DESCRIPTION:

Systematic (or doctrinal, or constructive) theology is designed to provide the student with disciplined reflection on Scripture, with the aim of achieving a coherent, faithful, and practical articulation of Christian belief. The doctrines to be treated include ecclesiology (doctrine of the church) and eschatology (doctrine of the last things); both traditional and contemporary formulations will be explored.

An overview of the chief doctrines pertaining to the church and the end times, this survey course will provide a basis for ongoing preaching, teaching, evangelizing, and discipleship. Students will be challenged to think creatively and integrate their discoveries into their life and ministry.

This two-week intensive will meet for four hours daily. Because attendance, preparation and class participation are deemed crucial to the learning process, lectures will be supplemented with informed discussion.

Berkhof, L. Systematic Theology. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1938, new combined edition, 1996. (Relevant sections)

Ferguson, S. B. and Wright, D. F., eds. New Dictionary of Theology. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 1988. (Relevant sections)

Other materials on reserve in the library, per syllabus.

Brown, C., ed. The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology, 4 vols. Revised ed. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1986.

Calvin, J. Institutes of the Christian Religion. Ed. J. T. MacNeill, trans. F. L. Battles. The Library of Christian Classics, vols. 20-25. Philadelphia: Westminster, 1961.

Weber, O. Foundations of Dogmatics, Vol. 2. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1983. (OP)

See bibliographic notations under each topic in the syllabus.

1. Assigned readings are to be completed before each class with notes taken. Bring two questions to each class from the readings.

2. Typed "response papers" on specified topics, due at the start of each class.

3. Final project.

Students who want to work ahead may obtain detailed assignments for the first week of the course from the Office of Academic Programs, including the paper due on the second day of class.

None.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Systematic Theology "C" (STC).

No.