Course Subjects
Courses directed to the ACT requirements
LANGUAGES (LA)
LA001 INTRODUCTION TO BIBLICAL HEBREW
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Greg Goswell
Aims: This subject aims to familiarise students with the fundamental structures of Biblical Hebrew, to enable them to make proper use of commentaries on the Hebrew text and to consult lexica and grammars, all with the purpose of using Hebrew for interpreting and teaching from the Old Testament.
Method: Classroom instruction with regular exercises.
Textbooks: G Athas and I M Young, Highlights of Biblical Hebrew (Sydney, 2002); William L Holladay, A Concise Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament (Brill, 1988).
LA002 INTRODUCTION TO NEW TESTAMENT GREEK
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Tony Bird
Description: This subject familiarises the student with the linguistic features of biblical Greek. It is intended only to be a general overview of accidence, grammar and syntax in order that the student may be able to make use of some technical helps such as Greek lexica, concordances and commentaries for exegetical purposes.
Textbook: E W Goodrick, Do It Yourself Hebrew and Greek (Zondervan, 1980).
LA003A BIBLICAL HEBREW
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Greg Goswell
Aims: This subject is offered every year. The subject aims to impart a solid working knowledge of Biblical Hebrew that will form the foundation for the faithful and skillful exegesis of the Old Testament Scriptures for preaching and teaching. Experience will be gained in translating Biblical Hebrew, including the use of lexical aids. Translation from the book of Ruth will be included.
Method: Classroom instruction with regular exercises.
Textbooks: C L Seow, A Grammar for Biblical Hebrew (Revised Edition; Abingdon, 1995); Francis Brown, S R Driver and C A Briggs, A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament (Oxford, 1977); K Elliger and W Rudolph (eds.), Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia (Deutsche Bibelstiftung, 1977).
LA003B BIBLICAL HEBREW
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Greg Goswell
Aims: This subject is offered every year. The subject aims to impart a solid working knowledge of Biblical Hebrew that will form the foundation for the faithful and skillful exegesis of the Old Testament Scriptures for preaching and teaching. Experience will be gained in translating Biblical Hebrew, including the use of lexical aids. Translation from the book of Ruth will be included.
Method: Classroom instruction with regular exercises.
Textbooks: C L Seow, A Grammar for Biblical Hebrew (Revised Edition; Abingdon, 1995); Francis Brown, S R Driver and C A Briggs, A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament (Oxford, 1977); K Elliger and W Rudolph (eds.), Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia (Deutsche Bibelstiftung, 1977).
LA004A NEW TESTAMENT GREEK
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Tony Bird
Description: To introduce the student to the basic elements of the Greek language of the New Testament. This subject aims to cover at least the first half of the basic text book.
Textbooks: J W Wenham, The Elements of New Testament Greek (CUP, 1975).
Recommended Reading: Eric Jay, New Testament Greek: An Introductory Grammar (SPCK, 1961).
LA004B NEW TESTAMENT GREEK
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Tony Bird
Description: Completion of the basic text book, translation of the first four chapters of Mark’s Gospel, and familiarity with textual critical apparatus.
Textbooks: J Duff, The Elements of New Testament Greek, 3rd edition (CUP, 2005).
Recommended Reading: The Greek New Testament, UBS 4th edition.
OLD TESTAMENT (OT)
OT301/501 FORMATIVE OLD TESTAMENT TRADITIONS
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Greg Goswell
Aims: To assist students to acquire an overall acquaintance with the text of the Old Testament, with special emphasis on the theological, historical and literary appreciation of its contents.
Method: Classroom instruction, set reading and assignments.
Description: This subject is offered every year. The subject surveys the contents of the first part of the Old Testament, namely the Pentateuch and Former Prophets. Special emphasis will be given to various topics including creation, the patriarchs, the exodus, the conquest, David, and the prophetic movement.
Textbooks: W J Dumbrell, The Faith of Israel: A Theological Survey of the Old Testament (Second Edition;Baker Academic 2002); G.R. Goswell and A.M Harman (eds.), Covenant and Kingdom: A Collection of Old Testament Essays by William J. Dumbrell (Reformed Theological Review, 2007); R B Dillard and T Longman III, An Introduction to the Old Testament (Zondervan, 1995); Iain Provan, V Phillips Long and Tremper Longman III, A Biblical History of Israel (Westminster/John Knox Press, 2003).
OT302/502 FROM ISRAEL TO JUDEA
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Greg Goswell
Aims: To assist students to acquire an overall acquaintance with the text of the Old Testament, with special emphasis on the theological, historical and literary appreciation of its contents.
Method: Classroom instruction, set reading and assignments.
Description: This subject is offered every year. The subject surveys the second part of the Old Testament, with special emphasis upon such topics as the Eighth Century prophets, wisdom literature, the Psalms, Daniel and apocalyptic literature.
Textbooks: W J Dumbrell, The Faith of Israel: A Theological Survey of the Old Testament (Second Edition; Baker, Academic 2002); G.R. Goswell and A.M Harman (eds.), Covenant and Kingdom: A Collection of Old Testament Essays by William J. Dumbrell (Reformed Theological Review, 2007); R B Dillard and T Longman III, An Introduction to the Old Testament (Zondervan, 1995); Iain Provan, V Phillips Long and Tremper Longman III, A Biblical History of Israel (Westminster/John Knox Press, 2003).
OT420/620ENG/OT430/630HEB THE PENTATEUCH
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturers: Greg Goswell/Jared Hood
Aims: To introduce students to a range of Old Testament Pentateuchal texts; to provide training in the skills of exegetical method; to give further knowledge of Old Testament theology; to
survey modern interpretation of the Old Testament; to give practice in the fundamentals of textual criticism.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion and set reading.
Description: This subject is offered on a three year cycle. The subject covers the theology of the Pentateuch, with special reference to the books of Genesis and Deuteronomy. The exegesis of the English text of Genesis 1-11 and Deuteronomy 5-8, 12, 16-18 will be covered. The Hebrew option consists of Genesis 1-3 and Deuteronomy 5-7
Textbooks: T D Alexander, From Paradise to the Promised Land: An Introduction to the Pentateuch (Second Edition; Baker Academic, 2002); C. John Collins, Genesis 1-4: A Linguistic, Literary, and Theological Commentary (P & R, 2006); Gordon Wenham, Genesis 1-15 (Word, 1987); A M Harman, Deuteronomy: The Commands of a Covenant God (Christian Focus, 2001); J. Gordon McConville, Deuteronomy (Apollos, 2002).
OT421/621ENG/OT431/631HEB FORMER PROPHETS
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturers: Greg Goswell/Jared Hood
Aims: To introduce students to a range of Old Testament historical texts; to provide training in the skills of exegetical method; to give further knowledge of Old Testament theology; to survey modern interpretation of the Old Testament; to give practice in the fundamentals of textual criticism.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion and set reading.
Description: This subject is offered on a three year cycle. The subject covers the theology of the Former Prophets, with special reference to the books of Samuel. The exegesis of the English text of 1 Samuel 1-12 and 2 Samuel 5-7, 15-18 will be covered. The Hebrew option consists of 1 Samuel 9-11 and 2 Samuel 5-7.
Textbooks: J Gordon McConville, Grace in the End: A Study in Deuteronomic Theology (Zondervan, 1993); Victor P Hamilton, Handbook on the Historical Books (Baker Academic, 2001); R P Gordon, 1 & 2 Samuel: A Commentary (Paternoster, 1986).
OT422/622ENG/OT432/632HEB EIGHTH CENTURY PROPHETS
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturers: Greg Goswell/Jared Hood
Aims: To introduce students to sample Old Testament prophetic texts; to provide training in the skills of exegetical method; to explore the theology of the Eighth Century prophets; to give practice in the fundamentals of textual criticism.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion and set reading.
Description: This subject is offered on a three year cycle. The subject covers the theology of the Eighth Century prophets, with special reference to Joel and Amos. The exegesis of the English text of Joel and Amos will be covered. The Hebrew option consists of Joel and Amos 2:6-5:15.
Textbooks: Shalom M Paul, Amos (Fortress,1991); F I Anderson & D N Freedman, Amos (Doubleday, 1989); John Barton, Joel and Obadiah (Westminster John Knox, 2001); M Daniel Carroll R, Amos – The Prophet and His Oracles (Westminster John Knox, 2002).
OT425/625ENG/OT435/635HEB APOCALYPTIC & POST-EXILIC PROPHECY
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturers: Greg Goswell/Jared Hood
Aims: To develop exegetical and hermeneutical skills for preaching and teaching the Old Testament through a detailed exegetical study of the English or Hebrew text of the book of Daniel; to give further knowledge of Old Testament theology; to survey modern interpretation of the Old Testament apocalyptic texts; to give practice in the fundamentals of Old Testament textual criticism.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion and set reading.
Description: This subject is offered on a three year cycle. The subject studies Old Testament apocalyptic, with special reference to the theology of the book of Daniel. Exegesis of the English text covers Daniel 1-12. The Hebrew option consists of Daniel 1:1-2:4, 8-10, 12.
Textbooks: A M Harman, Daniel (EP, 2007); J Goldingay, Daniel (Word, 1989); Ernest C Lucas, Daniel (Apollos, 2002); J J Collins, Daniel (Augsburg Fortress, 1993).
OT426/626ENG/OT436/636HEB THE PSALTER
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturers: Greg Goswell/Jared Hood
Aims: To introduce students to the study of the Psalter; to provide training in the skills of exegetical method; to give further knowledge of Old Testament theology; and to survey modern interpretation of the Psalms; to give practice in the fundamentals of Old Testament textual criticism.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion and set reading.
Description: This subject is offered on a three year cycle. The subject studies Old Testament poetry, with special reference to the Psalter. Exegesis of the English text covers Psalms 2, 8, 16, 19, 22, 24, 46, 51, 73, 74, 96, 99, 103, 110, 116, 132 and 137. The Hebrew option consists of Psalms 2, 8, 22, 46, 73, 99, 132 and 137.
Textbooks: A M Harman, The Psalms (Christian Focus, 1998); P C Craigie, Psalms 1-50 (Word, 1983); M E Tate, Psalms 51-100 (Word, 1990); L C Allen, Psalms 101-150 (Word, 1983); Gerald H Wilson, Psalms Volume 1 (Zondervan, 2002); Philip S Johnston and David G Firth, (eds), Interpreting the Psalms: Issues and Approaches (Apollos, 2005).
OT427/627ENG/OT437/637HEB ISAIAH
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturers: Greg Goswell/Jared Hood
Aims: To provide students with an exegetical and thematic survey of the canonical book of Isaiah; to provide training in the skills of exegetical method; to give further knowledge of Old Testament theology; and to appreciate the unity of the book of Isaiah; to give practice in the fundamentals of Old Testament textual criticism.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion and set reading.
Description: This subject is offered on a three year cycle. The subject surveys the book of Isaiah as a whole, with detailed exegesis of the English text of Isaiah 1.1—2.4, 6-7, 9, 11, 24-25, 35, 39, 40-42, 52.13—56.12, 61, 66. The Hebrew option consists of Isaiah 6, 11, 40-41, 52.13—53.12, 61.
Textbooks: A M. Harman, Isaiah: A Covenant to be Kept for the sake of the Church (Christian Focus, 2005); J N Oswalt, Isaiah 1-39 (Eerdmans, 1986); J N Oswalt, The Book of Isaiah, Chapters 40-66 (Eerdmans, 1998).
NEW TESTAMENT (NT)
NT301/501 CONTENT & SETTING OF THE GOSPEL TRADITION
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Tony Bird
Aims: To survey the teaching and background of the Gospels.
Description: To study the life and ministry of Jesus within its historical, religious and cultural setting; to study the outline and emphases of Mark’s gospel as well as the distinctives of the other gospels; to study the theology of the gospels with special reference to the Kingdom of God, the parables, the miracles, the ethics of Jesus, the Christology of the gospels and the passion and resurrection narratives.
Recommended Course Reading: D A Carson, D J Moo, & L Morris, An Introduction to the New Testament (Apollos, 1992); R H Gundry, A Survey of the New Testament (Zondervan, 1970); G E Ladd, A Theology of the New Testament Revised Edition (Eerdmans, 1993).
NT302/502 EARLY NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Tony Bird
Aims: To survey the teaching of Acts and selected letters of the New Testament.
Description: To study the main features involved in the teachings and expansion of the early church in the Acts of the Apostles; to study the background and central themes of selected epistles of the New Testament.
Recommended Course Reading: As for Content & Setting of the Gospel Traditions above.
NT420/620ENG/NT430/630GRK SYNOPTIC GOSPELS
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturers: Tony Bird/Jared Hood
Aims: To introduce students to the history of the study and exegesis of the synoptic gospels. To develop exegetical skills. To think through the implications of these studies for ministry.
Description: To study the ‘gospel’ as a literary form. An historical review is made of the different ‘critical’ approaches to the study of the Synoptic gospels. The theology of the synoptics is studied with special reference to Luke. In the exegesis class selected passages from Luke’s Gospel are exegeted and presented in class by each student.
Textbooks: C L Blomberg, The Historical Reliability of the Gospels (IVP, 1987); G D Fee, New Testament Exegesis (Westminster, 1983); I H Marshall, The Gospel of Luke: A Commentary on the Greek Text (Paternoster, 1978); S McKnight, Interpreting the Synoptic Gospels (Baker, 1988).
NT422/622ENG/NT432/632GRK EPISTLE TO THE HEBREWS
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturers: Tony Bird/Jared Hood
Aims: To study Hebrews and to train in the practice of biblical exegesis; to extend knowledge of New Testament theology.
Description: The Theology of Hebrews is studied including such themes as covenant, high priesthood, perfection, use of the Old Testament and the church. In the exegesis class selected passages from the book are exegeted and presented in class by students.
Textbooks: D Guthrie, Hebrews (IVP/Eerdmans, 1989); P Ellingworth, Commentary on Hebrews NIGTC (Eerdmans, 1993); A H Trotter, Interpreting the Epistle to the Hebrews (Baker, 1997); G D Fee, New Testament Exegesis (Westminster, 1983).
NT424/624ENG/NT434/634GRK FOURTH GOSPEL
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturers: Tony Bird/Jared Hood
Aims: To provide an opportunity for candidates to explore deeply the work of a major New Testament theologian, the Fourth Evangelist, as he reflects upon the gospel traditions.
Description: To study the Gospel of John; introductory issues, its theology including topics such as Christology, pneumatology, eschatology, signs and faith. In the exegesis class selected passages from the Gospel of John are exegeted and presented in class by students.
Textbooks: G M Burge, Interpreting the Gospel of John (Baker, 1992); D A Carson, The Gospel According to John (IVP/Eerdmans, 1991); G D Fee, New Testament Exegesis (Westminster, 1983). Gospel of John
NT425/625ENG/NT435/635GRK PAULINE THEOLOGY AND ROMANS
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturers: Tony Bird/Jared Hood
Aims: To familiarise the students with the theology of Paul and to examine in more detail the background and teachings of Romans.
Description: The inner structure and leading themes of Paul’s theology, with special reference to the Epistle to the Romans, is studied. In the exegesis class selected passages are exegeted and presented in class by students.
Textbooks: H Ridderbos, Paul (Eerdmans, 1975); D J Moo, The Epistle to the Romans NICNT (Eerdmans, 1996); G D Fee, New Testament Exegesis (Westminster, 1983); F F Bruce, Romans: An Introduction and Commentary (TP, 1971); Robert L Reymond, Paul (Mentor, 2000).
NT437/637 NEW TESTAMENT APOCALYPTIC
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Tony Bird
Aims: To introduce students to the apocalyptic genre as represented by the Book of Revelation.
Description: This unit looks at the historical, social and theological roots of New Testament Apocalyptic writings, especially the Book of Revelation. Also the theology of the Book of Revelation, including such themes as Christology, doctrine of God, judgement and hope. Translation and exegesis of the Greek text of Revelation 1, 4-7, 12-14, 20-21 (or a comparable block of chapters).
Textbook: G K Beale, The Book of Revelation (Eerdmans, 2000).
THEOLOGY (TH)
TH401/601 THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To introduce students to the nature and method of systematic theology through exploring the concepts of divine revelation, creation and providence along with the related truths of humanity and sin.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion along with written assignments.
Description: The first part of the course focuses on the doctrines of general and special revelation together with reason, tradition and experience; the second part of the course examines the truths of creation, providence, humanity, and sin.
Textbooks: Peter Jensen, The Revelation of God (IVP, 2002); David Smith, With Wilful Intent (Victor, 1994).
TH402/602 THE DOCTRINE OF GOD AND THE WORK OF CHRIST
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To introduce students to the central place and meaning of the doctrines of God and the Person and work of Jesus Christ within the mosaic of Christian belief.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion along with written assignments.
Description: A systematic study of the various elements of the doctrine of God through a study of the divine Persons and attributes and of the doctrine of Christ’s Person and work through an examination of his conception and birth, incarnate personality, life, death, resurrection, ascension and session.
Textbooks: Gerald Bray, The Doctrine of God (IVP, 1993); Veli-Matti Karkkainen, Christology (Baker, 2003); Robert Letham, The Work of Christ (IVP, 1993)
TH403/603 THE DOCTRINES OF GRACE AND ESCHATOLOGY
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To introduce students to the doctrines of salvation and the last things and their place within the mosaic of Christian faith.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion along with written assignments.
Description: A systematic study of the inter-connected truths that make up the central topic of salvation followed by a study of the stages of eschatology as they affect the individual and the human community.
Textbooks: Anthony Hoekema, Saved By Grace (Eerdmans, 1989); Sinclair Ferguson, The Holy Spirit (IVP, 1996); Anthony Hoekema, The Bible and the Future (Eerdmans, 1979).
TH404/604 CHURCH, SACRAMENTS AND MINISTRY
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To introduce students to the doctrines of the Christian church, the sacraments and Christian ministry.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion along with written assignments.
Description: A systematic study of the Christian church in relation to the Kingdom of God through a critical reflection of her nature, marks, gifts, administration and mission, together with the sacraments in their number, nature and function, finishing with an examination of Christian ministry in its various types and levels.
Textbooks: Edmund Clowney, The Church (IVP, 1995); G W Bromiley, Children of Promise (Clark, 1979).
PVT41 WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH
Type B Elective
3 hours per week, 1 semester
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To introduce students to theology by using a historical and confessional document as the basis; also to introduce students by the same means to some socio-political, ethical issues. The course also aims to introduce students to a classical text of Reformed Theology.
Description: The Confession is placed within the theological context of creeds and confessions of faith as well as its own historical context of the religious and political movements of its own period. The text of the Confession is studied under five sections: God and Revelation (chs 1–5); Humankind and God’s Covenant in Jesus Christ (chs 6–18); Religious, Social and Moral Issues (chs 19–24); The Church, its Sacraments and Order (chs 25–31); The Last Things (chs 32–33).
Method: a class paper / essay (40%) and an end-of-semester exam (60%).
Textbooks: Douglas Milne, The Westminster Confession of Faith for the 21st Century, (PCA, 2001); L Duncan (ed), The Westminister Confession into the 21st Century, (Mentor, 2003).
PHILOSOPHY & ETHICS (PE)
PE301/501 INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN ETHICS
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To introduce students to the framework and major themes of biblical ethics and the principal theories and methods of philosophical ethics, with a view to giving them skills in ethical reasoning and decision-making; to expose students to a number of ethical issues.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion along with written assignments.
Description: The subject is offered every other year. The subject covers the whole field of biblical theological ethics, with the moral teaching of Jesus and Paul forming the basis of the course. Issues raised by modern social, medical and sexual ethics are examined.
Textbooks: Tom Beauchamp, Philosophical Ethics, (McGraw-Hill, 1991); Dennis Hollinger, Choosing the Good, (Baker, 2002).
PE402/602 THEOLOGICAL ETHICS
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To introduce students to the discipline of theological ethics and to enable them to develop theological foundations for the task of ethics; to help students to explore the connections between theological and philosophical ethics; to introduce students to a number of medical, social and bioethical issues.
Method: Classroom instruction and discussion along with written assignments.
Description: The concept of theological ethics is examined along with a number of Christian doctrines and their ethical consequences; a model for using in making ethical decisions is constructed; major themes in philosophical ethics and some second order theories are examined; a number of medical and bioethical issues are taken up.
Textbooks: Scott Rae, Moral Choices (Zondervan, 2001); Gilbert Meilaender, Bioethics, (Eerdmans, 1996).
CHURCH HISTORY (CH)
CH301/501 THE CHURCH TO 1550
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: John P Wilson
Aims:
1. To introduce students to the methods of studying church history through the examination and appreciation of primary documents and the critique of selected and significant secondary sources.
2. To introduce students to selected topics in the life and thought of the Christian church from early church to reformation with a view to appreciating the problems, opportunities and attitudes of past Christians so as to be better equipped to handle trends and issues in leading today’s church.
3. To provide students with the opportunity to begin more specialised study of particular historical movements, issues and periods through a selected research essay.
4. To assist students in their growth in the Lord as they see and appreciate the hand of the Lord in the course of history.
Description:
1. The Church in Imperial Rome
The spread of the Christian faith to 312AD
Defence of the faith under the challenge of Gnosticism
Persecution by the emperors to the turning point of Constantine
Christological and Trinitarian debates of Nicea & Chalcedon
Christian faith under the collapse of the Empire
2. The Church as Christendom
The emergence of the Holy Roman Empire 600 – 900
The Western church of the 13th & 14th centuries
Byzantium, Islam and the Crusades
Protest, mysticism & spiritual renewal
3. Reform on the Continent
Reform precursors: renaissance & new learning
Reformation in Germany and Geneva
The Counter Reformation
Textbooks: H Boer, A Short History of the Early Church (Eerdmans, 1983); E E Cairns, Christianity Through the Centuries (Zondervan, 3rd edition, 1996); J L Gonzalez, The Story of Christianity, 2 vols (Harper Collins, 1985); M A Noll, Turning Points (IVP/Baker, 1997); A M Renwick & A M Harman, The Story of the Church (IVP, 3rd edition, 1999).
Document texts: H Bettenson (ed), Documents of the Christian Church (Oxford Uni, 3rd edition, 1999); J Stevenson (ed), A New Eusebius (SPCK, new edition, 1989).
CH302/502 THE CHURCH FROM 1550 TO MODERN TIMES
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: John P Wilson
Aims:
1. To introduce students to the methods of studying church history through the examination and appreciation of primary documents and the critique of selected and significant secondary sources.
2. To introduce students to selected topics in the life and thought of the Christian church from early church to reformation with a view to appreciating the problems, opportunities and attitudes of past Christians so as to be better equipped to handle trends and issues in leading today’s church.
3. To provide students with the opportunity to begin more specialised study of particular historical movements, issues and periods through a selected research essay.
4. To assist students in their growth in the Lord as they see and appreciate the hand of the Lord in the course of history.
Description:
1. Reform, Revolution and Renewal
Reformation in England and Scotland
Puritan-Anglican struggles (1563 – 1662)
Challenge of the Enlightenment
Methodism and the Evangelicals
Historical critical method; science and religion
2. The Church Universal
Christianity in the USA (1783 – 1925)
Missionary and ecumenical world movements
Christian faith in Communist Russia
Roman Catholicism in the light of Vatican II
Christian faith in Australia to 1965
Textbooks: E E Cairns, Christianity Through the Centuries (Zondervan, 3rd edition, 1996); J L Gonzalez, The Story of Christianity, 2 vols (Harper Collins, 1985); I H Murray, Australian Christian Life from 1788 (Banner, 1988); M A Noll, Turning Points (IVP/Baker, 1997); A M Renwick & A M Harman, The Story of the Church (IVP, 3rd edition, 1999).
Document texts: H Bettenson (ed), Documents of the Christian Church (Oxford Uni, 3rd edition, 1999); I H Murray, The Reformation of the Church (Banner, 1987).
CH421/621 THE CONTINENTAL REFORMATION
3 hours per week semester 1, but not every year
Lecturer:
Aims:
1. To offer students a detailed insight into the causes and nature of the Continental Reformation.
2. To provide students with an understanding of the development of Christian life, thought, ministry and worship in Reformation Europe.
3. To assist students learn, from the history of the churches in Reformation Europe, lessons which can be applied to understanding of ministry today.
4. To promote training in the use of primary documents, with opportunity for more specialised study of key texts.
Description:
1. The study of six of the following topics:
Medieval religious and intellectual questioning of the Church; the Avignon Captivity; the Conciliar Movement
Political, ecclesiastical, economic and social setting of the Reformation and Renaissance
Martin Luther and the Reformation in Germany
Huldrych Zwingli and the Swiss Reformation
The Radical Reformation and the Anabaptists
John Calvin and the Reformation in Geneva
The counter Reformation, the Jesuits, the Council of Trent
Calvinism in France and the Netherlands
2. The study and analysis of one of the texts:
Martin Luther’s Three Treatises of 1520
John Calvin’s Institutes, Book 4
Textbooks: W R Estep, Renaissance and Reformation (Eerdmans, 1998); A E McGrath, Reformation Thought (Blackwell, 1988).
CH422/622 THE REFORMATION IN BRITAIN
3 hours per week semester 2, but not every year
Lecturer:
Aims:
1. To offer students a detailed insight into the causes and nature of the Reformation in Britain.
2. To provide students with an understanding of the development of Christian life, thought, ministry and worship in Britain from 1530 to 1603.
3. To assist students learn, from the history of the churches in sixteenth century Britain, lessons which can be applied to understanding of ministry today.
4. To promote training in the use of primary documents, with opportunity for more specialised study of key texts.
Description:
1. Section A
The context of the Reformation in Britain
Roman Catholicism to Catholicism: the English Church during the reign of Henry 8th
Protestantism: the English Church during the reign of Edward 6th
Catholicism revisited: the English Church and Mary 1st
The Elizabethan Settlement
Puritans and Recusants
The Reformation in Scotland: John Knox;
the rise of the Presbyterian movement
2. Section B
The study and analysis of a text on one specified study area of John Knox’s Reformation in Scotland
3. Section C
The study of one of:
Richard Hooker’s Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity I - III
Thomas Cranmer’s Defence of the True and Catholic Doctrine of the Sacrament
Textbooks: W R Estep, Renaissance and Reformation (Eerdmans, 1998); A E McGrath, Reformation Thought (Blackwell, 1988).
EVANGELISM & MISSION (EM)
EM302/502 HISTORY OF CHRISTIAN MISSIONS
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: The subject gives an understanding of the expansion of the church from the apostolic age to the present day; the motives and methodologies involved in the churches’ missionary outreach are examined and evaluated; the continuing influence of previous missionary policy on the subsequent development of the churches’ missionary task is examined. There is also an opportunity for candidates to focus on the history of mission in particularlar areas.
Subject Outline (each section weighted equally)
Section A: The spread of Christianity from the Apolostic Age to the 19th Century
Section B: A selected study of Church Mission
Section C: Developments in the 20th century
Textbooks: K S Latourette, A History of the Expansion of Christianity (7 vols) (Paternoster, 1971); S C Neill, A History of Christian Missions (Penguin, 1975).
EM305/505 THEOLOGY OF MISSION
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: This subject provides an introduction to the study of missiology. It aims to give an awareness of the major issues in biblical and contemporary theologies of mission; to explain the scope and development of Christian missionary activity to the present day in the light of the cultural and sociological factors which affect mission today.
Subject Outline:
Section A: Biblical Theology of Mission
Section B: Contemporary Theology of Mission
Textbooks: A Tippett, Introduction to Missiology (Wm Carey, 1987); D Bosch, Transforming Mission (Orbis, 1996); N Thomas (ed), Classic Texts in Mission and World Christianity (Orbis, 1995); J Verkuyl, Contemporary Missiology (Eerdmans, 1978); J H Bavinck, An Introduction to Science of Mission (P & R, 1960).
EM306/506 ISSUES IN MISSIOLOGY
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: To introduce students to the nature, perspective, history, methodologies, theories and issues of missiology as a discipline.
Subject Outline: (each section weighted equally)
Section A: Selected Topics in the History of Christian Mission
Section B: Gospel and Culture
Section C: Area Study
Textbooks: J H Bavinck, An Introduction to the Science of Missions (P & R, 1960); Lausanne Committee for World Evangelization, The Willowbank Report: Gospel and Culture (1978); C Van Engen, Mission on the Way: Issues in Mission Theology (Baker, 1966); R Winter & S D Hawthorn (eds), Perspectives on the World Christian Mission (rev ed; Wm Carey, 1992).
EM324/524 EVANGELISM PRINCIPLES
2 hours per week 1 semester & 20 hours field work
Lecturer: John Diacos
Description: A consideration of what evangelism is from the NT texts; theological perspectives such as divine sovereignty and human response; motivations and hindrances to evangelism; the role of evangelists and of the local church in evangelistic minuistry; communication the gospel in various ways in different contexts.
Textbooks: J Chapman, Know & Tell the Gospel (H & S , 1984); W Metzger, Tell the Truth (IVP, 1981); J I Packer, Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God (IVP, 1977).
EM408/608 CROSS CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: To develop students’ understanding of the dynamics of the communication process and communication theory; to enable students to understand the divine usage of communication patterns, in particular the Bible from a communication patterns, in particular the Bible from a communicational perspective; to equip students to analyse the principles and patterns involved in cross-cultural missionary witness, thus, preparing them for such a ministry; to develop students’ ability to analyse their own past and present communication activity with a view to improving their communication skills; to give students an understanding of the process and meaning of the contextualisation of the gospel in particular situations.
Subject Outline: Theories and models of cross-cultural communication; Worldviews and their significance for cross-cultural communication; Cognitive processes and communication; Behavioural patterns and communication; The influence of social structures on communication.
Textbooks: David J Hesselgrave, Communicating Christ Cross-Culturally (Zondervan, 1978) ; D S Gilliard (ed.), The Word Among Us: Contextualizing Theology for Mission Today (Word, 1978); Contemporary Christian Communications (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1979).
EM409/609 CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: EM409 This subject establishes in the students’ understanding a basis for accepting and utilising the insights and knowledge of cultural anthropology as a tool in Christian mission; develops in students a Christian perspective upon anthropology and an anthropological perspective upon Christianity; enable students to develop a working knowledge of the patterns and processes of culture and cultural change, enabling them to understand their own cultural context an to accept the validity of different cultures; and gives students an understanding of culture as the context within which God interacts with people and the significance of this to churches in the world today.
EM609 This subject establishes in the students’ understanding a basis for accepting and utilising the insights and knowledge of cultural anthropology as a tool in Christian mission; develops in students a Christian perspective upon anthropology and an anthropological perspective upon Christianity; enable students to develop a working knowledge of the patterns and processes of culture and cultural change, enabling them to understand their own cultural context an to accept the validity of different cultures; and gives students an understanding of culture as the context within which God interacts with people and the significance of this to churches in the world today.
Outline: (section A and B are weighted approximately equally)
Section A: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology;
Section B: Anthropology for Cross-cultural Ministry
Texts: Paul Hiebert, Cultural Anthropology,2nd ed (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1992).
Mari Womack, Being Human: An Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, 2nd ed
(Upper Saddel Valley: Prentice Hall, 2001); Michael A Park, Introducing Anthropology: An Integrated Approach, 2nd ed (NY: McGranHill Comp, 2003); R. Grunlan & M Mayers, Cultural Anthropology (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1979).
EM418/618 MULTICULTURAL MINISTRY
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: EM418 This subject prepares students for ministry in a culturally diverse society; to assist students to understand the historical development and nature of Australia’s multi-cultural society and the churches’ response; to equip students to learn to relate to people of diverse cultures with cultural sensitivity and apply such knowledge in building bridges for evangelism and caring ministry; and to expose students to modals of cross-cultural ministry and evangelism as examples in which they can build their own ministry.
EM618 This subject prepares students for ministry in a culturally diverse society; to assist students to understand the historical development and nature of Australia’s multi-cultural society and the churches’ response; to equip students to learn to relate to people of diverse cultures with cultural sensitivity and apply such knowledge in building bridges for evangelism and caring ministry; and to expose students to modals of cross-cultural ministry and evangelism as examples in which they can build their own ministry; and to develop students a critical understanding of the strength and weakness of different models of multicultural ministry.
Subject Outline:
Section A: Multiculturalism in Australia (Section A is worth 70%)
Section B: Multicultural ministry: Model and Practice (Section B is worth 30%)
Textbooks: D A Carson, The Gagging of God: Christianity Confronts Pluralism
(Zondervan, 1996). D Anderson, Multicultural Ministry: Finding Your Church’s Unique Rhythm (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2004); R Brynjolfson & J Lewis, eds., Becoming an Intentionally Intercultural Church (Waynesboro, GA: World Evangelical Alliance missions Commission, 2004). Felix Chung, Multiculturalism and Education (Melbourne: PTC Media, 2006); J Docker & G Fischer, Race, Colour and Identity in Australian and New Zealand
(Sydney: UNSW, 2000); J Jupp, From White Australia to Woomera: The Story of Australian Immigration (Cambridge: CUP, 2003). Multicultural Australia: United in Diversity (Canberra Australian Government Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs, 2003); New Agenda for Multicultural Australia (Canberra: Australian Government and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs, 1999)
EM421/621 LIVING FAITHS
3 hour per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: To enable students to study some non-Christian living faiths in some detail; to give students an appreciation of the insights to be found in these faiths and a sensivity to their world-views..
Subject Outline: The historical roots, beliefs, cultural influences and contemporary reforms in two of the following living faiths: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, Primal religions.
Textbooks: P G Hiebert, Understanding Folk Religion: A Christian Response to Popular Beliefs and Practices (Baker 1999); D Burnett, World of the Spirits: A Christian Perspective on Traditional and Folk Religions (Monarch, 2000; K Cragg et al, Islam from Within-Anthology of Religion (Wadsworth,1980); J Jomier, How to Understand Islam (SCMP, 1989); P Parshall, New Paths in Muslim Evangelism (Baker 1980); A F Fernando et al, Buddhism Made Plain (Rev ed Orbis, 1985); R H Robinson et al, The Buddhist Religion (Wadsworth, 1982).
EM427/627 CHURCH DYNAMICS AND GROWTH
3 hour per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: To develop in students a critical understanding of the theology, principles and procedures of church growth and their significance for contemporary ministry theory and practice; to introduce students to the processes of evaluation, strategy development and effe ctive methodologies in a congregational situation; to enable students to identify the critical issues of contemporary church growth theories from biblical principles and evangelical perspective.
Subject Outline: (Section A,B and C are weighted approximately 40%, 30% and 30% respectively).
Section A: Principles
Section B: Practice
Section C: Field Work
Textbooks: H Conn, Theological Perspectives on Church Growth (Presbyterian & Reformed., 1977; D A McGavran, Understanding Church Growth (Rev. Ed., Eerdmans, 1980); W Shenk, Exploring Church Growth (Eerdmans, 1983); C Schwarz, Natural Church Development (Church Smart Resources, 1996).
EM440/640 CROSS-CULTURAL FIELD EDUCATION
1 hour per week & 50 hours field work*
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: To provide opportunity for students to experience at first hand some of the issues involved in cross-cultural ministry. To enable them to develop sensitivity to the inter-relationships between human life, the Christian gospel, Christian ministries and culture. To help them reflect upon their own culture and its impact upon their understanding of their ministry and humanity.
Subject Outline: (Sections A, B and C are weighted approximiately 20%, 60% and 20% respectively)
Section A: Preparation
Section B: Fieldwork
Section C: Evaluation and Reflection
* Students can choose from not less than 50 hours field work in some form of Christian work with people from a culture different than the student’s own; or a missionary trip of not less than 4 week’s residence in a culture other then the student’s own, or other form of field work approved by the lecturer.
Textbooks: M Collins, Manual for Today’s Missionary (William Carey, 1986); S Lingenfelter & M Mayers, Ministering Cross Culturally (Baker, 1986); T Ward, Living Overseas: A Book of Preparation (Free Press, 1984); P Hiebert, Anthropological Insights for Missionaries (Baker, 1985).
PVM41/PVM61 FOLK RELIGIONS
Type B Elective
3 hours per week semester 1
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: This unit is primarily designed for students who plan for further mission
study. However, it is also designed as a general introduction to those who are interested in interfaith dialogue or evangelism in a cross-cultural context.
Aims: PVM41 At the end of this unit, students should be able to: summarize the major theory of folk religions from a cultural anthropological perspective; identify the characteristics, issues, and problems of folk religions; analyse the characteristics, issues, and problems of folk religions; evaluate at least one of the folk religious phenomena in the Australian context.
PVM61 At the end of this unit, students should be able to: summarize the major theory of folk religions from a cultural anthropological perspective; identify the characteristics, issues, and problems of folk religions; analyse the characteristics, issues, and problems of folk religions; critique at least one of the folk religious phenomena in the Australian context; and respond to a specific issue of folk religions in the Australian context by developing appropriate missiological strategies.
Outline:
Part A: Folk religions as systems of beliefs and meaning: The problems and solutions
1. The phenomena of folk religions
2. Worldviews as systems of explanation
3. The meaning of life and death
4. Avoiding adversity and gaining success
5. Guidance and supernatural knowledge
Part B: Folk religions as systems of behavior: Symbols, rituals, myths, religious institutions and movements
6. Symbolism, rituals, myths and sense of the sacred
7. The relationship between beliefs and behavior
8. Religious leaders: Shamans, prophets, and priests
9. Cults, sects, denominations and ecclesia
Textbooks: Paul G Hiebert, Understanding Folk Religion: A Christian Response to Popular
Beliefs and Practices (Baker, 1999); Ronald Enroth, A Guide to New Religions Movements ( IVP, 2005); Catherine Sanders, Wicca’s Charm: Understanding the Spiritual Hunger Behind the Rise of Modern Witchcraft and Pagan Spirituality (Colorado Springs: Waterbrook Press, 2005).
PVM42/PVM62 ETHNOGRAPHIC RESEARCH
Type B Elective
3 hours per week semester 2
Lecturer: Felix Chung
Description: This subject introduces student research methods in anthropology, skill and knowledge of conducting ethnographic research, collecting information, analysing information and writing an ethnography.
Aims: PVM 42 At the end of this unit, the students should be able to:
1.Describe the concept and methodology of research methods in anthropology with special emphasis on ethnographic research
2.Know how to conduct a minor research by using participation observations
3.Know how to conduct a minor research by using ethnographic interviews
4.Master the skill of collecting and analysing information using ethnographic research methods
5.Write up ethnography
6.Identify issues of applying ethnographic research in cultural learning
PVM 62 At the end of this unit, the students should be able to:
1.Describe the concept and methodology of research methods in anthropology with special emphasis on ethnographic research
2.Know how to conduct a minor research by using participation observations
3.Know how to conduct a minor research by using ethnographic interviews
4.Master the skill of collecting and analysing information using ethnographic research methods
5.Write up ethnography
6.Identify issues of applying ethnographic research in cultural learning
7.Critically evaluate the problem of applying ethnographic research in cultural learning
Textbooks: Michael V Angrosine, Doing Cultural Anthropology: Projects for Ethnographic Data Collection, 2nd ed., (Waveland Press, 2006); Michael V Angrosine, Project in Ethnographic Research (Waveland Press, 2004); James Spradley, Participant Observation (Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1980); James Spradley,
The Ethnographic Interview (Holt, Rinehart and Winston, Inc, 1979).
PASTORAL & CHURCH FOCUSSED MINISTRY (PC)
PC301/501 MINISTRY FORMATION
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: John Wilson
Description: An overview of the many facets of practical ministry, including: the office of minister/pastor (both biblically and as seen in church history), the call to the ministry, dealing with congregational expectations and the personal spiritual development of the minister.
Textbooks: R Baxter, The Reformed Pastor (Banner of Truth Trust, 1999); C Bridges, The Christian Ministry (Banner of Truth, 1997); D B Knox, Sent by Jesus (Banner of Truth, 1992); J MacArthur Jr (ed), Rediscovering Pastoral Ministry (Word, 1995).
PC315/515 CHRISTIAN WORSHIP
2 hours per week 1 semester, field work
Lecturer: John Wilson
Description: Biblical principles and patterns. A survey of O.T. and N.T. theology and practice of worship. A study of the early church practice of worship. Tracing of the major historical developments in worship. A study of the contemporary scene, including: style of leadership, liturgical forms, form vs. freedom, personal & corporate dimensions, music, the arts. Planning and conducting worship.
Textbooks: R Webber, Worship: Old and New (Zondervan, 1994); J Frame, Worship in Spirit and Truth (P & R, 1996); P Engle, Discovering the Fullness of Worship (GCP, 1991); J Frame, Contemporary Worship Music (P & R, 1997).
PC402/602 PASTORAL CARE
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Don Elliott
Description: The importance of the relationship between special and general revelation as a key to approaching pastoral care. Sin, its development, and how the pastor can assist the process of sanctification together with various Scriptural models of pastoral care are studied. Also includes the study of: life cycles and human development and family systems theory.
Textbooks: Bridger & Atkinson, Counselling in Context (Harper & Collins, 1994); Meier, Ratcliff & Rowe, Child-rearing and Personality Development (Baker, 1993); S Wilson, Hurt People Hurt People (Nelson, 1993).
PC403/603 PASTORAL SKILLS AND METHODS
3 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: Don Elliott
Description: This subject provides training in basic people skills for pastoral counselling; various life issues for which people often need counselling. Learning to be an effective pastor as well as being aware of personal and professional limitations.
Textbooks: D Benner, Strategic Pastoral Counselling (Baker, 1992); C Bridges, The Christian Ministry (Banner, 1997); N Wright, Crisis Counselling, updated and expanded (Regal Books, 1993).
PC411/611 PREACHING IN THE CHRISTIAN TRADITION
2 hours per week 1 semester, 4 sermons under supervision
Lecturer: John Wilson
Description: A study of preaching as found in the OT and in the NT early church. Particular study of Chrysostom, Luther, Cranmer, Edwards, Whitefield and Spurgeon. How to preach from the various types of biblical literature. How to preach for special occasions and under particular circumstances. Various types of sermons.
Textbooks: P Adam, Speaking God’s Words (IVP, 1996); G Goldsworthy, Preaching the Whole Bible as Christian Scripture (Eerdmans, 2000); P S Wilson, A Concise History of Preaching (Abingdon, 1992).
PC441/641 PRINCIPLES OF HOMILETICS
2 hours per week 1 semester, 4 sermons under supervision
Lecturer: John Wilson
Description: Biblical principles and patterns. The aims, forms and context of preaching, the preacher himself. The basic principals of exegesis and exposition. The various components of a sermon and how to put them together. Methods and techniques of preaching.
Textbooks: P Adam, Speaking God’s Words (IVP, 1996); B Chapell, Christ-centred Preaching (Baker, 1994); S Logan (ed), Preaching (EP, 1986); H Robinson, Biblical Preaching (Baker, 1980).
PC442/642 CONGREGATIONAL FIELD EDUCATION
1 hour per week 1 semester & 200 hours field work
Lecturer:
Description: To gain the most from the supervised field experience appointment. To be able to relate these lessons to peers. An introduction to the planning and conduct of church services and other church meetings; a basic study of church organisation, strategy and goal setting; ministers as leaders, managers and agents of change.
Textbooks: J Adams, Shepherding God’s Flock (3 volumes in one) (Baker, 1980); J MacArthur Jr, Rediscovering Pastoral Ministry (Word, 1995).
MacArthur - What is a pastor to be?
PC443/643 PASTORAL CARE FIELD EDUCATION
1 hour per week 1 semester & 200 hours field work
Lecturer:
Description: To gain the most from the supervised field experience appointment. To be able to relate these lessons to peers. An introduction to the planning and conduct of church services and other church meetings; a basic study of church organisations, strategy and goal setting; ministers as leaders; manangers and agents of change.
Textbooks: J Adams, Shepherding God’s Flock (3 volumes in one) (Baker, 1980); N Kirkwood, Pastoral Care in Hospitals (Dwyer, 1995); J MacArthur, Rediscovering Pastoral Ministry (Word, 1995)
HONOURS & POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH REQUIREMENT
RESEARCH METHODS
Tutor: Tony Bird
Aims: The course seeks to introduce students to the basic attitudes and skills needed to produce quality research papers in theology.
Course: The course covers the philosophy of research, preparation of a research proposal, use of resources, analysis and interpretation of results, thesis production. The course is available online and by flexible mode of delivery.
Textbooks: W C Booth, G G Colomb, J M Williams, The Craft of Research (University of Chicago Press, 1995), N J Vyhmeister, Quality Research Papers for Students of Religion and Theology (Zondervan, 2001)
INTERNAL NON-ACT COURSES
ENGLISH LANGUAGE & ENGLISH LITERATURE
1 hour per week semester 1 & 2
Lecturers: Wendy Bytheway (semester 1) Barney Zwartz (semester 2)
This course is compulsory for all ministry students in their 1st or 2nd years of training and any other student studying languages. Normally the course is offered every 2nd year.
Aim: To provide an introduction to basic grammar and to some of the classics of literature. To improve written skills in English with particular attention to note-taking, essay writing and examination techniques.
Course: Semester 1 English language Semester 2 English literature
Textbooks: Lyn Magree, The Pocket Basics for English and Maths (Poppet Publications,), Leland Ryken, Realms of Gold: The Classics in Christian Perspective (Wheaton, 1991)
PHILOSOPHY AND APOLOGETICS
1 hour per week semesters 1 & 2
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Aims: To provide an introduction to the history of western thought, by examining some of the major philosophers and philosophical movements. Also to provide an introduction to Christian Apologetics through studying its different schools and several of the main issues.
Course: an introduction to world views and the main schools of apologetics, followed by a review of leading thinkers within the framework of the major periods of western culture and thought.
Method: class instruction, discussion and set reading.Assessment: a one hour exam at the end of each semester
Textbooks: Colin Brown, Philosophy and the Christian Faith (TP, 66 1969), Steven Cowan (ed), Five Views on Apologetics (Zondervan, 2000), Andrew Hoffecker (ed), Building A Christian World View I (P & R, 1986), Richard Tarnas, The Passion of the Western Mind (Ballantine, 1991), Mel Thompson, Philosophy (Teach Yourself Books, 1995).
THE CANON AND TEXTUAL TRADITIONS OF THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT
1 hour per week semesters 1 and 2
Lecturers: Greg Goswell and Tony Bird
Aims: To enable students to understand the history of the canonical acceptance of the various books of the Old and New Testament; to give an appreciation of the variety of textual traditions lying behind both testaments; to teach the fundamentals of textual criticism of the Masoretic Text especially as printed in Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia and textual criticism of the Greek New Testament.
Method: Classroom instruction, discussion and set reading.
Description: This is offered as a post-foundation subject, either in second or third year.
Textbooks: R.T Beckwith, The Old Testament Canon of the New Testament Church (Eerdmans, 1985); Andrew E. Steinmann, The Oracles of God: The Old Testament Canon (Concordia Academic Press, 1999); E.R. Brotzman, Old Testament Textual Criticism (Baker, 1994); E. Tov, Textual Criticism of the Hebrew Bible (Second Revised Edition; Fortress, 2001); W.R. Scott, A Simplified Guide to BHS with H.P. Ruger, An English Key to the Latin Words & Abbreviations and Symbols of BHS (Bibal, 1987); D.A. Black, New Testament Textual Criticism (Baker, 1994); F.F. Bruce, The Canon of Scripture (IVP, 1988); D.A. Carson, The King James Version Debate – A Plea for Realism (Baker, 1979); B.M. Metzger, The Canon of the New Testament (Clarendon, 1987); B.M. Metzger, A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament (UBS, 1994); United Bible Societies, The Greek New Testament (4th ed.; UBS, 1994); J.H. Greenlee, Introduction to New Testament Textual Criticism (rev. ed.; Hendrickson, 1995).
HERMENEUTICS
1 hour per week semester 2
Lecturers: Greg Goswell, Tony Bird, Douglas Milne
Aims: To enable students to understand the history of biblical interpretation; to gain an appreciation of the variety of hermeneutical tools available for interpreting the biblical text; to teach the fundamentals of a sound hermeneutical method in opening up the Bible for preaching and evangelism.
Method: Classroom instruction, discussion and reading as assignment.
Course: The course is offered internally as a post-foundation subject.
Textbooks: R Alter, The Art of Biblical Narrative (Basic Books, 1981); M Sternberg, The Poetics of Biblical Narrative: Ideological Literature and the Drama of Reading (Indiana University Press, 1985); J P Fokkelman, Reading Biblical Poetry: An Introductory Guide (John Knox, 2001); G M Burge, Interpreting the Gospel of John (Baker, 1992); S McKnight, Interpreting the Synoptic Gospels (Baker, 1988); W J Larkin, Culture and Biblical Hermeneutics (Baker, 1988); J R Michaels, Interpreting the Book of Revelation (Baker, 1992); T R Schreiner, Interpreting the Pauline Epistles (Baker, 1990); D Carson, The Gagging of God (Zondervan, 1996); G Bray, Biblical Interpretation, Past and Present (IVP, 1996).
PRESBYTERIAN POLITY
2 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: John Wilson
Course: An overview of the biblical foundations for Presbyterian polity, the historical development of it, and the present polity as practised in the church. An essential component of this course is attendance at session, presbytery and the General Assembly.
Textbooks: Rules and Procedure of the PCV (2003 ed.), F Maxwell Bradshaw, Basic Documents on Presbyterian Polity (C.E. Committee, PCA 1984), Kevin Reed, Biblical Church Government (Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1983), GAA Code 1993.
BIBLICAL THEOLOGY
1 hour per week semesters 1 & 2
Lecturer: Douglas Milne
Course: To introduce first year students to the study of biblical teaching by reviewing the major stages of the whole biblical narrative.
Textbooks: Graeme Goldsworthy, According to Plan (IVP, 1991); Willem Van Gemeren, The Progress of Redemption (Academic, 1988).
AUSTRALIAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH HISTORY
2 hours per week 1 semester
Lecturer: John Wilson
Aims:
a) To offer candidates a detailed insight into the introduction and consolidation of Christianity in Australia, and in particular: Presbyterianism;
b) To provide candidates with an understanding of the developments of Christian life, thought, ministry and worship in Australia, and in particular: Presbyterianism;
c) To assist candidates to learn from the history of the Presbyterian churches in Australia lessons which can be applied to their later ministry;
Description: A survey from the Scottish Reformation, through key moments in Scottish Presbyterianism, to the foundation of the colonies and finishing with the Australian Presbyterian Church today.
Textbooks: Ian Breward, A History of the Churches in Australasia (OUP, 2001);
Allan and Mairi Harman, Australian Presbyterian History with its Scottish and Irish Background (PTC Melbourne, 2003); Stuart Piggin, Evangelical Christianity in Australia: Spirit, Word and World (OUP, 1996).
