Course Summary

This course unit introduces students to the core beliefs of the Christian tradition, enabling them to explore their faith within the context and shape of that tradition. It provides a foundation for all future theology course units and forms part of a Major in the sub-discipline of Systematic Theology. within the Discipline of Theological Studies.

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Learning Outcomes

At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Identify the major doctrines within a particular Christian tradition

2. Explore the historical, theological and biblical backgrounds that gave rise to doctrines within a particular Christian tradition

3. Discuss the writing of relevant theological thinkers and texts

4. Use appropriate methods of theological reflection to examine key doctrines in detail.

  5. Apply insights from their study to Christian life and ministry within their particular context.

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Course Content

1. Thinking Theologically: Theological Method

2. The Christian Tradition: A Brief Overview

   1. ​Jesus of Nazareth: the Founder and the Sources

   2. ​The Christian Theological Streams 

3. The Christian Tradition: Essential Doctrines

   1. The Triune God, Creation and Providence, Humanity

   2. The Person and Work of Christ

   3. The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit

   4. The Church and Ministry

   5. Eschatology and the New Creation

  4. A Theology of Discipleship: The Spiritual Journey, Christian Spiritual Formation