Developing Theological Insight - Part 1 (CT0151W)

Content

This unit is the first of a sequence of two that orients early-stage theology students to Christian Theological concepts. A variety of Christian belief systems and views are surveyed with attention given to their social context and historical development. Students are invited to examine their own belief systems and appreciate how past and present contexts have combined to shape them. This first unit will examine:

1. Skills for theological study
2. Theological method
3. Our Knowledge of God
4. Theologies of God, Trinity and Creation

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

This unit is first in a sequence of two units (CT0151W, CT0152W) that together serve as an introduction and survey of Christian theology. It is expected that students work through these units in sequence.

Pedagogy

Lectures, seminars, tutorials.

When incorporated into the NEXT program, delivery strategy will also utilise field trips and excursions to provide students with the opportunity to explore theological concepts in diverse contexts and settings.

Indicative Bibliography

• Ackroyd, R. and D. Major. Shaping the Tools: Study Skills in Theology. London: Darton, Longman and Todd, 1999.
• Ford, D. Theology. A Very Short Introduction. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1999.
• Grenz, S. J. Created for Community: Connecting Christian Belief with Christian Living. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1996.
• Jinkins, M. Invitation to Theology. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2001.
• Jones, B. F. Practicing Christian Doctrine: An Introduction to Thinking and Living Theologically. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2014.
• Malone, P. (ed.) Developing an Australian Theology. Strathfield: St Pauls Publications, 1999.
• McGrath, A. E. Christian Theology: An Introduction (4th ed). Oxford: Blackwell, 2007.
• Stone, Howard W., and James O. Duke. How to Think Theologically. Third edition. ed. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2013.
• Thielicke, Helmut. A Little Exercise for Young Theologians. Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2016.
• Thorsen, Donald A. D. An Exploration of Christian Theology. Peabody, Mass.: Hendrickson Publishers, 2015. (recommended for purchase)

Assessment