Galatians & Ephesians
This course provides an introduction to a body of literature that is of great interest in the interpretation of the New Testament: the texts of early rabbinic Judaism (1st-6th centuries CE). The course will center around a series of comparative readings between passages of the New Testament, and selections from rabbinic literature (both halakhic texts and haggadic texts). Students will become familiar with the exegetical techniques of ancient Judaism and their influence upon Christian exegesis, while also probing the extent to which early rabbinic texts can help to illuminate aspects of the New Testament.
About the Instructor: Dr. MacLachlan earned a BA (University of Toronto); an MDiv (Emmanuel College, Toronto); and DTheol (Basel). His thesis supervisor was Markus Barth. His specialties are the Revelation to John, the Apostle Paul, and Jewish and early Christian apocalyptic. His interests include Biblical theology and the relationship of the Bible to Systematic Theology, Jewish-Christian dialogue, and interfaith/ecumenical dialogue. He served with United Church of Canada congregations in Nova Scotia prior to serving with at AST, and has chaired The United Church of Canada’s Committee for Theology and Faith, including the time in which it produced the The Authority and Interpretation of Scripture.
Dates: July 13-July 24, 2026
Days & Times: Monday-Friday, 9:15am-12:15pm
Requirements: Readings and discussions. No written work, projects, or presentations.
Books to purchase: Reading list will be provided by the professor.
Fee: $275.00
Format: In-person only
Location: King’s Room (lower-level AST Library)
Please note: This Continuing Education program is non-credit, meaning it cannot be counted toward a degree or diploma, and will not be transcripted. Continuing Education registrations are refundable until 7 days before a program commences. After that time, fees are non-refundable.
Questions? Please contact: Lydia Hood, Continuing Education Coordinator, at lydia.hood@astheology.ns.ca
Or the instructor, the Rev. Dr. David MacLachlan at david.maclachlan@astheology.ns.ca