DESCRIPTION:

This course is an introduction to Christian social ethics. We will read texts and have discussions on biblical and theological perspectives on the church's role in the world in general as well as in relation to three specific social issues: economics, the family, and race. The class will also form small groups which will each participate in a volunteer or visitation experience related to one of these three issues. Students will reflect on their experience in group discussions and written assignments.

This course will help students grapple with the critical issues of the role of the church in the world and the role of their own congregations in their local communities. The course will propose a "holistic" approach to ministry which integrates spirituality and evangelism with social witness and social action.

The class will meet twice a week, ninety minutes each session. The sessions will consist of lectures, discussion, and some small group meetings.

Clapp, Rodney. Families at the Crossroads. InterVarsity Press, 1993.

Sider, Ronald J. Good News and Good Works. Baker Books, 1993.

____________. Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger. Word Publishing, 1997.

Sojourners. Crossing the Racial Divide. Sojourners, 1998.

Wink, Walter. Naming the Powers. Fortress Press, 1984.

Yoder, John Howard. Body Politics. Herald Press, 2001.

____________. Christian Witness to the State. Herald Press, 2002.

Articles on reserve in the library.

Reading assigned texts, participation in class discussion, group volunteer/visitation experience outside of class, five essay quizzes, and two brief papers.

None.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Christian Ethics (ETH).

None.