Christian doctrine in relation to its biblical foundations

This is a paper that focuses on the Christian doctrine in relation to its biblical foundations. The paper also focuses on the historical expressions and systematic connections.

Christian doctrine in relation to its biblical foundations

Module Aims
The aims of the module are to enable students critically to analyse one or more major areas of Christian doctrine in relation to its biblical foundations, historical expressions and systematic connections; to nurture students’ ability to read, analyse and critically evaluate primary theological, historical and philosophical sources; to enable them to develop critical awareness of theological norms and methods, and to develop the theological resources to respond to contemporary issues and problems.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students should be able to:
1)   Firstly, offer a coherent and detailed analysis of one or more major areas of Christian doctrine, exploring questions about how they relate to aspects of faith, church and society;
2)   Secondly, discuss and investigate intelligently some key issues, concepts and controversies in Christian thought about these areas of doctrine. Some of which are informed by recent research methodologies and findings;
3)   Thirdly, identify, gather, analyse and evaluate textual source materials. Including material from primary sources and scholarly research, for a range of purposes, and communicate their findings with clarity and also fairness;
4)   Lastly, develop and show confidence in their own critically aware and sophisticated arguments.

Indicative Module Content
This module will explore one or more major areas of Christian doctrine. It will explore these doctrines’ biblical foundations as well as and their relationships to the wider pattern of Christian doctrine. Attention will be given to the relationships between these doctrines. Also, contemporary practice and experience in church life and society more broadly. The module will involve study of primary theological texts (in translation where not originally in English) and other sources (e.g. art, liturgy, hymnody or material evidence) related to the doctrines studied.