DESCRIPTION: This is an introductory course on the church, including its
nature, authority, worship and sacraments, and institutional expression; and on
individual and corporate eschatology, including death, resurrection, judgment,
heaven and hell.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students will become familiar with the basic doctrinal loci
in ecclesiology and eschatology, that they might know the classic components of
these loci, see how they are related to other aspects of Christian doctrine,
and better understand what they believe and why. Students will have opportunity
to explore a variety of theological options through diverse reading choices,
and they will be exposed to theologians from differing cultural backgrounds, in
order that they might appreciate how their own and others' cultural location
and theological orientation affect theological formulations. Students will also
be able to apply what they have learned to common problems one encounters in
ministry settings and in Christian living.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Understanding of the principal doctrines of the
Christian faith is vital to the preaching and teaching ministry of the church,
as well as informing Christian living. Knowledge of what has traditionally been
construed as essential to the church and its ministry is particularly critical
in a time of changing models of the church and ministry. Similarly, awareness
of options and central affirmations in eschatology has heightened importance at
a time of high interest in various religious and scientific end-time
scenarios.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet for two-hour sessions twice a week for ten
weeks, for lecture, discussion, and, perhaps, a few (optional) student
presentations or an optional paper. Part of the reading is designed to address
issues which receive lesser attention in the lectures.
REQUIRED READING: