Content

This unit aims to provide a basic introduction to the nature and methodology of theology. Particular attention is given to the task of developing a responsible theological expression of Christian faith in contemporary culture.

Unit code: CT8711S

Unit status: Archived (New unit)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Foundational

Unit discipline: Systematic Theology

Delivery Mode: Online

Proposing College: Stirling College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Explain the nature and scope of Christian theology as a critical discipline, identifying the main fields of Christian thought

2.

Discuss critically the contribution of the major sources for theology: revelation, scripture, tradition, reason, experience, culture and praxis

3.

Evaluate and articulate several approaches to theological work and their methodologies;

4.

Apply critical criteria to the task of evaluating theological work;

5.

Discuss, analyse and critically evaluate central elements in the Christian understanding of God as creator and redeemer and the implication of these elements

6.

Develop basic research skills so as to explore other primary elements within Christian faith

Pedagogy

Variegated on-line input and engagement through a range of facilities offered within ARK

Indicative Bibliography

  • Karl Barth, Evangelical Theology: An Introduction. Grand Rapids Michigan: Eerdmans, 1963, 1996. (recommended for purchase)
  • John R. Franke, Manifold Witness: The Plurality of Truth. Nashville TN: Abingdon, 2009.
  • David F. Ford, Theology: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford: OUP, 1999.
  • Bradley C. Hanson, Introduction to Christian Theology. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1997.
  • Robert W. Jenson, Systematic Theology Volume I: The Triune God. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1997.
  • Alister E. McGrath, ed. Christian Theology: An Introduction. Oxford: Blackwell, 1994.
  • ______ Christianity’s Dangerous Idea: The Protestant Revolution. New York: HarperOne, 2007.
  • Daniel L. Migliore, Faith Seeking Understanding: An Introduction to Christian Theology, 2nd edn. Grand Rapids /Cambridge: Eerdmans, 1991, 2004.
  • Gerald O’Collins, SJ and Edward G. Farrugia, SJ, A Concise Dictionary of Theology, rev. & exp. New York / Mahwah NJ: Paulist Press, 2000. (recommended for purchase)
  • George Pattison, A Short Course in Christian Doctrine. London: SCM, 2005.
  • Paul Tillich, A History of Christian Thought, ed. Carl E. Braaten. New York and Evanston: Harper and Row, 1968.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Book Review

1,500 word book review

0 25.0
Document Study

750 word document study

0 12.0
Document Study

750 word document study

0 13.0
Essay

3,000 word essay

0 50.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by John Capper on 30 Jul, 2015

Unit record last updated: 2019-10-03 11:34:40 +1000