RL100 Christianity in Its Global Context (4 hours)

An introduction to major themes in the Bible, the interpretation of these themes in classical Christian theology, the application of these themes to contemporary issues, and the relationship between Christianity and other religions and ideologies in the modern world. It is a foundation course for 300-level religion offerings.

RL120 New Testament Literature and Thought (4 hours)

A study of the New Testament in its historical context in the First Century A.D. with special emphasis on critical problems of interpretation and theological concepts as they relate to today’s world.

RL305 Youth and Family Ministry (3 hours)

This course weaves together academic study coupled with adventure experience in a Christian communal context. The class employs a practical theological approach frawing on scripture, early church experience, luther and contemporary social and behavioral research and considers a congregation wide model for youth and family minstry. Students assess vocation and explore, through communal and personally transformative, spiritual practices and worship, their gifts and interest in youth, family and congregational ministry. It stimulates and integrates multiple teaching and learning styles. There is a fee for this course in addition to regular Bethany tuition.

RL310* Old Testament Literature and Thought (4 hours)

A study of the literature of the Old Testament in its historical context, relating the history, theology, and interpretation of the Old Testament to today’s world. Prerequisite: RLI00.

RL330* World Religions (3 hours)

A study of selected living religions and their respective views relating to people, history, and nature. Prerequisite: RL100.

RL340* Problems in Christian Ethics (3 hours)

Includes a summary of basic principles and major positions in philosophical ethics, an outline of distinctive factors in Christian ethics, a survey of outstanding figures in Christian ethics, and a sampling of issues of special concern: birth control, abortion, business practices, participation in military service, etc. Prerequisite: RL100.

RL351* Reformation Study (3 hours)

A study of the theology of the Protestant Reformation within the social-political context of 16th-Century Germany. Special emphasis will be given to the thought of Martin Luther and to the development of Lutheran theology into its confessional formulations. Prerequisite: RL100.

RL360* Theology for the New Millennium (3 hours)

This course introduces the themes and methods of modern theological thinking, from Barth and Tillich through liberationist, feminist, Black, post-modern, Roman Catholic, and evangelical theologies. Prerequisite: RL100.

RL398* Special Topics in Religion (3 hours)

A specialized study of a given religion or branch of religion with an emphasis on the experience of the religious group by those within that tradition. Prerequisite: RL100.