DESCRIPTION: Too often in the public sphere, as well as in churches,
discussions of social issues--such as family values, the role of government,
race relations, and economics--betray a simplistic understanding or degenerate
into name-calling. As Christians, we must approach moral questions seriously
and thoughtfully, informed by secular knowledge but also shaped by our call to
be followers of Jesus Christ. In this course, we wrestle with the complexity of
these social problems, discuss the role of the faith community as a witness to
hope in actions large and small, and practice discernment as we read, discuss,
and explore ethics together.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: We are invited to work by the power of the
Spirit for the kingdom of God that is present but not yet fully so, even as we
are members of the larger secular society. In addition, many of us serve as
leaders in communities, professions, and churches, and in these capacities
facilitate discussion of and responses to social issues.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: First, students will gain tools for analyzing how our
interpretation of history, participation in popular culture, and personal
experience shape our perceptions of social issues. Second, we will reflect on
how our Christian faith should temper our confidence in commonly held
assumptions and guide us in our beliefs and practice. Third, students will
engage in an opportunity for service and learning with classmates in order to
better understand how the church can practically address social issues. Fourth,
through honest discussion and shared experience, students can develop an
appreciation for the diversity of the body of Christ, practice respectful
disagreement within it, and recognize our overlapping concerns as members of
it.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet twice a week for two-hour sessions that
will consist of interactive lectures. Note that participation in a small group
for a visit/volunteer experience is mandatory, and it requires approximately
five to ten hours outside of class time.
REQUIRED READING: