Introduction to some of the new religious movements in both Eastern and Western societies. The course examines their origins, basic beliefs and practices. Special attention is given to the differing concepts of the divine, views of human nature, understandings of death and the afterlife, and of how we can live flourishing lives in the present
Students live in an increasingly multicultural world of different ethnicities, political views, and cultural practices. Along with those differences comes the realization that that not everyone believes the same things on the big questions of life. In fact, not only are there significant differences but there are different communities that embody those beliefs. The number of these communities is increasing. New religious movements are on the rise and are attracting new members in search of something they have not been able to find in the more mainstream religious traditions. Those looking to understand and interact with such groups will benefit from gaining knowledge about the beliefs and practices of such groups
This course equips students to understand and engage adherents of new religious movements. Humanly speaking, without the ability to effectively communicate the gospel to them, they will remain lost. To effectively share the good news of Christ, the message must be contextualized in such a way that it makes sense to adherents of new religious movements.
This course could assist students in developing a biblical framework to understanding and interacting with new religious movements.
In order to engage with those in new religious movements, students will need to have an adequate understanding of who they are ministering to. This course can provide students with that information.
New religious movements differ from traditional mainstream religions. In order to effectively engage them, one must be aware of the unique characteristics of such groups.
New religious movements do not arise only in a western context. This course takes that into consideration and also looks at the unique attributes of eastern religious movements.
This course seeks to equip the student to practically engage with adherents of new religious movements.
Students are encouraged to interact with adherents of new religious movements.
