Theology I

This course introduces students to the practice of theological work by exploring several major themes in the discipline of systematic theology: the sources of Theology (Scripture, Tradition, Revelation); the doctrine of God (and God’s relation to creation); Christology; and Theological anthropology. In this course, we will take an incarnational approach to systematic theology. Theology, at root, is a meditation on the tenets of the creed, that is, a biblically grounded reflection of the unfolding of God’s self-revelation in the incarnation. Consequently, we will study theology based mainly on primary texts so that students will actually learn to do theology, following the historical development of doctrines to become acquainted with the greater Christian tradition. This course is also designed to impress on students the devotional, contemplative, and practical relevance of theology: the object of theology is Christ, in whom every strand of our understanding of God, world, and self comes together and has its ultimate reference point. The goal of theology is the attainment of our full humanity through transformation into Christlikeness. In offering a broad range of texts and authors to unfold the riches of the tradition, this course aims to accommodate beginners and more advanced students in theology.