory to real-world scenarios, challenging and enriching your spiritual leadership. You'll walk away not only with a deeper historical understanding but with the practical tools to make a difference from the pulpit to the pews.
What you will learn
Throughout this course, we will engage with basic methods of biblical interpretation and delve into the elements of postcolonial interpretation. The primary focus will be on how these interpretations can inform and enrich the practice of preaching within the church.
Our discussions will center on selected biblical texts and readings from Abuelita Faith by Kat Armas. These readings will guide us in examining how biblical passages confront imperial ideologies and empower communities to live faithfully amidst these realities. Through a combination of textual analysis, reflective journaling, and class discussions, you will develop a deeper understanding of how to approach preaching from a postcolonial perspective.
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the tools to interpret and preach the Bible in ways that resonate with the themes of liberation, justice, and resistance to empire, fostering a transformative impact on your faith community.
Curriculum
Your instructor: Dr. L. Daniel Hawk
Daniel Hawk is Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew. He is keenly concerned to expand students’ biblical horizons to empower Christian mission to a world in flux. For him, this means introducing students to an array of critical approaches and exploring insights from other fields of knowledge. He is the author and editor of numerous publications, including Evangelical Postcolonial Conversations: Global Awakenings in Theology and Praxis.
Currently he is developing a series of lectures on settler colonialism which are highly relevant to this program. In The Violence of the Biblical God, for example, he utilizes contemporary narrative criticism to address the complexity of the biblical witness on divine violence. In Joshua in 3-D he engages postcolonial theory to read the book of Joshua as a mirror for Christian conversation on the American master narrative of Manifest Destiny. His commentary on Ruth incorporates ethnic studies to reveal a story that presents an inclusive vision of Israelite identity. An ordained minister in the United Methodist Church, Dr. Hawk’s teaching ministry is grounded in Christian community.
Ashland Theological Seminary
Ashland Theological Seminary’s goal is to provide affordable and accessible education for those seeking to grow spiritually and fulfill their calling.
La Red Educativa Genesaret
Is a partner in this theological venture.
Galilean Theological Center
The main goals of GTC's SUD Educational & Training Program are to address disparities and build equity for the Latinx community of as it relates to SUD and mental health challenges.