Page 105 - 2018-2019 Academic Catalog

the cultivation of winsome persuasion in genuine human relationships, and a demonstrated Christian character that gives ultimate credibility to our defense of the faith. (3 credits)
348 World Missions
This course begins with a study of the biblical bases for mission activity around the world. It then examines the history of mission efforts in other countries, especially those within the Presbyterian and Reformed traditions. A further examination is made of the current status of missions and the special needs and approaches called for in the 21st century. (3 credits)
355 Religion in America
This course is a historical survey of the varieties of religious faith and practice in the United States from the colonial era to the present. Prerequisite: History 211 and 212 (3 credits) (Cross-listed as HIS 355)
360 Doctrinal Studies: God and Revelation
In this course, we will reflect deeply on what it means to know God, his nature, names, holiness, his being in Trinity, and other such topics, in company with some of the greatest theologians (church fathers, Calvin, Bavinck). The goal is to gain a better grasp of the biblical vision of the beauty and glory of God, which leads to adoration, trust, and joyful service. We will also interact with contemporary challenges to a biblical doctrine of God, such as “open theism.” The course will also explore the history and forms of how God has revealed himself in general and special revelation. Topics covered included: the relationship between special and general revelation; Old and New Testament texts and manuscripts; the formation, nature, inspiration, inerrancy, trustworthiness, character, attestation and acceptance of the Old and New Testament canon; the New Testament’s handling of special revelation; and Scripture’s attributes and authority. Students will learn how general revelation undergirds our exploration of God’s world and will be equipped to defend the written word of God in the midst of contemporary controversies. (3 credits)
361 Doctrinal Studies II: Salvation and the Church
This course will deepen understanding of the triune God’s gracious plan of salvation. Topics covered include the function of union with Christ in Reformed soteriology and the benefits associated with that union, namely, calling, regeneration, faith, repentance, justification, sanctification, and perseverance. The course will include analysis of biblical texts in both their immediate context and in the overall flow of Scripture, an overview of the development of the doctrine in Reformed theology, as well as an examination of contemporary challenges relating to the topics. It will also examine the biblical teaching on the doctrine of the church (ecclesiology), how this is developed in Reformed theology, and how this equips us to meet contemporary challenges. We study the nature, purpose, mission, structure, order and life of the church, and also critically engage the missional and emergent church movements. (3 credits)
362 Christology
A study of the person and work of Christ, this course will lead us to a deeper appreciation of the practical importance of knowing Christ as the God-Man and what he has accomplished for us. Recent challenges to Nicene and Chalcedonian orthodoxy and to penal substitutionary
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