Theology (THEO)
This course will examine the biblical witness and the many strands of the Christian tradition regarding the doctrine of creation. Students will explore the real and practical implications of the Church’s confession. Course will be taught off-site.
A study of Christian worship, its biblical foundations, its historical development, its practice in both free church and liturgical traditions, and of materials and methods for planning orders of worship and leading worship in the local church.
An intensive examination of selected contemporary topics, issues, and methodologies in the dynamic environment of Christian worship. Course may be repeated for credit when the content varies. Maximum 6 hours credit.
An intensive examination of various topics in systematic theology. Special attention is given to the biblical materials and to the insights of contemporary Christian philosophers. Course may be repeated for credit when the content varies. Maximum 9 hrs. credit.
An introduction to the Christian Scriptures with an emphasis on the background, historical setting, literary critical methodology, and the interrelationship between the testaments. This course will provide the student with an understanding of the basic issues necessary for in-depth analysis of the biblical text.
A survey of Christian history and theology from the 2nd century through the 20th century. The primary purpose of the course is to prepare students for the Christian Texts & Traditions sequence of courses and for Constructive Theology. The course will focus much on the vocabulary of Christian theology as well as influential Christian leaders, thinkers, movements, events and documents. The formation of Christian doctrines will be also be studied.
An introduction to the principal issues in Christian theology and a survey of the historical development of teachings that constitute the body of orthodox doctrine in the church.
A study of the language and literature of the Greek New Testament with attention to vocabulary, grammar, and syntax through the reading of selected texts.
A continuation of the study of the language and literature of the Greek New Testament with attention to vocabulary, grammar, and syntax through the reading of selected texts.
An introduction to the language of biblical Hebrew through analysis of the grammar, morphology, vocabulary. The first semester introduces the noun, the adjective, and the basic verb form.
An introduction to the language of biblical Hebrew through analysis of grammar, morphology, and vocabulary. This semester introduces derived verb forms, basic Hebrew syntax, and exegesis of Old Testament texts in Hebrew.
A study and analysis of the major texts and traditions of the church from the apostolic period to the beginning of the Protestant Reformation.
A study and analysis of the major texts and traditions of the church from the Protestant Reformation to the nineteenth century.
A study and analysis of the major texts and traditions of the church in the twentieth century with an emphasis upon the interaction of Christianity with contemporary culture and the student's ability to read contemporary culture with a view toward ministry.
An advanced theological review of the major writings of selected theologians who or movements that were significant in Christian history (for example, Tertullian, Augustine, Luther, Anabaptism, John Wesley, or Karl Barth). The course may be taken three times when content changes. Maximum 9 hours credit.
In-depth analysis of the literary issues, meaning and message of the text of the Old Testament, including Genesis through II Kings.
In-depth analysis of the literary issues, meaning and message of the text of the New Testament, from Matthew through the Acts of the Apostles.
Continuation of Christian Scriptures I with an emphasis on the text of the Old Testament, including the Latter Prophets and the Writings.
Continuation of Christian Scriptures III with an emphasis on the text of the New Testament, from Romans to Revelation.
Features the reading of selected portions or books of the New Testament in English translation. It will seek to interpret the primary writings of the New Testament canon at an intensive level, and the content may vary in subsequent terms. The readings will emphasize the historical intention of the text and its theological message. The course requires no competence in the Greek New Testament. The course may be repeated for a maximum of twelve semester credit hours when the content varies.
An intensive examination of the moral life and its foundations from the perspective of Scripture and Christian tradition. Attention will be given to the virtues and our responsibilities in community. Theoretical and practical problems will be addressed. Course may be repeated once for credit when the content varies.
The culminating course following the Christian T&T sequence covering central themes of Christian systematic theology using the materials of students' studies. The course may focus on a central theme, but in any case will progress through the sequence of themes. As a result of this course and its prerequisites, students should have a firm grasp of and be able to articulate their own doctrinal beliefs in relation to classical Christian orthodoxy.
In both the Old and New Testaments, the "wilderness" experience play a significant role in the spiritual formation of the people of God. "Wilderness" spirituality has been fostered and preserved in the life of the church through the monastic movement. This course is designed to enable students to become familiar with the "wilderness" tradition and its significance for contemporary spiritual formation through readings, discussions, presentations, and participation in the life of a monastic community.
A study of the origins, development, leaders, principles, significant controversies and events, and current trends in Baptist life.
Selected reading of passages or a book in the Greek New Testament. Course may be repeated when content differs for a maximum of twelve semester hours.
Selected reading of passages or a book in the Hebrew Scriptures. Course may be repeated when content differs for a maximum of twelve semester hours.
Features the reading of selected portions or books of the Old Testament in English translation. Seeks to interpret the primary writings of the Old Testament canon at an intensive level. Content may vary. Readings emphasize the historical intention of the text and its theological message. Requires no competence in Hebrew. May be repeated for a maximum of twelve semester credit hours when the content varies.
An intensive examination of selected contemporary missiological issues and/or practices. Course may be repeated for credit when content varies. Maximum 6 hours credit.
A significant thesis or project/project report that is the result of a comprehensive study of the church's theology and/or congregational ministry. Attention is to be given to how applied theology undergirds and exhibits the ethical meaning of the common life of the church, the doctrinal teaching that defines and supports the life of the church, and the apologetic and foundational philosophy that engages the church in mission.