CH503
J. Thompson
CH503: MEDIEVAL AND REFORMATION THEOLOGY. John L. Thompson.
DESCRIPTION:
- A survey of the diversity of medieval theology as it developed from
an essentially Augustinian source in its encounter with new conflicts and
cultural factors and as it eventually promoted and provoked the Protestant
Reformation. The period addressed covers through the Council of Trent and the
death of Calvin.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
- This course introduces the student to a significant body of
theological and historical data as a means to acquiring a broader perspective
on one's own faith as well as a more sympathetic appreciation for the catholic
and apostolic church of which the student is a part. Moreover, through
intensive work in primary source readings, the student should acquire an
improved facility in the analysis of theological arguments and the ability to
articulate the meaning of the Christian faith in its historical
development--both of which skills will carry over into the student's reading,
understanding, and exposition of Scripture itself.
COURSE FORMAT:
- Four hours of lecture per week for ten weeks, with occasional
discussion sessions devoted to student papers as assigned (below).
REQUIRED READING:
- Fairweather, Eugene R., ed. A Scholastic Miscellany.
Westminster, 1956; and Macmillan, 1970.
- Hägglund, Bengt. History of Theology. Concordia, 1968. In
consultation with the instructor, students may substitute for Hägglund one
of the recommended textbooks listed below.
- Hillerbrand, Hans J., ed. The Protestant Reformation. Harper &
Row, 1968.
- Syllabus and assembled readings.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Cross, F. L. The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church.
Oxford, 1983.
- Douglas, J. D. The New International Dictionary of the Christian
Church. Zondervan, 1978.
- González, Justo L. A History of Christian Thought. Vols. 2-3.
Abingdon, 1987.
- Muller, Richard A. Dictionary of Latin and Greek Theological Terms.
Baker, 1985.
- Placher, William C. A History of Christian Theology. Westminster,
1983.
- Seeberg, Reinhold. The History of Doctrines. Baker, 1979.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Assigned readings, to be completed as preparation for lectures.
- Three short papers on primary source readings.
- Final examination.
PREREQUISITES:
- None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
- Meets M. Div. core requirement in Church History "b" (CHB).
FINAL EXAMINATION:
- Yes.