Christian Thought and Mission

Biblical Studies | Christian Thought and Mission | Christian Ministries | Integrative Courses

PROFESSORS

Adetokunbo Adelekan, Assistant Professor of Theology and Ethics
Donald J. Brash, Assistant Professor of Historical Theology
Elouise Renich Fraser, Professor of Systematic Theology
George Hancock-Stefan, Visiting Professor of Christian Heritage
Benjamin Hartley, Visiting Assistant Professor of Christian Mission
Loida Martell-Otero, Associate Professor of Constructive Theology
Ronald James Sider, Professor of Theology, Holistic Ministry, and Public Policy
William L. Borror, Affiliate in Christian Heritage
John G. McElhenney, Affiliate in Methodist Studies
Horace O. Russell, Affiliate in Christian Heritage

The field of Christian Thought and Mission includes Theology, Ethics, Church History/ Christian Heritage, and Missiology. Basic to the curriculum are core courses introducing methodologies of critical historical investigation, theological reflection and hermeneutical application. Students are expected to learn and use these techniques to enhance their skills in ministry and personal study. A broad variety of advanced electives allow maximum specialization in areas of particular interest.

REQUIRED COURSES

CTM 500. CHURCH HISTORY I
A survey of the establishment, spread and development of the Christian faith up to the time of the Reformation paying particular attention to the first five centuries as the Church took shape in the Jewish, Greek and Roman cultures. Students will explore the roots of Christian doctrine, the rise of the institutional church and conflicts with the State, as well as the Greek and Latin traditions of the Faith and the development of liturgical patterns and spirituality. Two units. Hancock-Stefan/Borror.
 

CTM 501. SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY I
An introduction to developments and issues in systematic theology. Special attention will be given to the doctrines of God, Trinity, Creation, Humanity, the Fall and the problem of evil. Prerequisites: CTM 500 or CTM 503; B 501 or B 503. Two units. Brash/Martell-Otero.
 

CTM 502. SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY II
An investigation of selected developments and issues in systematic theology. Special attention will be given to the doctrines of Jesus Christ, Salvation, Holy Spirit, Church, and Eschatology, and to their connection to the practice of ministry. Prerequisites: CTM 500 or CTM 503; CTM 501; B 501 or B 503. Two units. Brash/Martell-Otero.
 

CTM 503. CHURCH HISTORY II
A survey of the development and spread of the Christian faith beginning with the Reformation of the 16th century in the Western Church, with particular attention to the rise and the spread of "confessions," their structure, traditions and patterns of spirituality. Two units. Hancock-Stefan/Borror.

CTM 504. CHRISTIAN WORLD MISSION
An interdisciplinary introduction to the Church in mission around the world. Overview of the biblical and theological foundations for Christian mission and the historical development of models of missionary practice in light of anthropological and sociological perspectives. Analysis of key contemporary issues determined by the emergence of non-Western churches and the new local and global partnerships required to face obstacles and opportunities in the next century. Prerequisite: CTM 500. Two units. Hartley.
 

CTM 505. THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS FOR MINISTRY
This course begins by exploring the way Christian ministry is grounded in Jesus' proclamation of the Good News of the Kingdom, his death and resurrection, and then examines the character and tasks of the church. Theological foundations, current problems and practical models are examined. Two units. Sider/Martell-Otero/DiRaddo.
 

CTM 506. BAPTIST HISTORY
This course is an inquiry into major issues and developments in Baptist history, particularly in America. Heavy emphasis is placed on exploring how Baptist thought and practice from the past might or should inform the practice of ministry in Baptists contexts today. Prerequisite: CTM 503. Two units.
 

CTM 507. BAPTIST EMPHASES AND POLITY
This course is a study and evaluation of characteristic Baptist emphases in theology, polity and practice with the aim of enabling Baptist leaders to function more effectively in the context of ministry today. Student examination, analysis and evaluation of selected topics constitute a vital part of the course. Prerequisite: CTM 503. Two units. Hancock-Stefan
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CTM 508. METHODIST HISTORY
Explores three centuries of Methodist history, using standard denominational texts, classroom lectures and discussion. Meets the United Methodist ordination candidate's history requirement (Discipline, paragraph 315.4.d). Fall semester. Prerequisite for CTM 509. Two units. McEllhenney.
 

CTM 509. UNITED METHODIST DOCTRINE AND POLITY
Deals with Part II of the United Methodist Book of Discipline, "Doctrinal Standards and Our Theological Task," using standard denominational texts, classroom lectures and discussion; and introduces the student to United Methodist polity. Meets the United Methodist ordination candidate's doctrine and polity requirements (Discipline, paragraph 315.4.d). Spring semester. Prerequisite: CTM 508. Two units. McEllhenney.
 

CTM 510. PRESBYTERIAN POLITY AND SACRAMENTS
Through a case study approach students will learn to apply the constitution of the church to specific issues at the congregational, presbytery, synod and general assembly levels. Attention will be given to the relationship between Reformed theology and Presbyterian polity. Attention will also be given to the theology and history of the sacraments, and to other rites celebrated by the church. Two units. Jones.
 

CTM 511. AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL POLITY & WORSHIP
This course gives a working knowledge and understanding of the African Methodist Episcopal Church specifically, and a general background in the history of Methodism. It will acquaint students with the doctrine, polity and discipline of the A.M.E. Church. Two units. Sturdivant.
 

CTM 514. M.T.S. INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Two to four units.
 

CTM 516. M.T.S. RESEARCH PAPER
Two units.

THEOLOGY ELECTIVES:

CTM 600. BIBLICAL FAITH AND ECONOMICS
An examination of diverse methodologies, hermeneutics and conclusions about the meaning of biblical data for economic life today. Special attention will be given to a careful exegetical analysis of relevant biblical material. Two units. Sider.
 

CTM 604. REVISITING PACIFICISM
An analysis of the arguments -- biblical, theological, historical for and against the claim that Christians should never kill. Class discussion and student presentations will be a major part of the class. Two units. Sider
 

CTM 605. THEOLOGY IN THE REFORMED TRADITION
A reading course designed for, but not limited to, Presbyterian students. Focuses on the Book of Confessions, giving special attention to distinctive features and concerns of Reformed theology. Prerequisite: preferably CTM 501; CTM 500 or CTM 503. Two units. Jones.
 

CTM610. INTRODUCTION TO U.S. LATIN@ THEOLOGIES
An introduction to the histories and social contexts of some U.S. Latina/o groups, a survey of the basic principles of their respective theologies, and a critical evaluation of their methods and content. Students will have the opportunity to explore the works of representative contemporary theological voices from the U.S. Latina/o community. Some knowledge of Spanish is helpful but not required. Two units. Martell-Otero.
 

CTM 611. THEOLOGY AND PUBLIC POLICY
A theological/biblical analysis of the problems involved in moving from biblical revelation and theological concepts to concrete public policy proposals. (This is the introductory course for the M.T.S. concentration in Christian Faith and Public Policy and is a prerequisite for other courses in that concentration). Two units. Sider.
 

CTM 615. THEOLOGY OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
This class will examine the theological and philosophical foundations of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Attention will be paid to King's understanding of God, Christ, the Church and humanity, and how the interplay of these themes informed his quest to critique, contest and transform North American civilization and the emerging global order. Students will be asked to probe into King's identity as a minister of the gospel, explore his role and significance in the history of the Church, and examine his international theological legacy. Finally, students will be invited to discover the implications of King's work for contemporary ministry. Two units. Adelekan.
 

CTM 618. RESEARCH IN THEOLOGICAL ISSUES
An independent study course for advanced students who desire to undertake intensive, independent research in one or several theological issues. Two to four units. Offered on demand.

CTM 620. POLITICAL THEOLOGIES AND PUBLIC THEOLOGIES
This course is designed to provide theological and ethical reflection on political thought and action. Representative doctrines for the Christian faith will be discussed with their implications for responding to government and politics. Participants will explore classical and contemporary formulations of the relationship between the church and the socio-political order. Biblical, historical and philosophical resources will be examined and interrogated. In addition, students will be asked to question two divergent yet related schools of thought: political theology and public theology. Our chief objective will be to consider sound theological-ethical options for Christians as they participate in the political order. Two units. Adelekan.
 

CTM627. THE CHURCH'S RESPONSE TO POVERTY AND DEVELOPMENT
With increasing frequency the church is called upon to respond to situations of immense poverty made worse by disasters of many kinds. The purpose of this course is to help students gain biblical, historical, and theological perspective on such situations by tracing the history and theology of the church's responses to poverty beginning with the early church and extending to the contemporary period. The geographical focus is global in scope. In the contemporary period the primary focus is the challenge of poverty and development in the "majority world" of the southern hemisphere as a vital component of the church's holistic mission. Prerequisites: CTM500 Church History I and CTM501 Systematic Theology I. Two units. Hartley.

CTM 661. THEOLOGIANS AND THE GREAT TEMPTATIONS
Using the three temptations of Christ as a framework, the course will deal with the variety of theologically informed Christian responses to ethical issues around materialism, status and power. Issues covered include war, sexuality, lifestyle, and human rights/responsibilities. Special attention will be given to the ethical/pastoral thought of Augustine, Acquinas, John Calvin and Karl Barth in dialogue with Anabaptist, postmodern and other Christian writers. Two units. Borror.
 

CTM 663. GROWING HOLISTIC CONGREGATIONS
This course will look at models, theology, opportunities and practical strategies to implement an effective integration of evangelism and social ministry in local congregations and ministries. Two units. Sider.
 

CTM 664. GOD, GOSPEL AND GLOBALIZATION
This course will explore the role of Christian ethicists, pastors and the local congregations in a changing global context. It will focus on the connection between religion and society, the global transformations and local appropriations and between the church and popular culture. Students will be required to integrate their native and local experiences into the broader cultural and civilizational developments. Students interested in public policy formation are welcome. Two units. Adelekan.

CHRISTIAN ETHICS ELECTIVES:

CTM 623. CHRISTIAN SOCIAL ETHICS
An introduction to ethical discourse, this class will survey the field of theological ethics so that Christians may engage the ethical issues of the common life, shape the institutions of society, and aid persons in forming faithful and objective moral judgements about public matters. Special attention will be given to the relationship between Christian faith and economics, politics and law. A sub-theme will be ecclesiology, a critical examination of the mission and purpose of the Church. Two units. Adelekan.
 

CTM 624. TWENTIETH CENTURY CHRISTIAN ETHICAL REFLECTION IN NORTH AMERICA
This course will explore Christian theological motifs and movements that have influenced the transformation of North American society in the 20th century. Students will examine biblical, theological and philosophical foundations developed by church movements and Christian thinkers that helped to shape the American social order. Theological movements to be explored include the Social Gospel Movement, Christian Realism, the Civil and Human Rights Movements, various liberation theologies, Black Womanist and Feminist ethics, environmental justice and Public Theology. A chief objective of this course will be to equip ordained clergy, ministers and laity to be effective disciples of Christ in church and society. Two units. Adelekan.
 

CTM 625. READING COURSE/INDEPENDENT STUDY IN ETHICS:

CHRISTIAN MISSION ELECTIVES:

CTM 632. NEW FRONTIERS IN MISSION FOR THE 21st CENTURY
The purpose of this course is to explore new opportunities and hindrances to missionary work in the 21st century as we seek to be obedient to the Great Commission. The course will be run in a seminar format. In the first two weeks, the professor will present in summary fashion the history of missions emphasizing the main movements in the 20th century. This will be followed by a study of various indigenous reactions to the missionary outreach in various continents. The third section will focus on the necessity of conversion and how Christians, other religions and non-believers, view this concept. The fourth section will analyze new methods of reaching people of the 21st century with the saving gospel of Jesus Christ. (Christian Heritage or Missions credit). Two units. Hancock-Stefan.
 

CTM 635. WOMEN IN MISSIONS
A seminar exploring and assessing contributions women have made in the missionary enterprise, beginning with the 18th century. Women's contributions will be examined from three perspectives--service, innovation and leadership--with attention to both home and foreign missions. Teaching and learning strategies include required readings, classroom presentations by the instructor, and student presentations. Two units. Hancock-Stefan.
 

CTM 636. INDEPENDENT STUDY IN MISSIOLOGY OR CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY
This course offers opportunity for personal involvement in a significant missiological research project or cross-cultural ministerial experience. A written proposal covering the investigative question, or cross-cultural experience, rationale, resources and methodology must be approved by the instructor prior to enrollment. A final written report or essay must be submitted. By request and permission. One or two units. Hancock-Stefan.
 

CTM 639. CONTEMPORARY MISSIOLOGY
This course is designed to introduce the global mission of God in the world and the unique role of the church and individual Christians in that mission. Students will examine contemporary missiological issues from historical, theological, geographical, organizational and congregational perspectives. At Green Lake, Wis. One or two units.
 

JCTM (JANUARY INTENSIVE). CHRISTIANITY AND WORLD RELIGIONS
This course explores ways in which Christian theology deals with the significance of other religions. The course addresses social and theological issues of world religions, with special reference to Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. During this course we will examine contemporary Christian theological approaches to other religions. Additionally, students will explore ways in which to dialogue with people of other faiths and create a "community". Two units. George.

SINT (SUMMER INTENSIVE). JESUS' MISSION IN THE GOSPEL OF MARK
A study of the Gospels from the perspective of Christian mission, exploring some of their key developments and motifs. Each year a different Gospel is presented. Besides lectures and readings, participants are also taught the method of Inductive Bible Study that may be used in ministry at the local church. One unit. Slade.

CHRISTIAN HERITAGE ELECTIVES:

CTM637. NON-WESTERN CHURCH HISTORY
We are in the midst of one of the most dramatic global demographic shifts in the history of Christianity. �The once Christian heartland of Western Europe represents a declining proportion of Christians in the world when compared to the rapidly growing Christian communities in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia. This course surveys the history of Christianity in these regions along with a contemporary assessment of Christians' challenges and opportunities for mission in particular contexts. Prerequisite: CTM500 Church History I. Two units. Hartley.

CTM 638. MARTYRDOM IN CHRISTIANITY, JUDAISM & ISLAM
In this course we will, 1) look at the reality of suffering and martyrdom as part and parcel of every Christian as demonstrated in the Scriptures. 2) Analyze the various missionary movements, which understood this concept and were ready to pay the price. 3) Become aware that the 20th Century was one of the bloodiest centuries for the followers of Jesus Christ. 4) Analyze how the Christian call to martyrdom differs from the concept of martyrdom in other religions, such as Judaism and Islam. 5) Enable the student to consider the cost in following Jesus Christ, which may involve suffering and martyrdom at home and abroad. (Missions or Theology elective) Two units. Hancock-Stefan.
 

CTM 646. TWENTIETH CENTURY EVANGELICALS
Who are the Evangelicals? What is their history? What is their theology? What is their mission? These are some of the topics we will consider in this course -- Evangelicals -- the Children of the Fundamentalist-Modernist Controversy, What Qualifies as an Evangelical Today? Evangelicals in Education and Politics, Is Evangelicalism Driven by Theology, Personalities of Passion for God's Kingdom? (Christian Heritage/Theology elective). Two units. Hancock-Stefan.
 

CTM 653. INDEPENDENT STUDY/READING
Professors in Christian Heritage.