DESCRIPTION: This course is an overview of the history of Christianity from
its origins to the sixth century, with a global perspective. Emphasis will be
placed on the emergence and development of the Christian testimony, giving
attention to major events, movements, influential personalities and theological
trends.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The course introduces students to
historical and theological materials so they can develop a broader perspective
for their own Christian faith, including a greater understanding and
appreciation of the student's own confessional tradition within the larger
scope of the development of the Christian church during the first five
centuries.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students who pass this course will (1) demonstrate the
ability to identify the principal events of Christian history from the
post-apostolic fathers through the sixth century; (2) demonstrate familiarity
with the leading figures and movements of the period and their influence; (3)
demonstrate an understanding of the development of the major theological
debates of the period and their implications for Christian theology today; (4)
demonstrate an ability to read church history critically, comprehending social,
political, cultural, and geographic factors along with implications for the
church and its mission today.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet on the 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th weeks of the
quarter in two-day sessions (1st day, 4:00pm to 8:50pm; 2nd day, 8:00am to
4:00pm). On the first day of the session and the first half of the second day
the focus will be on historical overview (major events, movements, outstanding
characters); and the second half of the second day on theological issues
(theological trends). Classes will include lectures, student presentations,
group discussions, and video presentations.
REQUIRED READING: