Course Descriptions

Courses for New Curriculum (Fall 2009): [Jump to Older Curriculum]

Course	Name	Credits	Description
301	Hebrew Fundamentals	3	Guides students from the basics of the Hebrew alphabet and pronunciation to the reading and comprehension of Old Testament texts, facilitated by means of a workbook, an interactive CD-ROM, and a web-site providing additional resources.
302	Greek Fundamentals I	3	Introduces students to fundamental elements of New Testament Greek grammar and basic function of the parts of a Greek sentence, and provides understanding of Greek morphology and its significance for exegesis.
303	Reformed Confessions and Worldview	3	Introduces Reformed theology through a study of confessions, from the Reformation era (Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, Canons of Dort) and the more recent past (Contemporary Testimony, Belhar Confession), and through the basic elements of the Reformed worldview grounded in this confessional theology.
304	The Church in Historical Context I	3	Surveys the story of God’s people from 100 – 1247 A.D., conversing with ancient and medieval brothers and sisters in Christ by reading and responding to their testimonies, theology and practices.
305	The Church in Historical Context II	3	Introduces the history of Christianity from the late Middle Ages to the present, with special attention to developments in North America. Focuses on how the church’s institutions, thought, and practice were shaped by and responded to their contexts in each of the eras and places under study.
306	Preaching Theory and Methods	2	Introduces the practice of preaching through lectures, discussions, readings and preparatory exercises; and provides a grammar for talking about sermons and an elementary approach to sermon construction. Topics include theology of preaching, technique in telling stories, writing for the ear, pastoral issues in the pulpit, use and presentation of scripture in the sermon, and how and where to find illustrations.
307	Pastoral Identity Retreat	2	Explores the pastor as person, with particular attention on call to ministry, formation of pastoral identity, and the art of theological reflection. Culminates in an off-campus retreat where discernment of pastoral identity is facilitated within the context of worship and prayer.
308	Introduction to Ministry: Forming Communities of Disciples	3	Introduces students to the practices of ministry involved in forming communities of disciples, including worship, faith formation, pastoral care, evangelism, leadership and administration
310	The Church in Historical Context Survey	3	Surveys the major turning points in the history of Christianity from 100 A.D. to the present; and focuses on how the church’s institutions, thought and practice were shaped by and responded to their contexts at each of the turning points under study.
401	Hebrew Usage and Tools	3	Introduces exegetical tools, methods and hermeneutics for the exposition of Old Testament narrative texts based on a close reading of the book of Jonah and other selected texts.
402	Old Testament Narrative Literature	3	Introduces students to Genesis through Kings, Chronicles, Ezra-Nehemiah and Esther as Christian Scripture, by means of a close reading methodology and theological analysis applied to books and selected passages in Hebrew.
403	Old Testament Poetic Literature	3	Provides basic knowledge of Hebrew poetry and literary genres of the Psalms and other books of the Writings, a close reading methodology of selected passages in Hebrew, and emphasis on the psalms of prayer, lament, thanksgiving in prayer, song, preaching and pastoral care.
404	Old Testament Prophetic Literature	3	Introduces the institution and nature of prophecy and an exegetical and biblical theological examination of selected prophetic passages, emphasizing the message of the prophets for the church.
410	Greek Fundamentals II	3	Introduces Greek grammar, vocabulary, and syntax (building on NT 301) and the reading of the Greek New Testament, with emphasis on the use of Libronix Bible software as well as the exegetical application of the genitive case, adverbial participles, and conditional sentences.
411	New Testament Narratives	3	Studies the Gospels and Acts and the unique problems of having four different gospels; develops a Reformed methodology for analyzing the various approaches to the gospels; and studies specific passages in Greek. Prerequisite: NT203
412	New Testament Letters	3	Reviews the basic principles of interpreting the biblical text from a Reformed perspective, with attention given to Greek grammar, historical context, social setting, epistolary structure and theological themes of the New Testament letters and their message for the church today.
421	Systematic Theology I	3	Analyzes themes in the doctrines of God, humanity, and Christ, focusing on their biblical foundations and the church’s wrestling with these themes.
422	Systematic Theology II	3	Examines the work of the Holy Spirit, salvation, the church, and the return of Christ and reign of God through studying Scripture, historical documents and contemporary thought.
430	Reading Congregations	1	Prepares students to minister wisely in a congregation by providing basic tools and perspectives to analyze a congregation and discern a call to a specific ministry setting.
431	Pastoral Disciplines for Counseling Ministry	3	Introduces effective personal and marital counseling within the limits of pastoral ministry and explores the theologies and theories of transformation that underlie these pastoral skills. Students learn beginning counseling skills and complete a practicum/case study on a field experience packet filled out prior to the class. Prerequisite: PRTH701
432	Preaching Practicum	3	Builds on the approaches taught in 306 PW to prepare sermons, examine pastoral identity in preaching, and explore preaching in specialized ministry contexts with particular attention to issues of delivery and sermon construction when remedial help is needed. Prerequisite: PRTH652
440	Discipleship and Teaching in North American Culture	2	Equips students for leadership in the teaching ministry of the church by providing biblical and theological foundations, examining methods for assessing ministry contexts, developing a teaching-learning strategy appropriate to the context, and providing opportunities to enhance instructional skills.
441	Discipleship and Teaching: Evangelism and Cross-Cultural Ministry	2	Introduces models of personal and congregational evangelism, models of contextual ministry, and skills necessary for cross-cultural ministry; and teaches how to write and communicate faith stories for evangelistic purposes, present the gospel individually and corporately, conduct evangelistic Bible studies, and lead a congregation to the best model(s) of outreach for its context and to church planting.
449	Gospel Communication	2	Trains students in the art of public speaking as preparation for preaching and teaching ministries.
450	Apologetics	2	Presents a Reformed approach to the rational defense and presentation of the Christian faith and engages crucial issues in apologetics: the existence of God, the credibility of Scripture’s witness to Jesus Christ, the problem of evil, challenges based on the natural and social sciences, and religious pluralism.
451	Ethics and the Christian Life	3	Studies Christian personal and social morality vital for being an obedient church leader and developing faithful communities of disciples.
452	Forming Worshipping Communities	2	Introduces principles and practices of vital and faithful worship leadership, explores biblical and historical perspectives on worship practices highlighting those of the Reformed tradition, and gives students practice at several basic worship planning and leading skills.
460	Jeremiah and the Church	3	Introduces Jeremiah, the complex prophet of the New Covenant, and explores how his lengthy revelation finds its focus in Christ and continues to resonate within the church and world.
461	Interpretation of Old Testament Narrative Literature	3	course description coming
462	Ephesians	3	Considers the significance of this letter to contemporary challenges for ministries of the church: civil religion; Christian life as a continuous act of worship; ethnic and cultural diversity; unity and reconciliation; the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit for servant-leadership in marriage, family, church, and work; and spiritual warfare. Based on the English text, no Greek required.
463	Shalom	3	Provides the vision and understanding of God’s plan for creation to inspire lifestyles and ministries that conform to God´s good will for the cosmos, society, the Church, and for each person. Learning and theological reflection is done regarding sites where significant models of community transformation, social justice and care for creation are being developed in the US, Canada, and other countries.
470	Applied Music Skills for Worship Leaders	1	Provides one-on-one instruction in applied musical and artistic skills for worship leadership, including various approaches to equipping others in a congregational setting, and discussions of the pastoral, liturgical, and theological parameters for how particular skills best contribute to the worship life of congregations. Areas may include piano, organ, and keyboard; conducting; composition and arranging; or art and media design; students are encouraged to practice their skills in an internship, chapel, or local congregational context.
471	Written Expression	1	Introduces English writing skills needed for preparing academic papers and engaging in other forms of nonfiction writing. Topics addressed include selecting a topic, engaging sources appropriately, developing a thesis and an outline, following good English style, crafting paragraphs and transitions, and avoiding plagiarism.
472	Choosing Music for Worship	1	Resources students in developing and improving skills in choosing appropriate music for worship services.
473	Public Reading of Scripture	1	Resources students in developing and improving skills in effective public reading of Scripture passages.
474	Research Skills	1	Introduces the basic skills necessary for writing theological research papers, including use of sources, databases, and formulating a good thesis statement.
475	Proclaiming Texts Using the Arts	1	Introduces the various ways art proclaims the Word through image, architecture, and visual elements of worship. We will explore a biblical approach to the visual as integral in multi-sensory proclamation, examine historical developments, and discover how art in worship speaks theologically today.
476	Discerning and Organizing Information	1	Throughout past centuries pastors have used various systems for organizing the information found in the books and articles they read, the notes they took, and the sermons they wrote. These ranged from the 16th century commonplace book to “Baker’s Textual and Topical Filing System” used by some pastors in the mid-twentieth century. How should the twenty-first-century pastor organize the print and digital information which crosses his or her desk? This weeklong seminar will look at different models for organization of information for ministers of the Word, with examples of effective current practices of ministry practitioners. The goal of the week’s work is to help each participant develop a practical, efficient, flexible, and useable plan for organizing information that will serve well in future years of ministry.
477	Planning Intergenerational Worship	1	Most churches today wrestle with the issue of Intergenerational Worship. Is it possible? What methodology should be used? Which values should guide us? What are the risks of different approaches? Many are experimenting with very diverse approaches. In this course we’ll explore the issues involved, different perspectives on “intergenerational”, and participate collaboratively in efforts to design worship that will reach all generations. Our work will be built on the assumption that all generations are equally valuable, and all generations have their own unique needs in the formation of their faith.
478	Practicum in Teaching with Technology	1
479	Leading Congregations in Prayer	1
480	Training Council Members	1
481	Advanced Public Speaking	1
482	Basic Budgeting	1
483	Using Media Wisely	1
490	Hebrew Review	1	Offers opportunity to secure and build upon gains made in 301 in order to provide a solid foundation for using Hebrew in exegesis.
491	Greek Review	1	Offers opportunity to review and sharpen Greek grammatical and exegetical skills by reading important passages of the New Testament.
501	The Art of Hebrew Narrative	2	Develops greater proficiency in comprehending biblical Hebrew and appreciating its literary artistry and its application in Old Testament exegesis through a careful reading of the Jonah narrative.
502	Exegesis of the Pentateuch	2	Exercises exegetical and theological understanding of Exodus or Leviticus (in alternate years) in its larger canonical context, and its abiding address to the Church. Basic exegetical skills and knowledge of the Hebrew language and computer assisted exegetical skills are assumed.
503	Theology of the Primary History (Genesis-Kings)	2
504	Hebrew Poetry	2
505	Text to Sermon: Preaching Esther and Wisdom Literature	2
506	Psalms	2	Studies selected passages from the Psalms in the Hebrew text. Exegetical studies include syntactical, form critical, prosodic, hermeneutical and biblical theological issues. Considers the history of psalmic interpretation, the literary genres and their function in the Psalter as a collection and as a basis for liturgy and biblical theology. Offer M.T.S. and Th.M. students an opportunity to apply their knowledge of the original languages and their understanding of biblical hermeneutics in resolving key exegetical issues. Offers M.Div. Students an opportunity to apply their knowledge of the original languages and understanding of biblical hermeneutics to the challenging task of communicating the message of the Psalter in an effective way in sermons. Prerequisite: OT126
507	Isaiah	2
517	Reading the OT in Church and Mission	2
521	I Corinthians	2	Studies the historical context, social setting and epistolary structure of 1 Corinthians, emphasizing the major themes and issues of this letter and its message for the church today. Prerequisite: NT219
521T	I Corinthians	3
522	Parables	2	Introduces the principles and exegetical methods for interpreting the parables of Jesus and applying their meaning, significance, and relevance to contemporary preaching and teaching.
523	Birth and Death Narratives	2	Studies the passion narratives in the four gospels for use in effective preaching and liturgy during the Lenten season, and requires an exegetical sermon or lesson plan of one of the gospel’s birth narratives to prepare for the Advent season.
524	Apocalypse	2	Studies the exegesis of the book of Revelation, including a critical analysis of the main types of interpretation.
525	The Sermon on the Mount	2	Studies the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) and its implications for Christian living today.
526	Ephesians	2	Considers the significance of this letter to contemporary challenges for ministries of the church: civil religion; Christian life as a continuous act of worship; ethnic and cultural diversity; unity and reconciliation; the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit for servant-leadership in marriage, family, church, and work; and spiritual warfare. Based on the Greek text.
527	Shalom	2	Provides the vision and understanding of God’s plan for creation to inspire lifestyles and ministries that conform to God´s good will for the cosmos, society, the Church, and for each person. Learning and theological reflection is done in sites where significant models of community transformation, social justice and care for creation are being developed in the US, México, and other Latin American countries.
533	The Kingdom of God	2	Integrates biblical, historical and contemporary understandings of this central theme in Scripture and in Christian and Reformed theology, with special attention to relevance of the Kingdom of God and its justice for several ministry settings and Christian movements.
534	Paul's Missionary Journeys in Turkey and Greece	2
535	Intermediate Greek	2	Reads selected passages of the Greek New Testament with an emphasis on interpretation and grammatical and lexical material.
541	Calvin the Pastor	2	Examines John Calvin’s life, piety, reform, and pastoral ministry in the context of the Reformation in Geneva.
542	The Anabaptists: Then and Now	2	Explores the beliefs and practices of sixteenth-century Anabaptists and their modern-day descendants (Mennonites, Amish, and Hutterites), to test assumptions about how Christians should live in contemporary society.
543	Theological Biographies	2	Studies important theologians in the Christian tradition through the best available biographies and selective primary readings.
544	The Apologetical Theology of C.S. Lewis	2	Studies some works of C.S. Lewis in which he communicates and defends Christianity.
545	History of Christian Worship	2	Studies Christian worship practices in each major period in church history.
561	Theology of the Holy Spirit	2	Studies a biblical, historical and systematic examination of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit, with special attention to contemporary developments in Pentecostal and mainline spirituality and theology ,and the relation between Christology and pneumatology.
562	Doctrine of Infant Baptism	2	Studies the biblical basis, historical development, systematic formulation, major criticisms, and liturgical shape of the doctrine of infant baptism, with special focus on the Reformed tradition.
563	Imaginative Reading for Creative Preaching	2	Reads and discusses selected fiction, biography, memoirs, journalism, culture criticism, essays, drama, poetry, and children's literature in order to deepen the preacher's understanding of human character, divine grace, and the surprises that emerge when they intersect, with special attention to the homiletic impact of the readings.
564	Intersections of Theology and Science	2	Examines the theological loci of creation and humanity with an emphasis on how they intersect and often clash with modern scientific concerns and considers implications of these intersections for ministry.
581	Philosophy of Religion	2	Develops a Reformed philosophical perspective on the nature and functions of religion in human life; considers major religions, secular worldviews, and Christianity, arguing that all humans live by faith in something ultimate; and provides a comprehensive framework for Christian scholarship and ministry.
582	Philosophy for Understanding Theology	2	Surveys the history of philosophy from Plato to postmodernism, reviews the historical interaction of philosophy with Christian faith and theology--both positive and negative, and emphasizes the importance of good philosophy for sound theology.
583	Biblical Anthropology and the Body-Soul Debate	2	Considers contemporary Christian challenges to the traditional body-soul distinction in light of Scripture, theology, philosophy, and science; and argues for “dualistic holism.” A key issue is whether Scripture teaches that persons exist without bodies between death and resurrection.
584	Church and Society	2	Investigates the concept of social justice, including its implications for today and the proper role of the church in working toward it, and giving attention to the Christian Reformed Church’s positions on social issues. Prerequisite: PHMO531
584T	Church and Society	3
598	Independent Study (First Degree)	2
599	Major Research Paper (First Degree)	3
601	Doctrine of Christ and Services of the Christian Year	2	Engaging Christian Worship which effectively nurtures faith must be built on a clear understanding of the doctrine of Jesus Christ and should faithfully represent the full range of his ministry. The services of the Christian year – from Advent to Eastertide – provide an excellent pattern of nurture for the worshiping congregation. We’ll explore the worship calendar which observes the Christian Year and thereby faithfully leads worshipers through the entire ministry of Christ on an annual basis. We’ll function collegially and will aim to collaboratively plan services which faithfully accomplish this.
602	What Preachers Can Learn from Writers	2	Explores what various writers are saying about their craft and its implication for preaching and looks at the creative features of sermon making through a combination of reading, writing, and practice preaching.
603	Using Multi-media in Preaching	2	Voice. Body. Dress. Props. Screen. Learn how to use all of these elements to strengthen your preaching ministry. Students will preach twice over the course of the semester, using both "low" and "high" tech assistance. Students will also need to visit and/or view ministries in which these elements are used regularly and learn how to discern the helpful from the unhelpful.
604	Sermon Applications	2
621	Baptisms, Professions of Faith, Weddings, Funerals, & other Occ. Serv.	2	Studies the biblical, theological, and pastoral dimensions of celebrations of baptism, marriage, funerals, and other occasional services such as ordinations, dedications, and commissionings.
623	Music and the Arts in Worship	2	Surveys prominent theological motifs and how they have been reflected in artistic expressions of Christian worship throughout church history, including a study of prayer, texts, sermons, hymnody, architectural forms, and implications for congregational worship today.
624	Advanced Skills in Worship Leadership	2	Studies resources, skills, and strategies for planning and leading public worship services, with attention to congregational prayer, training lay worship leaders, and celebrations of the sacraments.
641	Contemporary Youth Culture and Intergenerational Ministry	2	Examines cultural institutions affecting youth, analyzes current understandings of family, media, school, and peer relationships among adolescents, and teaches how to plan and conduct intergenerational learning, serving, and high adventure activities that promote responsible interaction and spiritual growth.
642	Faith Formation for all Ages	2	Explores the spiritual, moral, emotional, and social needs and development of children and adults, teaches the creative design of faith formation programs and intergenerational education, and develops skills needed to teach a wide variety of programs.
643	Small Group Ministry	2	Examines group dynamics, enhances small group facilitation skills, provides tools to nurture age-specific, topical and intergenerational groups, and teaches how to equip others to lead small groups.
644	Educational Leadership and Administration	2	Studies the skills needed to provide educational leadership and administer educational programs, including leadership models, recruiting and training volunteers, budgeting, program planning and implementation.
645	Prayer Ministry	2	Examines the biblical, historical and theological foundations of prayer as it relates to personal spiritual growth and congregational ministry, and evaluates contemporary understandings and practices of prayer ministry.
646	Teaching Moments in the History of Global Christian Expansion	2	Surveys the key events, persons, movements, and strategies in the 2000-year history of Christian missions and considers implications for Christian ministry.
647	Curriculum Design and the Teaching-Learning Process	2	Explores curriculum theory and design, and the teaching-learning process that enables students to assess and develop curriculum and select appropriate teaching strategies.
648	Youth and Family Ministry	2	Introduces pastoral care for young people and families from a systems perspective, develops skills in theological diagnostic method, and examines issues such as depression and suicide, sexuality identity and function, use and abuse of alcohol and illegal substances, and dysfunctional families.
649	Practicum in Teaching	2	Enhances teaching effectiveness by practicing, reflecting, and critiquing student presentations; explores various teaching styles, and introduces presentation design, software packages, and online resources for enhancing instruction.
650	Foundations of Educational Ministry	3	Develops a holistic understanding of educational ministries by examining biblical, theological, philosophical, psychological, and sociological foundations, and considers how educational practice and theory inform each other.
661	Ministry to and with Latin Americans	2	Considers the growing presence, challenge, and opportunity for ministry that Latin Americans and Caribbeans present for US churches, emphasizing the development of effective ministries to reach Hispanics by partnering with and learning from them.
662	Seminar in Emerging Church Trends	2
663	Urban Ministry	2	Exploration of urban ministry through readings, reflection, discussion, and visits to urban ministries in cities such as New York.
664	Church Planting I	2	Introduces basic principles and practices of church planting, including issues such as getting started, support base and structures, demographics, the person of the church planter, and holistic ministry issues.
665	Church Planting II	2	Builds on the principles taught in 664 by studying organization, leadership and related issues.
667	Loving Your Muslim Neighbor	2	Builds on 718 by exploring further the teachings of Islam, its branches, ministry and outreach models, and contextualization issues.
668	Ministering Cross-Culturally	2	Equips students to minister effectively in cross-cultural and multi-ethnic settings, focusing on the cross-cultural minister, communication, preaching, teaching, relationships, conflict-resolution, worship, and contextualization issues.
681	Spiritual Direction	2	Introduces the ministry of spiritual direction and explores discerning the movement of God in the lives of others through listening, asking questions, prayer, and compassion.
682	Human Sexuality	2	Explores the wonders of human sexuality from biological, theological, and pastoral perspective, and considers issues of human sexuality that underlie much of pastoral care and counseling in a manner that seeks to overcome nearly 2000 years of Platonic dualism, a heresy that has harmed the Church for centuries.
683	Human Suffering	2	Engages the spiritual struggle to embrace the realities of human suffering and the loving nature of God through a variety of theological perspectives from classical and popular texts.
684	Pastoral Care As Dying and Rising with Christ	2	Introduces the classical understanding of pastoral care, guides students in engaging in pastoral care as soul care and nurturing of disciples, addresses care of people in crisis situations, and presents creative ways to encourage individual and communal practice of spiritual disciplines.
690	Theology and Practice of Pastoral Ministry	2	Studies the theology and practice of pastoral ministry to creatively and critically engaging changing views of the church and its ministry in contemporary culture, and enhance the practice of pastoral ministry.
701	Hermeneutics Seminar
710	Gateway to Seminary (M.Div.): An Introduction to Interpreting and Communicating the Bible	2	Introduces the study of Bible, theology, and ministry inductively as students hear exemplary sermons or congregation-focused educational sessions and discuss the hermeneutical, theological, communication, and cultural assessments that the sermon or teaching approach reflects. Includes a unit on Reformed hermeneutics and its application to the diverse genres found in Scripture, and particular biblical-theological themes.
711	Hermeneutics	2	Reviews the history and basic principles of biblical interpretation and their application to the diverse genres found in Scripture including narrative, poetry, prophecy, wisdom, gospel, epistolary, and apocalyptic. Attention given to the distinctive Reformed hermeneutical perspective and its significance in biblical-theological issues such as the Law, the people of God, the land, the covenant, Kingdom of God, salvation, shalom, and the Second Coming of Jesus.
712	Theological Education as Formation for Ministry	2	Introduces all parts of seminary life as interrelated and formative for ministry, and examines the process of spiritual formation by illustrating habits developed through theological education and how they are critical for ministry.
716	Bible Survey	3	Prepares leaders in the church to be faithful and effective stewards of the Word by acquainting them with the basic content and principal theme of each book of the Bible; the historical, geographical, and cultural backgrounds to the Bible; its introductory hermeneutical principles; and its continuing relevance.
717	Learning to use Bible Software: An Introduction to Libronix	1	Assists students with installing the Libronix Scholar’s Bible software and instructs them in using essential features of this program: concordance searches, Old Testament and New Testament background studies, and basic original language exegesis.
718	Christian Engagement with World Religions	3	Introduces the global engagement of the Christian faith with major world religions, worldviews, and forms of spirituality, framed by a biblical-Reformed theology and philosophy of religion that examines religious experience, tradition and practice in the light of general and scriptural revelation, and a commitment to the universal common humanity of God’s image bearers.
720	Service Learning	3	Integrates service-learning into preparation for ministry in other parts of the curriculum through learning to serve the unchurched, poor, or oppressed. Requires students to serve at least 100 hours over three years through a ministry in their local congregation or some other ecclesiastical or parachurch organization.
730	Gateway to Seminary (M.A.): An Introduction to Interpreting and Communicating the Bible	2	Introduces the study of Bible, theology, and ministry inductively as students hear exemplary sermons or congregation-focused educational sessions and discuss the hermeneutical, theological, communication, and cultural assessments that the sermon or teaching approach reflects. Introduces Reformed hermeneutics and the use of Libronix for studying scripture to provide a foundation for seminary studies, and orients students to the four areas of the curriculum (message, person, audience, and goal).
731	Foundations in Ministry: Fostering Intergenerational Communities of Disciples	3	Introduces the biblical and sociological principles that guide organization and management of ministries and examines equipping others for ministry; exploring how people, communities and organizations change; the dynamics of staff ministry; the life-cycle of ministry; spiritual assessment of the ministry setting; and leadership that encourages a healthy intergenerational environment.
732	Capstone (M.A.): Integrative Project	2	Reviews seminary studies to see how each area of study contributes to an integrated theological vision for ministry, and develops an e-portfolio to document student learning.
740	Gateway to Seminary (M.T.S.): An Introduction to Interpreting and Communicating the Bible		Introduces the study of the Bible, theology, and Reformed hermeneutics, and the basic research skills used in writing theological essays.
741	Capstone (M.T.S.): Integrative Seminar	2	Helps students develop a focused research project based on their area of interest, and review their studies at CTS to see how each area contributes to an integrated theological vision.
751	Mentoring Groups: Faith Story and Spiritual Disciplines	1	Assists students in sharing faith stories and provides opportunity to help each other cultivate a healthy rhythm of life to sustain them in ministry. In mentoring groups, students and a faculty or pastor mentor form one another for ministry by practicing spiritual disciplines and theological reflection together.
752	Mentoring Groups (M.Div.): Person	1	Focusing on area 2 of the curriculum—maturing in pastoral identity–students reflect on the intersection of their call to ministry and personal and interpersonal strengths and weaknesses with ministry practices. In mentoring groups, students and a faculty mentor help one another to be formed for ministry by practicing spiritual disciplines and theological reflection together.
753	Mentoring Groups (M.Div.): Context	1	Focusing on area 3 of the curriculum—discerning and engaging ministry contexts—students reflect on their cross-cultural internship experiences. In mentoring groups, students and a faculty or pastor mentor form one another for ministry by practicing spiritual disciplines and theological reflection together.
754	Mentoring Groups (M.Div.): Message	1	Focusing on area 1 of the curriculum—preaching and teaching the Bible—students reflect on theological issues with which they struggle. In mentoring groups, students and a faculty or pastor mentor form one another for ministry by practicing spiritual disciplines and theological reflection together.
755	Mentoring Groups (M.Div.): Goal I	1	Focusing on area 4 of the curriculum—forming communities of disciples—students reflect on their congregation-based internship and service-learning experiences. In mentoring groups, students and a faculty or pastor mentor form one another for ministry by practicing spiritual disciplines and theological reflection together.
756	Mentoring Groups (M.Div.): Goal II	1	Focusing on area 4 of the curriculum—forming communities of disciples–-students reflect on their congregation-based internship and service-learning experiences. In mentoring groups, students and a faculty or pastor mentor form one another for ministry by practicing spiritual disciplines and theological reflection together.
760	Internship (M.Div.): Cross-Cultural	2	Explores the contextual nature of ministry in a 5 week (200 hour) cross-cultural internship, usually completed in the summer after the first year of seminary.
761	Internship (M.Div.): Congregation-Based	4	Provides a leadership experience with a congregation for deepening pastoral identity and developing ministry practices in a 10 week (400 hour) internship, usually completed in the summer after the second year of seminary.
762	Clinical Pastoral Education
763	Internship (M.A.): Specialized Ministry	2
770	Christian Reformed Church: History and Polity	3	Prepares students for vital ministry in the Christian Reformed Church by introducing them to the basic outline of CRC history, the principles and structures of CRC polity, and key ethical and theological positions of the CRC.
771	Capstone (M.Div.): Integrative Seminar	3	Prepares students for ordination exams and equips them to integrate wisdom, practices and insights from each area of the seminary curriculum through case studies from ministry settings.
772	Capstone (M.Div.): Pastoral Leadership	3	Equips students to provide effective pastoral leadership in forming communities of disciples, and integrates a biblical theology of leadership with personal reflection, discernment of contexts, and practical leadership skills.
780	Mentoring Groups (M.A.): Person	1
781	Mentoring Groups (M.A.): Context	1
782	Mentoring Groups (M.A.): Message	1
783	Mentoring Groups (M.A.): Goal	1
790	Folio Completion	0
801T	Research Methodology	3	Develops research paper writing skills, and introduces basic research and biblical methodologies. Students learn to analyze scholarly articles, write a 15-20 page research paper, meet with professors in the area of their specialization (biblical, theological, ministry) to finish the first draft, and thenrewrite the paper.
809T	Seminar in OT Biblical Theology	3	Studies selected exegetical, biblical-theological, hermeneutical or linguistic issues arising out of scholarly studies of the Old and New Testaments such as issues. Specific topics announced by the Biblical Department.
810T	Seminar in the History of Interpretation of the OT	3	Studies selected exegetical, biblical-theological, hermeneutical or linguistic issues arising out of scholarly studies of the Old and New Testaments such as issues. Specific topics announced by the Biblical Department.
811T	The Book of Samuel	3	Studies selected passages from the book of Samuel in the context of the theology of Samuel and the canon. Students write an exegetical research paper demonstrating understanding of advanced exegetical skill in syntactical, methodological, and theological matters. Basic knowledge of the Hebrew language and computer-assisted exegetical skills are required.
812T	Basic Akkadian	3	Introduces the morphology, phonology, grammar, and syntax of the Akkadian language, and principal Akkadian language resources, emphasizing elementary reading skills in contracts and omen texts, sections of the laws of Hammurabi, hymns and prayers, and royal inscriptions and correspondence. Prerequisite: OT113
813T	Comparative Semitic Grammar	3	Equips students with fundamental tools and skills to undertake fruitful research in Semitic languages by introducing them to general Semitic phonology, morphology, and syntax in the light of historical and comparative linguistics.
814T	Ancient Near Eastern and Biblical Law	3	Examines Sumerian, Assyrian, Babylonian, and Hittite legal materials, in translation, with a view toward how specific laws of these cultures compare with analogous biblical laws from sociological and theological perspectives.
815T	Biblical Aramaic	3	Introduces the basic elements of biblical Aramaic, including elementary grammar and vocabulary, and the translation of the Aramaic passages of the Old Testament.
816T	The Ugaritic Language	3	Introduces the study of Ugaritic, including noun formation, verbal system, syntax, and the reading of Ugaritic texts in transliteration.
820T	Preaching Texts of Terror	3
828T	Matthew	3	Explores the richness of the message, literary art, and relevance and significance of the historical context of the Gospel of Matthew in order to challenge faith and praxis and transform faithful disciples of Jesus in today’s societies.
829T	Mark	3	Reads the Gospel of Mark as if for the first time, discovering how Mark developed controversy dialogues, parables, miracle stories, discipleship teaching, an eschatological discourse, and a passion narrative into a gospel proclamation. Interpretation of the miracle stories is highlighted.
830T	Luke-Acts	3	Studies the structure, purpose, background material, and theology of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Each class period concentrates on a section of the book and a particular passage within that context, providing students with a valuable approach to exegesis, interpretation, and application.
831T	I and II Thessalonians	3	Studies the historical context, social setting, and epistolary structure of 1 and 2 Thessalonians, and emphasizes the major themes and issues of these letters and their message for the church today.
832T	Preaching the Parables	3	Examines the communication of Jesus’ parables in sermonic form, including a study of representative sermons and the homiletical principles involved.
835T	Scripture and Christian Ethics	3
846T	Puritanism and Orthodoxy	3	Examines post-Reformation theological developments, emphasizing English Puritanism and the scholastic systems of Calvinism and Lutheranism in the late sixteenth and seventeenth Century.
847T	The Life and Thought of Augustine	3	Studies the thought of Augustine as related to his life and work, emphasizing the place of Augustine in the development of Christian doctrine.
848T	The Divine Decrees in 16th and 17th Century Reformed Thought	3
849T	The Reformed Dogmatics of Herman Bavinck I	3
850	Reformed Dogmatics of Herman Bavinck II	2
850T	The Reformed Dogmatics of Herman Bavinck II	3
865T	Violence and the Love of God	3	Examines violence in certain Biblical texts and Christian doctrines and considers criticisms from marginalized groups (feminists, womanists, and minorities), helping students learn to listen fairly and evaluate these criticisms from the standpoint of Reformed theology.
866T	Recent Developments in Roman Catholic Theology	3	Studies the documents of the Second Vatican Council, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and several recent papal encyclicals and Catholic ecumenical statements.
867T	Theology of Jonathan Edwards	3	Introduces the life, thought, and significance of America’s greatest theologian, with special attention to Edwards’s formative role in shaping a distinctive American theology and spirituality.
868T	Theology of Dutch Neo-Calvinism	3	Examines key themes in the theology and ethics of Abraham Kuyper and Herman Bavinck, and considers their nineteenth-century background and influence on subsequent twentieth-century Reformed theology in the Netherlands and North America.
869	Heidelberg Catechism	2	Studies the history and theology of the Heidelberg Catechism in order to develop an appreciation of the relevance of the document for Christian life and ministry today.
869T	The Heidelberg Catechism	3	Studies the history and theology of the Heidelberg Catechism in order to develop an appreciation of the relevance of the document for Christian life and ministry today.
870T	The Thought of Aquinas	3	Considers Thomas Aquinas’ theology, philosophy and ethics as presented in sections of Summa Theologica; including topics of revelation and reason, God’s nature and relation to creation, human nature, knowledge, law and the virtues, sin, salvation, and final blessedness.
871	The Biblical Theology of Presence	2
871T	The Biblical Theology of Presence	3	Studies the divine presence in the Primary History (Genesis-Kings), and its relationship to wisdom literature and the theology of the covenant. Prerequisite: OT115
872T	Theology of Worship and the Sacraments	3	Studies Reformed theological writings on corporate worship and the sacraments and examines how their enduring themes are reflected in worship practices today.
885T	The Impact of Philosophy Since Kant on Theology	3	Traces how important philosophies beginning with Kant and Hegel have shaped modern and postmodern biblical scholarship, theologians, and theological movements; and considers romanticism, idealism, scientific naturalism, historicism, phenomenology, and existentialism, as well as analytic, linguistic, and hermeneutical philosophy.
886T	The Problem of Modernity	3
887T	Modern Panentheism	3	Traces modern panentheism (everything exists within God) from Neoplatonism, through Hegel, Schelling, and 19th century idealism, to Troeltsch, Teilhard, Whitehead, Tillich, Pannenberg, Moltmann, liberation theology, and current theological cosmology. Compares panentheistic concepts of God’s nature and relation to creation with classical Christian views.
888T	Warranted Christian Belief	3
889T	Readings in Christian Social Ethics	3	Studies selected classical texts in the history of Christian social ethics from the apostolic era to the present.
897T	Independent Study (ThM)	3
898T	Thesis (ThM)	6
899T	Major Paper (ThM)	3
901P	Research Methodology	3	Examines theory and methods in theology intended to provide a foundation for graduate and post-graduate research.
902P	Dissertation Seminar (PhD)	0
903P	Teaching Seminar (PhD)
930P	Documents and Issues in Reformed and Post-Reformation Thought	3	Examines select documents from the Reformation and post-Reformation eras, emphasizing the techniques of research and analysis.
931P	Scripture and Interpretation in the 16th and 17th Centuries	3	Examines the doctrine and interpretation of Scripture in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, emphasizing the development of the Reformed tradition of exegesis and hermeneutics.
932P	Reformed Symbolics: The Confessions and Catechisms of the Reformed Churches	3	Studies the confessions and catechisms of the Reformed churches of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, emphasizing the international character and theological development of Reformed symbolics.
933P	Early Patristic Theology: The Apologists and Anti-Gnostic Fathers	3	Studies the theology of the second and early third centuries with attention to the problems of Christianity and classical culture, Gnosticism, and early trinitarianism.
934P	The Theology of John Calvin	3	Investigates the theology of John Calvin by examining his primary texts, including the Institutes, commentaries, sermons, correspondence, and polemical literature, and analyzes past and present interpretations of Calvin's theology.
936P	Reformed Doctrine of God in 16th-17th Century	3	Examines the doctrine of God in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, emphasizes the exegetical, dogmatic, and philosophical development of Reformed theology.
937P	Arminius and Arminianism	3	Examines the work of Jacob Arminius in the context of late sixteenth- and early seventeenth-century Protestantism, including his theology, controversies, and the development of Reformed and Remonstrant theology to the Synod of Dort.
938P	Patristic Theology from the Arian Controversy to the Council of Constantinople	3	Studies the history of the trinitarian and christological debate from the beginnings of the Nicene struggle to its resolution at the Council of Constantinople (A.D. 381), with special attention to the councils of the fourth century.
939P	Life and Thought of Augustine	3	Studies the thought of Augustine as related to his life and work, with emphasis on his place in the development of Christian doctrine.
940P	Theology of Revelation	3	Studies biblical and historical sources and contemporary theological reflection on the Christian doctrine of revelation, focusing on the need for divine revelation, the nature of revelation, and the validation and reception of revelation.
941P	Nature of Theology and Doctrine	3	Studies basic issues in theological prolegomena, including the sources, nature, and object of theology, the use of Scripture in theology, and the nature of doctrine.
942P	Theology of the Incarnation	3	Examines the doctrine of the incarnation historically and systematically, with special attention to patristic, medieval, and modern developments.
943P	Theology of the Atonement	3	Examines the doctrine of the atonement historically and systematically, with special attention to various theories of atonement and criticism of those theories.
944P	The Theology of Karl Barth	3	Studies Karl Barth's theology through a survey of the development of his thought and a careful study of selections from his Church Dogmatics
945P	Theology of the Trinity	3	Studies biblical sources, confessional statements, and classic and contemporary theological formulations of the Christian doctrine of the Trinity.
946P	20th-Century Dutch Reformed Theology	3	Examines key figures and issues in twentieth-century Dutch Reformed theology including A. Kuyper, H. Bavinck, O. Noordmans, G. Vander Leeuw, K. Schilder, A. A. Van Ruler, G. C. Berkouwer, H. M. Kuitert, and H. Berkhof; including the relation between revelation and experience; the debates about theocracy, common grace, and regeneration; the pluriformity and apostolicity of the church; and the debate about the ongoing significance and value of Karl Barth's theology.
947P	Theology of the Holy Spirit	3	Examines the doctrine of the Holy Spirit biblically, historically, and systematically, with special attention to contemporary developments in Pentecostal and mainline spirituality and theology, and the relation between Christology and pneumatology.
948P	The Theology of Edwards	3	Studies the philosophical, doctrinal, moral, and spiritual theology of 'America's theologian,' Jonathan Edwards, through extensive reading of his major treatises.
951P	Philosophical Issues in Christian Theology	3	Studies the philosophical treatments of the doctrine of God, including the nature, attributes, and knowability of God.
952P	Philosophical Foundations of Modern Theology	3	Studies the major philosophers who influenced the foundations of modern theology--Kant, Hegel, and Schleiermacher.
953P	Christian Moral Tradition	3	Studies the Judeo-Christian moral tradition with respect to both its philosophical commitments and its moral content.
954P	Social Teaching of the Christian Churches	3	Analyzes Ernst Troeltsch's The Social Teaching of the Christian Churches and collateral readings,and a few important twentieth-century theologians (Karl Barth, Reinhold and H. Richard Niebuhr, John Paul II).
955P	Post-Enlightenment Critique of Religion	3	Assesses two important phases in the post-enlightenment critique of religious belief: the naturalistic explanation of religious belief ventured by Feuerbach, Marx, Nietzsche, and Freud (1840-1960): and the global rejection of such notions as truth and moral objectivity by which any religion or system of belief might recommend itself as authoritative(since 1960).
956P	Christian Social Ethics	3
993P	Doctoral Seminar: History of Christianity	3	Studies selected advanced topics in historical theology.
994P	Doctoral Seminary: Systematic Theology	3	Studies selected advanced topics in systematic theology.
995P	Doctoral Seminar: Philisophical Theology	3	Studies selected advanced topics in philosophical theology.
996P	Doctoral Seminar: Moral Theology	3	Studies selected advanced topics in moral theology.

Current Courses: [Jump to New Curriculum]

OT 101	Biblical Hebrew	A computer-centered, self-paced, introductory study of the basic elements of biblical Hebrew, including elementary Hebrew grammar and vocabulary, and translation exercises. This course will be offered continuously online with guidance from the professor and/or tutors just a mouse-click away.
COMP 101	Bible Knowledge Comprehensive
MF 101	Formation for Ministry Group
COMP 102	Greek Comprehensive
MF 102	Formation for Ministry Group
COMP 103	Hebrew Comprehensive
MF 103	Formation for Ministry Group
COMP 104	Oral Comprehensive
MF 104	Formation for Ministry Group
COMP 105	Greek Comprehensive Equiv
MF 105	Formation for Ministry Group
COMP 106	Hebrew Comprehensive Equiv
MF 106	Formation for Ministry Group
COMP 107	Computer-based Greek Comp
MF 107	Formation for Ministry Group
COMP 108	Computer-based Hebrew Comp
MF 108	Formation for Ministry Group
MF 109	Formation for Ministry Group
FE 110	Course Requirements
OT 110	Narrative Law and History	A study of the Pentateuch and the Former Prophets, together with the narrative books among the Writings, from the redemptive-historical perspective. The literary, canonical, historical, hermeneutical, and theological aspects of these books will be discussed.
MF 110	Formation for Ministry Folio Completion
COMP 111	Ecclesiastical Interview
FE 112	Clinical Pastoral Education
MF 112	Clinical Pastoral Education
OT 113	Introduction to Hebrew Exegesis for Ministry	An introduction to exegetical methods and hermeneutics for the exposition of O.T. narrative texts based on a close reading of the book of Jonah. Pre-requisites: OT 101
OT 115	Narrative Literature of the Old Testament	An introduction to Genesis through Kings, Chronicles, Ezra-Nehemiah and Esther as Christian Scripture. Several books and passages will be selected and their canonical, historical, literary and hermeneutical aspects examined. Pre-requisites: OT 101 OT 113
MF 115	Internship
OT 116	Theology of the Pentateuch	A presentation of the canonical theological shape of the Pentateuch as a fundamental introduction to the Christian Scriptures, and an examination of selected themes: e.g., creation, kingdom, covenant and blessing, wilderness-journey, tabernacle. These will be studied with a view to their importance for the rest of Scripture and for the life of the church. Pre-requisites: OT 113
FE 119	Summer Assignment
OT 120	Poetry and Prophets	A study of the Latter Prophets and the poetical books among the Writings from the redemptive-historical perspective. The literary, canonical, historical, hermeneutical, and theological aspects of these books will be discussed.
COMP 121	Dutch Examination
COMP 122	French Examination
COMP 123	German Examination
COMP 124	Spanish Examination
OT 124	Theology of the Former Prophets	A presentation of the theological shape of the Former Prophets in the Christian canon as a prophetic critique of Israel's stewardship of the promised land, and an examination of selected themes: e.g., theology of land; possession and inheritance; covenant and blessing-curse; kingship-messiah; torah piety and its abuse; defilement of dedicated space; repentance and hope. These will be studied with a view to their importance for reading the rest of Scripture and for the life of the church. Pre-requisites: OT 115
COMP 125	Latin Examination
MF 125	Internship
OT 126	Message of the Psalms and Wisdom Books	An introduction to the nature and techniques of Hebrew poetry. The course includes a special introduction to Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs and samples of exegesis from the Psalms and Proverbs. Special emphasis is given to the central place of psalms of lament, thanksgiving and praise in prayer, song, preaching and pastoral care. Pre-requisites: OT 115
OT 127	The Latter Prophets	A study of the Latter Prophets: their canonical, historical, hermeneutical, and biblical-theological aspects, together with a general introduction to prophecy and apocalyptic. Pre-requisites: OT 115
OT 128	The Major Prophets	An introduction to the institution of O.T. prophecy and its nature, as well as an exegetical and biblical theological examination of the message of selected passages from 'The Major Prophets,' with special emphasis on the message of the prophets for church. Pre-requisites: OT 126
OT 129	The Minor Prophets (The Twelve)	An introduction to the institution of O.T. prophecy and its nature, as well as an exegetical and biblical theological examination of the message of selected passages from "The Minor Prophets (The Twelve)," with special emphasis on the message of the prophets for the church. Pre-requisites: OT 126
COMP 131	Ph.D. Comprehensives
OT 142	The Book of Exodus	An introduction to the book and its message. Exegesis of selected passages in the narrative, legal, and tabernacle materials. Pre-requisites: OT 115
OT 143	The Book of Leviticus	An introduction to the book in its canonical context, a study of its message, the nature of the priesthood and the rituals of holiness. Includes exegesis of selected passages. Pre-requisites: OT 115
FE 147	Internship
OT 151	Biblical Aramaic	A study of the grammar of biblical Aramaic, reading of the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, and discussion of some Aramaic texts. Pre-requisites: OT 101 limited to ThM students
FE 151	SCUPE
OT 152	The Ugaritic Language	An introduction to the study of Ugaritic, including noun formation, verbal system, and syntax; reading of a Ugaritic text in transliteration. Pre-requisites: OT 101 limited to ThM students
OT 153	Basic Akkadian	An introduction to the morphology, phonology, grammar and syntax of the Akkadian language, and principal Akkadian language resources, with emphasis on developing elementary reading skills. Pre-requisites: OT 113 limited to ThM students
OT 154	Readings in Akkadian	A continuation of OT 153 with emphasis on reading cuneiform portions of the Akkadian creation epic, sections of the laws of Hammurabi, and royal correspondence. Pre-requisites: OT 153 or ANLL SPEC limited to ThM students
OT 155	Ancient Near Eastern History	A survey of the civilizations and cultural traditions of the peoples of ancient Near East from earliest history to the time of Alexander the Great with an emphasis on the intersection with biblical history. Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students
OT 156	Comparative Semitic Grammar	Introduction to general Semitic phonology, morphology, and syntax in light of historical and comparative linguistics. Pre-requisites: OT 113
OT 158	The Art of Hebrew Narrative	A careful reading of the Joseph narrative for the purposes of developing a greater proficiency in comprehending biblical Hebrew and appreciation for its literary artistry. Pre-requisites: OT 101
OT 159	The Art of Hebrew Poetry	Reading of extensive portions of the Hebrew Old Testament with special focus on poetry. Attention will be paid to lexicography, grammar, the principles of Hebrew prosody, and text criticism. Pre-requisites: OT 113
OT 162	The Psalms: From Text to Sermon	An exegetical study of selected passages from the Psalms in the Hebrew text, including syntactical, form critical, prosodic, hermeneutical and biblical-theological issues. The course will offer M.Div. students an opportunity to apply their knowledge of the original languages and understanding of biblical hermeneutics to the challenging task of communicating the message of the Psalter in an effective way. Pre-requisites: OT 126
OT 163	Reading and Interpreting the Psalms	A study of some of the forms, motifs, and hermeneutical problems of the Old Testament Psalter, including a reading of selected psalms from the Hebrew text. Pre-requisites: OT 126
OT 167	The Book of Proverbs	The exegetical study of Proverbs, including reading of selected passages in Hebrew. Attention will be paid to the wisdom character of the book, to its literary character, its hermeneutical problems, its theological importance, its function in the canon, its relation to salvation history and its near eastern parallels, and to its role as a resource for life and preaching. Pre-requisites: OT 126
FE 170	Part-time Ministry
FE 171	Part-time Ministry
FE 172	Part-time Ministry
OT 173	Ancient Near Eastern and Biblical Law	An examination of Sumerian, Assyrian, Babylonian, and Hittite legal materials, in translation, with a view toward how specific laws of these cultures compare with analogous biblical laws from sociological and theological perspectives. Limited to Th.M. students; M.T.S. and M.Div. students only with permission of the instructor. Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students
FE 173	Part-time Ministry
FE 174	Part-time Ministry
FE 175	Part-time Ministry
OT 176	Jeremiah and the Church	Introduction to the book and a study of its message, including the exegesis of selected passages from the Hebrew text. Pre-requisites: OT 126
FE 176	Part-time Ministry
OT 177	The Prophecy of Amos	Introduction to the book and a study of its message, including the exegesis of selected passages. Pre-requisites: OT 129 OT 128
FE 177	Part-time Ministry
FE 178	Part-time Ministry
OT 179	Reading and Interpreting Isaiah	A literary and historical introduction to the Prophecy of Isaiah, including a survey of the history of its interpretation, a critical evaluation of major exegetical hypotheses and close reading of selected passages in the Hebrew text. Special attention is given to questions of exegetical methodology (source, form, redaction-historical, rhetorical, canonical, etc.), the compositional structure of the book, the use of important theological motifs, and key inner-biblical connections with a view to elucidating the message of the book in the canon of Scripture. This course will offer M.T.S. and Th.M. students an opportunity to apply their knowledge of the original languages and their understanding of biblical hermeneutics in resolving key exegetical issues. Pre-requisites: OT 128 OT 129
FE 179	Part-time Ministry
OT 180	Isaiah: From Text to Sermon	An exegetical study of selected passages from the Prophecy of Isaiah in the Hebrew text, including syntactical, form critical, prosodic, hermeneutical, and biblical-theological issues. The course will offer M.Div. students an opportunity to apply their knowledge of the original languages and understanding of biblical hermeneutics to the challenging task of communicating the message of Isaiah in an effective way. Pre-requisites: OT 128 OT 129
FE 180	Special Ministry
OT 183	The Prophecy of Zechariah	A textual, philological, and theological study of the book of Zechariah, emphasizing the first eight chapters. The rise of apocalyptic literature and contemporary interest in it are examined. Pre-requisites: OT 128 OT 129
OT 185	Biblical Studies and Research Method	An examination of theory and methods in biblical studies intended to provide a foundation for graduate research. Limited to Th.M. and M.T.S. students; others only by permission of the instructor. Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students
OT 190	Exegesis and Preaching Together	This course will explicitly explore the relationship between exegesis and sermon construction/delivery using a specific Biblical book making use of the skills and resources of both the preaching faculty and those of the biblical division. Pre-requisites: OT 113 PRTH 651
OT 196	Seminar in Old Testament Exegesis	Advanced study of selected exegetical, biblical-theological, hermeneutical, or linguistic issues arising out of studies of the Old and New Testaments. Specific topics to be announced by the Biblical Division. Pre-requisites: OT 113 OT 115
OT 197	Seminar in Old Testament Studies	Advanced study of selected exegetical, biblical-theological, hermeneutical, or linguistic issues arising out of studies of the Old and New Testaments. Specific topics to be announced by the Biblical Division. Pre-requisites: only by permission of instructor
MF 198	Transfer Credit
OT 198	Research Course: Old Testament	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
FE 198	Transfer Credit
OT 199	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
FE 199	Pre-matriculation
NT 201	Intro to New Testament Greek	An introduction to the basic elements of New Testament Greek, with an emphasis on the mastery of forms, basic vocabulary and syntax. This is the first of three non-credit courses designed for incoming students who have not yet completed the admission requirements in the Greek language.
NT 202	Intro to New Testament Greek	A continuation of NT 201. This is the second of three courses designed for incoming students who have not yet completed the admission requirements in the Greek language. Pre-requisites: NT 201
NT 203	Intro to New Testament Greek	A continuation of NT 201 and NT 202. This is the third of three courses designed for incoming students who have not yet completed the admission requirements in the Greek language. Pre-requisites: NT 202
NT 204	New Testament Greek	A review of the basic elements of New Testament Greek covered in NT 201, NT 202 and NT 203 through an interpretive reading of selective biblical passages, as well as an introduction to the Greek text of the New Testament and the practice of textual criticism. This is a capstone course designed for incoming students who have not yet completed the admission requirements in the Greek language. Pre-requisites: NT 203
NT 209	A Biblical Perspective on Shalom	This course explores the comprehensiveness of the biblical teaching on "shalom" This central theme provides the necessary vision and understanding of God's plan to inspire a lifestyle and ministry that conforms to God's good will for the church, society, and creation.
NT 210	New Testament Letters for Christian Life and Ministry	A general introductory study of the New Testament including its background, setting, and principles of interpretation, as well as an exegetical and biblical-theological examination of the message of the Pauline letters.
NT 211	Discipleship in the New Testament	The course will examine the themes of discipleship in the New Testament writings. Specific paradigm pericopes will be exegeted. Various contemporary approaches to discipleship will be evaluated. Students will write their own biblical theology of discipleship.
NT 213	Studies in Ephesians	An exegetical study of the letter to the Ephesians that examines its critical introductory problems, literary structure, historical background, and its theological message, in the light of contemporary issues in church and society. Pre-requisites: NT 210
NT 216	New Testament Interpretation	An introduction to the basic principles of interpreting the biblical text (i.e., hermeneutics), from a Reformed perspective as they apply to the Catholic letters. Special attention is given to the Greek grammar, literary features, historical context, and theological themes of the Catholic letters as well as their message for the church today.
NT 219	Pauline Letters: Message for the Church	A study of the Pauline letters, the letter to the Hebrews, and the book of Revelation, including introductory questions, hermeneutical considerations, and biblical-theological content. Pre-requisites: NT 216
NT 220	The Gospels for Christian Life and Ministry	An examination of the message of the Gospels, Acts, and the book of Revelation, including lexical and historical issues as well as hermeneutical and biblical-theological perspectives.
NT 221	Interpreting Book of Revelation	An intensive study of the Book of Revelation (English Bible) that examines the major approaches that have shaped the interpretation of this book, its literary structure, its symbolic language, its relationship to Old Testament prophetic books, and its message for the church today.
NT 224	The Gospels: Message for the Church	A study of the history of revelation as contained in the Synoptic Gospels and Acts, with an introduction to the unique problems arising from the synoptic witness to Christ. Pre-requisites: NT 219
NT 230	Interpreting the Bible for Christian Life and Ministry	A study of biblical-theological and hermeneutical perspectives with the goal of faithful exposition of biblical texts in the light of the whole canon for the purpose of forming faith and guiding practice. Pre-requisites: NT 210 NT 220 OT 110 OT 120
NT 231	Jewish Literature on the Intertestament Period	A study of the Jewish literature belonging to the intertestamental period (Apocrypha, Pseudepigrapha, Dead Sea Scrolls, Philo, and Josephus) in order to provide a historical, literary, and theological background for understanding the New Testament.
NT 240	Biblical Interpretation	A review of the history and of the basic principles of biblical interpretation (grammatical, literary, historical and theological) and their application to the diverse genres found in the Scriptures (narrative, poetry, prophecy, wisdom, gospel, epistolary, apocalyptic). Special attention is given to the distinctive Reformed hermeneutical perspective and its significance in biblical-theological issues such as the Law, the people of God, the land, the covenant, Kingdom of God, salvation, shalom, and the Second Coming of Jesus. Open only to students in the EPMC program. Pre-requisites: Demonstrated competence in the biblical languages.
NT 244	Intermediate Greek Reading of the New Testament	An interpretive reading of selected passages of the Greek New Testament with an emphasis on grammatical and lexical material.
NT 247	The Thessalonian Letters	A study of the historical context, social setting, and epistolary structure of 1 and 2 Thessalonians, with an emphasis on the major themes and issues of these letters and their message for the church today. Pre-requisites: NT 219
NT 248	First Corinthians	A study of the historical context, social setting, and epistolary structure of 1 Corinthians, with an emphasis on the major themes and issues of this letter and its message for the church today. Pre-requisites: NT 219
NT 249	Letter to the Ephesians	An exegetical analysis of the letter to the Ephesians and a consideration of its critical introductory problems, rhetorical and literary features, major theological themes, and its relevance for the life and mission of the church. Pre-requisites: NT 219
NT 251	Studies in the Gospel of Mark	A study of how Mark structured and shaped the historical events in the life of Jesus, developed the genre of gospel, and preached the story of Jesus to his community. Students will attempt to read the gospel as if for the first time discovering how Mark developed controversy dialogues, parables, miracle stories, discipleship teaching, and a passion story and resurrection narrative into a gospel proclamation. Pre-requisites: NT 224
NT 252	Studies in Luke and Acts	A study of the structure, purpose, and theology of the Gospel of Luke as it relates to the Acts of the Apostles. A delineation of the major themes of Luke-Acts and their role in the formation of a theology of the New Testament. Reflection upon the preaching value of Luke-Acts for the present day. Pre-requisites: NT 224
NT 253	The Gospel of John	A study of the background, structure, and theology of the Gospel of John, including an assessment of critical views regarding the relation between history and gospel. Pre-requisites: NT 224
NT 254	Studies in Gospel of Matthew	An exegetical and redactional study of the Gospel of Matthew to ascertain its recipients, its distinctive purpose and message relative to the fourfold gospel tradition, and its contribution to the developing theology. Pre-requisites: NT 224
NT 256	Birth and Passion Narrative of the Gospels	A study of the birth narratives of Luke 1-2 and Matthew 1-2 so as to use their structure, background, and theology to effectively prepare sermons for the Advent season. An exegetical analysis of the passion narrative in the four gospels to understand the significance of Jesus' death in the theology of the evangelists and to employ this material in effective preaching during the Lenten season. Pre-requisites: NT 224
NT 266	The Letter of James	The course will focus on a careful reading of the Greek text and on the letter's literary structure, theology, and use of the Old Testament. Questions of its authorship, audience, and place in early Christianity and the canon will also be raised. Its values for preaching will be considered. Pre-requisites: NT 216
NT 269	The Apocalypse	An exegetical study of the book of Revelation, including a critical analysis of the main types of interpretation. Pre-requisites: NT 219
NT 270	Interpretation of the Parables of Jesus	A review of the history of the interpretation of the parables, a formulation of principles of interpretation, and an exegetical study of individual parables to ascertain their meaning and relevance. Pre-requisites: NT 224
NT 271	A Biblical Perspective on Shalom	This course explores the comprehensiveness of the biblical teaching on "shalom" This central theme provides the necessary vision and understanding of God's plan to inspire a lifestyle and ministry that conforms to God's good will for the church, society, and creation. Pre-requisites: OT 113 NT 216
NT 272	A Biblical Theology of the Kingdom of God	This course explores the centrality of the Kingdom of God in Scriptures. Its purpose is to develop a biblical theology of power as it is expressed in the history of Israel in the Old Testament and as it is taught and modeled by Jesus in the new Testament. The course pays careful attention to the significance of the Kingdom of God in the theology and ministry of the Church in the contemporary world. Pre-requisites: OT 113 NT 216
NT 284	Advanced Greek Reading	Greek readings from the New Testament, the Septuagint, extra-biblical apocrypha and pseudepigrapha literature, and the writings of the apostolic fathers, apologists, and church fathers with an emphasis on grammatical outlines of clauses and on content that enlightens the world of the early church. Pre-requisites: NT 204 NT 216
NT 290	Exegesis and Preaching Together	This course will explicitly explore the relationship between exegesis and sermon construction/delivery using a specific Biblical book making use of the skills and resources of both the preaching faculty and those of the biblical division. Pre-requisites: PRTH 651 NT 204
NT 296	Seminar in New Testament Exegesis	Advanced study of selected exegetical, biblical-theological, hermeneutical, or linguistic issues arising out of studies of the Old and New Testaments. Specific topics to be announced by the Biblical Division. Pre-requisites: NT 204
NT 297	Seminar in New Test Studies	Advanced study of selected exegetical, biblical-theological, hermeneutical, or linguistic issues arising out of studies of the Old and New Testaments. Specific topics to be announced by the Biblical Division. Pre-requisites: only by permission of instructor
NT 298	Research Course: New Testament	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
NT 299	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
HSTH 310	Church History Survey	A general interpretive survey of the history of the Christian church from a.d. 100 to the present.
HSTH 311	General Church History I: The Patristic and Medieval Periods	A general survey of the history of the Christian church from the Protestant Reformation to the end of the seventeenth century.
HSTH 312	General Church History II: The Reformation Period	A general survey of the history of the Christian church from the Protestant Reformation to the end of the seventeenth century.
HSTH 313	General Church History III: The Modern Period	A general survey of the history of the Christian church in Europe and North America from the beginning of the modern period to the present, with a special focus on North American Protestantism.
HSTH 332	Christian Reformed Church History	The history of the Christian Reformed Church in the United States and Canada, with a preliminary review of the developments in the Reformed Church of the Netherlands from the Reformation through the Dutch Secession of 1834.
HSTH 338	Canadian Church History	A study of the establishment, expansion, internal development, and societal impact of the Christian church on the North American continent, with particular focus on Canada.
HSTH 343	Church in Historical Perspective	A study of the changing conceptions of the church as they arise out of particular historical situations. By reading and analyzing selected writings from the pre-Reformation and Reformation eras, both the constant and changing factors in the church's understanding of itself will be explored and a foundation laid for understanding the ecclesiologies of the modern period.
HSTH 344	Church Leadership in Historical Perspective	A study of the conceptions of leadership in the church as they have arisen out of particular moments in the life of God's people. Particular attention will be given to such issues as the source and nature of the authority of ecclesiastical office, the relationship between clergy and laity, the requisite attributes of church leaders, and the primary aims and responsibilities of church leaders.
HSTH 345	History of Christian Worship	A study of the historical developments of public worship (including the sacraments, preaching, prayer, music, and liturgical space and time) and of the diverse expressions of piety in the Christian tradition. The course will also reflect on the implications of this history for con- temporary worship practice.
HSTH 348	Life and Thought of St Augustine	A study of those elements in the life and thought of Augustine which have had a formative influence on the Christian church.
HSTH 352	Early Christian Writers	A study of the lives and major contributions of selected Greek and Latin church fathers, and an examination of their writings against various heresies and the relevance of those heresies for the church today.
HSTH 354	Eastern Orthodoxy	An historical survey of the Eastern Orthodox churches through the patristic, Byzantine, and modern periodic characteristic liturgical and theological emphases as well as institutional and political developments affecting the Orthodox churches are highlighted using readings in original sources.
HSTH 356	Theology in America	A study of the development of American Protestant theology from New England Puritanism to the present.
HSTH 363	Theology of the Lutheran Reformation	An examination of the thought of Luther, Melanchthon, and their associates in the context of the later Middle Ages and early Reformation.
HSTH 365	Theological Biographies	A study of important theologians in the Christian tradition through the use of the best available biographies and supplemented by selec- tive primary readings.
HSTH 371	The Theology of John Calvin	A historical study of the thought of John Calvin, as contained in his Institutes of the Christian Religion, theological treatises, commentaries, and sermons with attention to the context of Calvin's work in Reformation-era Geneva and to his patterns of writing, lecturing, and preaching.
HSTH 373	Puritanism and Orthodoxy	An examination of post-Reformation theological developments with emphasis on English puritanism and the scholastic systems of Calvinism and Lutheranism in the late sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
HSTH 374	Biblical Interpretation in the 16th and 17th Centuries	An examination of the method and practice of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century exegetes and theologians with emphasis on the development of Reformed theology and hermeneutics.
HSTH 375	Medieval Theology	A study of major themes in Christian doctrine and philosophy as developed by the great medieval doctors from the twelfth to the fourteenth century, with special attention to thinkers such as Anselm, Bonaventure, Aquinas, Siger of Brabant, Scotus, and Occam.
HSTH 376	Biblical Interpretation in the Middle Ages	A study of the methods and results of major medieval exegetes from Augustine and Gregory the Great to the early Luther. The course will emphasize the diversity of medieval exegesis and significant continuities between medieval approaches and the methods of the early Reformation.
HSTH 377	Biblical Interpretation in the Early Church	An examination of the methods and results of biblical interpreters from the Apostolic Fathers to Augustine. Emphasis will be placed on tracing diverse interpretation s of key texts with in the e context of developing theology and the life of the church.
HSTH 387	Seminar in Historical Theology	Advanced study of selected historical issues. Specific topics for this seminar will be announced by the Theological Division.
HSTH 398	Research Course: Church History	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
HSTH 399	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
SYTH 403	Systematic Theology Survey	A survey, based on Scripture, historical documents, and contemporary studies, of the whole system of Christian doctrine from a Reformed perspective. Herman Bavinck's 'Our Reasonable Faith' will serve as the basic textbook.
SYTH 415	God, Creation, and Humanity	A study of Scripture, traditional teaching, and contemporary reflection on God, creation, and humanity. Belief in God; language about God; the nature of the triune God; the works of God in creation and providence. Various views of humanity; the image of God; human sinfulness.
SYTH 425	Christ and Salvation	A study of Scripture, traditional teaching, and contemporary reflection on Christ and salvation. The person and work of Christ, with special attention to incarnation and atonement. The nature and effects of salvation in Jesus Christ and the salvific work of the Holy Spirit.
SYTH 435	Holy Spirit, Church and Kingdom	A study of Scripture, traditional teaching, and contemporary reflection on the Holy Spirit, church, and kingdom. Topics include the characteristic work of the Holy Spirit; the gifts of the Holy Spirit in creation and redemption; the church as the eschatological community of the Holy Spirit; death and the power of the Holy Spirit; the renewal of all things.
SYTH 440	Contours of Reformed Theology	A survey of the characteristic features of the Reformed theological tradition, especially as expressed in the Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, Canons of Dort, and Contemporary Testimony.
SYTH 441	Religion, Revelation and Theology	An introduction to Christian theology, its basis, norms and method. An emphasis on the relation between theology and religious experience, Scripture, and the church.
SYTH 443	Doctrine of the Holy Spirit	A biblical, historical, and systematic study of the person and work of God the Holy Spirit. The Reformed understanding of the cosmic work of the Holy Spirit will be emphasized along with the place of pneumatology in systematic theology as a whole. Linkages between Reformed pneumatology and Reformed spirituality will also be explored.
SYTH 445	Doctrine of Infant Baptism	A study of the biblical basis, historical development, systematic formulation, and major criticisms of the doctrine of infant baptism, with special focus on the Reformed tradition. Pre-requisites: SYTH 435
SYTH 450	The Minister in Literature	An exploration of the portraits given in English literature of ministers and their vocation, character, role, performance of duties, effectiveness, fears, and peculiar temptations and sins, including power and pride, doubt, sloth, infidelity, and professionalism. Classical and contemporary texts will be used.
SYTH 451	Imaginative Reading for Creative Preaching	Theological reading and discussion of selected fiction, biography, memoirs, journalism, culture criticism, essays, drama, poetry, and children's literature In order to deepen the preacher's understanding of human character, divine grace, and the surprises that emerge when they intersect. Students and instructor pay particular attention to the homiletic impact of the readings. Pre-requisites: SYTH 435 SYTH 425 SYTH 415 PRTH 651
SYTH 455	Theology and Science	An overview of the current debate on how theology relates to science; how our knowledge of God relates to our efforts to study God's creation rationally and scientifically. Topics such as the following will be considered: philosophy of science and scientific method; cosmology; evolution and intelligent design; the origin and end of life, genetic engineering, medical research and alternative medicine; the environment.
SYTH 474	The Theology of Edwards	An introduction to the life, thought, and significance of America's greatest theologian. Special attention is paid to Edwards's formative role in shaping a distinctive American theology and spirituality.
SYTH 475	Theology of Dutch Neo-Calvinism	An examination of the key themes in the theology and ethics of Abraham Kuyper and Herman Bavinck. The nineteenth-century background and influence on subsequent twentieth-century Reformed theology in the Netherlands and North America will also be considered.
SYTH 477	Ecumenical Creeds and Reformed Confessions	An introduction to the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian creeds with attention to the general purpose and structure of Christian creeds, and a study of the Belgic Confession and the Canons of Dort with comparative reference to the Heidelberg Catechism.
SYTH 478	Global Christian Theology	A study of some of the recent theologies, theologians, and confessional texts that have emerged from the rapidly expanding Christian Church in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These will be compared with the Christian Reformed Church's attempt at a contemporary North American statement of faith, 'Our World Belongs to God.'
SYTH 479	The Seven Deadly Sins	A theological analysis of pride, envy, anger, sloth, avarice, gluttony, and lust, with discussion of their origin, coherence, social and psychological dimensions, and spiritual antidotes. Pre-requisites: PHMO 531 SYTH 425 SYTH 415
SYTH 480	Theology and Narrative	A critical examination of some recent attempts to integrate biblical and systematic approaches to theology through the category of narrative.
SYTH 481	Roman Catholic Theology	An examination of selected issues in Roman Catholic theology from the Council of Trent to the present, with major focus on the Second Vatican Council and subsequent theological developments.
SYTH 482	Theology of the Creeds	A study of theological reflection on the Christian faith as it is summarized in the Apostles' and Nicene creeds.
SYTH 485	Research Methodology in Theology	An introduction to skills, methods, and resources intended to provide a foundation for graduate research and writing in the theological field. Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students
SYTH 487	Seminar in Systematic Theology	Advanced study of selected systematic issues. Specific topics for this seminar will be announced by the Theological Division.
SYTH 490	Trends in Christological and Trinity Doctrine	An examination of recent incarnational, atonement, and trinitarian theories, with special attention to the theological relation of the Incarnation to the doctrine of the Trinity. Pre-requisites: SYTH 415 SYTH 425
SYTH 491	The Heidelberg Catechism	A study of the historical background and theology of the Heidelberg Catechism.
SYTH 493	Theology of Prayer	A biblical, confessional, theological study of prayer.
SYTH 496	Theology of Pannenberg and Moltmann	An examination of the theology proposed by Wolfhart Pannenberg and Jorgen Moltmann in reaction to the theology of Barth and Bultmann.
SYTH 497	The Theology of Karl Barth	A critical study of the theology of Karl Barth as set forth primarily in his Church Dogmatics.
SYTH 498	Research Course: Systematic Theology	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
SYTH 499	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
PHMO 510	Philosophy for Understanding Theology	A brief survey of the history of philosophy, focusing primarily on the views of faith and reason and the concepts of the world's relation to God that have shaped and challenged Christian faith and theology.
PHMO 521	Fundamental Apologetics	An introduction to the principles and methods of Reformed apologetics and their application to major contemporary objections against the Christian faith.
PHMO 531	Basic Christian Ethics	A study of the Christian view of the concept, principle, and precepts of morality.
PHMO 533	Philosophy of Religion	A Christian philosophical analysis of the nature and functions of religion in human life, including consideration of major non-Christian religions, ideologies, and views of life.
PHMO 541	The Theology of C.S. Lewis	A study of some works of C. S. Lewis in which he communicates and defends Christianity.
PHMO 542	The Theology of Thomas Aquinas	A course in Thomistic thought based upon a critical study of selections from the Summa Theologica.
PHMO 552	Christian Values and Popular Media	The viewing and analyzing of selected popular television programs and recent feature films in order to make explicit the moral and social values depicted, with an assessment of the measure to which such entertainment undermines or promotes Christianity. Pre-requisites: PHMO 531
PHMO 555	Church and Society	An investigation of the concept of social justice, including what its implications are today and the proper role of the church in working toward it. Attention also will be given to the positions that the Christian Reformed Church has taken on social issues. Pre-requisites: PHMO 531
PHMO 556	The Ten Commandments	A study of the Ten Commandments in an attempt to discover their original meaning and contemporary significance. For Th.M. students only unless special permission is given. Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students
PHMO 557	The Sermon on the Mount	A study of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) and its implications for Christian living today.
PHMO 558	A Study of Christian Virtues	A study of traditional Christian virtues as to their biblical basis, theological and philosophical development, and their personal formation.
PHMO 561	Bib Anthropology/Dualism-Monism Debate	A study of biblical teaching about human life, death, and life after death, and an evaluation of traditional Christian dualist and contemporary Christian monist anthropologies.
PHMO 563	Impact of Post-Enlightenment on Philosophy	A critical survey of how Kant, Hegel, romanticism, scientific naturalism, and existentialism have shaped the concepts of God, revelation, and knowledge of God affirmed by important contemporary theologians and theological movements.
PHMO 567	Contemporary Panentheism and Its Roots	A critical survey of panentheism ("everything exists within God") in theology, with consideration of Neoplatonism, Hegel, Teilhard de Chardin, Process Theology, Paul Tillich, Wolfhart Pannenberg, Jurgen Moltmann, feminist and liberation theologies, and theological cosmology.
PHMO 568	Reformed World and Life View	A study of the biblical and theological foundations, philosophical articulations, and specific implications of the Reformed world and life view developed in the neo-Calvinist tradition of Abraham Kuyper.
PHMO 574	Readings in Chr Social Ethics	A close study of selected classical texts in the history of Christian social ethics from the apostolic era to the present. Pre-requisites: PHMO 531
PHMO 587	Seminar in Philosophical or Moral Theology	Advanced study of selected philosophical or moral issues. Specific topics for this seminar will be announced by the Theological Division.
PHMO 598	Research Course: Philosophical or Moral Theology	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
PHMO 599	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor.
PRTH 600	Foundations in Ministry I	An introductory study of the biblical foundations and sociological principles that guide the organization and management of the ministry of the church. Special attention is given to a systems approach to the administration and management of the church's ministry.
PRTH 601	Foundations in Ministry II	An introduction to the various ministries of the church, with a special focus on the communication of the gospel through the worship, teaching, and evangelism ministries of the church. These ministries are examined within a framework of biblical foundations and theoretical principles. Pre-requisites: PRTH 600
PRTH 603	Church Polity	A study of the biblical principles underlying Reformed church polity and of the structures through which the church ministers to its own members and to the world, with particular reference to the Church Order and the regulations of the synod of the Christian Reformed Church. Concurrent with the classroom component the students will be assigned to observe, to evaluate, and to reflect theologically on the ministry of a local congregation and its council.
PRTH 605	Church Administration	A study of the principles of administration consistent with scriptural data and Reformed church polity applicable to the local church and to denominational assemblies and agencies. Aspects of multiple-staff ministries are discussed. Various models are studied and evaluated.
PRTH 615	Training Leaders and Making Disciples	An introduction to the biblical and theological foundations of Christian leadership with a focus on character formation and the skills of training leaders and making disciples.
PRTH 620	Leadership Models for Christian Ministry	A study of biblical, historical, and contemporary models of leadership considered in the light of scriptural principles. The course includes an analysis of the current trend of utilizing corporate managerial styles and psychological tools. Attention is given to ethnic and gender differences, and non -Western models of leadership are evaluated.
PRTH 621	Theology and Practice of Pastoral Ministry	A study of the theology and practice of pastoral ministry with a view to creatively and critically engaging changing views of the church and its ministry in our contemporary culture, and enhancing the practice of pastoral ministry. Prerequisite: open to senior M.Div. students and to others only with the permission of the instructor.
PRTH 625	Prayer Ministry	A study of prayer as it relates to personal spiritual growth and church ministry based on biblical, theological, and historical foundations. Contemporary concepts and practices are evaluated with a view to guiding the church in prayer ministry.
PRTH 635	Admonition and Discipline of the Church	A study of biblical, historical, confessional, and church-order data with a view to defining the responsibility and function of the members of the congregation and of the officebearers in the admonition and official discipline of today's church. Pre-requisites: PRTH 603
PRTH 636	The Offices of the Church	A biblical, historical, and theological analysis of the offices of the church together with an address to contemporary questions about the nature of office.
PRTH 637	Current Issues in the Christian Reformed Church	A seminar in which students, instructor, and guests explore current issues facing the Christian Reformed Church in North America with particular attention to matters on the agenda of its annual synod. Pre-requisites: PRTH 603
PRTH 650	Introduction to Christian Worship	A study of the theology, history, and practice of Christian corporate worship. The course emphasizes the development of skills for planning and leading worship in a variety of ministry settings, with particular attention to how worship practices both reflect and shape theological commitments.
PRTH 651	Principles of Expository Preaching	An introduction to the field of homiletics. Special attention is given to the principles of expository preaching, the steps from text to sermon, the design of a relevant textual-thematic sermon, and sermon delivery.
PRTH 652	The Practice of Expository Preaching	The preparation and delivery of expository sermons on two biblical passages. Staff and students evaluate each presentation with respect to the interpretive reading of the selected Scripture passage as well as the delivery, structure, content, and relevance of the sermon. Intensive use is made of video recordings for subsequent personal instruction. Pre-requisites: PRTH 651
PRTH 656	Intermediate Preaching	A more advanced study of the principles and practice of preaching in public worship. Each student presents two sermons to a small group of peers and staff personnel for discussion and evaluation based upon texts from a genre not covered in 651/652. Pre-requisites: PRTH 652 PRTH 656
PRTH 656	Intermediate Preaching	Pre-requisites: PRTH 652 PRTH 656
PRTH 657	Advanced Preaching	Pre-requisites: PRTH 656 PRTH 657
PRTH 657	Advanced Preaching	An advanced study of the principles and practice of preaching in public worship. Each student presents a sermon to a small group of peers and staff personnel for discussion and evaluation. This course includes instruction in preaching the Word as summarized in the creeds and confessions of the church. Pre-requisites: PRTH 656 PRTH 657
PRTH 658	Imaginative Reading for Creative Preaching	Theological reading and discussion of selected fiction, biography, memoirs, journalism, culture criticism, essays, drama, poetry, and children's literature in order to deepen the preacher's understanding of human character, divine grace, and the surprises that emerge when they intersect. Students and instructor pay particular attention to the homiletic aspect of the readings. Pre-requisites: SYTH 435 SYTH 425 PRTH 651 SYTH 415
PRTH 659	Gospel Communication	A review of basic principles of communication with an emphasis on how they apply to designing and preaching gospel messages. Students prepare and deliver several brief gospel presentations based on biblical passages.
PRTH 660	Christocentric Preaching Using the Old Testament	A study of hermeneutical and homiletical issues involved in using Old Testament passages for Christian proclamation. The course deals with issues such as theocentric/Christocentric preaching, Christian understanding of Old Testament passages, promise and fulfillment, typology, and analogy. Students are required to design sermon outlines on passages from Hebrew narrative, law, prophecy, psalms, and wisdom literature. Pre-requisites: PRTH 651
PRTH 661	Application in Preaching	A course focusing on the relevance of the sermon. It deals with issues such as objective/subjective and explication/application dualisms, the aim of the sermon, proper and faulty applications, addressing social issues, and ways of creating and maintaining interest throughout the sermon. Students will evaluate selected sermons and design their own outlines and sermons for class presentation and evaluation. Pre-requisites: PRTH 651
PRTH 662	Issues in Preaching	An exploration of various issues in formal homiletics that enable preachers to communicate the gospel more clearly and relevantly. Pre-requisites: PRTH 651
PRTH 663	Preaching the Parables of Jesus	A course in communicating the parabolic teaching of Jesus in sermonic form, including a study of representative sermons and the homiletical principles involved.
PRTH 664	Authority in Preaching	A study by way of readings, discussions, and sermon writing of the roles played by deduction and induction in sermon making and delivery, with special attention to the question of authority in preaching as discussed in recent homiletic literature.
PRTH 665	Preaching the Miracles of Jesus	A course in preaching on the miracle accounts in the Gospels, including a study of the revelatory purposes in these accounts and the construction of sermons on these texts.
PRTH 666	Preaching and Culture	A study of the relationship between preaching and culture, including a consideration of the biblical and theological issues involved in that relationship, an analysis of the impact of North American culture on preaching and the development of effective preaching strategies in the North American cultural context.
PRTH 667	Preaching for Postmoderns	Contemporary electronic media have contributed to the creation of a new communication environment. Using both inductive examples of contemporary preaching and the theoretical work of contemporary scholars, students will explore how to meet the challenges of preaching in this new context. Pre-requisites: Preaching experience PRTH 652
PRTH 668	Studies of the History of Preaching	A survey of the history of Christian preaching and research on influential preaching in a selected period.
PRTH 669	Preaching and Reformed Tradition	An investigation of preaching and sermon construction in major segments of the Reformed tradition from the sixteenth century to the present. Doctrinal emphases, rhetorical theories, homiletical assumptions, and cultural context are all assessed as ingredients in the definition of Reformed preaching.
PRTH 670	Hearing the Word in the Visual Age	If faith 'comes by hearing' and is the 'conviction of things not seen,' how should we preach in a culture where 'seeing is believing'? The course provides an in-depth practical and theological study of the problems and possibilities of becoming more effective communicators of the gospel in our increasingly visual age.
PRTH 671	Narrative Preaching	This course will examine the theory of and give practical experience in narrative preaching. It will develop the premise that faithful preaching of the Word ought to be governed not only by the content of the Word but also by its form. Since more than half of Scripture is narrative literature, the contemporary Reformed preacher should at least augment the classic Greco-Roman rhetorical form of address traditionally used by Reformed preachers with the use of narrative preaching.
PRTH 672	Modes of Preaching of the Christian Tradition	A study of preaching in Scripture, in the Patristic period, the Reformation, the Awakening, and the present in order to identify and develop stylistic devices that make sermons effective in communicating the Word of God.
PRTH 673	Preaching from the Common Lectionary	A critical evaluation of the common lectionary as a guide to preaching, including the theology, history, structure of the lectionary, and resources for preaching it. Student sermons on lectionary passages will be evaluated by students and instructor.
PRTH 674	Advanced Sermon Design	An in-depth study of the communicational design of the sermon, with particular focus upon the movement from textual idea to sermon form. Assignments, collateral readings, and classroom activities will focus on stages of sermon development and culminate in a sermon to be preached in class.
PRTH 676	Christian Hymnody and Choral Music	A study of hymnody and choral music in the worship of the Christian church through lectures, assigned reading, discussion, and regular participation in the choir. Note: Students may receive credit for either course 676 or 678 but not for both. Pre-requisites: only by permission of instructor
PRTH 677	Music and the Arts in Worship	A critical examination of the role of music, architecture, visual art, dance, drama, and rhetoric in services of Christian worship, along with theological and pastoral criteria for evaluating the recent renewed interest in and the practice of the arts in Christian congregations.
PRTH 678	Worship Planning	An intensive practice-based study of worship planning as well as worship leading through seminars, assigned reading and papers, discussion and regular participation in the planning and leading of seminary chapel. Note: Students may receive credit for either course 676 or 678 but not for both. Pre-requisites: PRTH 650 by permission of instructor only
PRTH 680	Christian Worship:Principles and Practices	A study of the principles and practices of Christian worship. The course focuses on biblical-theological perspectives of worship, a historical overview, an analysis of the elements of worship, and the relationship of Reformed worship to other traditions.
PRTH 681	Doctrine of Christ and Services of the Christian Year	A study of how Christian worship both expresses and shapes our understanding of the life of Jesus Christ, with particular attention to how celebrations of Advent, Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, Ascension, and Pentecost reflect assumptions about the doctrines of incarnation, atonement, and ecclesiology.
PRTH 682	Theology of Worship Reformed Tradition	A study of prominent theological writings from the Reformed tradition on the nature and purpose of public worship. The course will include study of documents by Zwingli, Calvin, Hodge, Nevin, Barth, and von Allmen, with an examination of how the enduring themes in these writings might be reflected in the practice of public worship in today's cultural environment.
PRTH 683	Recent History of Christian Worship	A study of the forces and movements that have reshaped patterns of Christian worship in the past twenty-five years, with a particular focus on the ecumenical liturgical movement that arose out of Vatican II, the Charismatic movement, and new models for integrating worship and evangelism.
PRTH 684	Theology and Practice of Baptism and the Lord's Supper	A study of the theology and practice of the Lord's Supper and Baptism, with discussions and implications for worship practice.
PRTH 685	Planning and Leading Congregational Worship	A study of resources, skills, and strategies for planning and leading public worship services. Particular attention will be given to the interpretative reading of Scripture, congregational prayer, training lay worship leaders, and celebrations of baptism and the Lord's Supper.
PRTH 686	Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Research Seminar	Participation in collaborative research on the theology, history, and practice of Christian worship. Topics are chosen in conjunction with the scholarly initiatives of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. Students work as part of a research team with faculty participants in Institute initiatives.
PRTH 687	Baptisms, Weddings, Funerals and other Occasional Services	A study of biblical, theological, and pastoral dimensions of celebrations of baptism, marriage, funerals, and other occasional services such as ordinations, dedications, and commissioning services. Pre-requisites: PRTH 650
PRTH 690	Exegesis and Preaching Together	This course will explicitly explore the relationship between exegesis and sermon construction/delivery using a specific Biblical book making use of the skills and resources of both the preaching faculty and those of the biblical division. Pre-requisites: OT 113 PRTH 651 NT 204
PRTH 691	Preachers Learn from Writers	This course will explicitly explore what various writers are saying about their craft and its implication for preaching. Through a combination of reading, writing and practice preaching, the preacher will be encouraged and helped to improve in the pulpit. Pre-requisites: PRTH 651
PRTH 696	M.A. Integrative Project in Worship	Completion under the individual direction of a faculty adviser of the research project begun in 795. The students will engage in the research project defined in 795, analyze and interpret the findings, and complete a final research report. Core course for M.A.: Worship. Pre-requisites: PRTH 795
PRTH 697	Research Course: Church Polity and Administration	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
PRTH 698	Research Course: Preaching, Worship	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
PRTH 699	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
PRTH 701	Introduction to Pastoral Care	An introduction to the history, theology, and methods of the church's pastoral care of individuals, marriages, families, and congregations.
PRTH 702	Pastoral Care II	A continuation of 701 consisting of a two-hour class period plus a one hour practicum each week. The course addresses pastoral care and counseling ministry needs of individual people, married couples, and families. Pre-requisites: PRTH 701
PRTH 703	Pastoral Counseling	A course designed to develop basic skills in individual counseling through an introduction to several counseling methods appropriate for pastoral use; through theological analyses of case studies, verbatims, and tapes; and through practice sessions.
PRTH 704	Premarital and Marriage Ministry	A course designed to develop basic skills in premarital and marriage ministry through the examination of Christian teaching on marriage and human sexuality, the study of counseling, and other ministries. Pre-requisites: PRTH 702
PRTH 706	Small Group Ministries	A course designed to give the pastor an elementary understanding of the nature of group dynamics, to foster the use of small groups in the ministry of the church, and to develop the skills of group leadership.
PRTH 710	Basic Clinical Pastoral Educ	One unit of basic clinical pastoral education accredited by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education may be credited as a three-hour undergraduate course in the department of pastoral theology provided that this unit of basic CPE is not being used to satisfy more than 12 units of field-education requirements.
PRTH 711	Clinical Pastoral Education	These units are credited, up to nine hours for each unit, toward either the M.Div. degree or the Th.M. degree with the following limitations: not more than nine hours of academic credit in addition to field- education credit is allowed for CPE courses toward the M.Div. degree, and not more than twelve hours of academic credit are allowed for advanced CPE courses toward the Th.M. degree. Pre-requisites: PRTH 710
PRTH 712	Clinical Pastoral Education	These units are credited, up to nine hours for each unit, toward either the M.Div. degree or the Th.M. degree with the following limitations: not more than nine hours of academic credit in addition to field- education credit is allowed for CPE courses toward the M.Div. degree, and not more than twelve hours of academic credit are allowed for advanced CPE courses toward the Th.M. degree. Pre-requisites: PRTH 710
PRTH 715	Perspectives on Personality	A theological evaluation of religious and psychological interpretations of the structure and dynamics of human personality.
PRTH 720	Human Sexuality and Pastoral Care	A multidisciplinary study of the nature of human sexuality, changing patterns of sexual behavior, aberrant and dysfunctional sexual patterns, and the development of pastoral approaches to these issues. Relevant biblical material, psychological data, and sociological surveys will provide the basis for the development of ministry strategies.
PRTH 723	The Pastoral Care of Youth	A course designed to develop skills in the theological diagnostic method for designing appropriate ministry. The course will address four pastoral care issues of youth: depression and suicide, the development of healthy sexual identity and function, alcohol use and abuse, and dysfunctional families.
PRTH 726	Family Ministries	A course combining biblical-theological and social perspectives on the family as an intergenerational interacting unit, with a study of methods, strategies, and programs for the church's ministry to and through families.
PRTH 727	Human Suffering and Pastoral Care	This course explores the nature of human suffering as it relates to the purposes of pastoral care. Writings such as those of Nicholas Wolterstorff, Jurgen Moltmann, Walter Brueggeman, Dorothee Soelle, and Henri Nouwen will be reviewed as part of this study. The questions of the meaning and purpose of response to human suffering will be discussed from the perspective of the pastoral care provider. Each student will develop his or her own theory of human suffering in preparation for ministry to those who suffer.
PRTH 748	Research Course:Pastoral Care	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
PRTH 749	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
PRTH 750	Teaching Ministry of Church	A study of and practice in methods of teaching most appropriate for use in the church. Students shall be concurrently involved in a teaching experience under proper supervision.
PRTH 751	The Psychology and Sociology of Education in Christian Ministry	A study of the sociological and psychological factors that affect the learning process, especially as experienced in religious education. Special attention will be given the research in the areas of cognitive, psychological, socio-cultural, moral, and faith development, and how these theories impact the various ministries of the church.
PRTH 752	Teaching-Learning Methods	A theological and psychological analysis and evaluation of educational methods most appropriate to teaching and to supervision of teaching in the church. Various methods will be used and evaluated.
PRTH 753	Theology and Philosophy of Education in Christian Ministry	A study of the history and development of the educational ministry of the church with special attention to the theological and philosophical perspectives of key religious educational theorists. Special attention will be given to those in the Reformed tradition and the application of their insights to the educational ministry of the church today.
PRTH 754	Curriculum Design and Development	A study of the principles and methods of curriculum development primarily to enable the student to work with members of the local church in developing, selecting, and/or evaluating curriculum in order to meet the educational ministry goals of the church.
PRTH 755	Administration of Educational Ministries	A study of the organizational structure of educational ministries in the church, with special focus on the principles and methods of planning, organizing, managing, and supervising such ministries. Pre-requisites: PRTH 600 PRTH 605
PRTH 756	Personal Piety, Discipleship, and Spiritual Formation	A study of the nature and nurture of personal piety in the light of the Reformed doctrine of sanctification. Contemporary and classical studies on piety, spirituality, and discipleship will be examined.
PRTH 760	Christian Nurture of Children	A study of the moral, spiritual, emotional, and social development of children from birth to adolescence and the implications for the teaching ministry of the church.
PRTH 762	Adult Education in the Church	A study combining biblical-theological and educational perspectives on the development of adult-education programs for the local church.
PRTH 765	Imagination in Teaching and Preaching	A development and application of the thesis that a belief, if it is to touch the heart, must be made credible to the imagination. Course activities focus on preaching and teaching.
PRTH 769	Life and Ministry: Cultural Perspective	Through lectures, seminars, readings and projects, students enrolled in this course analyze educational ministries in light of the cultural dimensions of life. Particular attention is given to curriculum and to an understanding of the cultural dimensions of human learning. This course may be taken for credit in Pastoral Care, Educational Ministry, or Missions and Church Growth.
PRTH 771	Foundations in Youth Ministry	A thematic and historical study of the biblical and theological foundations for the church's ministry to youth.
PRTH 772	Youth and Their Culture	A study of adolescent development in the light of changing cultural patterns and its influence on the church's ministry to youth.
PRTH 773	Methods for Youth Ministry	A study of and practice in various methods appropriate to the church's ministry to youth.
PRTH 774	Models of Ministry to Youth	This course provides a forum for students, youth ministry practitioners, and theological scholars to investigate and evaluate a variety of models for the church's ministry to the youth of the church and community. Students, practitioners, and scholars will employ a variety of methods including, but not limited to, field trips, presentations by nationally recognized youth ministry experts, and critical theological reflection on the issues associated with youth ministry. The course is specially designed for cross registration with students from Calvin College and other undergraduate programs.
PRTH 785	Research Methodology in Practical Theology	An introduction to skills, methods, and resources intended to provide a foundation for graduate research and writing in practical theology. Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students
PRTH 787	Seminar in Applied Theology	A seminar addressing specific topics in educational ministries, missions, pastoral care, homiletics, or worship; topics will be announced by the ministry division.
PRTH 794	M.Div. Research Project	An introduction to the strategies and methods of social science research. Each student will complete the classroom component of this course and develop an individual research project.
PRTH 795	Introduction to the M.A. Research Project	An introduction to social science research methods. Students will design a research methodology which will serve as the basis of the required M.A. research project. Students will also be introduced to methods by which they can engage in theological reflection on their findings.
PRTH 796	M.A. Integrative Project in Ed. Min.	Completion under the individual direction of a faculty advisor of the research project begun in 795. The students will engage in the research project defined in 795, analyze and interpret the findings, and write a research report which will also function as a part of the student's oral comprehensive examination. Pre-requisites: PRTH 795
PRTH 798	Research Course: Church Education	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
PRTH 799	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
MISS 802	Mission History and Contemporary Issues	An introduction to the history of missions in the world and North America. Special attention is given to noted missionaries past and present, and how issues such as poverty, contextualization, syncretism, pluralism, partnership, family matters, and role of women, spiritual warfare, finances, and support have been dealt with by the church at large as well as the Christian Reformed Church in North America.
MISS 805	PersEvangel/Disciple/Cross-Cult Minis	An experience-based course exposing students to models of personal evangelism and discipleship. The course includes a module on Reformed theology of evangelism followed by exposure to models of evangelism taught by practitioners working in a variety of settings. Special attention is given to writing one's faith story, learning a gospel presentation, personal evangelism, discipleship models, developing cross-cultural ministry skills, and evangelistic preaching.
MISS 810	The Gospel and Western Culture	A theological and sociological analysis of modernity and the rise of postmodern Western culture. This shift will be studied for its implications on the ministry of the gospel in the midst of the increasing emergence of North America as mission field. Attention will be given to designing strategies for the re-evangelization of persons shaped by contemporary Western culture.
MISS 812	Revitalization of Local Church	This course introduces the student to the principles and practice of church vitalization by focusing on the vital signs of a healthy church from an open systems perspective. Attention is given to understanding the dynamics of change within local church life and in training church leaders to guide congregations more effectively in the process of change.
MISS 813	New Church Development in North America	This course introduces new church development and its procedures. A study is made of the various strategies and approaches used to develop new congregations in North America, along with an examination of the principles and methods used. Specific attention is given to preparing students to participate in new church development projects.
MISS 814	Leading Newly Developed Churches	This course deals with the development and maturation of newly planted congregations and their place in the broader family of churches. Consideration is given to the ongoing development of the church's mission, vision and values. Specific attention is paid to personal, spiritual and leadership development of the missionary-pastor. Matters such as ministry development, structural and organizational concerns, facility growth and management will also be dealt with.
MISS 820	The Gospel and World Religions	A critical study of present-day non-Christian religions concentrating on Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Folk Religion. Special attention is given to the presence of these religions in North America and what this means for the ministry of the church.
MISS 822	New Church Dev Overseas	A study of the strategies and methods that have effectively multiplied churches in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Particular attention is given to current new-church development in large cities. Models from around the world are examined in the light of biblical criteria and the measure in which they address local needs and cultural conditions. The roles of both national and foreign missionary organizations in new-church development are considered.
MISS 823	Missions and Diaconal Ministries	A study of the biblical principles, goals, strategies, and methods of holistic ministry in urban and rural communities. The causes of poverty are examined along with the various approaches currently being used to help the poor in Christ's name. Particular attention is given to strategies that address the material needs of the poor and their ultimate spiritual needs in ways that result in both church and community development.
MISS 824	Immigration and Christian Korean-Americans	A study of the historical and contemporary church experience of ethnic Koreans and of the development of the Korean Church in North America.
MISS 827	Cross-Cult Relational Issues	A seminar designed to challenge the moral and ethical sensibilities of individuals who minister cross-culturally. Students will analyze various topics, including western imperialism, polygamy, caste, bribery, gift-giving, mission board representation, missionary prayer letters, lifestyle, money, safety, gender, and family concerns.
MISS 829	Cults, New Religions, New Age	A study of selected cults and spiritual movements, including the Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, Christian Science, the Unification Church, Scientology, and various New Age religions. Attention will be given to historical and theological foundations as well as worldwide evangelistic outreach.
MISS 831	Missions Seminar on Europe	A study of European Christianity since World War II, the state of the churches today, and the degree to which Europe must be considered a mission field. Special attention is given to recent developments in eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States and to the attempts being made to re-evangelize the European continent. The new religious pluralism of Europe is examined from the standpoint of the opportunity it provides for Christian mission.
MISS 832	Missions Seminar on Africa	A study of the expansion of Christianity in sub-Saharan Africa, the growth of African churches, and the role of Western missions, past and present, in the development of African Christianity. African independent churches, the spread of Islam, and the socio-economic problems facing African churches today are included.
MISS 833	Missions Seminar on Asia	A study of the expansion of Christianity in Asia and the major arenas of Christian mission in Asia today. The history, religions, and cultures of the region are surveyed. Attention is given to the survival and growth of Christianity in the face of persecution and the recent appearance of Asia-based missionary endeavors.
MISS 834	Missions Seminar on Latin America	A study of the introduction of Roman Catholic Christianity in Latin America during the colonial era, the rise of Protestantism in the nineteenth century and of Pentecostalism in the twentieth century, and the role of North American and European missions. Attention is given to recent theological and missiological developments in Latin America and the rise of national missionary endeavors.
MISS 840	The Church and the Urban World	In light of the rapid growth of cities throughout Asia, Africa, and Latin America, churches and mission organizations are required to respond with new strategic approaches that address urban realities. This course provides an introduction to the urban environment from a sociological perspective, a critique based on biblical missiology, and an examination of a variety of effective models of urban ministry from around the world. Field visits to cross-cultural urban ministries introduce the student to aspects of the urban challenge.
MISS 842	Travel: Ministry in an Urban Setting	An experience-based study in urban ministry. The course consists of selected readings, pre-trip orientation, reflection sessions, and personal involvement in presenting the gospel in an urban setting. Students will spend approximately ten days' travel time visiting an urban center. This course will alternate between a major Two-Thirds-World city and one in North America.
MISS 846	Leading the Congregation in Missions	An experience-based course exposing the student to various models of congregational outreach at home and abroad. Attention is given to leading evangelistic Bible studies, connecting with denominational mission agencies and other mission organizations, church planting, urban ministry, leading mission trips, and understanding present-day mission issues.
MISS 848	Seminar in Missiology	An advanced study of selected aspects of missiology and the study of missions.
MISS 861	Adventures in Classic Missions Literature	An intensive study of the thought of missionaries over the centuries and missiologists over the past 150 years, with special attention to the current developments in evangelical, ecumenical, and Roman Catholic writings in both the West and the Two-Thirds World.
MISS 862	Contemporary World Mission	An intensive study of opportunities and problems that challenge the church in its mission today both at home and abroad.
MISS 863	Christian Biography and Spiritual Formation	A survey of biographies and autobiographies from our Christian heritage, focusing on such issues as family worship, church life, conversion, prayer, personal devotions and Bible study, spiritual diaries, spiritual mentoring, doubt, and 'holy' dying. The influence of theology, denominational affiliation, culture, and gender will also be explored.
MISS 864	Women in Mission and Church Ministry	A biblical, historical, and contemporary overview of women's roles and ministries in the church, with a focus on models for today.
MISS 870	Perspective on World Christian Movement	An introduction to the field of missiology, including a biblical perspective on world evangelization, highlights of the expansion of the Christian movement over the centuries, cultural factors that influence gospel communication and church growth, and practical missionary strategies.
MISS 896	M.A. Integrative Project in Missions	Completion under the individual direction of a faculty advisor of the research project begun in 795. The students will engage in the research project defined in 795, analyze and interpret the findings, and write a research report which will also function as a part of the student's oral comprehensive examination. Pre-requisites: PRTH 795
MISS 898	Research Course:Missiology	Students who wish to engage in concentrated study on a subject of interest and value may request permission to pursue a credit project in guided research. The student should seek the advice of the professor in whose field the subject lies. The professor shall determine the requirements, and the course will be conducted by means of reading, research, conferences with the professor, a paper, and, at the option of the professor, an examination. Courses so arranged must be approved by the academic dean and reported to the educational-policy committee.
MISS 899	Major Research Paper	This is a major research paper of not less than 7,500 and not more than 12,500 words. Subjects are arranged individually with a particular professor. This paper constitutes one elective in the regular senior curriculum. Specific rules are found in the Student Handbook.
IDIS 901	Theological Education as Formation for Ministry	A study of the holistic process by which believers are formed for ministry practices. As the orientation and capstone to the MDiv and MA programs, this course shows the interrelated nature of all parts of seminary life and the ways in which habits developed through theological education are critical to life-long, discerning ministry practices. This integral relation between the "thinking" and "doing" of theology will be illustrated by examining how spiritual formation is related to all ministry practices.
IDIS 902	Theological Education as Formation for Ministry	A continuation of 901 as taken by M.Div. students in their final year of residence. Pre-requisites: IDIS 901
IDIS 903	Theological Education as Formation for Ministry	A continuation of 901 as taken by M.A. students in their final year of residence. Pre-requisites: IDIS 901
IDIS 910	EPMC Summer Seminar
HSTH D30	Documents and Issues of the Reformation and Post-Reformation Eras	An examination of the select documents from the Reformation and post-Reformation eras, with emphasis on the techniques of research and analysis. The course may be repeated once.
HSTH D31	Scripture and Interpretation in the 16th and 17th Centuries	An examination of the doctrine and interpretation of Scripture in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries with emphasis on the development of the Reformed tradition of exegesis and hermeneutics.
HSTH D32	Reformed Symbolics: Confessions and Catechisms	A study in the confessions and catechisms of the Reformed churches of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, with emphasis on the international character and the theological development of Reformed symbolics.
HSTH D33	Patristic Theology: Apologetics and Anti-Gnosticism	A study of the theology in the second and early third centuries with attention to the problems of Christianity and classical culture, Gnosticism, and early trinitarianism.
HSTH D34	The Theology of John Calvin	The theology of John Calvin will be investigated by examination of his primary texts, including the Institutes, commentaries, sermons, correspondence, and polemical literature. Past and present interpretations of Calvin's theology will be analyzed.
HSTH D35	Liberal Theology of Schleiermacher and Troeltsch	A critical examination of Friedrich Daniel Schleiermacher's theology of feeling and Ernst Troeltsch's theology of scientific religious history, including an address to the intellectual forces that shaped these theologies and to the impact these modern liberal theologies have had on the life and thought of the church.
HSTH D36	Reformed Doctrine of God in the 16th and 17th Centuries	An examination of the doctrine of God in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries with emphasis on the exegetical, dogmatic, and philosophical development of Reformed theology.
HSTH D37	Arminius and Arminianism	An examination of the work of Jacob Arminius in the context of late sixteenth- and early seventeenth-century Protestantism. Arminius's theology, his controversies, and the development of Reformed and Remonstrant theology to the Synod of Dort will be examined.
HSTH D38	Patristic Theology: Trinitarian Debate and Council of Constantinople	A historical study of the trinitarian and christological debate from the beginnings of the Nicene struggle to its resolution at the Council of Constantinople (A.D. 381), with special attention to the councils of the fourth century.
HSTH D39	Life and Thought of Augustine	A study of the thought of Augustine as related to his life and work, with emphasis on the place of Augustine in the development of Christian doctrine.
SYTH D40	Theology of Revelation	A study of biblical and historical sources of as well as contemporary theological reflection on the Christian doctrine of revelation, with a focus on the need for divine revelation, the nature of revelation, and the validation and reception of revelation.
SYTH D41	Nature of Theology and Doctrine	A study of basic issues in theological prolegomena, including the sources, nature, and object of theology, the use of Scripture in theology, and the nature of doctrine.
SYTH D42	Theology of the Incarnation	A historical and systematic examination of the doctrine of the incarnation, with special attention to patristic, medieval, and modern developments.
SYTH D43	Theology of the Atonement	A historical and systematic examination of the doctrine of the atonement, with special attention to various theories of atonement and criticism of those theories.
SYTH D44	The Theology of Karl Barth	A study of Karl Barth's theology through a survey of the development of his thought and a careful study of selections from his Church Dogmatics.
SYTH D45	Theology of the Trinity	A study of biblical sources, confessional statements, and classic and contemporary theological formulations of the Christian doctrine of the Trinity.
SYTH D46	20th-Century Dutch Reformed Theology	An examination of key figures and issues in twentieth-century Dutch Reformed theology. Among the theologians to be considered are Abraham Kuyper, Herman Bavinck, O. Noordmans, G. Vander Leeuw, Klaas Schilder, Arnold A. Van Ruler, G. C. Berkouwer, H. M. Kuitert, and Hendrikus Berkhof. Key themes and issues include the relation between revelation and experience; the debates about theocracy, common grace, and regeneration; the pluriformity and apostolicity of the church; and the debate about the ongoing significance and value of Karl Barth's theology.
SYTH D47	Theology of the Holy Spirit	A biblical, historical, and systematic examination of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit, with special attention to contemporary developments in Pentecostal as well as mainline spirituality and theology. The relation between Christology and pneumatology will be considered in detail.
SYTH D48	The Theology of Edwards	A study of the philosophical, doctrinal, moral, and spiritual theology of 'America's theologian,' Jonathan Edwards, through extensive reading of Edwards' major treatises.
PHMO D51	Philosophical Issues in Christian Theology	A study of philosophical treatments of the doctrine of God, including the nature, attributes, and knowability of God.
PHMO D52	Philosophical Foundations of Modern Theology	A study of the major philosophers who influenced the foundations of modern theology--Kant, Hegel, and Schleiermacher.
PHMO D53	The Christian Moral Tradition	A study of the Judeo-Christian moral tradition with respect to both its philosophical commitments and its moral content.
PHMO D54	Social Teaching of the Christian Churches	A close critical analysis of Ernst Troeltsch's The Social Teaching of the Christian Churches and collateral readings. A few important twentieth-century theologians (for example, Karl Barth, Reinhold and H. Richard Niebuhr, John Paul II) will also be considered.
PHMO D55	Post-Enlightenment Critique of Religion	A study and assessment of two important phases in the post-enlightenment critique of religious belief. Phase one (1840-1960): the naturalistic explanation of religious belief ventured by the likes of Feuerbach, Marx, Nietzsche, and Freud. Phase two (since 1960): the global rejection of such notion s as truth and moral objectivity by which any religion or system of belief might recommend itself as authoritative.
HSTH D93	Doctoral Seminar: Historical Theology	Advanced study of selected topics in historical theology. Specific topics will be announced.
SYTH D94	Doctoral Seminar: Systematic Theology	Advanced study of selected topics in systematic theology. Specific topics will be announced.
PHMO D95	Doctoral Seminar: Philosophical Theology	Advanced study of selected topics in philosophical theology. Specific topics will be announced.
PHMO D96	Doctoral Seminar: Moral Theology	Advanced study of selected topics in moral theology. Specific topics will be announced by the academic office upon the approval of the theological division and educational-policy committee.
HSTH D98	Research Methodology	An examination of theory and methods in theology intended to provide a foundation for graduate and post-graduate research.
COMP EQUIV	Bible Knowledge Exam Equivalent

Course Descriptions

Courses for New Curriculum (Fall 2009): [Jump to Older Curriculum]

Current Courses: [Jump to New Curriculum]

Pre-requisites: OT 101

Pre-requisites: OT 101OT 113

Pre-requisites: OT 113

Pre-requisites: OT 115

Pre-requisites: OT 115

Pre-requisites: OT 115

Pre-requisites: OT 126

Pre-requisites: OT 126

Pre-requisites: OT 115

Pre-requisites: OT 115

Pre-requisites: OT 101limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 101limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 113limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 153 or ANLL SPEClimited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 113

Pre-requisites: OT 101

Pre-requisites: OT 113

Pre-requisites: OT 126

Pre-requisites: OT 126

Pre-requisites: OT 126

Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 126

Pre-requisites: OT 129OT 128

Pre-requisites: OT 128OT 129

Pre-requisites: OT 128OT 129

Pre-requisites: OT 128OT 129

Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 113PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: OT 113OT 115

Pre-requisites: only by permission of instructor

Pre-requisites: NT 201

Pre-requisites: NT 202

Pre-requisites: NT 203

Pre-requisites: NT 210

Pre-requisites: NT 216

Pre-requisites: NT 219

Pre-requisites: NT 210NT 220OT 110OT 120

Pre-requisites: Demonstrated competence in the biblical languages.

Pre-requisites: NT 219

Pre-requisites: NT 219

Pre-requisites: NT 219

Pre-requisites: NT 224

Pre-requisites: NT 224

Pre-requisites: NT 224

Pre-requisites: NT 224

Pre-requisites: NT 224

Pre-requisites: NT 216

Pre-requisites: NT 219

Pre-requisites: NT 224

Pre-requisites: OT 113NT 216

Pre-requisites: OT 113NT 216

Pre-requisites: NT 204NT 216

Pre-requisites: PRTH 651NT 204

Pre-requisites: NT 204

Pre-requisites: only by permission of instructor

Pre-requisites: SYTH 435

Pre-requisites: SYTH 435SYTH 425SYTH 415PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: PHMO 531SYTH 425SYTH 415

Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: SYTH 415SYTH 425

Pre-requisites: PHMO 531

Pre-requisites: PHMO 531

Pre-requisites: limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: PHMO 531

Pre-requisites: PRTH 600

Pre-requisites: PRTH 603

Pre-requisites: PRTH 603

Pre-requisites: PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: PRTH 652PRTH 656

Pre-requisites: PRTH 652PRTH 656

Pre-requisites: PRTH 656PRTH 657

Pre-requisites: PRTH 656PRTH 657

Pre-requisites: SYTH 435SYTH 425PRTH 651SYTH 415

Pre-requisites: PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: OT 101 OT 113

Pre-requisites: OT 101 limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 101 limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 113 limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 153 or ANLL SPEC limited to ThM students

Pre-requisites: OT 129 OT 128

Pre-requisites: OT 128 OT 129

Pre-requisites: OT 128 OT 129

Pre-requisites: OT 128 OT 129

Pre-requisites: OT 113 PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: OT 113 OT 115

Pre-requisites: NT 210 NT 220 OT 110 OT 120

Pre-requisites: OT 113 NT 216

Pre-requisites: OT 113 NT 216

Pre-requisites: NT 204 NT 216

Pre-requisites: PRTH 651 NT 204

Pre-requisites: SYTH 435 SYTH 425 SYTH 415 PRTH 651

Pre-requisites: PHMO 531 SYTH 425 SYTH 415

Pre-requisites: SYTH 415 SYTH 425

Pre-requisites: PRTH 652 PRTH 656

Pre-requisites: PRTH 652 PRTH 656

Pre-requisites: PRTH 656 PRTH 657

Pre-requisites: PRTH 656 PRTH 657

Pre-requisites: SYTH 435 SYTH 425 PRTH 651 SYTH 415

Pre-requisites: Preaching experience PRTH 652

Pre-requisites: PRTH 650 by permission of instructor only

Pre-requisites: OT 113 PRTH 651 NT 204

Pre-requisites: PRTH 600 PRTH 605