DESCRIPTION: A survey of the teachings of the early church as those teachings
were shaped by crisis and conflict within the church and by dialogue and
competition with late ancient culture. The period addressed covers through
Augustine in the West and the Council of Chalcedon in the East.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: There are four objectives to this course.
First, that students become familiar with central theological doctrines and
developments in the patristic era, particularly those that contributed to the
church's early catholic identity, the formation of the ecumenical creeds, and
the Augustinian character of the Western church. Second, that students gain an
understanding of the theological controversies of the early church from diverse
points of view, including the perspectives of the original participants and
those of historians today. Third, that students practice the close reading of
selected primary sources in order to analyze and faithfully articulate the
theological arguments of a historical text. Fourth, that students reflect on
the perennial nature of the doctrinal controversies that shaped Christian
identity in this period as these doctrines and practices have engendered
contemporary Christian diversity and ecumenical conversation.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: By introducing a significant body of theological and
historical data, the course seeks to lead students to a broader perspective on
their own ecclesiastical traditions, beliefs, and practices, as well as to a
sympathetic appreciation for the unity and diversity of the one, holy,
catholic, and apostolic church of which they are a part. Intensive work in
primary sources will help students to acquire an improved facility in the
analysis of theological arguments and an increased ability to articulate the
meaning of the Christian faith in its historical development--skills that will
also benefit the student's reading, understanding, and exposition of Scripture
itself.
COURSE FORMAT: Meets twice weekly for two-hour sessions of lecture and
discussion. Readings to be completed before class.
REQUIRED READING: