DESCRIPTION: A survey of the major developments in theology since the
Protestant Reformation, with emphases on English Puritanism, Protestant
Orthodoxy, Pietism, Wesleyanism, and the dialogue with Enlightenment and
post-Enlightenment thought from Schleiermacher through Barth, Vatican II, and
the rise of contextual theologies worldwide.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: By introducing a significant body of
theological and historical data, the course seeks to lead students to a broader
perspective on their own ecclesiastical traditions, beliefs, and practices, as
well as to a sympathetic appreciation for the unity and diversity of the one,
holy, catholic, and apostolic church of which they are a part. Intensive work
in primary sources will help students to acquire an improved facility in the
analysis of theological arguments and an increased ability to articulate the
meaning of the Christian faith in its historical development--skills that will
also benefit the student's reading, understanding, and exposition of Scripture
itself.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: First, students who pass this course will be able to
demonstrate familiarity with central theological doctrines and developments in
post-Reformation Protestantism and Roman Catholicism as well as with the
cultural shifts provoked by the Enlightenment and its modern legacy (attained
through readings and participation in lectures and small groups). Second,
students will be able to demonstrate an ability to analyze and articulate the
theological arguments of historical texts (attained through directed essays on
selected primary sources and group discussions). Third, students will be able
to demonstrate the ability to reflect theologically on the shaping of Christian
identity, doctrine, and practice and on the implications for contemporary
Christian diversity and pastoral ministry (attained through reflection and
discussion in class and small groups).
COURSE FORMAT: Class will meet twice weekly in two-hour sessions for four
hours of lecture per week, with occasional discussion sessions devoted to
student papers as assigned (below).
REQUIRED READING: