Theological Studies Courses (THS)

Theological studies are intended to develop, from a biblical foundation and in systematic context, sound understanding of the central theological truths of the historic Christian faith along with the ability to apply these understandings to an analysis of contemporary theological views.

THS 540 - Introduction to Theology (2 hrs.)
This foundational course assists the student in gaining an overall orientation to the purpose and language of theology. The specific areas of systematic theology will be surveyed including the impact of the church throughout history on the development of doctrine. The importance of the teaching of theology in the local church will be emphasized. THS 540 is required of those who have not studied systematic theology in their undergraduate training and it is conducted as either an intensive course or reading course.
THS 571 - Introduction to Believers' Church Theology (3 hrs.)
This course introduces the student to Believers' Church theology. It begins with a study of the nature and necessity of doing theology in the contemporary world with primary attention given to the authority of God's self-disclosure in Scripture, as well as discussions regarding hermeneutical issues from within a Believers' Church perspective. The subject matter then concludes with a consideration of the nature, ministry, and mission of the church in the world.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 601 - Christian Ethics (2 hrs.)
This course consists of a study of the biblical principles, theological foundations, philosophical conceptions and resulting methodological procedures which inform Christian moral decision making in the social and individual human situation. It also investigates moral attitude and action as they apply in the specific areas of individual and social ethics, which are critical for our culture today.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 602 - Christian Ethics (3 hrs.)
This course consists of a study of the biblical principles, theological foundations, philosophical conceptions and resulting methodological procedures which inform Christian moral decision making in the social and individual human situation. It also investigates moral attitude and action as they apply in the specific areas of individual and social ethics, which are critical for our culture today.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 614 - Global Theologies (3 hrs.)
This course seeks to extend the study of theology to the manner in which non-Western communities of Christians endeavour to shape their world by their faith. Special emphasis is given to examining Christology and Soteriology from a cross-cultural perspective, and to the manner by which both Western and non-Western traditions may interact. Also cross-credited as CCM 612.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 620 - Charismatic Theology of Luke (3 hrs.)
This course is a biblical-theological exposition of the pneumatology of the Lucan literature. It evaluates the relevant Lucan data historically, grammatically and contextually. It discusses and applies appropriate hermeneutical principles for the interpretation of historical narrative. Where appropriate modern interpreters of Lucan pneumatology will be critically evaluated.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 622 - Pentecostal Spirituality (3 hrs.)
This course will deal with Pentecostal Spirituality and its demonstration in the life of Pentecostals. The assigned readings will explore and analyse the core issues in Pentecostal theology, presenting the biblical basis for our distinctive emphasis. The lectures will explore and emphasize the vital role of authentic and passionate Pentecostal leadership today.
THS 630 - Theology of Pastoral Care
Pastoral care involves shaping human values, cultivating authentic community and alleviating human suffering. Pastoral theologian C.W. Brister suggests that such work requires "theological wisdom, moral clarity and personal courage". The search for such wisdom, clarity and courage will guide the aims of this course. We will engage the core theological themes of hope and compassion as a foundation for a theology of pastoral care. Contemporary issues of pastoral care and participation in suffering will be explored carefully in an effort to understand the complexity and the roots of human anguish. A guiding premise for the course is that theological insight ought to stimulate authentic moral vision which results in compassionate participation in the "missio Dei" (mission of God). Participants will be invited to explore their own framework for moral vision, to articulate their theology of pastoral care, and to prepare themselves for a deeper participation in the suffering of others as agents of hope in a broken world.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 631 - Biblical Theology of Suffering (3 hrs.)
Gustavo Gutierrez asks, "Are suffering human beings able to enter into an authentic relationship with God and find a correct way of speaking about God?" This is the core question of this course. We will give attention to both the spirituality for a theology of suffering and to the methods for framing a theology of suffering. Participants will be invited to consider ways in which their own view of suffering is being shaped. This course will examine various theological approaches to suffering including those of noted theologians: Dorothy Soelle, Jurgen Moltmann, Gustavo Gutierrez, Rubem Alves and Henri Nouwen. Nicolas Walterstorff suggests that "the valley of suffering is the vale of soul-making." We will explore the common explanations of suffering and learn to think theologically about the contours of suffering and hope in a broken world.
THS 642 - Gender Roles in Ministry (3 hrs.)
Cross-credited with BIE 742.
THS 645 - Charismatic Christianity (3 hrs.)
A historical survey, theological analysis and Biblical critique of the major charismatic movements in the history of Christianity, such as: Montanism (2nd C.), Anabaptism, Muentzer-Hoffmanite Radicalism (16th C.), Fr. Prophets (17th C.), the Irvingites (19th C.), and 20th C. Pentecostalism, Neo-Pentecostal Deliverance, Charismatic Ecumenism, Word-Faith, New Charismatic Restorationism (the Latter Rain Movmt., Kansas City Prophets, Toronto Blessing, etc.) the Vineyard. Special emphasis will be placed on evaluating the role of charismatic prophecy and prophets.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 646 - Spiritual Gifts & the NT Concept of Giftedness (3 hrs.)
THS 648 - Theological Issues in Counselling (3 hrs.)
Seeks to critically evaluate tensions and congruencies between psychology and theology, with a particular emphasis on therapeutic change and the doctrine of sanctification.
Prerequisites: THS 671
THS 663 - Christianity in the Midst of Pluralism (3 hrs.)
The challenge of pluralism and postmodernism to traditional Christianity is studied. The roots of pluralistic and post-modern thinking are examined and the influence of these ideas upon both the culture and various theological traditions reviewed. In addition, this course seeks to provide an evangelical response to postmodernism, inclusivism, and syncretism, as well as the limitations of dialogue, with a view ultimately to evangelism.
THS 671 - The God Who Creates, Sustains and Redeems
A study which begins to unfold the Bible’s story of creation, fall, and redemption. This course begins with the existence and nature of God, especially focusing on God’s action in creation and providence. Discussion then moves to the nature of human beings as creatures and sinners, culminating in a consideration of the person of God the Redeemer.
Prerequisite: THS 571.
THS 672 - Redemption: Accomplished & Consummated (3 hrs.)
A Study which continues to unfold the Bible's story of creation, fall, and redemption. Special attention will be given to the work of the Lord Jesus Christ as well as the person and work of the Holy Spirit and the application of Christ's work to the believer by the Holy Spirit. In regards to the application of redemption the course will consider such topics as election through conversion and justification all the way to glorification. The course then concludes with a study of last things in relation to individuals and future things.
Prerequisites: THS 571
THS 673 - Patristic Theology (3 hrs.)
Luke, the New Testament historian, sought to write an orderly account of the early church so that he might instruct Theophilus in the historical reliability of the Christian faith. This course begins where Luke left off and provides an introduction to some of the key theological issues and personalities in the theology of the early church up to the Council of Chalcedon (451 CE), including formative issues in biblical interpretation, the development of an orthodox faith, and the seminal theology of the early church fathers.
Prerequisites: THS 571
THS 680 - Christianity and Culture
This course is designed to help students understand the ongoing relationship between Christianity and culture, and how cultural awareness along with critical skills for critiquing culture from a Christian perspective enhances ministry and leadership effectiveness both in the church and within society at large. The purpose of the course is to help students obtain an integrated understanding of God, humanity, world, mission, and kingdom, and then apply this perspective to specific occupational and ministry contexts. The course seeks to lay biblical, theological and historical foundations for Christian understandings of culture, while also facilitating practical exploration of specific spheres of Christian involvement in culture. The course will feature an interdisciplinary range of lectures, readings, and group discussions.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.
THS 701 - Current Theological Issues (3 hrs.)
A seminar exploring a selection of current theological issues. We will reflect briefly on principles that help us to engage theological problems effectively, and on the landscape of contemporary Christian theological debate. We will then examine a number of major issues under discussion today. Several strategic issues will be chosen and examined by the instructor; students will select and present papers on other relevant topics. Key topics for this year’s class include: open theism, pluralism/inclusivism (the status of the unevangelized), and issues relating to “spiritual gifts.”
Prerequisites: THS 571
THS 741 - Hermeneutics & Contemporary Theologies(2 hrs.)
An examination and evaluation of major theological developments which have shaped the Christian world in recent generations. We will discuss the contributions of significant individuals together with the schools of thought they represent. Special attention will be given to the perspectives on Scripture, biblical interpretation, and theological method which have influenced these theologies. It is our intention that students will leave this class more familiar with the world of contemporary Christian thought, better equipped to assess the contributions and weaknesses of current theologies, and more thoroughly prepared to deal with the hermeneutical issues that the Christian thinker must tackle as he or she seeks to communicate the gospel in our Modern and Postmodern setting.
Prerequisites: THS 571
THS 742 - Hermeneutics & Contemporary Theologies(3 hrs.)
An examination and evaluation of major theological developments which have shaped the Christian world in recent generations. We will discuss the contributions of significant individuals together with the schools of thought they represent. Special attention will be given to the perspectives on Scripture, biblical interpretation, and theological method which have influenced these theologies. It is our intention that students will leave this class more familiar with the world of contemporary Christian thought, better equipped to assess the contributions and weaknesses of current theologies, and more thoroughly prepared to deal with the hermeneutical issues that the Christian thinker must tackle as he or she seeks to communicate the gospel in our Modern and Postmodern setting.
Prerequisites: THS 571
THS 743 - World Religions and the Gospel
This course will examine the historical origins, beliefs, and practices of major world religions with the purpose of analyzing the impact of the worldview generated by each faith group. A general introduction to the study of world religions will be followed by a structural survey of Animism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Orthodox Christianity, Sikhism and New Age. The course will approach the subject matter from an emic anthropological viewpoint. Each religious group will be examined in detail as if the student were living within that religious context.
Prerequisites: THS 540 or its equivalent.