Introduction to the Bible (Prelim)
This first-year paper investigates the nature and purpose of the Bible, giving attention not only to the content of the biblical books but also to aspects of their historical setting as well as their interpretation and reception in Jewish and Christian belief and practice.
Two sets of 8 lectures in Old Testament/Hebrew Bible and New Testament, respectively, will be given during the Michaelmas and Hilary Terms by some of the Faculty's senior specialists in these areas.
Over the following two terms the Faculty will also provide four classes on the prescribed texts concerning Abraham (Genesis 12-25: Hilary Term) and four on Jesus (the Gospel of Luke: Trinity Term). Your College will additionally arrange a course of eight (2×4) tutorials, usually scheduled in the Hilary Term.
Do also consult the ORLO reading list for this paper (Oxford single sign-on required).
The paper will be assessed by three-hour examination at the end of the Trinity Term. Textual gobbets for comment will be drawn from eight specific chapters in the prescribed texts: Genesis 15-17 and 22; Luke 21-24.
Please find additional important information below:
The following is a list of the New Testament topics covered during lectures in the Michaelmas Term.
For lecture handouts, where available, follow the links that will be provided here during the course of the term.
Michaelmas 2026: New Testament
| Week | Lecturer | Topic |
| 1 | Dr Martin | A Survey of the New Testament |
| 2 | Prof. Downs | From Jesus to the Written Gospel |
| 3 | Prof. Downs | From Mark to Matthew |
| 4 | Dr Martin | Luke, Acts and History |
| 5 | Prof. Downs | John and the Son of God |
| 6 | Dr Reiss | The Life and Letter of Paul |
| 7 | Prof. Bockmuehl | Worship from Hebrews to Revelation |
| 8 | Prof. Bockmuehl | The Two-Testament Bible as Christian Scripture |
All eight lectures will be be given in person at the Exam Schools, 10 AM on Tuesdays in the Michaelmas Term.
Lecture recordings will only be available if requested in advance on behalf of students identified with a documented Student Support Plan.
You should also plan to attend the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible lectures: both series of lectures, tutorials, and the associated text classes in the next two terms, are relevant to the Examination for this paper.
Text Classes
Trinity Term: Luke 21-24.
Also note for the Hilary Term: Genesis 15-17, 22