Bible Theology Paper
Goal:
In this paper you are studying a theological topic. Your goal is to explain that topic
thoroughly. The proper basis for theological ideas is the Bible, so ultimately that will be
your source as you try to answer the question “What does the Bible say about (your
topic)?” As you study, look for different views on your topic. Research those views in
other systematic theologies, theological books, commentaries, articles, websites, etc.
Step 1: Choose a topic and talk with Mr. Haynes about it!
- Topic should be of some interest to you
- Topic should be something you can have conversations about with friends/family
- You should be able to handle the topic adequately in the time available to you and in the length of document you intend to write
Step 2: Researching your topic
- You need to consult 5 of your own sources (7 sources for Honors) for this paper in additionto your Systematic Theology textbook (Grudem) as well as your ESV Study Bible. This means the Bible 4 class has 7 resources total, Honors has 9.
- UPDATED -If you were not able to get print resources, you may use all online sources
- If you rely on study notes from ANY study Bible, you can include that as your commentary source.
- You can use free online commentaries such as BibleGateway, BlueLetterBible, BibleStudyTools, etc.
- Berkhof’s Systematic is available free
https://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/sdg/berkhof/systematic_theology.html
- If you’re having any trouble with sources, please do not hesitate to ask me for help
- Make use of the school library (theology section), there are some great resources there.
- There are great online resources that will help you research. Please ask Mr. Haynes if you need good website recommendations.
- Ligonier, Gospel Coalition, White Horse Inn, Core Christianity, and Challies.com are great online resources to start with.
- In addition, several seminaries (such as RTS, SBTS, WTS, and WSCAL) may have some useful information for your studies.
Step 3: Writing your paper:
- Introduction – you should begin your paper with at least one paragraph that
introduces your topic. Without going into great detail, briefly explain what you’ll be
talking about in your paper, and what some of the major viewpoints are.
- Thesismust be clearly presented in Introduction section
- Viewpoints – present the main views on this topic. (important: as you think through your topic, make sure to pick something that people disagree on). If everyone is saying the same thing about your topic, you will not have much material for this section of the paper!
- Analysis – after presenting various viewpoints on your topic, assess each view. What could be considered a benefit about each side of the theological argument, and what do you disagree with?
- Defend your thesis– after all your research, what do you believe about your topic? Defend why you think this is the correct interpretation of the Scriptures on your given topic
- Application – how does your topic influence real life? Why does it matter for
Christians? How will you live differently now that you know more? Make this section of your paper at least one page.
Formatting your paper:
Font – 12-point font, Times New Roman
Length – 6-8 pages (10-12 pages Honors), double-spaced
Format – See MLA style guide
Works Cited/Bibliography – compile a Works Cited/Bibliography of ALL resources
Turning in your paper:
DUE DATE: physical copy due 4/30/2020 in class
Online: please submit a copy online to turnitin.com
Tips for Success:
As you write your paper, make sure to include the five sections listed in the “Writing
your paper” instructions above. Don’t skip any!
GRADING RUBRIC
Topic (10)
Your topic is thought-provoking, specific, relevant to this course, & discussed in the Bible
Turnitin.com (10)
You must submit your paper online at turnitin.com
Introduction (20)
Your introduction should clearly present your theological topic/thesis, discuss why it is important to consider, and summarize what you will be discussing in your paper.
Viewpoints (30)
Your discussion of each viewpoint should be clear, thoughtful, and well-researched. Treat each view fairly
by presenting pros and cons. Engaging with the church’s views on this topic throughout its history is HIGHLY encouraged.
Analysis (30)
Your analysis of each view is thoughtful, Biblically based, and organized.
Defense of Thesis (40)
You will not be graded on whether your view aligns with Mr. Haynes. Instead, your defense should show that you’ve thought deeply about your topic, taken your research into consideration, and founded your opinions on the Bible.
Application (30)
You application section should be heartfelt, realistic, and practical. As a senior, how does knowledge of this topic affect your everyday life. How can you live it out? Be authentic in this section.
Research (10)
For full credit, you must have at least two print sources (not including Grudem and ESV Study Bible, which all papers must have as a source) and a total of 5 sources (7 for Honors). Your bibliography should be organized neatly.
Grammar (20)
Your paper should reflect the writing and editing of a senior. Please edit your work for spelling and grammar errors. If they abound, you will lose points.
Total 200