Theological Studies (THE)
[Note: The integrated NES Core courses (BHT 511NE, 512NE, 513NE, 514NE) involve students in the study of biblical and systematic theology within each church age. See BHT course descriptions for further detail of theological studies content within the Core.]
THE 603NE
Introduction to Judaism: Foundations for Understanding Holy Scripture
Credits: 2
This course will examine Judaism as one of the great religions of the world. Though there are significant differences between Christianity and Judaism, students will understand the Christian faith much better when they have some grasp of Judaism. This course will explore such topics as the origins of Judaism in the post-exilic era, Judaism in the time of Jesus and the early Church, the full maturing of Judaism in the rabbinic era, and aspects of contemporary Judaism, including its various forms. This course is cross-listed as BIB 603NE.
THE 620NE
Islam, Muslims, and the Kingdom of God
Credits: 2
One cannot understand the current conflicts raging across the Muslim World without understanding Islam and the issues with which contemporary Muslims wrestle. This course will introduce participants to the beliefs, practices and source documents of Islam. It will include an introduction to Islam’s origins through readings in the Qur’an, Hadiths and Sharia, which will provide a foundation for understanding contemporary Muslims and the deep crisis threatening to tear apart their Ummah—the worldwide community of Muslims. You will begin to understand the massive implications of the in-house Muslim dispute over how best to follow the example of their prophet Muhammad in the 21st century. In this way we will together explore thoughtful Christian ways of engaging with both Islamic ideology and with our Muslim friends, neighbors and fellow citizens for the sake of the Kingdom and glory of God.
THE 621NE
A Theology of Environmental Stewardship
Credits: 2
Since the publication of a highly influential paper in 1967, conventional wisdom has held that Christianity is largely responsible for the world’s ecological problems. Environmental stewardship, however, is one of the central messages of the Bible. This course will examine worldwide ecological and environmental issues in the light of biblical texts and historic understandings of church doctrine (e.g., creation, the fall, stewardship/ dominion, the sovereignty of God, the Incarnation, redemption, and eschatology). A biblical theology of the environment will be developed that will address issues of Christian responsibility for the care of the environment.
THE 622NE
Theology of the Body
Credits: 2
Recent social and scientific developments challenge many in our congregations to understand the right use of the human body in the light of the Christian faith. This emerging discipline addresses issues such as describing the body as the site of experience; the significance of the “image and likeness of God”; insights into embodiment through the Incarnation; the theological significance of work; human sexuality; issues posed by medical technology; and the destiny of the body-person after death. This course will include Internet-based resources as well as readings from the consensual tradition.
THE 623NE
World Religions in North America
Credits: 2
This course addresses the dramatically altered religious landscape of North America in the 21st century, where Christianity exists alongside the newly attained prominence of other world religions. It will equip pastors and other church leaders to practice ministry and work cooperatively with community agencies in light of these changes. This course will briefly survey the history and teachings of these religions, and also address the relationship between Christ and other religions. A primary focus will be the impact of new immigrants on the North American religious context.
THE 633NE
Ministry in a Multifaith World
Credits: 2
This course explores the global character of the church and the practice of ministry in the multifaith and multicultural context of contemporary society. Attention is given to the wide diversity of religious traditions present in the potential ministry settings and considers how the church can serve with faithfulness and respect in a religiously pluralistic culture. Students will have the opportunity to develop their theological convictions in dialog with other religious traditions and gain skills in interfaith engagement as an expression of their Christian discipleship. This course is cross-listed as MIN 633NE.
THE 640NE
Theology of Mission
Credits: 2
Discussions of ministry and Christian vocations today are often framed in an intercultural context, while many ecclesiologists emphasize the local/global aspect of the Church. These five classes are designed to help students identify the role of mission in their faith communities and their personal lives. Theologies for today’s world that impact all churches will be discussed, including the church as a mission, the local/global connection, and the importance of cultural contexts. By the end of the course, each student will articulate a personal theology of mission.
THE 695NE
Independent Study in Theological Studies
Credits: 1—3
Under the guidance of a faculty member, a student will investigate a specific area or topics in theological or religious studies.
[Prerequisite: advisor and instructor approval required and a GPA of 3.0]
THE 699NE
M.A. Thesis in Theological Studies
Credits: 3
This course is a research option for M.A. students in the field of theological studies. Students wishing to pursue thesis work must file a written petition with academic services formally requesting this degree completion method prior to registering for the course. (Students who have not completed the thesis project by the end of the semester will automatically be registered for RES 799NE-Continuation of Registration for Master’s Thesis, and charged a $250 fee every subsequent semester until the completion of the master’s thesis.)
[Prerequisite: faculty approval] [Corequisite: must be taken in conjunction with RES 690NE]
THE 700NE
Theology of the Cross
Credits: 3
We live in a world that both shines with the glory of God and is convulsed by massive suffering. The pervasiveness of suffering in God’s world constitutes a pastoral challenge for the Church, because God’s people are called to minister to those in pain. But suffering also constitutes a theological problem, because suffering persists in the face of Christian claims about the power and love of God. It is the purpose of this course to address the question of how Christians may think intelligently and coherently about suffering, and how such thinking may nourish compassionate pastoral ministry in the contemporary world. The focus will be on developing a coherent theology of suffering, rooted in the cross, which addresses the reality of suffering with integrity and hope.
THE 701NE
Faith Seeking Understanding: The New Dialogue Between Theology and Science
Credits: 2
Are science and Christian belief best described as “enemies, strangers, or partners?” Is science always objective and faith subjective? All of these views can be heard in today’s lively dialogue about the natural world, just as they have been throughout the history of the Church. Readings for this course will explore the underlying assumptions of theology and science, and how they are expressed in conclusions about such topics as the physical universe, the human person, creation, complexity, providence, and the end of the world. This course will also consider ministry to members of today’s congregations who work in medical, scientific, and technological occupations and feel trapped between opposing views expressed in church and in the workplace.
THE 702NE
History of Christian Love
Credits: 3
A thematic study of Christian love through the lens of prominent Christian theologians and church movements from Augustine to the 21st century. Topics also include the relationship of God and humankind (agape love), the nature of human love, love and social ethics, Christian friendship, marriage, and sexuality. Christian figures and movements that reflect a particular historical and theological perspective include: Augustine, Aquinas, and Luther on the theology of love, Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Reinhold Niebuhr on love and justice, C.S. Lewis on friendship, and Dorothy Day on Christian love and poverty. Students will have an opportunity to examine, develop, and present their own theology of love rooted in the historical Christian faith.
THE 703NE
The Christian Doctrine of Human Nature and Sin
Credits: 2
This course will explore the Christian understanding of the human being as the apex of the Creator’s work according to Genesis 1—2, who was plunged into evil and misery according to Genesis 3—5. Significant attention will be given to selected biblical passages, the debate over “original sin” in the Western Church, the different descriptions of human sinfulness that distinguish the Eastern Church from the Western Church, and the implications of these teachings in pastoral work.
THE 710NE
Life and Ministry of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Credits: 2
This course will survey the life and writings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Students will explore key words in King’s sermons and writings (e.g., agape and beloved community) and consider terms of value used in assessing King’s life and work. Concepts (e.g., personalism) that characterize King’s theological social ethics will be discussed, and the interpretation of King’s contributions in today’s world. Special attention will be devoted to King’s doctrine of God and how it influenced his social ethics. Using King’s philosophy and contributions as benchmarks, students will be challenged to think about and examine the relevance of King’s theological ethics for today and what it may mean within the context of their own ministry. This course is cross-listed as HST 710NE.
THE 715NE
The Openness of God Debate
Credits: 2
One of the most significant, often contentious, current debates in evangelical circles centers on what has been come to be called “Openness of God” theology. Proponents of this theological perspective, while affirming a high view of Scripture, do not view God as the all-knowing, all-controlling, unchanging being often portrayed in classical Christian thought. God is viewed, rather, as a being who does not have infallible knowledge of our future free actions and thus as a being who must work relationally with us day by day to help actualize the divine goals for us and our world. This course will take an in-depth look both at openness theology and the numerous critiques that have been offered in response to it. The main goal of the course will be to help each student come to a clearer understanding of her or his own theological perspective.
THE 720NE
Revivalism and the Postmodern Church
Credits: 3
This course will provide an in-depth look at the rhetoric and culture of American revivalism, with an emphasis on revivalism as a revitalization movement. The course will also explore how revivalism has shaped popular theology and worship and has retained widespread nostalgic appeal today. The key question will be whether or not revivalism offers any perspective on 21st century Church renewal.
THE 724NE
Life and Theology of Martin Luther
Credits: 3
This course explores Luther’s life, theology, and subsequent impact on society. The course is divided into three areas of study. The initial focus is a discussion of Luther in historical context. The medieval antecedents and early 16th century theology and social life provide a backdrop for Luther’s entrance onto the European religious and political stage. The second area is an examination of Luther’s dialectical theology. This course will explore his views on the sacraments, faith, government, women, vocation, and the role of government and just war. The final area for study includes an analysis of modern interpretations of Luther’s theology. A look at contemporary Luther studies includes an overview of current “hot” topics and possible applications of his theology in the area of social justice.
THE 725NE
John Henry Newman: Preacher and Theologian
Credits: 3
This is a readings course on representative sermons and theological writings of the great 19th century English preacher and theologian, John Henry Newman. Newman’s works will be put into an historical context in order to view the development of his thinking, from his Anglican period through his mature Catholic period. In viewing this development, an appropriate cohesive thematic element students shall consider in this course will be his idea of the “development of doctrine.” This course is cross-listed as HST 725NE.
THE 726NE
Wesleyan Theology
Credits: 3
This course explores major theological themes of Wesleyan theology through the examination of primary materials. While focusing on Wesley’s theology of salvation as expressed in his sermons, the course also includes exposure to Wesleyan thought on such matters as the doctrine of God, anthropology, the person and work of Christ, the Church, ministry, the sacraments, and eschatology. In addition, consideration is given to the development of early Methodism in its historical context, its relevance for contemporary Methodist traditions, and its potential contribution to the Church at large. A secondary purpose of this course is to impart to the student an appreciation of the field of Wesleyan Studies and its present-day interpreters.
THE 727NE
Calvinism and Arminianism
Credits: 3
This course will focus on the divergent views of Calvinism and Arminianism with significant readings in the primary texts they authored. The course will examine the overarching issues related to Calvinism and Arminianism from an historical, biblical, theological, and practical perspective. The issues will be presented in their clearest possible light in order that they might be discussed and examined with as much understanding and fairness as possible. Attention will also be given to how their successors interpreted and applied their teachings. This course is cross-listed as HST 727NE.
THE 728NE
The Holiness Pentecostal Tradition
Credits: 3
This course surveys the 19th and 20th century Holiness and Pentecostal movements in the United States, including principal and formative events, theological distinctives, and important figures. The course will examine the culture(s) of the movements, major controversies, and opportunities for ecumenical dialogue.
THE 729NE
Fundamentalism and Modernism: an Historical and Theological Controversy
Credits: 3
Through reading, discussion, and writing, students will explore the roots, development, and implications of the “fundamentalist-modernist controversy” in English-speaking Christianity, with a special emphasis on the controversy’s American dimensions. The cultural and theological genesis of fundamentalism in the late 19th and 20th centuries continues to have ramifications for the 21st century Church in America and throughout the globe, and thus the practical implications of the historic controversy will be considered thoroughly. Readings will include primary source materials, as well as seminal writings of J. Gresham Machen and Harry Emerson Fosdick, among others. Secondary sources will include the most recent scholarly reflections on the topic. The approach of the course will be both historical and theological. This course is cross-listed as HST 729NE.
THE 731NE
Suffering, Pain, and Evil: a Theological Response
Credits: 2
Those in ministry must often respond to the following question: “Why did God allow that horrible event—that tragic accident, that terrible betrayal, that intense suffering—to happen?” After outlining the various responses (theodicies) available to Christians, this course will discuss how best to help those asking “why” determine what these responses have to offer. Included among the texts read will be the book of Job.
THE 732NE
Life, Theology, and Ethics of Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Credits: 3
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a significant 20th century theologian, pastor, prophet, and martyr. This course examines Bonhoeffer’s response to Nazism from a historical and theological perspective. The primary areas of study include: a description and analysis of Bonhoeffer’s hermeneutic and ethical reflections on the significance of his call to discipleship and on his perennial question, “Who is Christ for us today?” His spirituality will also be discussed as a foundation for HIs ethics. Readings include Cost of Discipleship; Ethics; Letters and Papers from Prison and other selected writings representing Bonhoeffer’s theology and ethics. This course is cross-listed as SOC 732NE.
THE 733NE
Sacramental and Liturgical Theology
Credits: 2
This course examines the liturgical and sacramental life of the church as theologia prima (first theology). Attention is given to the historical and theological development of liturgical and sacramental theology in major branches of Christianity, as well as to the practical implications of liturgical and sacramental praxis for the formation of communal and individual faith. A particular focus of the course is on the Christological, ecclesiological, and anthropological dimensions of liturgy and sacraments.
THE 735NE
Reformed Theology
Credits: 3
This course explores foundational perspectives and contemporary trajectories of the Reformed theological tradition. Students are exposed to key themes in the theology of John Calvin, the confessional literature of the Reformed churches, The Book of Confessions, and selected contemporary thinkers within the Reformed tradition. Through the examination of the ecclesiastical, political, social, economic, and ethical dimensions of Reformed thought, this course seeks to prepare students to articulate the contemporary relevance of the Reformed tradition, to show how Reformed doctrine illuminates Christian faith and life, and to apply Reformed theology to the practice of ministry. This course is open to all students, but required for those preparing for ministry in the Presbyterian Church.
THE 740NE
Theology of the City
Credits: 2 or 3
The 20th century began as a predominately rural world. At the beginning of the 21st century, the world is predominately urban; by 2015, more than half of the world’s population will live in major urban centers. This massive demographic shift has created huge challenges for political and social systems and also for the Church. This course will develop a biblical theology for urban mission that will serve as a foundation for pastors and church leaders seeking to understand the city and will guide them in constructing and implementing effective urban ministry strategies.