Christian Studies & Philosophy Courses

Dr. Joy Vaughan     MWF 1:00-1:50

This seminar on demons and spirits will firstly survey key texts in the OT and NT for the purpose of gaining a biblical understanding of the demons and spirits. Key backgrounds will be explored such as Jewish and Greco-Roman demonology to aid in situating the biblical texts within their own cultural milieu. Secondarily, the course will explore a diachronic survey of historical and theological developments related to views of demonology throughout the early church and beyond, through the Enlightenment, and even up to modern times. Considering Jesus as exorcist, the final segment of the course will treat the topic of spiritual warfare. Overall, the goal is to provide students a biblical, theological, and practical guide for understanding and addressing the topic of demons and spirits.

Drs. Brian Hull and Sam Kim     TR 12:45-2:00

Do you feel a call to ministry or mission work? Are you wondering if you might? Or are you wondering how God’s call fits with your other passions? This course will help you develop some foundational concepts about “church” and “ministry” that will be central to your own calling and ministry. We will explore Christian vocation (calling) and students’ participation in God’s mission through the church. We do this by addressing five questions:
1. How are we (the church) doing? Current State of the Church
2. Who are we? The Nature of the Church
3. Where have we been? The History of the Church
4. Where are we going? The Future of the Church
5. Who is leading us? Vocation (Calling) and You

No prerequisites.

Staff     MWF 11:00-11:50 and MWF 2:00-2:50

In this course we will investigate the idea and process of spiritual formation and how Christians can grow in their personal walks with Jesus. We will use Dr. Robert Mulholland's definition of spiritual formation as a primer for the course. "Spiritual formation is the process of being conformed to the image of God for the sake of others." Students will have the opportunity to examine who they are in Christ (the beloved), how they best relate to God and contemplate the belief that spiritual formation is about who we are being vs. what we doing for Christ. We will discuss the intentional integration of spiritual disciplines in one's life as a means of creating space for God to work through these acts of love. We will utilize various learning mediums from class discussion, reading spiritual formation classics, participating in individual spiritual practice experiments and small group discussions to further the integration of faith, living and learning. Students will create a final Rule of Life project where they commit to partner with the Holy Spirit to incorporate different spiritual practices (means of grace) and sacred rhythms into their lives. This spiritual formation plan will serve as a conduit for the believer to receive the abundance of God's love that we might be bearers of His love to the world. In the end it is hoped students will affirm the belief that we are all on a unique spiritual journey and God meets us wherever we are along our path.

No prerequisites.

Staff     MWF 2:00-2:50

You are going to love this very useful and practical class that will help you study Scripture and lead others in studying Scripture. This unique class has three main parts: 1) Learn the basics of the Inductive Bible Study method so you can better observe, interpret, and apply Scripture yourself; 2) Learn how to lead small groups in a discussion based way so that they can engage Scripture together; and 3) Lead a Bible study that you have prepared throughout the class. This is an extremely useful class for any student who will be leading Bible studies of any age group now or in the future.

No prerequisites.

Kristina Osborn     T 3:30-6:30

This course will help you take an idea for ministry into a fully developed ministry plan including vision, strategies, planned programs, evaluation methods, and more. This is the course that graduates say they use the most after graduation! For those who love administration and details, you are going to LOVE this course. For those who do NOT love administration and detail, you desperately NEED this course!

Prerequisite: CM 100.

Dr. Brian Hull     TR 3:30-4:45

A reflection upon the entire field of Practical Ministries (particular focus on studies in Christian Ministries, Intercultural Studies, and Youth Ministry). This course is a great capstone for all ministry majors and includes some research on a self-selected topic, evaluation of the program and yourself, and help looking for ministry and/or seminary opportunities.

Prerequisites: Senior Seminar is open to Christian Ministries, Youth Ministry, and Missions majors and minors who are seniors. Normally students will have completed their required internship prior to enrolling in Senior Seminar.

Dr. Brian Hull     MWF 9:00-9:50

If you are involved in ministry you have to teach and learn! Join us for this interactive class where we talk about the different methods of teaching and learning that can help us in ministry. This course will look at a wide diversity of teaching methods and models including curriculum. There are several assignments with options to help you best learn towards your specific calling.

Prerequisites: None, but CM and YM majors are encouraged to take CM 100 first.

Dr. Brian Hull     MW 3:00-3:50

Whenever we teach we use some kind of curriculum (method and content of what we are teaching). This class looks at the basics of developing curriculum that is Scriptural, theologically sound, and connects with the audience. Opportunity is provided for students to critique and write curriculum, as well as to observe the commercial development of materials for the Christian market through a field trip to some publishers in Nashville. Fee.

Staff     MWF 1:00-1:50

It examines the multi-faceted nature of the World Church that crosses cultural, continental, and denominational barriers. This course seeks to help the student understand his/her place in the broader Christian family so as to appreciate and engage with Christians of different backgrounds.

No prerequisites.

Dr. Sam Kim     MWF 9:00-9:50

It studies the biblical, theological, and historical dimensions of mission. Includes study of strategies for world evangelism, transforming communities, and for church movements within specific cultural contexts. It establishes a trinitarian view of God’s mission and appreciates diversity and know how to communicate the Gospel to different contexts around the world.

No prerequisites.

Dr. Kevin Anderson     TR 12:45-2:00

Dr. Julianne Burnett     MWF 9:00-9:50

Dr. Sydney Penner     TR 12:45-2:00

Living with other people comes with its challenges, to put it mildly. Most people—although even here some dissent—think that the only way to have a tolerable society is to have a government that imposes laws on its subjects, encouraging adherence through punishments and other means. More controversial is the matter of what form of government a state should have, presumably because every form we have tried comes with its problems. As Winston Churchill famously put it, quoting an anonymous source: “Democracy is the worst form of Government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.” Even if we agree on what form of government to adopt, there is still the question of what the government should then do. Establishing a just society sounds good, but what does that mean? For example, does justice require letting everyone keep what they have earned or does it require the redistribution of wealth by the state? If redistribution, should it be on the basis of need? On the basis of how much each person deserves through their hard work? Equally, on the basis that each person simply is a person?

In this course we will explore answers to a variety of foundational questions in social and political philosophy. The main them will be questions concerning justice (using Michael J. Sandel's eminently readable book, Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do?), but we will also touch on other questions (e.g., what justifies political authority? what form of government is best? what should a state’s goal be? what is the role of religion in a pluralistic state?).

Prerequisite: PHL 200 or 231, but prerequisite may be waived at the instructor's discretion.

Dr. Brian Shelton     TR 9:25-10:40

A study of John Wesley's theology. This towering 18th century figure was a pastor, reformer, theologian, and missionary who casts an influence over generations of Christians, churches, ministries, social reforms, and ecclesiastical pioneers. Particular attention is given to his most important contributions: a complex system of grace, a theology of salvation, a call for personal holiness, a methodical commitment to Scripture-centeredness, an anthropology of women as pastors, and even hope for the possibility of Christian perfection in this life inspired by God's holy love.

Dr. Daniel Pinkston     TR 3:30-4:20

Dr. Daniel Pinkston     TR 6:00-6:50

Dr. Daniel Pinkston     MWF 2:00-2:50

Staff     TR 9:25-10:40

Youth ministry when done well is more than just dodgeball and pizza parties! It is an opportunity to walk with people at one of the most important times in their lives! This is the foundational youth ministry class that helps students learn how to theologically approach ministry with youth. More than just giving students one model for youth ministry, students will develop tools that help them understand youth culture, interpret what is happening, know what God is up to, and to adjust ministry so that it connects to youth in your place and culture.

Prerequisites: None for CM/YM major CM 100 is recommended.

Dr. Thane Ury     TR 9:25-10:40

This introductory course delves into the exciting and highly relevant field of Christian apologetics. Ever since the Early Church, objections have been leveled against the major tenets of the Christian faith. Thankfully, whenever new objections or false teachings appeared, apologists arose who countered these with a reasoned defense (called an apologia).

In our contemporary climate, similar criticisms are still aimed at Christian theism, but they have been joined with a whole slew of new objections that the earliest disciples could hardly have imagined. Therefore, the need for Christian apologetics seems as great as ever. The Church always needs fresh minds that both understand the classic defense/s for the Christian faith, and who are equipped to offer a multi-faceted, irenic, and lay-friendly response to the endless criticisms raised in the public square. Some seekers want to know why we believe God exists, others will ask how we can defend His goodness despite this pain-wracked world, and still others will raise valid concerns about the trustworthiness of the biblical documents, the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection, and how faith and science can peacefully co-exist.

While this is an upper-level course, with a high premium placed on robust academics, our focus on marshaling evidence and arguments is secondary. Of primary interest is knowing why we believe, and then nurturing an ability to winsomely assist others to consider the truth claims of Jesus; or more simply, “to always be ready to offer an answer” (I Peter 3:15). Sensitivity to the pros and cons in the history of apologetics will suggest that we need a more responsible and charitable apologetic, versus a posture that is merely looking to win arguments.

Prerequisites: OT 100 and NT 100. Prerequisites may be waived at the professor's discretion.

Drs. Brian Hull and Sam Kim     TR 12:45-2:00

Do you feel a call to ministry or mission work? Are you wondering if you might? Or are you wondering how God’s call fits with your other passions? This course will help you develop some foundational concepts about “church” and “ministry” that will be central to your own calling and ministry. We will explore Christian vocation (calling) and students’ participation in God’s mission through the church. We do this by addressing five questions:
1. How are we (the church) doing? Current State of the Church
2. Who are we? The Nature of the Church
3. Where have we been? The History of the Church
4. Where are we going? The Future of the Church
5. Who is leading us? Vocation (Calling) and You

No prerequisites.

Dr. John Morley     MWF 2:00-2:50

In this course we will investigate the idea and process of spiritual formation and how Christians can grow in their personal walks with Jesus. We will use Dr. Robert Mulholland's definition of spiritual formation as a primer for the course. "Spiritual formation is the process of being conformed to the image of God for the sake of others." Students will have the opportunity to examine who they are in Christ (the beloved), how they best relate to God and contemplate the belief that spiritual formation is about who we are being vs. what we doing for Christ. We will discuss the intentional integration of spiritual disciplines in one's life as a means of creating space for God to work through these acts of love. We will utilize various learning mediums from class discussion, reading spiritual formation classics, participating in individual spiritual practice experiments and small group discussions to further the integration of faith, living and learning. Students will create a final Rule of Life project where they commit to partner with the Holy Spirit to incorporate different spiritual practices (means of grace) and sacred rhythms into their lives. This spiritual formation plan will serve as a conduit for the believer to receive the abundance of God's love that we might be bearers of His love to the world. In the end it is hoped students will affirm the belief that we are all on a unique spiritual journey and God meets us wherever we are along our path.

No prerequisites.

Staff     MWF 2:00-2:50

You are going to love this very useful and practical class that will help you study Scripture and lead others in studying Scripture. This unique class has three main parts: 1) Learn the basics of the Inductive Bible Study method so you can better observe, interpret, and apply Scripture yourself; 2) Learn how to lead small groups in a discussion based way so that they can engage Scripture together; and 3) Lead a Bible study that you have prepared throughout the class. This is an extremely useful class for any student who will be leading Bible studies of any age group now or in the future.

No prerequisites.

Sarah Flannery     TR 9:25-10:40

Family ministry in the church includes people of all ages and all walks of life, yet most churches partition their ministry by age level, and few leaders are trained to minister to the whole family. In this course, students will learn to see the church as a system rather than a collection of age level ministries. Topics include disability ministry, marriage and divorce ministry, spiritual rites of passage coinciding with human developmental milestones, volunteer recruitment and support, and navigation of church staff systems. This course is appropriate for students who plan to serve in the church in any capacity, as volunteers, staff, or pastors.

Admission by departmental permission only. Not more than 4 hours of seminar credit may count towards a CSP department major or minor.

Dr. Brian Hull     MWF 9:00-9:50

Why do we do ministry the ways that we do? How are people transformed by God? What is the extent of God’s love for us and work in our lives? This course will take a deep look into the theology and philosophy of making disciples of Jesus and helping others know God. Students will develop their own philosophy of educational ministry which will help them explain the reasons for ministry and to better evaluate their ministry.

This course has a unique combination of theology and personal application that invites students to learn and collaborate with others.

No prerequisites.

Staff     TBD

Catalog description: An examination of the periods of adulthood from the perspective of needs, developmental tasks and spiritual formation. Includes program development and a study of principles which promote the integration of all adults into the community of faith.

No prerequisites.

Dr. Sam Kim     MWF 1:00-1:50

This course examines the world’s major religions and considers thoughtful Christian responses to them. You will learn basic research methodologies that help you to study and learn about world religions, including their origins, claims, messages, structures, practices and communities. You will also acquire missiological tools to engage people in other religious communities. At the end of the class, you will be better prepared to live, work, and minister in our contemporary, pluralistic society.

No prerequisites.

Michael Bennett     MWF 3:00-3:50

Christianity became a globalized religion by crossing boundaries of space, time, and the contexts in which we live. This course studies how the faith of a small of group people spread globally and took shape in unique, meaningful ways around the world by those who received the gospel and made it their own faith. Douglas Jacobsen’s The World’s Christians: Who They Are, Where They Are, and How They Got There will provide us an interdisciplinary guide in understanding the global phenomenon of the Christian faith as well as its various distinctive expressions. We will also consider how we are better able to connect with and understand these various expressions of World Christianity, especially in how we relate to each other and gain a more robust and deeper appreciation for what these expressions reveal to us about God’s work in this world, the gospel, and the Kingdom of God.

No prerequisites.

Dr. Sam Kim     TR 9:25-10:40

This course focuses upon the development of skills needed for effective, cross-cultural communication of the Gospel. It is designed to help you analyze of communication variables and understand how to communicate with people who are different from you. It leads you to examine of your own cultural identities and your interactions with others. In this global diversity, we will examine the interacts of values, assumptions, beliefs, traditions and communication rules.

No prerequisites.

Dr. Sam Kim     MWF 9:00-9:50

This course will help you to examine the impact of culture upon Christianity in all cultures and interpret cultural diversity. It is intended to promote theological reflection and investigate the relationship between basic Christian values and the realities of contemporary culture.

The first part of the course you will study fundamental concepts of culture in the biblical, theological and historical basis, while the second part of the course is a more practical exploration of specific areas of culture.

Prerequisites: TH 250.

Dr. Sam Kim     MWF 11:00-11:50

This course exists to provide an overview of the history, beliefs, and practices of Islam and the proper response of Christian apologetics in the effort to witness to Muslims. We will discuss the manner in which Christians are mandated to be sensitive in cross-cultural and contextual evangelism and discipleship. In the course work, you will study the theology and important concepts as you read the Qur’an and Islamic scriptures in comparison with the Bible and other reading materials.

Dr. Claire Peterson     MWF 1:00-1:50

The world of work can be intimidating, the thought of a job search panic-attack-inducing, and the question of "good work" an academic discussion for people who already have it all. In this class, we're going to cut through that anxiety without putting off the inevitable, and we'll do so by integrating the theological with the practical. The class is highly experiential: while you will learn about best practices for job resumes, you will also actually practice incorporating these practices as you write your own resume (and give feedback on others). When we discuss how to "define success", you’ll interview someone you respect about their own understanding of success and report back to your classmates. Instead of simply talking about good work and its purpose, you’ll be challenged (and equipped) to create something that benefits another person. You'll come away with a better sense of what you bring to the table, how to articulate that to others, and what you've already done that prepares you to work well.

No prerequisites.

Dr. Joy Vaughan     MWF 9:00-9:50

Have you ever wondered what happens in the End Times? What does the biblical text actually say about these matters? What views have been purported popularly, historically, and exegetically, and how do they compare and contrast? What are the various views of the millennium? What is the book of Revelation about?

This course will take a historical and exegetical approach to answering these questions. We will interpret relevant texts that speak to these matters all throughout the New Testament listening to how both Jesus and Paul contributed to the discussion. Additionally, we will give special attention to the book of Revelation realizing that the book was not written to inspire fear, but produce great hope for its audience.

Prerequisites: OT 100 and NT 100.

Dr. Suzanne Nicholson     TR 12:45-2:00

The fiery apostle Paul shows his passion for the Gospel in his letter to the Galatians, who are abandoning Paul's teachings. Paul has harsh words both for the Galatians and his opponents, but it stems from his deep desire for the Galatians to understand their acceptance by God and the power of the Holy Spirit to transform their lives. Paul's letter to the Romans, on the other hand, offers a fuller theological explanation of the nuances of Paul's Gospel message. Justification by faith, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the transformed life all take center stage in this brilliant letter. NT 400 will explore the theology of these letters as well as the heart and passion of Paul and his message-a message that is still vibrant and powerful in today's complicated world.

Prerequisites: NT 100.

Dr. Julianne Burnett     MWF 2:00-2:50

Catalog description: A study of ancient Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the post-exilic community. The Old Testament historical sources are examined against the background of ancient Near Eastern literature, geography, and archaeology. The course focuses on Israel's historical development within its political, social, and religious context.

Prerequisite: OT 100.

Dr. Brian Shelton     TR 2:00-3:15

Twentieth century theology is an unnavigable nightmare for the majority of Christians. This era of theology is a complex biblical and cultural response to forces that have been bearing against the church, many of which continue into the present. Twentieth century theology is like a river with tributaries of thought flowing in and eddies of controversy swirling in it, and the theologian learner is caught in a whirlpool over his or her head. This course explores these currents by first recognizing the mainstream thinkers. Barth, Brunner, and Bonhoeffer introduce Neo-Orthodoxy in response to higher biblical criticism. Fosdick and Bultmann introduce a Neo-Liberalism in response to the rise of science. Fundamentalism gives rise to Evangelicalism in response to an anti-cultural tone in the church. Pentecostalism is birthed to bring new energy to the life of the church. Contemporary theologies follow, such as a theology of hope, process theology, secular theology, theologies of success, feminist theology, black theology, and creation spirituality. Their causes and effects converge to bring an easy confusion that deserves to be mapped for understanding the challenges of the contemporary church.

Prerequisite: TH 250.

Dr. Dan Pinkston     MWF 2:00-2:50

This class is an extension of basic music theory and applies theoretical analysis to music in popular culture including rock, jazz, country, pop and hip-hop. In addition, contemporary worship music is explored in depth. Students will analyze the form, chordal structure and melodic features of a wide range of popular music.

Prerequisites: MTH 111 and MTH 121.

Dr. Dan Pinkston     MWF 3:00-3:50

An introduction to the craft of songwriting in popular styles. Attention will be given to issues of melody, harmony, form, instrumentation, and poetry. Each student will be guided in approaches to writing songs in various genres of song.

Dr. Brian Hull     MW 3:00-3:50

One of the best and most challenging parts of ministry is walking alongside young people and their families, even through crisis and difficulties. It is challenging because of the difficulty and uniqueness of each of those moments. It is rewarding because it is often in those moments that God’s presence is most felt and transformation most real.

This course is an introductory study of various problems that affect adolescents and processes for spiritually-centered assistance and intervention. Basic pastoral care principles and strategies for a ministry context will be explored including listening and responding, confidentiality, limitations, referrals, and ethics.

Prerequisite: YM 350 or permission from the instructor.