Courses

Introduces biblical theology as a discipline that interprets Scripture as a coherent and unfolding narrative centered on God’s redemptive purposes. Students examine major biblical themes and the relationship between biblical theology, exegesis, and systematic theology, with attention to the unity and diversity of Scripture. Emphasis is placed on tracing themes within the Bible’s storyline and considering the formative significance of Scripture for Christian faith, theology, and ministry.

Provides an exegetical and theological study of Matthew through Acts via close reading of the Bible in contemporary translation. The course examines historical, cultural, and literary contexts, major narrative structures, and central theological themes shaping early Christian proclamation and practice. Emphasis is placed on responsible interpretation, synthesis of biblical theology, and application for Christian life and ministry.

Provides an exegetical and theological study of Romans through Revelation via close reading of the Bible in contemporary translation. The course examines historical, cultural, and literary contexts, major theological arguments, and the development of early Christian doctrine and practice. Emphasis is placed on responsible interpretation, theological synthesis, and application for Christian life and ministry.

Introduces the content, structure, and theology of the Pentateuch and Old Testament Historical Books through close reading of the Bible in contemporary translation. Texts are situated within Israel’s historical development and the ancient Near Eastern context, emphasizing narrative flow, major theological themes, and canonical relationships. Attention is given to interpretive issues, historical background, and theological significance for Christian faith and ministry. Students trace God’s redemptive purposes through representative passages from Genesis through Esther and apply these writings to teaching, preaching, and contemporary Christian life.

Examines the message, theology, and literary forms of Old Testament prophetic and poetic books through close reading of the English Bible. Emphasizes historical context, Hebrew poetry in translation, wisdom traditions, and canonical theology in order to interpret prophetic proclamation and poetic expression for teaching and ministry.

Examines how biblical exegesis, theology, and the social sciences inform educational ministry and Christian leadership for diverse ministry contexts. Integrates learning theory, human development, curriculum design, and leadership practice across the lifespan, including intergenerational and multicultural settings. Emphasis is placed on reflection on practice, team-based leadership, and the application of theory to real ministry challenges through case studies and practitioner engagement. Students develop competencies for leading educational ministries with theological depth, contextual awareness, and collaborative skill in service of the church’s mission.

Examines major historical developments in Christianity from the apostolic era up to the sixteenth-century Reformation. Emphasizes the theological, institutional, cultural, and spiritual formation of the Christian tradition, including the patristic period, ecumenical councils, the emergence of papal government, medieval Christianity, Eastern Christianity, monasticism, and scholasticism. Students engage primary and secondary sources to understand continuity and diversity within Christian belief and practice across historical contexts.

Examines the development of Christianity from the Reformation era to the present through engagement with primary and secondary historical sources. Analyzes movements traditionally associated with Europe and North America alongside the emergence of diverse Christian expressions shaped by cultural, social, and political contexts worldwide. Explores theological developments, missionary encounters, indigenous Christian movements, Pentecostal and charismatic traditions, and contemporary global trends. Emphasizes the interconnected nature of Christian history and attends to the varied ways Christian faith has been articulated, practiced, and transformed across cultures.

Guides students through the development of a proposal for the Master of Arts in Christian Studies graduating project requirement. Students prepare a proposal for either an integrative research paper or an applied project, demonstrating focused topic selection, appropriate methodology, and alignment with program learning outcomes in preparation for MCS 810.