Write an inquiry-driven research paper of at least 5 double-spaced pages in which you (1.) ask a focused question about an aspect of the New Testament that you would like to discover more about, (2.) research scholarly books, articles, and commentaries to inform yourself about your question, (3.) answer your own question with the help of information learned from your scholarly sources, and (4.) conclude with a paragraph-length pastoral, theological, or moral application that grows directly out of your research findings.
Because biblical studies, theology, and religious studies scholarly writings are done predominantly per the Chicago Manual of Style, students must learn and correctly apply this style in the research paper.
Paper must include:
1. An engaging opening paragraph in which you explain the background for your focused research question and personal reasons for wanting to answer it.
2. An introductory paragraph in which you preview the conclusion you have arrived at and introduce the issues and subtopics your research has uncovered.
3. A logical flow with transitions and logical thinking.
4. Interaction with sources showing critical thinking and connected knowing.
5. A clear conclusion in which you recapitulate the evidence discussed in your paper and answer your research question succinctly, along with a paragraph-length application.
A bibliography with at least 5 scholarly sources.
My research question is how does persecution affect church structure and leadership? I decided to write this paper because I find that my church doesn’t fully prepare us for facing persecution and just grazes on the subject. They only caution us that as christians, we will face persecution. I wanted my findings to be used as a practical explanation. You can use scripture, like Titus, 1 and 2 Timothy, and Revelations (and any other scripture you feel might help answer the research question) as well as credible commentaries for sources, but also primary sources from martyrs like Ignatius, polycarp, felicity and perpétua. ( you can find the primary sources at this link https://www.earlychristianwritings.com/). I’m going to attached what I started writing, maybe it might be useful.
