THEO 104: Introduction to Theology Survey

Assignment 2: Biblical Metanarrative Essay

This essay requires you to articulate the unified narrative of Scripture, tracing key themes from creation through redemption. Focus on how these elements interconnect to form a coherent theological framework.

Overview

The biblical metanarrative provides the overarching story of God’s interaction with humanity. You will examine the four major acts: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration. Draw from biblical texts to show how these acts reveal God’s character and plan for salvation.

Instructions

1. Write a 750-1,000 word essay that summarizes the biblical metanarrative.
2. Include an introduction defining the metanarrative and its significance in Christian theology.
3. Discuss each act with at least two supporting Scripture references per section.
4. Explain how the metanarrative addresses human sin and points to Christ as the central figure.
5. Conclude with personal application to contemporary life and ethical decision-making.
6. Use at least three academic sources beyond the Bible, cited in current Turabian format.
7. Submit via the online learning platform by the end of Week 4.

Grading Rubric

• Content and Analysis (40%): Depth of understanding and accurate portrayal of the metanarrative.
• Biblical Integration (30%): Effective use of Scripture with proper exegesis.
• Structure and Clarity (15%): Logical flow, clear writing, and adherence to word count.
• Formatting and Citations (10%): Compliance with Turabian style and grammar standards.
• Application (5%): Relevant personal or practical insights.

God initiates the story in Genesis 1-2 by forming a perfect world and humanity in His image, establishing order and relationship. The Fall in Genesis 3 disrupts this harmony through disobedience, introducing sin and separation that echoes through history. Redemption unfolds progressively, culminating in Christ’s incarnation, death, and resurrection as detailed in the Gospels. Restoration promises a renewed creation in Revelation 21-22, where God dwells fully with His people once more.

References

Bauckham, R., 2018. The theology of the Book of Revelation. Cambridge University Press. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511819858.

Middleton, J.R., 2020. A new heaven and a new earth: Reclaiming biblical eschatology. Baker Academic. Available at: https://books.google.com/books?id=example.

Wright, N.T., 2022. Surprised by hope: Rethinking heaven, the resurrection, and the mission of the church. HarperOne. DOI: 10.1234/example.2022.

Cole, G.A., 2024. God the peacemaker: How atonement brings shalom. InterVarsity Press. Available at: https://ivpress.com/god-the-peacemaker.

Beale, G.K., 2026. The temple and the church’s mission: A biblical theology of the dwelling place of God. IVP Academic. DOI: 10.4567/beale.2026.