Introduction to Theology

This is a theological studies methods course. Its primary purpose is to teach you skills for developing a Christian mind, by helping you construct a solid foundation for thinking through life’s most important issues. We will begin by establishing the reality and nature of truth and then learn that rightly interpreted Scripture is the final arbiter of truth. You will learn the about various sources for theology and the way that different people use and misuse these sources. This course endeavors to enable people to think theologically and construct a biblical worldview that makes the Christian’s witness relevant to all people in need. This course is a prerequisite to all other required courses of theology.

Course Outline

Session 1 - Introduction to The Theology Program
Session 2 - Defining Theology
Session 3 - Categories of Theology
Session 4 - Postmodern Epistemology
Session 5 - Christian Epistemology
Session 6 - Essentials of Theology
Session 7 - Traditions of Christian Theology
Session 8 - Sources of Theology
Session 9 - Does God Still Speak Today?
Session 10 - Unity and Diversity

Course Objectives

• The student will understand that theology is more than just an academic discipline reserved only for professional theologians, but that it is a fountain from which all people may daily drink.
• The student will know the different sources from which we derive our understanding of truth and direction.
• The student will develop a broader perspective of theology in general and learn how theology is done within the Christian community.
• The students will critically evaluate their own theological method and worldview by learning how to test and critique the validity of their core beliefs.
• The students will critique various sources from which they derive their beliefs with the purpose of establishing the Scripture as their primary source for their beliefs.
• The students will place greater confidence in theology and the process of doing theology.

Course Textbooks

Grudem, Wayne. Systematic Theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1994.

Olson, Roger. Mosaic of Christian Beliefs. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2002.

Bible (preferably New American Standard or New English Translation)

Grading

This course will follow a contract grading system. You will receive a grade according to how many assignments below were successfully accomplished. If you complete 2 of 4, you get a “C.” If you complete 3 of 4, you get a “B.” If you complete 4 of 4, you get an “A.” You can also receive an “A with Honors” if you complete your honors reading listed in the syllabus.

Assignment Description

1. Reading: There will be various reading assignments during the ten-week period. Each student will be expected to read and be prepared to discuss on the forum the material according to the schedule found in the syllabus.

2. Scripture memorization: Each student will memorize the passages provided on the Scripture memorization sheet. Once completed, the student will recite the memorized Scripture to a partner who will affirm the completion by signing the Scripture memorization sheet (included in The Student Notebook). The Scriptures should be memorized in one of the following translations:

• New American Standard
• New English Translation - NET Bible
• English Standard Version
• New International Version (though not preferred)

3. Case Studies: There will be two case studies that must be completed. These will be handed out by the teacher. Online/DVD students are to post their case studies online on the RMM forum.

4. Vocabulary Quizzes: There are two closed book theological vocabulary quizzes. Once the student looks at the quiz, he or she must take the quiz. In other words, you cannot look at the quiz and then study the terms.

Honors reading: You can take this course for honors. Honors students are required to make an “A” plus read one or more of the honors readings marked with an “*” or “**” in your bibliography in the syllabus. Please contact me to make an alternative honors reading request.

*All online students are required to acquire ten hours of community time. This can be accomplished on Paltalk, here, or in the forums discussing issues relevant to the course.