Course Offerings in the School of Theology and Missions

( ) Hours Credit; F–Fall; S–Spring; Su–Summer. Unless noted, courses are offered every year.

Ancient Languages Division (LAT, GRK, HBR)

Latin (LAT)

111. Elementary Latin I (3) F- Even Years

An introduction to the Latin language. Students will learn the basics of Latin grammar and vocabulary and will begin to be able to translate Latin texts.

112. Elementary Latin II (3) S- Odd Years

Prerequisite: LAT 111.

Latin 112 is the continuation of an introduction to the Latin language. Students will learn the basics of Latin grammar and vocabulary and will begin to be able to translate Latin texts.

211. Intermediate Latin (3) F- Odd Years

Prerequisites: LAT 111 and 112 or instructor's consent.

Latin 211 is an intermediate course in Latin. Students will continue to assimilate basic grammatical and syntactical concepts, and will continue to deepen their understanding of Latin grammar and syntax, and to improve translation skills. Students will have the opportunity to improve their translation skills when working with a Latin text.

214. Latin Readings (3) S- Even Years

Prerequisites: LAT 211

Students will engage in the translation of primary Latin texts. Students will apply their grammatical and syntactical knowledge of the Latin language and continue to deepen their knowledge through translation of various Latin texts. The course would consist of selected Latin readings and translation work. The Latin text studies will vary and be chosen at the discretion of the professor. Students will read primary sources, ranging from Cicero to the Bible to Augustine to the Middle Ages to Reformation and Post-Reformation texts. This course may be taken additional times (assuming different material is being read and translated).

Greek (GRK)

GRK 211. Elementary Greek I (3) F and

GRK 212. Elementary Greek II (3) S

A course sequence to study of the basic forms, syntax, vocabulary and pronunciation of the Greek New Testament.

Three hours lecture and one hour lab per week.

GRK 311. Intermediate Greek I (3) F and

GRK 312. Intermediate Greek II (3) S

Prerequisite: GRK 212.

A two-semester study of the grammar and syntax of the Greek New Testament. Reading in the New Testament.

GRK 411. Advanced Greek I (3) F and

GRK 412. Advanced Greek II (3) S

Prerequisite: GRK 312.

Extensive reading courses in the Greek New Testament with emphasis upon careful, accurate exegesis.

Hebrew (HBR)

HBR 311. Elementary Hebrew I (3) F—Odd Years and

HBR 312. Elementary Hebrew II (3) S—Even Years

The course sequence is designed to introduce students to the verb forms, vocabulary, and syntax of biblical Hebrew.

HBR 411. Advanced Hebrew I (3) F—Even Years and

HBR 412. Advanced Hebrew II (3) S—Odd Years

Extensive reading courses in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing translation, verb parsing, accents, critical notes and exegesis.

Biblical Studies Division (CHR)

111. Old Testament Survey (3)

A survey of the Old Testament with emphasis on historical, theological, and literary development. Does not apply to any of the Department’s majors/minors.

112. New Testament Survey (3)

Recommended prerequisite: CHR 111.

A survey of the New Testament with emphasis on historical, theological, and literary development. Does not apply to any of the Department’s majors/minors.

113. Introduction to Bible Study and Interpretation (3)

The study of the process of hermeneutics or interpretation. Special emphasis is given to the methodology of step-by-step Bible study.

213. Biblical Backgrounds (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: CHR 111, CHR 112.

A survey of the history, literature, archaeology, geography, and culture of biblical times.

310. History of the Bible in Translation (3) As Needed

Historical survey of translation work on the Bible, from the time of the Old Greek translations of the Hebrew Bible until the present. The course deals with key historical figures, important events, philosophies, the motivations for translation work, and the role of translation in Christian mission.

314. Studies in the Pentateuch (3) S—Even Years

An intensive study in the first five books of the Old Testament.

317. Minor Prophets (3) F—Even Years

An exegetical study of selected minor prophets.

321. The Life of Christ (3) S—Even Years

A study of the life of Christ as recorded in the Synoptic Gospels.

325. Pauline Epistles (3) F—Odd Years

An exegetical study of selected Pauline epistles.

328. Hebrews (3) F—Even Years

An exegetical study of Hebrews.

330. Biblical Theology (3) F—Even Years

An exegetically oriented presentation of the theological teachings of the Old and New Testaments. Emphasis on the student understanding the main teachings of the faith in their original contexts, historical development of those teachings throughout biblical history, and implications of biblical theology for modern Christian life and practice.

354. Topics in the Old Testament (3)

Prerequisites: CHR 111 and 112.

This course explores specific books or themes in the Old Testament. Students can take this course more than once as books or themes change.

355. Topics in the New Testament (3)

Prerequisites: CHR 111 and 112.

This course explores specific books or themes in the New Testament. Students can take this course more than once as books or themes change.

415. Poetry and Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament (3) S—Odd Years

An intensive study of Hebrew poetry and wisdom literature as religious literature and as literary forms. An exegetical study of selected poetry and wisdom literature (Job, Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes).

416. Major Prophets (3) F—Odd Years

A study of the origin and development of Hebrew prophecy; an exegetical study of some of the major prophetic books of the Old Testament.

423. The Johannine Literature (3) S—Odd Years

An intensive study of the Gospel of John and the Johannine Epistles.

Theological Studies Division

Including Christian Ethics, Christian Theology, Church History, and Philosophy

Christian Ethics (CHR)

243. Introduction to Christian Ethics (3) F, S

Reciprocal credit: PHL 243.

An introduction to Christian ethics, focusing on methodology with a survey and comparison of philosophical, secular, and theistic perspectives on the moral life, then moves on to develop a comprehensive evangelical approach.

324. Contemporary Issues in Christian Ethics (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: Recommended: CHR 243.

An examination of the most significant contemporary moral issues facing the church and American society, with emphasis on Christian response both in terms of moral conviction and moral engagement.

344. History of Christian Ethics (3) As Needed

Exploration of the heritage of Christian moral reflection, from early church through the modern era, with attention to a wide range of traditions, thinkers, and movements.

345. Ethics in Professional Life (3) As Needed

An examination of the moral dimensions of the Christian ministry and the moral issues facing ministers in their day-to-day work. Attention is given to the minister’s personal, professional, and collegial relationships and moral responsibilities.

347. Family Ethics (3) As Needed

A study of the family in the context of normative biblical, theological and ethical perspectives. Attention will also be given to contemporary challenges to the family including cohabitation, divorce, civil unions and polygamy.

400. Ethics in Sport (3) S—Odd Years

Reciprocal credit: PEWS 400.

See PEWS 400 for course description.

424. Bioethics (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: CHR 243 or other ethics course.

A survey of the Hippocratic/Judeo-Christian tradition in medical ethics against the background of biblical-theological discussions of human nature, medicine, healing, and biotechnology, as a context understanding the rise of contemporary bioethics.

440. Thinkers and Movements in Christian Ethics (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: CHR 243.

A thorough examination of a major movement or thinker in either historic or contemporary Christian ethics, taught in seminar style.

444. Intensive Issues in Ethics Seminar (3) As Needed

Pre- or corequisites: CHR 243, CHR 324.

An intensive analysis of one major issue or cluster of issues in contemporary Christian ethics, taught in seminar style.

Repeatable for additional credit as topics are varied.

Christian Theology (CHR)

330. Biblical Theology (3) F—Even Years

338. Christian Doctrine (3) F, S

Major theological doctrines of Christianity; the Trinity, revelation, God, creation, sin, Christology, the Atonement, the Holy Spirit, the church, Christian life, and eschatology; with special attention to biblical, historical, philosophical, and cultural influences upon theological development and methods used in doing constructive theology.

339. Apologetics (3) S—Even Years

Prerequisite: PHL 240. Reciprocal credit: PHL 339.

A rational defense for the truth claims of the Christian faith. The course covers questions that both skeptics and inquirers pose to Christianity, and consideration of responses from the Christian intellectual tradition.

348. Faith and Culture in Film (3) F—Even Years

An examination of how films as stories convey faith or alternative responses to God as latent aspects of the total film experience. Includes an exploration of how explicit a film may be about faith or another ideological position without losing its credibility as a film.

350. C. S. Lewis: His Life and Work (3) S—Odd Years

Reciprocal Credit: PHL 350.

Exploring the breadth of the writing of C. S. Lewis; including his fiction, apologetics, literary criticism, devotional writings, and essays in their historical setting. Attention will be given to how the theology of Lewis informed his scholarship and how his scholarship informed all of his writing.

353. Christian Political Thought (3) As Needed

Reciprocal credit: PSC 353

A study of political thought from the beginning of Christianity to the present.

360. The Gospel and Its Meaning (3) As Needed

An examination of the gospel in its biblical, historical and theological expression with attention to how it crosses cultures and addresses the ultimate questions of life.

382. The Doctrine of God (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: CHR 338.

An in-depth study of God as Trinity, as well as a study of the attributes of God. The student will be introduced to the key theological struggles of the Church as she has grappled with the reality of God.

383. Christ and Salvation (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: CHR 338.

The Person of Christ, the work of Christ, and the doctrine of salvation.

419. Virtue and Vice in the Christian Tradition (3)

Reciprocal Credit: PHL 419, HON 419.

An examination of the nature of virtue and vice in the history of philosophy and Christian moral theology with special attention given to the tradition of the seven capital vices.

438. Science and Faith (3) S—Even Years

Reciprocal Credit: PHL 438.

Exploration of the major scientific concepts guiding modern science in relationship to the major faith commitments of the Christian faith as expressed in the gospel and the creeds in an effort to produce constructive dialogue that will mutually inform the two ways of knowing. Concepts explored include cosmology, evolution, quantum physics, and chaos theory; Doctrines explored include: creation, revelation, incarnation, salvation, exaltation, and eschatology as they relate to specific scientific concerns.

482. Great Texts and Theologians I (3) F—Even Years

Prerequisite: CHR 338.

A primary texts course in which students work through the writings of key theologians from ancient and medieval Christian thought.

483. Great Texts and Theologians II (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: CHR 338

A primary texts course in which students work through the writings of key theologians from Reformation and post Reformation eras.

485. Critical Issues in Theology (3) As Needed

Prerequisite: CHR 338.

An introduction to a contemporary issue in the world of theology by means of intensive research in a seminar format.

Church History (CHR)

300. American Church History (3) F—Even Years

Reciprocal credit: HIS 300. See HIS 300 for course description.

305. History of Christianity (3) F, S

Prerequisite: HIS 101 and 102. Reciprocal credit: HIS 305. See HIS 305 for course description.

306. Early and Medieval Christianity (3) As Needed

A survey of the history of Christianity from the post-apostolic period through the 15th century.

313. Modern Christianity (3) As Needed

A survey of the history of Christianity from the 17th century to the present.

316. Renaissance and Reformation (3) F—Odd Years

Reciprocal credit: HIS 316.

See HIS 316 for course description.

405. History of the Baptists (3) As Needed

Interpretive survey of the history of Baptists in England and America from the 17th century to present with emphasis on the history of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Philosophy (PHL)

240. Introduction to Philosophy (3) F, S

An introductory course in philosophy designed to acquaint the student with the major fields of philosophical study.

243. Introduction to Christian Ethics (3) F, S

Reciprocal credit: CHR 243.

331. Epistemology and Metaphysics (3) F or S—Alternate Years

This course helps students understand the world better by studying significant interpretations of knowledge, belief, being, and the world that have been offered by thinkers, both past and present—the major concerns of epistemology and metaphysics.

339. Apologetics (3) S—Even Years

Prerequisite: PHL 240. Reciprocal credit: CHR 339.

345. Logic (3) S—Odd Years

Examination of methods of critical thinking with attention given to the Socratic method, inductive and deductive reasoning, and the identification of logical fallacies.

346. History of Philosophy I (3) F—Odd Years

A survey of the history of philosophy from the time of Thales to the Renaissance and Reformation, examining the philosophical background in which Christianity emerged.

347. History of Philosophy II (3) S—Even Years

A survey from the Reformation to the modern period. Particular attention will be given to the dialogue between philosophy and the Christian faith in Western thought.

349. Christ and Other Faiths (3) S—Odd Years

Prerequisite: six hours in Christian Studies. Reciprocal credit: CHR 349.

A survey of the world’s major religions.

350. C. S. Lewis: His Life and Work (3) S—Odd Years

Reciprocal Credit: CHR 350.

419. Virtue and Vice in the Christian Tradition (3)

Reciprocal Credit: CHR 419, HON 419

An examination of the nature of virtue and vice in the history of philosophy and Christian moral theology with special attention given to the tradition of the seven capital vices.

438. Science and Faith (3) S—Even Years

Reciprocal credit: CHR 438.

448. Philosophy of Film (3) S—Odd Years

Reciprocal Credit: CHR 448.

An examination of philosophical themes as developed in film with special attention given to existentialism, nihilism, pragmatism, phenomenalism, and postmodernism.

450. Philosophy of Religion (3) F—Even Years

Prerequisite: PHL 240. Reciprocal credit in CHR 450.

A study of the philosophical attempt to understand the nature of God and the significance of religion in the life of man. An investigation as to the validity of the claim to a type of knowledge called “religious” and the methods whereby such is gained.

Christian Ministry and Missions Division (CHR)

245. Cross-Cultural Life and Ministry (3) S—Odd Years

Reciprocal Credit: ICS 246.

This course explores various dimensions of the life of one who may be called by God to spend a significant portion of his/her life in a cross-cultural context.

271. Youth Ministry Strategies (3) As Needed

A study of youth ministry focusing on the various approaches, methods, and strategies with practical applications for programming, goals and desired outcomes.

299. Missions Practicum (3) As Needed

An analysis of the cultural environment, religious heritage, and the structure of Southern Baptist missions in (NAME OF COUNTRY). Emphasis will be given to needs and opportunities for missions service on this field. This is a field based travel course, normally completed as part of a GO-Trip experience.

307. Faith-Based Social Services (3) F—Odd Years

Reciprocal credit: SW 307.

See SW 307 for course description.

308. Islam (3) As Needed

A survey of Islam, including historical, theological, and evangelistic assessments.

320. Sport Ministry and Recreation Management (3) F

Reciprocal Credit: PEWS 320

A course which focuses on the Great Commission and how Sports/Recreation activities can be used as a bridge to fulfill such. This course will provide students with the foundational knowledge to plan, implement, and evaluate a Sports Ministry program within various settings. This course includes a 15 hour internship with Englewood Baptist Church and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

322. Current Issues in Missions (3) S—Even Years

This course is an examination of current issues and trends in missions.

334. Christian Spiritual Formation (3) F, S

This course explores biblical teachings on Christian spirituality, the theological framework for the spiritual life, personal and corporate spiritual disciplines oriented toward growth in holiness, and how the Lordship of Christ calls us to live out all of life before God. Attention will be given to important ways believers throughout church history contribute to our understanding of spiritual growth and discipleship, including the contributions of the Baptist tradition.

336. Biblical Counseling Distinctions, Theology, and Foundations (3) S Even Years

An introductory course to biblical counseling, with attention focused on its definition and description. The history of biblical counseling, theological implications of biblical counseling, and foundational concepts of biblical counseling are covered in this course.

337. Biblical Counseling Methods and Practice (3) S Odd Years

The purpose of this class is to provide the student with techniques for excellence in biblical counseling practice, including how to strategize, lead and provide individual counseling sessions. The student will learn how the Scriptures can help those who struggle with familial relationships, anxiety, depression, anger, addictions, among others.

345. Ethics in Professional Life (3) As Needed

348. Faith and Culture in Film (3) F—Even Years

349. Christ and Other Faiths (3) S—Odd Years

Prerequisite: Six hours in CHR. Reciprocal credit: PHL 349.

A survey of the world's major religions.

350. C. S. Lewis: His Life and Work (3) S—Odd Years

Reciprocal Credit: PHL 350.

351. Harry Potter and the Gospel (3) F—Odd Years

This course will explore how J. K. Rowling has expressed the gospel and basic Christian ideas (such as atonement, resurrection, and revelation) through her Harry Potter novels. Attention will be given to how the gospel addresses such issues as magic, relativism, education, the family, friendship, and other major topics in the books that comprise major issues in our culture.

360. The Gospel and Its Meaning (3) As Needed

An examination of the gospel in its biblical, historical and theological expression with attention to how it crosses cultures and addresses the ultimate questions of life.

363. Biblical Preaching (3) F—Odd Years

A study of the basic techniques of sermon preparation and delivery. Recommended for all ministerial students.

365. Pastoral Ministries (3) F—Even Years

A course designed to deal with the practical work of the pastor.

367. Introduction to Christian Evangelism (3) As Needed

The Biblical and doctrinal basis for evangelistic preaching, planning, and programming.

372. Youth Ministry Administration (3) As Needed

An examination of the various aspects of administering the work of the youth minister focusing on roles, relationships, resources and responsibilities, and practical application to the local church.

375. Youth Ministry Issues (3) As Needed

A study of the issues facing youth as well as the developmental nature of youth and the issues affecting them and their families.

377. Introduction to Missions (3) F

Reciprocal credit: ICS 377.

An introduction to Christian missions, with special attention to the history of missions, the theology of missions, and practical outreach in evangelical missions today, with particular reference to Southern Baptist missions.

438. Science and Faith (3) S—Even Years

Reciprocal credit: PHL 438.

448. Philosophy of Film (3) S—Odd Years

Reciprocal Credit: PHL 448.

An examination of philosophical themes as developed in film with special attention given to existentialism, nihilism, pragmatism, phenomenalism, and postmodernism.

450. Philosophy of Religion (3) F—Even Years

Prerequisite: PHL 240. Reciprocal credit: PHL 450.

481. Christian Ministries Mentorship (3) F, S, Su

Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

A practical ministry experience in a local church, non-profit ministry, or organization approved by the professor. This course will include readings and discussions relevant to ministry. Students will spend at least 120 hours in ministry service and will attend reflection meetings as scheduled by the professor. Students are responsible for securing their practicum positions and will be supervised and evaluated by an on-site mentor and faculty member.

Available in each departmental prefix:

179-279-379-479. External Domestic Study Programs (1-3) As Needed

All courses and their applications must be defined and approved prior to registering.

179PF-279PF-379PF-479PF. External Domestic Study Programs (Pass/Fail) As Needed

All courses and their applications must be defined and approved prior to registering.

180-280-380-480. Study Abroad Programs (1-4) As Needed

All courses and their applications must be defined and approved prior to travel.

180PF-280PF-380PF-480PF. Study Abroad Programs (Pass/Fail) As Needed

All courses and their applications must be defined and approved prior to travel.

195-6-7. Special Studies (1-4) As Needed

231. Sophomore Seminar (2) F

Prerequisite: CHR 111, 112

A prerequisite of Senior Seminar taken in the sophomore year or at program entry. Introduces the student to basic research, methodologies, writing styles, and expectations in ministry.

295-6-7. Special Studies (1-4) As Needed

Lower-level group studies which do not appear in the regular departmental offerings.

395-6. Special Studies (1-4) As Needed

Upper-level group studies which do not appear in the regular departmental offerings

397. Special Studies in Church History (1-4) As Needed

Upper-level group studies which do not appear in the regular departmental offerings.

495-6-7. Independent Study (1-4) As Needed

Individual research under the guidance of a faculty member(s).

498. Senior Seminar (2-3) S

Prerequisite: CHR 231

Functions as a required capstone or exit seminar for majors in the School of Theology and Missions (except Philosophy). Focuses on competencies in the following areas: defining one’s mission and values; understanding the church’s relationship to contemporary culture and the global context; and academic research and writing. In the final half of the course, the students will present research papers in the theological discipline of their choice. Must be taken during senior year. Majors in the Honors Program must take a 3 hour Senior Seminar.

499. Seminar (1-3) As Needed

To be used at the discretion of the department for majors only.

Senior standing in the department required.