THS4100EN - Theology of Community & Society

Course description

Examines the origin and nature of communities from a Christian theological perspective. Students will learn about God’s purpose for society in his created order and about the place of humanity in it. Group discussions, book reviews, research papers, quizzes, and other assignments will help the student understand the theology of community portrayed in Scripture and traditions.

How this course benefits students

All humans are part of a culture and a society. The role a Christian plays in society should result not only in personal development but also be for God’s glory. This course will lead the student to consider and understand God’s purpose in creation and the establishment of society. It will explain salvation history, how God expects a person to respond to his saving love by being a steward of his created order for his glory. Students will be able to personally apply what they learn to their own ministry contexts and help others understand and experience fruitfulness as a member of whatever society they belong to.

Why this course is important

This course will help students understand God’s ultimate purpose in the world as the establishment of human community for his glory. The Biblical and theological basis for human community and the place of individuals within each community will be examined, discussed, and applied to personal and ministry contexts so that the student and those he/she ministers to will live up to God’s expectation for his ultimate glory.

Credit hours
3 hours
Subject area
Social Theology
Educational level
Bachelor
Learning type
Instructional
Prerequisites
None
Upcoming terms
Pending
* Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Registrar's office with schedule questions.

How this course relates to missional core values

Biblically based

This course will be based on a Biblical worldview and will build on Biblical themes. Specific focus will be on texts such as Isaiah 1:16-17, which emphasize righteousness, justice, and defending the oppressed.

Missionally driven

The course will prepare students to become missional leaders in their respective communities. They will understand God’s mission for humankind and be willing to availing themselves as His instruments for change and transformation.

Contextually informed

Students will be able to apply the various principles of community theology into their respective contexts so that they can practically serve their communities thereby meeting the unique needs of the people they have been called to serve.

Interculturally focused

This course will help students understand God as a supra-cultural God and how the principles of community theology could be applied in different cultures without robbing any of their cultural distinctive.

Practically minded

This course will give students the practical tools and insights that they would need to engage their communities towards social reform for God’s glory.

Experientially transformed

This course will not only focus on the ideas and concepts that are taught, but will also give students the opportunity to apply them and live them out in their respective communities. They will be able to volunteer with Christian non-profits, churches, etc. so as to gain hands-on experience about Christian social engagement for community transformation and for the glory of God.