Course Descriptions: Explorations in Theology Courses

The following courses are part of a program called Explorations in Theology. These courses are designed for new students and have no co- or prerequisites. Additional courses are added each year. (Note: Up to two 500-level courses may later be counted toward a certificate or degree if they meet certificate or degree requirements. However, matriculated certificate and degree candidates may not enroll in 500-level courses, but must register for the corresponding 700-level course.)

BS502 Paul
An examination of various aspects of the apostle Paul's life, letters, and legacy. Also offered as BS702. PR = none.

BS511 The Gospel of John
An exploration of the historical context, literary features, spirituality, and theological significance of the fourth Gospel. PR = none.

BS563 The Book of Job
A careful look at the book of Job and its historical, cultural, literary, and religious contexts, with attention to the history of interpretation. PR = none.

BS575 Jesus in History and Film
A study of the mission and message of the historical Jesus in his first-century context and of the portrayal of Jesus in classic or recent filmmaking. Also offered as BS775. PR = none.

BS600 Orientation to Biblical Studies
An introduction to academic biblical studies, with attention to the nature and development of biblical literature, tools for research, and methods of interpretation (exegesis). This two-credit course is a pre- or corequisite for most other courses in biblical studies. PR = none.

H/SP552 Classics of Christian Spirituality: Medieval to Modern
A discussion of texts by spiritual writers from the 12th century to the present day. Also offered as H/SP752. PR = none.

MT509 God & Mammon: Business and Professional Ethics
A study of fundamental concepts and issues of business and professional ethics in the light of Christian ethics, including such topics as scriptural and church attitudes toward business, theological theories of economic justice, and corporations as moral agents. Also offered as MT709. PR = none.

MT/ST529 The Theology and Ethics of Bonhoeffer
An historical analysis of the life and writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, with a focus on his work in the areas of Christian theology and ethics. Also offered as MT/ST729. PR = none.

SP522 Conversion
An examination of biblical, theological, spiritual, and sociological dimensions of conversion, and of its interpretation in various Christian traditions. An Explorations in Theology course. Also offered as SP722. PR = none.

SP552 Classics of Christian Spirituality: Medieval to Modern
A discussion of texts by spiritual writers from the 12th century to the present day. Cross-listed as H552. Also offered as SP752. PR = none.

SP607 God, Creation, and the Spiritual Life
An exploration of the ways in which we can experience God's presence in daily life and in God's creation by weaving together biblical imagery and scientific understanding of God's activity in the world. PR/CR = none.

ST518 The Writings of C.S. Lewis
An analysis of the theological writings of C.S. Lewis and a consideration of his apologetic methods. Also offered as ST718. PR = none.

ST680 God and Science
An examination of the relationship of religion and science in the West from the 18th-century enlightenment to the present. PR = none.

TH601 Introduction to Theological Study, Research & Writing
An introduction to the study of theology, including a survey of its major disciplines, review of research-paper techniques, and hands-on experience with the practical tools and methods of theological research and writing. PR = none.