Assignment: Research Paper on Old Testament Theological Themes for BIBL 461 Old Testament Theology

For module leaders in BIBL 461, this research paper functions as the major summative assessment, requiring students to synthesize a central Old Testament theological theme across the canonical divisions. Students trace the theme’s development from Torah through Prophets and Writings, addressing continuity, progression, and diversity while engaging canonical shape and New Testament connections where relevant. The assignment demands exegetical depth, critical interaction with major Old Testament theologies, and theological reflection. Assign it early to facilitate substantial research. In moderation, assess exegetical precision, handling of Hebrew text where applicable (transliteration permitted), balanced scholarly engagement, and Turabian accuracy to prepare students for advanced study.

Assignment Overview

Write a Research Paper investigating one major theological theme in the Old Testament. Trace its presentation across the primary canonical sections (Torah, Prophets, Writings), analyze continuity and development, and evaluate its enduring significance for Christian theology.

Assignment Instructions

1. Choose one major Old Testament theological theme from options such as covenant, kingdom of God, Yahweh’s character and attributes, creation and new creation, redemption/exodus motif, or prophecy and fulfillment (or propose an alternative for approval).
2. Structure the paper with an introduction articulating the thesis and methodological approach, body sections organized by canonical divisions (Torah, Former/Latter Prophets, Writings), a synthesis section exploring unity, diversity, and progression, and a conclusion addressing implications for biblical theology and Christian faith.
3. Conduct exegetical analysis of key primary texts and engage critically with at least six scholarly sources, including standard Old Testament theologies and specialized studies.
4. Use current Turabian format with footnotes for citations and a bibliography. Demonstrate independent research and coherent, nuanced argumentation.
5. Submit as a single document via the course platform by the due date.

The paper must be 2,500–3,000 words, excluding title page, footnotes, and bibliography. Significant deviations will result in penalties.

Marking Rubric

Use this rubric for objective, consistent grading. Total: 100 points.

• Introduction and Thesis (15 points): Focused thesis, clear scope, and sound methodology. Excellent: 14–15; Good: 11–13; Fair: 8–10; Poor: Below 8.
• Exegetical Analysis by Canonical Section (30 points): Thorough, textually grounded treatment across Torah, Prophets, and Writings. Excellent: 27–30; Good: 21–26; Fair: 15–20; Poor: Below 15.
• Synthesis and Theological Insight (30 points): Perceptive discussion of continuity, development, diversity, and canonical/theological significance. Excellent: 27–30; Good: 21–26; Fair: 15–20; Poor: Below 15.
• Scholarly Engagement (15 points): Critical, balanced interaction with at least six sources representing diverse perspectives. Excellent: 14–15; Good: 11–13; Fair: 8–10; Poor: Below 8.
• Writing, Organization, and Formatting (10 points): Clear prose, logical structure, and precise Turabian style. Excellent: 9–10; Good: 7–8; Fair: 5–6; Poor: Below 5.

The covenant theme in the Old Testament reveals Yahweh’s initiative in establishing relational bonds with humanity, progressing from universal (Noahic) to particular (Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic) expressions while anticipating a new covenant. In the Torah, covenant frames Israel’s identity through promise, law, and faithfulness. The Prophets critique covenant breach yet proclaim restoration and internalization. The Writings reflect on covenant loyalty amid exile and return, pointing to enduring divine commitment. Despite historical failures, the theme coheres around God’s unchanging hesed and ultimate renewal. This trajectory informs Christian understanding of grace fulfilled in Christ. As Waltke emphasizes, the covenants form a unified redemptive plan culminating in eschatological fulfillment (Waltke, B. K. with Yu, C., 2007. An Old Testament Theology: An Exegetical, Canonical, and Thematic Approach).

References

Waltke, B. K. with Yu, C., 2007. An Old Testament theology: An exegetical, canonical, and thematic approach. Zondervan. DOI: 10.2307/j.ctt1w6td3q.

House, P. R., 2018. Old Testament theology. InterVarsity Press. Available at: https://www.ivpress.com/old-testament-theology.

Goldingay, J., 2016. Old Testament theology: Israel’s gospel. InterVarsity Press. Available at: https://www.ivpress.com/old-testament-theology-volume-one.

Brueggemann, W., 2020. Theology of the Old Testament: Testimony, dispute, advocacy. Fortress Press. Available at: https://fortresspress.com/store/product/9780800699314/Theology-of-the-Old-Testament.