Religion

This course examines the institutional, intellectual, and social developments in the history of Christianity from its beginnings to the Reformation. Issues such as the relationship between church and state, theology and philosophy, piety and culture will be traced and analyzed in the wider context of the history of the Mediterranean and Western Worlds from later antiquity to the Reformation. This course may be taken by History Majors to complete degree requirements in the field of History.

This course examines the history of Christianity from the Protestant Reformation through the emergence of the modern era to contemporary events in Christian History. Particular attention will be given to the rise of denominationalism, the history of Christianity in America, various reactions to modern social, political, and scientific theory, and the encounter of Christianity with non-European cultures through missionary and colonizing activity. This course may be taken by History Majors to complete degree requirements in the field of History.

An investigation of the resources within the Christian faith for making moral decisions with respect to the scientific, social, economic, political, and personal problems in the contemporary world.

The history, beliefs, and practices of major non-Christian religions, including Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Taoism.

This course studies the theologies and actions of religious extremists. Why do they so often resort to violence? What do they believe about the world and their place in it? How do people come to hold such extreme religious views? What are their political views? Students will learn about various perceptions of God and salvation, the role and flexibility of sacred texts, and the influence of human leaders.

Throughout history, humans have sought explanations for how the world works and for their place and purpose in the cosmos. These pursuits have produced seemingly contradictory approaches to truth and knowledge. This course explores these pursuits and their possible contradictions through the study of evidence developed in the sciences (physics and evolutionary biology), the social sciences (psychology), and religion. The goal of the course is to equip students with the means of evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of each disciplinary approach to answering life’s fundamental questions.

A study of the call to Christian service in the Church and the world. This course will examine the concepts of ministry and the call, the nature and structure of the Church, contemporary issues facing the Church, as well as resources and programs used by the Church to promote faith and service in local congregations. This course is open to students of all denominations and religious traditions. This course may not be taken to fulfill any core requirement.

This course explores the wide variety of religious perspectives and values communicated through the arts most accessible to the general public. Movies, television, music, and web-based communication will provide opportunities for investigation into and reflection on the role that religious ideas and values play in contemporary American society.

The character, ministry, and teaching of Jesus Christ, based upon the New Testament, including an examination of modern interpretations of Jesus.

A study of the development, characteristics, and messages of selected major and minor prophets of Israel and Judah, with an emphasis upon their relevance for contemporary life.

A survey of the life of Paul and the development of his theology in response to the problems and heresies he faced as an apostle and a missionary, with a consideration of their impact upon 20th century theology.

A study of the non-Pauline epistles in the New Testament and those writings associated with the name of John, including Revelation.

A study of the major trends, issues, persons, and movements in American religious history in their social, cultural, and political contexts. This course may be taken by History Majors to complete degree requirements in the field of History.

A study of the major trends, issues, persons and movements in African-American religious history. Special attention will be paid to Civil Rights, sociological factors affecting religion in America, and the politics of Religion.

The just use and distribution of wealth in a world filled with poverty has challenged people from the Ancient Israelites to 21st Century Christians. Beginning with biblical texts and sampling the writings and moral reflection of Christians to the present class participants will address the challenges of global poverty and its implications for Christians. Analysis of the socio-economic conditions of a Southern Hemisphere country will serve as a case study.

This course explores the personal and public trials and triumphs of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., tracing his development from his upbringing in Atlanta through his postsecondary education; his philosophical and personal influences; and his calling as a pastor and prophet for civil and human rights in the world. As well, students will learn about his intellectual, political, sociological, theological, and global impact.

The 21st Century promises to be an era of Christian resurgence marked by cultural struggles around the globe. Cultural, Political and Theological upheaval characterizes the rapid growth of Southern Hemisphere Christianity. Theologians and institutional developments in Africa, Asia, South America and the United States will frame class discussion of both the recent past and potential future of global Christianity.

This course examines the main themes of Christian theology in their classical formulation, traditional development, and contemporary expression. A seminar approach will be adopted in the course. Students will actively cooperate in developing the course content through the completion of reading assignments, outside research, formal presentation of material, and participation in discussion and debate. The textbook and instructor will serve primarily to describe the content and variety of influential positions taken on the main themes in theology. Students will take the initiative in advancing and defending particular views on the issues described.

Selections from Luther’s works, the Augsburg Confession and subsequent Lutheran writings will guide the student’s investigation of her or his own confessional understanding of the Christian faith.

A project requiring scholarly research and culminating in the public presentation of a formal paper. Subject to Senior Essay rules and regulations.