Individualized Distance Learning

MR550

Woodberry

MR550/650: Introduction to Islam (4 units).

J. Dudley Woodberry, Professor of Islamic Studies

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DESCRIPTION:

This course will give an overview of the field of Islamic studies from a missiological perspective that will provide an integrating foundation and an awareness of resources for any further specialization. Islamic and Christian faith and practice are compared with attention to how Islam adopted, adapted, and rejected aspects of Judaism and Christianity. The unity and variety of perspectives among Muslims are observed with their implications for Christian witness.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
As a result of this course the student will

1. develop an informed perspective toward Muhammad, the Quran, and Islam

2. know the basic resources for further study in Islamics

3. determine the extent to which the Quran accepts or rejects orthodox or heretical Christianity

4. have a sufficient grasp of Muslim faith and practice to know how Christian witness and worship can be contextualized among them

5. know the varieties of Muslims sufficiently to know their various felt needs and how the gospel meets them.

COURSE FORMAT :

The course uses recorded lectures, a detailed independent study guide, and readings. It is designed to be completed in an 11-week period while allowing for flexibility in the student’s schedule.

REQUIRED READING:

• Denny, Frederick M. An Introduction to Islam. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co. 1985.
• Kateregga, Badru & David Shenk. A Muslim and a Christian in Dialogue.  Scottdale, PA: Herald Press. 1997.
• Moucarry, Chawkat. The Prophet & the Messiah; An Arab Christians Perspective on Islam and Christianity. Downer’s Grove: Intervarsity Press. 2001.
• Qur’an (Ali, Abdullah Yusuf)

ASSIGNMENTS:

•  Four interaction reports of about two pages each
• A final project, in which you evaluate the qur'anic Jesus and suggest how it can serve as a bridge for interpreting the biblical Jesus (12-15 pages, double spaced)

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM : Meets MIN 8 requirement for SOT: MDiv. Meets GLBL requirement.

FINAL EXAM: No

Updated August 2007