DESCRIPTION: A survey of the practice of piety in the Roman Catholic,
Reformed, and Arminian traditions, with a focus upon the distinctive theology
of each. "Spirituality" is understood to encompass both the inward activity of
the spiritual disciplines and the outward activity of social involvement (Matt.
6:6; James 1:27). Therefore, in all three traditions the relation of
justification to sanctification, of faith to works, will receive detailed
attention. The course will examine the thought and piety of such notable
figures as Augustine, Gregory the Great, and Margery Kemp; Luther, Calvin, and
John Bunyan; George Fox, Margaret Fell, and John Wesley.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Christians in different ages and cultures
have understood spirituality in different terms, and the disciplines of piety
have varied almost as dramatically as theology. Through a comparative
historical method, this course will foster critical discernment regarding the
nature of Christian spirituality. It will encourage empathy for other
traditions of piety, and commitment to one's own.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: First, this course should enable students to understand the
key differences and similarities in the theology and practices of the Catholic,
Reformed/Lutheran, and Arminian traditions of spirituality. Second, students
will discover for the first time, or perhaps with fresh insight, how doctrine
and Christian practices are connected and why the connection is important.
Third, they should be able to locate their own convictions and experiences
within one of these traditions and identify with it. Finally, the course should
nurture a breadth of understanding for all forms of Christian life and enable a
deepened commitment to their own tradition through the exercise of spiritual
practices.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet in two-hour sessions twice a week for
lectures and discussion.
REQUIRED READING: