DESCRIPTION:

A number of intellectual challenges confront the Christian believer: How can God's goodness be reconciled with the evil in the world? How can God act in a world governed by the laws of nature? How can we claim Christian belief is true when we recognize many different religions and worldviews? Does science pose a threat to Christian belief? While not offering simple answers to these questions, this course aims at providing resources and at provoking reflection on these problems.

The questions addressed in this course are often raised both by church members and by those outside the church. It is hoped that students in this class will begin to resolve these issues for themselves, and will therefore be in a position to offer guidance for others seeking answers.

The professor will lecture on relevant topics, and part of class time will be reserved for small-group discussion.

Allen, Diogenes. The Traces of God in a Frequently Hostile World. Cowley, 1981.

Barbour, Ian. Issues in Science and Religion. Harper & Row, 1966.

Heim, S. Mark. Is Christ the Only Way? (Out of Print, to be photocopied).

Hick, John. Evil and the God of Love. Harper & Row, 1977.

Placher, William. Unapologetic Theology. Westminster, 1989

Seech, Zachary. Writing Philosophy Papers. Wadsworth, 1993.

It is essential that students do assigned reading before class, and come prepared to discuss it. In addition, three (8 page) papers will be required in which students will be expected to show competence in thinking about the issues dealt with in class and in texts.

None. (This is a good course for beginning students.)

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Philosophical Theology (PHIL).

None.