Reading the Gospels Contextually, Comparatively, and Faithfully

This seminar will explore various reading strategies for the Synoptic Gospels that produce effective and accurate interpretations of these narratives of the life of Jesus. Attention will be paid to both the similarities and differences between the Synoptics and what these similarities and differences tell us. We will also explore how an understanding of historical and social contexts behind the Synoptics is essential for competent and meaningful readings of the Gospels today.


Speaker and Bio

The Rev'd Canon Associate Professor Robert Derrenbacker is Frank Woods Lecturer in New Testament

Dean of the Trinity College Theological School within the University of Divinity.  Prior to this he was President of Thorneloe University and Associate Professor of New Testament at Regent College in Canada.  He holds degrees in Theology from the University of St. Michael’s College at the University of Toronto (PhD), Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (MATS) and Wheaton College (BA) and his research foci are the composition of the synoptic gospels, and the Pauline epistles.

Bob is a friend of St James and we especially value the Trinity in Sydney partnership which allows us to offer several degree level theological unit at the St James Institute each year.   

 See https://www.trinity.unimelb.edu.au/theological-school/trinity-in-sydney  for current year offerings.