DESCRIPTION: An introduction to the most important themes and people in church
history and historical theology from the post-apostolic fathers through
Augustine.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Early church history provides a
theological foundation for the work of the ministry by surveying the historical
development of such pivotal doctrines as the Trinity, Christology, and
soteriology. The course also introduces the student to the sacramental
practices and creedal confessions of the early church. Through studying the
teaching and practice of early Christians, students will learn to love the
church and to discern the perennial dangers that threaten her; they will come
to understand and believe her doctrines, faithfully hand on her traditions, and
diligently attend to her interests and mission.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: First, this course should enable students to place their
own confessional tradition within the broader framework of early catholic
Christianity. Second, it will help them understand the ways in which the
doctrines and the practices of the church emerge in specific historical
contexts. Third, students will learn the vocabulary of the Trinitarian,
Christological, and soteriological debates of the first four centuries.
Finally, students will increase their critical skills in reading and writing
through the study of primary source materials and by writing a term paper.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet weekly for three-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING: