History
and Theology Division
Biblical | History/Theology | Ministry | Supervised
Practice of Ministry | Integrative
The course descriptions below represent a listing of courses
presently available at the Schools of Theology in Dubuque.
Courses may not be available in every instance precisely as
described here. Full information on available courses, including
objectives, content and requirements, is published each semester
and available to all current students prior to registration.
Courses offered at the University of Dubuque Theological
Seminary are listed first, followed by the listing of courses
at Wartburg Theological Seminary.
Church History | Missiology
and History of Missions | Doctrinal Theology
| Historical Theology | Theological
Ethics | Directed Research | Wartburg
Seminary Courses | Independent Study
Church History
HT 400/500D Early and Medieval Church History
(3 credits)
Letter grade only
This course is the first half of the required two-semester
survey of the history of Christianity. Its objective is to
familiarize students with the history and teachings of the
Christian Church from early in the second century to the beginning
of the sixteenth century.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen
HT 402/502D Reformation and Modern Church History
(3 credits)
Letter grade only
This course is the second half of the required two-semester
survey of the history of Christianity. Its objective is to
familiarize students with the history and teachings of the
church from the Reformation to the present.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen
HT 473/573D Church History in Film
(3 credits)
This seminar will examine the history of Christianity as it
has been interpreted through the cinema. During each session
we will view a film and then discuss it. Students will read
on the genre of film and its use in education, as well as
reading scholarly studies of the people and events we are
seeing on the screen. Assignments will focus on the interpretation
of events by the filmmakers and on the use of historical films
in ministry.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen
HT 421/521D United Methodist Studies: History
(3 credits)
This course introduces students to the events, persons, and
institutions of the people called Methodists from the time
of the Oxford Holy Club to the present. This course fulfills
the history education requirement of paragraph 424 of The
Book of Discipline for candidates preparing for ordination
in the United Methodist Church.
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
HT 524D History of Christianity in America
(3 credits)
This course, through lecture, reading, writing, and discussion
will investigate the history of Christianity in the United
States by examining the major movements, individuals, institutions,
and ideas that have shaped Christianity in this nation.
Instructor: Bradley Longfield
HT 602D Women in Church History
(3 credits)
This seminar will explore the varied contributions of women
to the life of the Church and the varied opinions about women
in past ages. We will read a number of recent works on women,
as well as selected primary sources. The seminar will focus
on women in a particular period of history.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen
HT 606D Protestantism in Twentieth-Century America
(3 credits)
This seminar is designed to investigate some of the principal
trends in Protestantism in the United States in the 20th century.
While the focus will be on mainline Protestantism, we will
also address the history of more traditionally marginal communions.
Instructor: Bradley Longfield
HT 609D/MN609D Devotional Classics
(3 credits)
Reading and classroom discussion of representative devotional
classics from Augustine’s Confessions to Bonhoeffer’s
Cost of Discipleship. The two-fold purpose of this course
is to introduce these treasures to the student and encourage
the student 2003-2005 CATALOG | 53 to develop a theology and
practice of devotional life for sustaining ministry.
Instructor: Joel L. Samuels
HT 667D American Puritanism Through Edwards
(3 credits)
In this seminar, we will examine the Puritan tradition in
America by reading and discussing primary and secondary works
concerning Puritanism, culminating with a more intensive look
at writings by and about Jonathan Edwards.
Instructor: Bradley Longfield
HT 684D Evangelicalism and Fundamentalism in America
(3 credits)
This seminar will consider the development of evangelicalism
and fundamentalism in America by reading and discussing a
variety of significant primary and secondary sources.
Instructor: Bradley Longfield
HT 685D Denominations and Denominationalism in America
(3 credits)
The reputed “decline” of mainline Protestantism
in the past thirty years has brought the issues of denominational
identity and change to the fore. Through readings, discussions,
and reports, this seminar will investigate the nature and
history of denominationalism and selected denominations in
America in order to develop a better understanding of the
role of denominations in American religion.
Instructor: Bradley Longfield
HT 710D American Religious Biography
(3 credits)
This seminar will consider a number of biographical works
to better understand the influence of key individuals on the
history of religion in America and to investigate the strengths
and weaknesses of a biographical approach to American religious
history.
Instructor: Bradley Longfield
Missiology and History of Missions
(Mission/Evangelism/Contextual Theology core courses are listed
under IN section)
HT 417/517D Contextualizing the Gospel
(1 credit)
This module explores the interaction of the Christian gospel
with human culture. Using case studies it focuses upon areas
where Christianity and culture interact to produce indigenous
churches and theologies. Students encounter both the unity
and diversity of the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church.
Instructor: Staff
HT 603D Women in Mission
(3 credits)
This seminar will explore the role women have played in world
mission and their particular contributions and experiences.
Catholic and Protestant, foreign and domestic missionaries
of the last three centuries will be examined with special
attention given to women of the last two centuries, the context
of their ministry within larger mission trends, and their
own understanding of their call to missionary work.
Instructor: Bonnie Sue Lewis
HT 714D Missionary Impulse in American Protestantism
(3 credits)
This seminar will investigate the motives and methods of American
Protestant missionary activity – in the United States
and abroad – from the Puritans to present. In so doing
we will consider the perennial dilemma between the “civilizing”
and evangelizing functions of missions and the relationship
between cultural values and Christian missions. Special attention
will be given to Native American missions, efforts at social
reform, and the role of women in the missionary movement.
Instructor: Bonnie Sue Lewis
HT 631D Native American Christianity
(3 credits)
This seminar is an historical survey of the growth of Native
American Christianity in the United States. It will examine
the missionary goals and methods employed to missionize Native
Americans, the various responses to missionization, and the
development of vital and viable Native American Christian
congregations. Particular focus will be upon Native American
Presbyterians.
Instructor: Bonnie Sue Lewis
HT 632D Native American Ministry
(2 credits)
This seminar focuses upon current ministries within Native
American communities. It highlights the work of the church
exemplified by various Native American ministers. The course
examines the unique context for ministry and evangelism, both
on and off Indian reservations, as well as methods of ministry.
Instructor: Bonnie Sue Lewis and visiting Native American
Clergy
Doctrinal Theology
HT 440/540D Introduction to Christian Doctrine I: The Trinity,
Revelation, Creation, Anthropology
(3 credits)
Prerequisite: HT 501D and HT 502D, or permission of the professor
Letter grade only
This course introduces students to the content of the Christian
faith as believed and confessed by the Christian church from
the early church to the present day. Christian Doctrine I
examines the Trinity, revelation, Scripture, authority, method,
creation, human nature, and sin. There will be lectures, readings,
and discussions. This will include readings and discussions
of a variety of contemporary perspectives, such as Third World,
feminist, and other theologies.
Instructor: Mark Achtemeier, Elmer Colyer
HT 456/556D Introduction to Christian Doctrine II: Christology,
Pneumatology, Ecclesiology, Eschatology
(3 credits)
Prerequisite: HT 501D and HT 502D, or permission by the instructor
Letter grade only
This course introduces students to the content of the Christian
faith as believed and confessed by the Christian church
from
the early church to the present day. Christian Doctrine II
examines the Person and Work of Christ, the Holy Spirit,
salvation,
the Church, sacraments, means of grace, the Christian Life,
and Christian hope. There will be lectures, readings, and
discussions. This will include readings and discussions of
a variety of contemporary perspectives, such as Third World,
feminist, and other theologies.
Instructor: Mark Achtemeier, Elmer Colyer
HT 553D United Methodist Studies: Doctrine
(3 credits)
Prerequisites: MN553D United Methodist Polity or HT521D United
Methodist History
This course is a basic introduction to the doctrine of the
United Methodist Church and the Wesley/Methodist theological
heritage. HT553D fulfills the doctrinal education requirement
of paragraph 423 of The Book of Discipline for candidates
who are preparing for ordination in the United Methodist Church.
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
HT 612D/MN 612D The Ministerial Vocation
(3 credits)
This course is devoted to integrative theological reflection
on the practice of ministry in dialogue with classical and
contemporary writers. Students will work to develop a theological
understanding of Christian ministry that can serve to order
and integrate their course work in seminary, as well as provide
a coherent theological framework for shaping and defining
their work as pastors.
Instructor: Staff
HT 615D Presbyterian History and Confessions
(3 credits)
This seminar seeks to foster an engagement with the theology
and ethos of the Reformed tradition. Our work will center
around a study of the formative history of the Reformed movement,
along with a survey of The Book of Confessions of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A.). This course is strongly recommended for Presbyterian
students preparing to take the standard ordination exams in
theology.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen
HT 619D Traditions in Dialogue
(3 credits)
This course brings the Reformed and Wesleyan/Methodist theological
traditions into dialogue by examining selected writings of
two major 20th century theologians: Albert C.Outler (Methodist)
and Thomas F. Torrance (Reformed).
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
HT 645D Modern Science and Christian Faith
(3 credits)
This course will aid students in understanding some essential
aspects of modern science and their impact on contemporary
worldviews, as well as in understanding the historical background
for the present divergence between science/technology and
theology/faith. A non-math, non-technical approach will be
used. Questions raised for Christians today by scientific
cosmology, modern physics, evolutionary biology and genetic
engineering, information and complexity sciences will be discussed,
as well as exploring possibilities for dialogue between science
and faith.
Instructor: Mark Achtemeier
HT 647D Redeeming the Routines of Ministry and Life: A Theological/
Practical Approach to Ordering Ministry & Life
(3 credits)
This course is designed to help the student develop a theological
and practical approach to the problem of ordering his or her
ministry and life in the context of contemporary American
culture with its increasingly hectic style and pace of life.
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
HT 664D The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
(3 credits)
This course examines the biblical, historical, and contemporary
development of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. The course
deals with the Person and Work of the Holy Spirit in creation,
redemption, the Trinity, and Christian community, worship,
ministry and mission. The orientation of this seminar is historical,
focusing on the early Church’s teaching on the Holy
Spirit, the contribution of the Reformation, the rise of the
Pentecostal and charismatic movements of the past century,
and contemporary conversation.
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
HT 665D/HT 313W Confessions and Concord
(1 credit)
Prerequisites: Current enrollment in or past completion of
HT212W or HT615D A “comparative symbolics” approach
to the Presbyterian Book of Confessions and the Lutheran Book
of Concord in light of the “Formula of Agreement”
establishing intercommunion between the Lutheran and Reformed
churches. Finding commonalities and examining differences
are the foci. Knowing the content of HT 212W or HT615D are
prerequisites.
Instructors: Gary Neal Hansen, Ralph Quere
HT 734D Liberation and Feminist Theologies
(3 credits)
This course focuses on an appreciative reading of important
liberation and feminist theological texts. The first third
of the course deals with liberation theology. The remainder
covers revolutionary, reformist and evangelical feminist theologies.
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
HT 743D Theology of Reinhold Niebuhr
(3 credits)
This seminar seeks to introduce students to the thought of
one of the great American theologians and ethicists of the
20th century. The course will emphasize a careful reading
of selected texts from Niebuhr’s writings, with an eye
toward their ongoing relevance in the life of our church and
culture.
Instructor: Mark Achtemeier
HT 754D Contemporary Theology
(3 credits)
This course examines the work of several important contemporary
theologians on a particular theme such as Christology, hermeneutics,
or the doctrine of the Trinity.
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
HT 764D Introduction to Ecclesiastical Latin
(3 credits)
This course seeks to develop or enhance students‚ reading-knowledge
of ecclesiastical Latin. Students will survey Latin grammar,
develop vocabulary and practice reading in theological and
liturgical texts from selected biblical, patristic, medieval
and reformation sources.
Instructor: Mark Achtemeier
HT 773D The Theology of Karl Barth
(3 credits)
A survey of the Barthian literature – doctrine, exegetical,
history of doctrine, political, homiletical and devotional:
a digest of the contents of the thirteen volumes of the Church
Dogmatics, followed by in-depth study of a selected volume
of the Dogmatics or a particular doctrine.
Instructor: Mark Achtemeier
HT 785D The Finality of Christ in a Pluralistic World
(3 credits)
his course introduces students to the current debate about
the finality of Christ in our religiously plural world. A
variety of perspectives are considered including Protestant
and Catholic, female and male, traditional and revisionist,
from East and West, and First and Third Worlds.
Instructor: Elmer Colyer
Historical Theology
HT 584D The Theology of C.S. Lewis
(3 credits)
This seminar will explore the life and thought of C.S. Lewis,
one of the most popular lay theologians of the twentieth century,
by reading and discussing a variety of his works and key secondary
sources.
Instructor: Bradley Longfield
HT 586D The Life and Theology of Martin Luther
(3 credits)
Prerequisites: HT 400/500D and HT 402/502D or permission of
the instructor
This seminar will explore the theology of Martin Luther in
the context of his life. Martin Luther was the pivotal figure
at the beginning of the Reformation, and one of the most influential
theologians of all times. We will read from a variety of Luther’s
works as well as modern biographical and theological studies.
In the process we will encounter crucial issues of Luther‚s
theology firsthand and grapple with issues of our own faith.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen
HT 637D Mysticism
(3 credits)
This seminar will explore the development and theology of
mysticism. Mysticism is one of the primary modes in which
Christian theology has been practiced through the centuries,
and many great theologians wrote both doctrinal and mystical
works. It is also a fertile field of historical and theological
scholarship and lay interest. We will examine the tradition
through the lens of current scholarship, while spending most
of our time reading and discussing primary texts important
to the growth of mysticism.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen 2003-2005 CATALOG | 57
HT 671D The Theology of John and Charles Wesley
(3 credits)
This course will explore the theology of John and Charles
Wesley through extensive reading of primary texts (sermons,
theological tracts, hymns, personal journals, letters and
diaries). The two-fold goal is first, to understand and interpret
these writings within the context of the 18th century, and
then to reflect on their relevance to the contemporary theology
and praxis.
Instructors: Elmer Colyer
HT 749D Augustine
(3 credits)
Augustine of Hippo, a bishop at the turn of the fifth century,
guided the Christian church of his day through grave internal
crises and the crumbling of Roman civilization. His writings
have been among the most influential in all of Western Christendom
down to the present day. This seminar seeks to acquaint students
with the major contours of Augustine’s life and work
through a close reading of selected primary texts and biographical
literature.
Instructor: Mark Achtemeier
HT 775D The Theology of John Calvin
(3 credits)
Prerequisites: HT 400/500D & HT 402/502D or equivalents
or permission of instructor This seminar will explore the
theology of John Calvin through a reading of the Institutes
of the Christian Religion and consideration of key secondary
sources.
Instructor: Gary Neal Hansen
Theological Ethics
HT 688D Christian Social Ethics
(2 credits)
This course will introduce students to major themes, approaches
and issues in Christian ethics, with an emphasis on relating
biblical Christian faith to contemporary social issues. Students
taking this course will gain practical experience in ethical
reason and analysis as well as exposure to a number of different
approaches to ethical issues.
Instructor: Staff
Directed Research
HT 699D Readings and Directed Research
(3 credits)
Individual reading or a research project on some phase of
history or theology, with the approval and under the guidance
of one of the instructors in the division.
Instructor: Staff
HT 799D Readings and Directed Research (Advanced)
(3 credits)
Individual reading or a research project on an advanced level,
with the approval and under the direction of one of the instructors
in the division.
Instructor: Staff
Wartburg Theological Seminary History and Theology
Courses
HT 104W Foundations of the Church
(2 credits)
A survey of the history of Christianity from the second century
to the early Middle Ages, looking particularly at the development
of the church as an institution, issues of heresy and orthodoxy,
ascetical and theological concerns, and Christianity’s
evolving relationship with the state. Offered every fall.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 106W Ages of Faith and Reform
(2 credits)
A history of Christianity from the high Middle Ages through
the Reformation, focusing on medieval theological developments,
the drive towards reform, and the various reformation movements
of the 16th and 17th centuries. Offered every spring.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 110W Comparative Reformations: Germany and England
(1 credit)
This course focuses on the history of the Lutheran and Anglican
reformations. The causes, means, and results of reform in
both lands will be examined through lecture, film, and primary
source documents.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 112W Reformations Classical and Radical
(1 credit)
This course will examine and compare the different ideas about
reform as expressed by Luther and by more radical reformers
such as the Anabaptists. Key themes will include the role
of the state, the use of violence, and the different theological
understandings of church.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 140W Systematic Theology
(3 credits)
This course will examine God’s multifaceted activity
in the history of salvation with an eye to its unity. It will
explore the Christian interpretation of the relationship between
God, humanity, and the world in its religious plurality in
a history that extends from creation and fall to the consummation
of all things, and that centers in Jesus Christ. Offered every
spring.
Instructors: Winston Persaud, Duane Priebe, Duane Larson
HT 198W Justification and Justice
(1 credit)
This course will explore the evangelistic and social dimensions
of the church’s message and mission. The unity of these
two dimensions will be interpreted by setting both in the
context of the Lutheran doctrine of justification by grace
alone through faith alone and the good news of God’s
redemptive love for the world in the incarnation, death, and
resurrection of Jesus. We will begin to explore the issue
of racism in light of the theme of justification and its relation
to justice. This will include an intensive anti-racism workshop.
Offered every fall.
Instructors: Ann Fritschel, Winston Persaud, Duane Priebe
HT 212W Lutheran Confessions
(2 credits)
A study of the Book of Concord in its main doctrinal themes
with foci on modern applications and ecumenical implications.
Instructor: Ralph Quere
HT 214W Medieval Mystics and Reformation Spiritualists
(1 credit)
In this course we shall read and discuss Christian spiritual
writings from the 12th- 17th centuries. Selections will include
someone from the Middle Ages, such as Hildegard of Bingen,
Catherine of Siena, or Thomas ` a Kempis; Martin Luther and
another representative of the Reformation era such as Spener,
Johann Arndt, Teresa of Avila, or Ignatius of Loyola; and
end with a post-Reformation spiritual writer such as John
Bunyan or Wesley.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 216W Christian Holy Wars and the Plea for Tolerance
(1 credit)
This course will examine Christian attitudes towards tolerance
and intolerance in matters of religion. Major themes will
include the concept of Christendom, Crusades, cuius regio
eius religio (the ruler determines the religion of the land),
the Anabaptist plea for tolerance, and Enlightenment ideas
of religious freedom.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 232W The Virgin and the Harlot (3 credit)
A study of women in Christianity, this course looks at the
common perceptions regarding women by the church “Fathers”
and at the actual roles women filled and the contributions
they made in our Christian heritage.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 255W Readings in Black Theology
(1 credit)
The writings of some of the leading Black theologians will
be read and discussed. The material read will vary from term
to term, and the course may be repeated. The theologian and
the material to be read will be announced each term.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 264W Readings in Theology
(1 credit)
The writings of various ancient and modern theologians will
be read and discussed. The material read will vary from term
to term, and the course may be repeated. The theologian and
the material to be read will be announced each term.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 267W Ethics in Lutheran Perspective
(3 credits)
An introduction to the field of Christian ethics, paying particular
attention to Lutheran themes: Word of God, law and gospel,
theology of the cross, Christian freedom, vocation, reason,
and two kingdoms. This course includes analysis of social
statements and reflection on the congregation as locus for
moral deliberation.
Instructor: Craig Nessan
HT 276W Caribbean Theology, Slavery and Colonialism
(1 credit)
An attempt to discern the indigenous ways of conceptualizing
the liberating presence and acts of God among the oppressed
and suffering during the history of slavery and colonialism
in the Caribbean.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 277W Jesus in Missiological Context
(1 credit)
The purpose of the course is to explore several images of
Jesus that have emerged in mission contexts, especially in
Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Oceania. The
implication of these images for mission and evangelism in
different contexts will be analyzed. This course is to enable
students to recognize and appreciate the emerging plurality
in World Christianity.
Instructor: Staff
HT 281W World Religions in America
(2 credits)
As an exploration of the changing religious landscape of the
United States, this course will deal with the following world
religions, which have a substantial number of followers in
the USA: Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism.
Attention will be given to the origin, history, and basic
teachings as identified by the contemporary adherents of these
religions. The challenges that religious pluralism poses for
Christian witness and presence will be considered.
Instructor: Staff
HT 282W Paradigm Shifts in Mission
(2 credits)
An exploration of major developments and shifts in theologies
and methods of mission from the New Testament period to the
present time. Special attention will be given to some of the
significant contemporary global missiological issues. Required,
M.Div.
Instructor: Staff
HT 283W Violence and Religions
(2 credits)
The course will examine historical and contemporary views
on the resorting to violence to achieve religious, social,
or political goals in a selection of religions: Buddhism,
Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism. Attention
will be given to the teaching and practice of forgiveness,
reconciliation, and peace making within these traditions,
and the ecumenical/ interfaith commitment to accomplish them
in contemporary society.
Instructor: Staff
HT 285W Ecumenical Movement
(1 credit)
The course will deal with the vision, history, and mission
of the ecumenical movement as it is embodied and facilitated
through the World Council of Churches. The 60 | 2003-2005
CATALOG UNIVERSITY OF DUBUQUE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY contemporary
ecumenical issues/concerns such as inter-church cooperation,
church unity, cultural and religious plurality, justice and
ecology will be discussed.
Instructor: Staff
HT 286W Introduction to World Religions
(1 credit)
A study of key teachings and practices of major world religions
– Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism,
Shintoism. Sikhism. Recent developments of cooperation among
religions including attempts Towards a Global Ethic‚
will be examined.
Instructor: Staff
HT 290W Doctrine and Hymnody
(1 credit)
The central focus will be on the doctrinal orthodoxy of the
hymns used in worship, formal and informal, and on the place
of the hymn in the liturgy and worship and its importance
as a medium of proclamation of the gospel. Hymns will be chosen
from Lutheran and ecumenical hymnals and books of worship.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 292W Theology for Youth Outreach
(1 credit)
Examining and discussing approaches to youth evangelism with
a focus on translating the gospel into the “language
of the mall.”
Instructor: Ralph Quere
HT 294W Theology of Wartburg Seminary
(2 credits)
Examines the history of Wartburg Seminary and the theology
of those who have taught and learned at the school. After
examining the mission theology of Wilhelm Loehe, special attention
is given to the positions taken by the Iowa Synod and the
theological contributions of Sigmund Fritschel, Gottfried
Fritschel, J. Michael Reu, and other important figures.
Instructors: Craig Nessan, Bill Weiblen
HT 298W The Gospel and Ideology
(1 credit)
A critical analysis of how “sound” orthodox statements
and positions of the church or individual Christians may be
more ideological in import than proclamatory. An attempt will
be made to grapple with this ambiguity, especially in relation
to the preaching and advocacy ministries of the church.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 303W Christianity in the Modern World
(3 credits)
A survey of church history from 1648 to the present, with
special attention to the interaction of church and society.
Major emphasis will be on experience in Europe and North America,
including significant attention to the development of Lutheranism
in North America.
Instructor: Roger Fjeld
HT 312W Theology of Melanchthon
(3 credits)
A study of several editions of Melanchthon’s Loci, his
dogmatic theological commentaries on Romans as an example
of the earliest Protestant systematic theology.
Instructor: Ralph Quere
HT 313W/HT 665D Confessions and Concord
(1 credit)
A “comparative symbolics” approach to the Presbyterian
Book of Confessions and the Lutheran Book of Concord in light
of the Formula of Agreement establishing intercommunion between
the Lutheran and Reformed churches. Finding commonalities
and examining differences are the foci. Knowing the content
of HT 212W or HT 615D are prerequisites.
Instructor: Ralph Quere, Gary Neal Hansen
HT 316W Theology of Luther
(3 credits)
Major motifs in Luther’s thought centered around justification
by faith alone are studied in primary sources. 2003-2005 CATALOG
| 61 Interpretations by modern Luther scholars supplement
the focus on Luther’s own writings.
Instructor: Ralph Quere
HT 330W Witches Abound: The War Against Women
(1 credit)
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Church (both Catholic
and Protestant) proclaimed war against women, persecuting
and killing many as witches. This course will examine the
concept of woman as witch – her supposed power and the
fears of males, beginning with Tertullian’s accusations
against woman as the “devil’s gateway,”
to the infamous Malleus Maleficarum (Hammer Against Witches),
to the Salem Witch Trials.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 333W Images of Jesus and Christian Identity
(3 credits)
A study of various images of Jesus popular during certain
periods of Christian history and their relationship to the
dominant culture. We will then examine our own perceptions
and images of Jesus, their relationship to contemporary society,
and their influence to our individual and corporate Christian
identity.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 334W History of Doctrine: Pelikan’s Approach
(3 credits)
A study of Pelikan’s The Christian Tradition: A History
of the Development of Doctrine and Jesus Through the Centuries
as the context for doctrinal development. The chief object
is to understand the major themes of the church’s teachings
as they emerged in creeds, confessions, liturgies, sermons
and theologies that embody what the church in a given age
“believes, teaches and confesses.” Continuity
and change as affected and effected by text and context are
studied.
Instructor: Ralph Quere
HT 337W Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing
(3 credits)
A study of heresy and orthodoxy in Christian history. The
church is not a static institution but a living and growing
body continually having to decide what is and what is not
truly Christian. This course will look at the process of discernment
and examine some of the major heretical movements of the early
church and their modern manifestations.
Instructor: Beth Leeper
HT 340W The Trinity: Dogma, Salvation and Doxology
(3 credits)
The focus of this research seminar will be on the biblical
and historical development of the doctrine of the trinity,
as well as contemporary reinterpretations of the essential
triuness of God that are centered in the identity of God as
the unity of the triune community of Father, Son and Holy
Spirit, and in God’s saving action in Jesus Christ.
Mystery both in God and in God’s salvation calls forth
adoration, praise and thanksgiving.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 342W Eschatology and Creation
(3 credits)
This course will explore the unity of eschatology and creation
centered in Jesus Christ. We will examine what that means
for how we understand God, humanity, history and the world
in conversation with the natural sciences and other religious
traditions.
Instructor: Duane Priebe
HT 344W Science and Theology
(3 credits)
This course seeks to integrate scientific knowledge into a
theological worldview. What are the implications of scientific
method, quantum theory, relativity, big bang, chaos theory,
and evolution for belief in God?
Instructor: Craig Nessan
HT 345W Atonement and Jesus‚ Crucifixion
(3 credits)
This course is an interdisciplinary research seminar that
will explore the meaning and significance for human life of
the death of Jesus. Interpretations of the crucifixion will
be examined in the light of various historical, religious,
anthropological, and political contexts.
Instructor: Duane Priebe
HT 346W Resurrection and New Life
(3 credits)
This seminar will explore the significance of the confession
of the resurrection of the dead for Christian faith, including
the issue of death and resurrection, the meaning of Jesus’
resurrection for faith, the relation between Jesus’
resurrection and ours, the place of hope beyond death for
life now, and the relation of resurrection to the idea of
God.
Instructor: Duane Priebe
HT 348W Jesus and the Cosmic Christ
(3 credits)
This research seminar will explore issues surrounding the
relation of “cosmic Christology” to the figure
of Jesus. Against the background of classical christological
debates about the Logos through whom the universe was created
and the relation of the Logos to both God and the human figure
of Jesus, we will explore this question in relation to two
contemporary issues: theology and science and the relation
of Christian faith to other religions.
Instructor: Duane Priebe
HT 349W The Concept of the Poor in Christian Theology
(3 credits)
The focus of this research seminar will be on texts and contexts
in relation to the place and importance of the poor in the
history of the church. Primary attention will be given to
the biblical witness and writings of the Fathers, Luther and
the Reformers, and contemporary theologians. The underlying
hermeneutical principle will be the creative interaction of
texts and contexts in their presentation of the poor as the
locus of God’s presence in Jesus Christ in the world.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 350W The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
(3 credits)
The focus of this seminar will be on the biblical, historical,
and contemporary development of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit.
Our focus will be trinitarian, and a primary area of investigation
will be the creedal confession: “I believe in the Holy
Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. . .”. The overriding
focus will be the doctrines of creation, redemption, and sanctification
from the standpoint of the Person and Work of the Holy Spirit.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 352W The Church and the Means of Grace
(3 credits)
A study of the nature of the church in the means that the
Holy Spirit employs: the sacraments and the church’s
ministry of the Word – examined within the Lutheran
focus on justification by grace through faith alone.
Instructor: Staff
HT 354W The Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of the World
(3 credits)
In this research seminar, we will examine the biblical, theological,
and historical roots of Luther’s “doctrine”
of the two kingdoms, with the view to understand how God’s
reign through the gospel of Jesus Christ is and is not manifest
in the public world of government, ideologies, economics,
culture, and the promotion of and struggle for social-economic
and political liberation.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 355W Luther and the Religions
(3 credits)
In this research seminar, we will read and critically evaluate
both primary texts in Luther and the World Religions, as well
as secondary texts which address the question 2003-2005 CATALOG
| 63 of a contemporary theology of religions in our religiously
plural context.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 356W From Martin Luther to Martin Kaehler to Paul Tillich
(3 credits)
A historical/systematic study of the core of Lutheran theology
from its foundation in Luther. Following a review of the historical
development after Luther, the course will focus on the creative
contributions of Martin Kaehler in his teaching on biblical
authority and the doctrine of justification. The course will
conclude by analyzing the way Luther’s emphasis on grace
has come to expression in Tillich’s theology.
Instructor: Bill Weiblen
HT 358W Paul Tillich’s Systematic Theology
(3 credits)
A study of the basic theological and philosophical roots of
Tillich’s thought. The class will engage in reading,
analysis, and discussion of the three volumes of the Systematic
Theology in order to appropriate some of the intriguing thrusts
of Tillich’s concern for the Christian message.
Instructor: Bill Weiblen
HT 359W Moltmann’s Theological Writings
(3 credits)
The concern will be to analyze carefully Moltmann’s
treatment of the doctrine of God as Trinity, especially in
light of traditional doctrines concerning the Trinity and
in order to appreciate the pastoral import of this doctrine.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 360W Luther’s Theology of the Cross and Marx’s
Anthropology
(3 credits)
In this research seminar, we will consider texts in Luther
and Marx which show how each defined his respective context
(religio-cultural, socio-economic, and political) in the sixteenth
and nineteenth centuries, the meaning of human being, and
how they articulated radically different responses to the
ills of their day. Special attention will be given to the
question of how to interpret critically the contemporary context
and, consequently, respond to the call to articulate the gospel
of God’s justifying grace in Jesus Christ in a world
crying out for justice.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 363W Dietrich Bonhoeffer
(3 credits)
The life, theology, and ethics of Bonhoeffer are examined
within the context of the struggle in Nazi Germany. Bonhoeffer’s
biography provides the basis for understanding his theology
and ethics.
Instructor: Craig Nessan
HT 364W Classical Lutheran Theology
(3 credits)
A study of 17th century theologians such as Gerhard and Chemnitz
to show how dependent on their formulations all later Lutheran
dogmatics really is. A comparison between the classical formulation
and contemporary expression of Lutheran theology will be a
crucial part of the course.
Instructor: Bill Weiblen
HT 378W Topics in Interreligious Dialogue
(1 credit)
In a given semester, this course focuses on the dialogues
of Christians with representatives of a major world religion:
Buddhism, Hinduism, or Islam.
Instructor: Craig Nessan
HT 379W Mission in Ecumenical Debate
(3 credits)
This course will analyze and evaluate the reports of the 20th
century Conference of the International Missionary Council
and its successor World Mission and Evangelism of the World
Council of Churches. The course will use the seminar method.
Reading the texts of the conference reports and analyzing
their theological and missiological content will be the main
thrust of the course.
Instructor: Staff
HT 380W Salvation in World Religions
(3 credits)
The language, concept, and understanding of salvation differ
from religion to religion and within a religion. The course
will deal with some such diversities and will explore its
implication for mission and the ministry of the church in
a multi-faith context.
Instructor: Staff
HT 381W Christian Encounter with People of Other Faiths
(2 credits)
The course will make a survey of different attitudes and relationships
that Christians have developed towards people of other faiths
in their missionary outreach, and in the decisions that are
made at some of the key missionary and ecumenical meetings.
Special attention will be given to contemporary discussions
on this issue by churches, ecumenical bodies, and individual
theologians such as Stanley Samartha, Hans Kung, John Hick,
Diana Eck and Paul Knitter.
Instructor: Staff
HT 386W Constructing Theology with Science (1): Physics and
Cosmology
(3 credits)
Here we will explore Einsteinian relativity physics, quantum
physics, “newer” physics, and cosmology, along
with their implications for various theological topics. No
prior expertise in the natural sciences is required, though
an introductory course in systematic theology is. The student
will learn from such non-theological material, however, so
to reconstruct a foundation for a topic of the student’s
choice, such as eschatology, the doctrine of creation, etc.
Instructor: Duane Larson
HT 387W Constructing Theology with Science (2): Evolutionary
Theory
(3 credits)
We will explore the promises and problems of current dialogue
and debate about the doctrine of creation, so-called “creation
science,” and evolutionary theory. The student will
become familiar with evolutionary theory and be able to articulate
it in lay terms, though no prior expertise in the natural
sciences is required. Having achieved such familiarity, the
student will be able irenically to redress misperceptions
of evolutionary science and biblical theology, and will have
established a strong constructive theological foundation for
teaching on this topic. An introductory course in systematic
theology is required before taking this course.
Instructor: Duane Larson
HT 388W Constructing Theology with Science (3): Minds and
Brains
(3 credits)
New research in neuro-physiology, artificial-intelligence,
information theory, robotics and cybernetics will fund this
seminar exploration in theological anthropology; i.e., what
it “means” theologically and spiritually to
be a human being. As with the other courses in this series,
no
prior knowledge of the science is necessary, though an openness
to its surprises, challenges, and contributions for theology
is. Completion of an introductory course in systematic theology
is also required.
Instructor: Duane Larson
HT 389W Constructing Theology with Science (4): Cloning and
Genetic Therapy
(2 credits)
With the conclusion of initial mapping of the human genome
(the biggest intellectual achievement in history), new technologies
for stem-cell therapy, genetic “engineering,”
and cloning present disturbing and exciting challenges to
social ethics. After coming to understand in lay terms the
issues and technologies, and considering the theological issues
that should be employed to frame answers and praxes of the
technology, this seminar will develop a common statement of
faith and ethical exhortation to present to a larger public.
As with the other courses in this series, no prior knowledge
of current natural science is required, though an introductory
course in systematic theology is. Instructor: Duane Larson
HT 391W Advanced Tutorial in Bible and Theology
(1 credit) This research seminar will explore issues and insights
raised by various articles that touch questions of biblical
interpretation and theology with interreligious dimensions.
One article will be explored each semester it is offered.
The topics will change, and the course may be repeated on
different topics. It is open to students at any level who
are interested in pursuing advanced research and in approaching
topics as independent contributors to the development of the
subject matter. The course will often be team-taught. Instructor:
Duane Priebe
HT 392W Contemporary Theology
(3 credits) This seminar concentrates on recent trends in
systematic theology. Significant works are read, discussed,
and analyzed. Special attention is given to issues of context.
Instructor: Craig Nessan
HT 393W Liberation Theology
(3 credits) This is a research seminar which views liberation
theology as an ecumenical theology. Attention will be directed
to its Sitz im leben. The writings of Latin American and
other theologians will be considered in terms of Marx’s
influence; the hermeneutic circle; and reformulation of
the doctrines
of Christ, sin and salvation, church and sacrament, mission
and evangelism, and eschatology. Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 394W Liberation Theologies
(3 credits) Liberation theologies are contextual theologies
which advocate social change. After examining questions of
method, this course will concentrate on the concerns of liberation
theologians in
specific contexts: Latin America, North America, Africa,
or Asia. Instructor: Craig Nessan
HT 395W Biblical Hermeneutics and Theology
(3 credits) This seminar will explore the intersection between
biblical interpretation and theological thought, using the
issues involved in interpreting particular biblical texts
to address hermeneutical and pastoral questions. The biblical
material will vary from term to term and the course may be
repeated. Instructor: Duane Priebe
HT 396W The Contemporary Crisis of Defining and Confessing
the Gospel
(3 credits) This seminar will examine the biblical witness
(both Testaments) to the gospel; explore the Lutheran principle
of law/gospel; discern some of the primary and enticing,
distorting formulations of the gospel; consider the meaning
of the gospel
in the encounter with the religions of the world; consider
the contemporary meaning of the article on justification
as
the article by which the church stands or falls (AC, Art.
VII); and explore the interrelatedness of gospel, culture,
and mission. Ful?lls the senior theology distribution requirement.
Instructor: Winston Persaud
HT 397W Christian Apologetics
(3 credits) This course will explore resources for articulating
the gospel in light of changing views of the world in modern
thought and in light of the objections and alternatives to
Christian faith. It will examine apologies for the faith in
the history of Christian thought and the possibilities for
a modern defense of the faith. Instructor: Duane Priebe
Independent Study
A student may do independent reading or a research project
on some phase of history or theology with the approval and
under the guidance of one of the instructors in the division.
HT 199W Readings and Directed Research (junior level)
HT 299W Readings and Directed Research (middler level)
HT 399W Readings and Directed Research (senior level)
Biblical
| History/Theology | Ministry
| Supervised
Practice of Ministry |
Integrative
|
