Content

This unit will examine the problem of articulating the nature of God and of God's relationship with an evolving world. This examination will centre on God as sustaining source (creation) and as final goal (eschatology) of the universe and in particular of humanity. Significant attention will be given to a panentheistic approach.

Unit code: CT9210C

Unit status: Approved (Major revision)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Elective

Unit discipline: Systematic Theology

Proposing College: Catholic Theological College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Critically evaluate different models for the relationship of God and the world, with reference to the doctrine of the mixed relation.

2.

Develop a nuanced understanding of the idea of God as Creator with reference especially to the thought of Aquinas.

3.

Propose and analyse a “resolution” of the issues in the God–world relationship with reference to a contemporary theology of the Trinity.

4.

Expound a theologically informed understanding of the traditional elements of Catholic eschatology.

5.

Engage in researching a specific topic in the fields of creation, God and the world or eschatology in a critically rigorous, sustained and self-directed way.

Unit sequence

The unit builds on studies in introductory and fundamental theology, Christology and Trinitarian theology, in the context of which it articulates an approach to a theology of creation and eschatology. Prerequisite units: CT1110C, CT2201C and CT2202C or equivalent.

Pedagogy

Lectures focused on clarity of explanation. Ready engagement with comments and questions from students to elicit areas needing further clarification leading to enhanced learning.

Indicative Bibliography

  • Ashby, R., C. Mulherin, J. R. Pilbrow, and S. Ames, eds. A Reckless God?: Currents and Challenges in the Christian Conversation with Science. Reservoir: Morning Star, 2018.
  • Carroll, D. A Pilgrim God for a Pilgrim People. Dublin: Gill & Macmillan, 1988.
  • Edwards, D. The God of Evolution: A Trinitarian Theology. New York: Paulist Press, 1999.
  • -------- The Natural World and God: Theological Explorations. Adelaide: ATF, 2017.
  • Hayes, Z. The Gift of Being: A Theology of Creation. Collegeville, MN: The Liturgical Press, 2001.
  • Johnson, E. She Who Is: The Mystery of God in Feminist Theological Discourse. New York: Crossroad, 1992/2002.
  • Kasper, W. The God of Jesus Christ. London: T&T Clark, 2012.
  • Lane, D. Keeping Hope Alive: Stirrings in Christian Theology. Dublin: Gill & Macmillan, 1996.
  • Lohfink, G. Is This All There Is?: On Resurrection and Eternal Life. Collegeville: Liturgical Press Academic, 2018.
  • Yates, S. Between Death and Resurrection: A Critical Response to Recent Catholic Debate Concerning the Intermediate State. London: Bloomsbury Academic, 2017.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Essay

Essay of 1,500 words

1500 20.0
Essay

Essay of 1,500 words

1500 20.0
Essay

Essay of 3,000 words.

3000 40.0
Oral Examination

Oral examination of 15 minutes

1000 20.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 13 Jun, 2023

Unit record last updated: 2023-06-13 16:54:21 +1000