Major Courses

This class examines the books of Genesis - Kings (as listed in the Hebrew canon) with special attention given to the theological contributions each book provides for the overall shape of the Old Testament. The historical background of Israel and the Ancient Near East will also be considered. Core requirement for Applied Theology or Christian Studies majors.

This class examines the books of Isaiah - 2 Chronicles (as listed in the Hebrew canon) with special attention given to the theological contribution each book provides for the overall shape of the Old Testament. The literary structure of each book and the cultural background of Israel and the Ancient Near East will also be considered. Core requirement for Applied Theology or Christian Studies majors.

An investigation of the testimony provided by the Gospels concerning the life of Jesus of Nazareth, with special attention given to the critical issues prompted by such study.

An introductory consideration of the incidents, individuals, and issues included in the historical, epistolary, and apocalyptic portions of the New Testament.

An expanded study of the biblical doctrines of God, humanity, and sin.

An expanded study of the biblical doctrines of salvation, the person of Christ, the church, and last things.

Ministry Leadership is a study of the nature of the church, the roles of ministry leaders, and practical strategies for leadership.

An examination of Baptist history and doctrine with respect to other Christian denominations and non-denominational churches. Attention will be given to the global impact of Baptists through local church renewal, promotion of religious liberty, participation in missions, and biblical fidelity. Core requirement for Applied Theology students, Christian Studies majors and minors.

A historical and theoretical consideration of interpretative methodology as illustrated by and applied to selected texts from various portions of the biblical materials. Core requirement for Christian Studies majors and minors.

A survey of the development of the Christian church from the close of the New Testament period to the present time, with special attention to the origin of various denominations. Core requirement for Christian Studies majors and minors.

An examination of the issues faced by today's Christian missionaries, including divine call, recruitment, theological issues, cultural problems, political involvement, methodology, and indigenization. Student involvement in missions-related activities is expected.

This course will explore perennial social ethics issues as they relate to Christian faith and life. Topics include key social problems, the Church's historical responses to those issues, and the biblical teachings with regard to core Christian doctrines (e.g., creation, fall, redemption, image of God, neighbor love). Standard models of Christian engagement in society with respect to the individual believer, the local church, and the global Christian Church will also be considered.

A study of the basic principles for preparing and delivering biblical sermons, with an emphasis on the writing, delivery, and analysis of expository sermons.

An introduction to the Bible's theological and canonical formation, major themes, and overall story with a specific emphasis on the relationship between the Testaments.

A study of the practical duties of the modern pastor, with emphasis given to problems arising in the performance of regular pastoral duties as well as those created by the environment.

This course is an introduction to the major religious traditions of the world, particularly Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The historical development and key figures, as well as major doctrines and practices are explored.