PH522: PERSPECTIVES ON CHRIST AND CULTURE. Richard Mouw.
DESCRIPTION: The Christian community has long debated the appropriate ways for
Christians to relate to their cultural surroundings. This course will focus on
some key perspectives, beginning with a critical examination of the motif made
popular by H. Richard Niebuhr in his classic study, Christ and Culture.
Special attention will be given to "cultural mandate" theories, as well as to
the contemporary relevance of traditional notions of common grace, natural law,
and general revelation as they have been used to discern created commonalities
that undergird a plurality of cultures. The present-day interest in
multiculturalism will also be explored.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Evangelical Christianity has often
emphasized the need to oppose "worldliness," and the warnings have typically
been based on an implicit philosophy and theology of culture. It is important
for Christian leaders to clarify their understanding of these issues in order
to guide the believing community in proper patterns of cultural
discipleship.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: At the end of this course students will be able to (1)
demonstrate a deeper understanding of the nature of "culture"; (2) analyze and
critique contemporary culture from a theological and philosophical perspective;
(3) demonstrate a deeper understanding of the relationship between a biblical
worldview and interaction with the wider culture; (4) identify theological
resources for an "epistemology of commonness" and bring them to bear on
ministry contexts and Christian approaches to vocational work in culture; (5)
demonstrate a deeper understanding of the complexities and tensions facing the
Christian church in diverse and rapidly changing cultures and subcultures;
(6) engage in theological reflection regarding possible theological
responses to the wider culture; (7) graciously articulate the good news of
the gospel of Christ in a multicultural, pluralistic society.
COURSE FORMAT: Class time will be devoted to both lectures and discussion.
There will be weekly reading assignments. The class will meet weekly for a
three-hour session.
REQUIRED READING: