MD540: Theology of
Holistic Ministry (4 units)
DESCRIPTION:
This course equips students to examine
and to articulate the Christian doctrines that undergird ministry to the
spiritual, social, economic, relational, physical, and political needs of the
people whom they serve. Rather than focusing upon methods of
crosscultural proclamation, this course examines the content of our
proclamation and how this content, i.e. theology, helps us to understand and
face the challenges of crosscultural service. It lays a vital foundation for
those who will be working with children at risk, international development,
racial reconciliation, or urban missions. We will reflect theologically upon
numerous issues and case studies including poverty, HIV/AIDS, racial/ethnic
reconciliation, economic and political powers, pluralism, violence, and social
relations.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Gain a theological basis for ministering to whole
persons and communities.
Learn
to reflect on holistic issues and case studies from a distinctly Christian
perspective.
Discern
and critique gospels that truncate human physicality, relationality, or
spirituality.
Articulate
your own philosophy of holistic ministry.
COURSE FORMAT: This course meets once a week for ten weeks on a weekday night. Class time will include lectures, case studies, and discussions.
REQUIRED READING:
Volf, Miroslav. Exclusion
and Embrace. Abington Press, 1996. 160 pgs.
Hanks, Thomas. God So Loved the Third World. Wipf
& Stock Publishers, 2001. 168 pgs.
Reader including essays and articles by N.T. Wright, Karl Barth, Bryant Myers,
John Paul II, Newbigin, Guitierrez, and others.
RECOMMENDED READING: None.
ASSIGNMENTS:
Reading, 1200 pgs total.
Two
reading reflections, 4 pgs in length (1000-1200 words).
Annotated
Bibliography of Syllabus Readings, 1-2 paragraphs each.
Three
short essays, 6-8 pgs in length (1800-2200 words).
PREREQUISITES: None.
RELATION TO CURRICULUM: Elective. Fulfills Holistic Theology requirement for MBA program with Hope International University.
FINAL EXAM: None.