Theology

A study of the essential doctrines of the Christian faith in systematic form. The underlying foundation will be biblical faith, with special emphasis given to the interpretation of the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition. This course is designed for general students.  Must receive a grade of C- or higher to fulfill the General Education Christian Formation requirement.

A study of the various historical and contemporary expressions of evangelism from a theological perspective. The course seeks to help students develop a theological understanding of evangelism within the broader categories of ecclesiology and discipleship, as well as enabling them to reflect on and evaluate different methods often associated with evangelistic practices. Fee: Additional fee required.

An examination of theological and philosophical aspects of love. There will be a spiritual formation project. Fee: Additional fee required.

A historical and theological exploration of the dominant Eastern (Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism) world religions. Special attention is given to student participation in field trips and to the issue of religious pluralism. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.

This course focuses on the relationship of Christian faith to culture. In the past, Christians have tended to think about the need to be prepared to have various responses (a la Niebuhr) to "culture". This course will offer an additional alternative to students: the church as culture and Christians as culture makers. So, although the course will give students ways to further discern the nature of the surrounding culture(s), the course will also focus on participating in the divine, co-creational command to "fill the earth" with God-glorifying culture. The course will also help them think about their future as God-honoring culture makers.

A study of the theology and practice of compassion and social holiness as expression of lives of Christian stewardship. This course will consider the history and current expressions of compassionate ministry as it relates to the Christian faith. Service projects will be required parts of the course. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement. 

A study of the theology and practice of spiritual formation as part of Christian discipleship and faithfulness. This course will consider the history and current practices of spiritual formation within the Christian traditions and how that relates to serving others in the world. Fee: Additional fee required.

This course will look specifically at ecclesiology and sacraments in light of the Wesleyan historical tradition. This course will offer an opportunity to experience and engage the church throughout European context as well as visit important Wesleyan historical sites. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Experience (CE) requirement and a General Education upper division Theology elective. 

An advanced systematic study of the Christian faith from a Wesleyan perspective, with particular reference to historical development and contemporary understanding. The subjects include theological methodology, revelation and inspiration, the trinitarian God, humanity, and sin. Fee: Additional fee required.

An advanced systematic study of the Christian faith from a Wesleyan perspective, with particular reference to historical development and contemporary understanding. The subjects include Christology, soteriology, pneumatology, Christian ethics, and eschatology. Fee: Additional fee required.

The course evaluates how students in the Department of Philosophy and Religion have integrated theology and ministry practice through the use of case studies. The case studies will provide a context for faculty to assess whether students have integrated the university outcomes in their understanding of Christian ministry.  Fee: Additional fee required.