CH501
Fisher-Ogden
CH501: PATRISTIC THEOLOGY. Daryl Fisher-Ogden.
DESCRIPTION:
- A survey of the teachings of the early church as those teachings
were shaped by crisis and conflict within the church and by dialogue and
competition with late ancient culture. The period addressed covers through
Augustine in the west and the Council of Chalcedon in the east.
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 and their own denominational positions.
COURSE FORMAT:
- Four hours of lecture/discussion per week, meeting twice weekly for
two-hour sessions. Readings to be completed before class.
REQUIRED READING:
- Kelly, J. N. D. Early Christian Doctrines. Harper & Row,
1978.
- Lightfoot, J. B. and J. R. Harmer, eds. The Apostolic Fathers. Baker
Book, 1984.
- Norris, R. The Christological Controversy. Fortress, 1980.
- Rusch, W. The Trinitarian Controversy. Fortress, 1980.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Cross, F. L. ed. The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian
Church. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 1972.
- Douglas, J. D., ed. The New International Dictionary of the Christian
Church. Paternoster Press, 1978.
- Placher, William. History of Christian Theology. Westminster,
1983.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Assigned readings, to be completed as preparation for lectures.
- Short papers on primary source readings.
- Mid-term and final examinations.
PREREQUISITES:
- None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
- Meets M.Div. core requirement in "Church History A" (CHA).
FINAL EXAMINATION:
- Yes.