DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the most important themes and people in church history and historical theology from the post-apostolic fathers through Augustine.

Early church history provides a theological foundation for the work of the ministry by surveying the historical development of such pivotal doctrines as the Trinity, christology, and soteriology. The course also introduces the student to the sacramental practices and creedal confessions of the early church. Through studying the teaching and practice of early Christians, students will learn to love the Church and to discern the perennial dangers that threaten her; they will come to understand and believe her doctrines, faithfully hand on her traditions, and diligently attend to her interests and mission.

The class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

Augustine. The Enchiridion on Faith, Hope, and Love. Regnery, 1996.

Bettenson, Henry, ed. Documents of the Christian Church. Oxford University Press, 1967. Sections on the period through to A.D. 600 only.

Chadwick, Henry. The Early Church. Penguin, 1967.

Latourette, Kenneth Scott. A History of Christianity. Vol. 1. Harper & Row, 1975.

Tucker, Ruth A. and Walter Liefeld. Daughters of the Church. Academie, 1987.

Documents.

There will be two examinations covering the textbooks and lectures, together accounting for 70% of the final grade. One five-page paper based upon a classic text from the early church will be weighted 30% of the final grade.

None.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Church History "a" (CHA).

Yes.