http://www.whitworth.edu/theology
The Whitworth Theology Department is solidly rooted in the Trinitarian faith of the church throughout the ages. We are committed to the authority of Holy Scripture as God’s word and to the worldwide mission and ministry of Jesus Christ. Our goal is to provide students with an intellectually challenging, academically rigorous and spiritually enriching theological education that will equip them to serve in a wide variety of contexts. The theology major focuses on the classical disciplines of biblical studies, church history and Christian theology; as students move through the curriculum, we encourage them to discern Jesus Christ’s call on their lives and to respond in faithful obedience.
Students who major in theology will develop:
- An Understanding of the Bible:
- Students will have a good working knowledge of the content, emphases, major theological themes and central message of Scripture.
- Students will have an awareness of various contextual considerations (historical, religious, political, geographic, socio-economic, linguistic and literary) necessary for reading and understanding Scripture.
- An Understanding of the History of the Church:
- Students will have a good working knowledge of the historical and cultural development of the church throughout the centuries.
- Students will have an introduction to the major thinkers, texts, leaders, spiritual traditions and movements of the church.
- An Understanding of Theology:
- Students will have a good working knowledge of the fundamental themes of Christian theology and development of Christian doctrine.
- The Skills of Critical Thinking, Reading, Research Writing and Speaking:
- A spirit of open inquiry
- An appreciation of excellent scholarship
- An introduction to the use of primary and secondary source texts
- The ability to think and communicate clearly and critically
- The ability to understand and argue a point of view
- The ability to develop and formulate independent conclusions
Courses
| TH 130 Introduction to the Bible | 3 |
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An overview of the entire Bible, with emphasis on,literary, historical and theological themes and,the diversity and unity within the Bible. |
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| TH 135 A Biblical Introduction to God | 3 |
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This class presents a Christian view of the nature,and character of God based on the Bible. Our goal:,to bring students' perspectives on God into,conversation with the biblical view, as we learn,to think, speak, and write theologically. |
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| TH 140 Great Themes of the Bible | 3 |
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In this course, we will explore some of the major,themes of Scripture and what they teach us about,the meaning of life. In a complex and confusing,world like ours, it's hard to know who to trust,and how to live well. The Bible presents a vision,of God, the world, and human existence that sheds,light on life's most urgent and important,questions. In this course, we will explore these,issues together. |
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| TH 165 The Bible for Doubters | 3 |
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An introduction to the overall content and themes,of the Bible which is organized around difficult,questions and welcomes students who are asking,such questions. No Christian commitment is,presumed. |
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| TH 172 Foundations for Christian Leadership | 2 |
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Foundations for Christian Leadership is a 2,credit course each semester (fall and spring:,students may choose to take it for only one,semester, highly recommended for both semesters),specifically designed to help students build a,strong foundation for Christian leadership and to,consider a variety of service opportunities. The,course will consider different aspects of,Christian leadership, theology, spirituality,,personal growth, and relational skills in order,to clarify students' gifts and calling. The,course encourages students to consider servant,leadership as a lifestyle and a vital part of,their college experience. Fall semester. |
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| TH 173 Foundations for Christian,Leadership II | 2 |
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Foundations for Christian Leadership II is a 2,credit course which builds on TH 172 helping,students develop a spiritual foundation for,Christian leadership, and helps students consider,a variety of service opportunities. The course,will consider different aspects of Christian,leadership, theology, spirituality, personal,growth, and relational skills in order to help,students in their existing ministry and/or,helping to clarify students' gifts and calling.,The course encourages students to consider,servant leadership as a lifestyle and a vital,part of their college experience. Spring semester. |
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| TH 174 Diverse Christian Leadership | 3 |
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This course is an introduction to diverse,Christian leadership. It explores leadership from,a biblical and theological perspective while,cultivating and developing culturally sensitive,leaders. The course will include significant,interaction with one another and diverse,community ministry leaders. Students will grow in,their own leadership gifts and be exposed to,opportunities for leadership beyond the course. |
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| TH 175 The Acts of the Apostles | 3 |
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The book of Acts begins with Jesus commissioning,His disciples to continue His ministry through the,power of the Holy Spirit, from Jerusalem, where,the church was born, to Rome, the capital of the,Gentile world. Acts tells the story of how the,church grew, in both numbers and diversity. This,course will explore the growth of the church in,its infancy and the lessons that can be learned,from this story today. Fall semester. |
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| TH 181 Gospel of Luke | 3 |
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This course introduces students to the Gospel of,Luke by providing an overview of its basic,content,and an understanding of its central message.,Considerations will be given to its origins,,literary nature, historical context, geographical,setting, major characters and central themes. |
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| TH 183 Biblical Themes and Women | 3 |
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This course introduces students to biblical themes,such as creation, covenant, exodus, promised land,the Messiah, Lady Wisdom, in a women and gender,friendly perspective. Attention will be given to,the connections between these themes and students',everyday life. |
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| TH 184 Physicality and Spiritual Formation | 2 |
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The course seeks to offer students opportunities,to explore the biblical, historical and,experiential connection of prayer, posturing and,movement. An overview of embodied prayers and,movement meditations will be presented. Periodic,Jan Term. Also listed as PE 184 and TH 184. |
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| TH 205 Angels, Demons, Heaven and Hell | 3 |
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This course examines the life, teachings, death,and resurrection of Jesus Christ, with particular,emphasis on how our assumptions about angels,,demons, heaven, and hell may help or hinder our,understanding, experience and communication of,the Gospel. The course will examine these New,Testament concepts in light of the historical and,cultural context from which they emerged. |
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| TH 210 The Ten Commandments as Moral Law | 3 |
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An investigation of how a set of 3000-year-old,rules can still have relevance and application for,our lives. Includes grounding the Decalogue in,divine-command theory and virtue theory,,understanding the rules' original context and,intent, and translating the rules to contemporary,daily life. Cross-listed with TH-210. Jan Term,,odd years. Meets the Faith, Reason and,Contemporary Issues requirement in the shared,curriculum. |
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| TH 211 Wrestling with God's Wrath | 3 |
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An examination of the biblical theme of God's,wrath, especially as it relates to God's love and,the redemption of his people. Special attention,will be given to this theme as it appears in both,pop culture and the public square. |
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| TH 212 Redemption of Creation | 3 |
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An introduction to the whole story of the Bible,with a focus on the created order and God's plans,in redemption and new creation. Considers the,significance of a biblical theology of creation,and redemption for contemporary issues. Also,listed as ENS 212. Fall semester. |
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| TH 213 The Book of Revelation | 3 |
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An introduction to the book of Revelation, with a,focus on its literary artistry, theological,message and relationship to the rest of Scripture.,Considers its genre, historical setting, different,interpretive approaches and contemporary,significance. |
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| TH 214 Theology & Ecology | 3 |
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Develops a biblical theology of creation care,rooted in Scripture's portrayal of creation and,redemption in Christ. Attention is given to,environmental issues and the ecology and natural,history of the Northwest. Includes study, work,,worship, outdoor exploration and disciplined,reflection. Also listed as ENS 214. January, odd,years, Tall Timber Ranch in the Cascades. |
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| TH 220 Demonology in Ancient and Modern,Christianity | 3 |
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Study of how Christians have thought about demons,throughout history, including the present moment.,The historical study will provide background and,structure for students to reflect on their own,understanding of evil in the world, of baptismal,vows to "renounce Satan and his pomps" or "evil,forces of wickedness" and to formulate their own,faithful response to evil. |
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| TH 225 Suffering and Virtue | 3 |
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Study of how Christians have understood suffering,,faithful responses to suffering, and virtue,throughout history. The historical study will,provide background and structure for students to,reflect on their own understanding of suffering,and to formulate their own faithful response to,suffering as they contemplate "the good life." |
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| TH 231 Introduction to the Old Testament | 3 |
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This course aims to invite students into the,world of the Old Testament. By introducing,students to its content and historical, literary,,and theological context, the course seeks to,offer resources for engaging with the ethical,,theological, historical, and hermeneutical,challenges the Old Testament poses. This course,has no prerequisites and takes for granted no,prior knowledge of the Bible. Fall Semester, Odd,Years. |
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| TH 234 Theology of Community and Spirituality | 3 |
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This course is uniquely designed for the Emmaus,Scholars Program. It allows Emmaus Scholars to,reflect theologically on the nature of Christian,spirituality and community. What exactly are we,doing when we pray? When we build community? When,we fast and feast, meditate and sing, lament and,rejoice? What does it mean to be a "spiritual",person in the first place? This course tackles,these fundamental questions. It does so through,traditional academic means (i.e., reading,,writing, and lecture) and also through an array of,experiential learning practices and hands-on,activities. By bringing together head and heart,within the context of intentional community, this,course ultimately aims not only to teach students,about spirituality but to give them tools that,will help them foster deep and authentic spiritual,lives. Enrollment is limited to students in the,Emmaus Scholars Program. |
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| TH 241 Introduction to the New Testament | 3 |
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The content and theology of the New Testament in,light of its literary, historical and religious,background, with a view to gaining a good working,knowledge of the New Testament. Special focus on,Jesus Christ, the gospel and the Christian life.,Offered Fall and spring semesters. |
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| TH 242 Life and Teachings of Jesus | 3 |
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The pivotal events and major teachings of Jesus as,recorded in the Gospels, and their relevance to,today. |
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| TH 243 Jesus and the Kingdom of God | 3 |
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A study of the kingdom of God as promised in the,Old Testament, fulfilled in the life and ministry,of Jesus, and consummated upon his return.,Spiritual, social, and ethical implications of,Jesus' message. |
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| TH 245 Philippians | 3 |
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The letter to the Philippians is one of the most,encouraging epistles of the New Testament by one,of the most prominent missionary-pastors of the,early Church, the apostle Paul. Philippians is,one of the shortest books of the New Testament,,but is also one of Paul's letters most relevant,to contemporary Christianity nearly two thousand,years later. The purpose of this course is,two-fold. (1) It will provide a thorough exposure,to and familiarity with this Pauline epistle.,Through careful reading and reflection on,Philippians, students will gain an understanding,of the epistle's historical circumstances, its,structure and development, its major themes, its,lasting impact on the church, and its challenge,to Christian faith today. (2) It will introduce,the student to basic methods of biblical,interpretation, which they will practice in their,study of Philippians. |
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| TH 247 The Gospel of Matthew | 3 |
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This course offers a thorough exploration of the,Gospel According to Matthew, the first book of,the New Testament canon and one of the most,influential literary works in the early Church.,Among other topics, students will explore the,Gospel's portrayal of Jesus, literary structure,,perspective on discipleship, historical,backgrounds, relation to the Old Testament, and,transformational power for today. |
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| TH 249 Jesus and the Earliest Christians: the,Theology and History of Luke and Acts | 3 |
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The life of Jesus and the earliest history of the,church are foundational for Christian belief and,practice throughout the ages. This course dives,deeply into those topics through a close study of,Luke's two complimentary volumes in the New,Testament. The first half of the semester focuses,on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus in,Luke's first volume--the Gospel according to,Luke--while the second half of the semester,focuses on the early Christian community's way of,life as narrated by Luke in his second volume--the,Acts of the Apostles. |
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| TH 250 Gospel of John | 3 |
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A detailed study of John's Gospel, chapter by,chapter, in a search to understand Jesus and life,with him from John's spiritual perspective. |
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| TH 251 Biblical Hebrew I | 4 |
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An introduction to Biblical Hebrew, including,vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, for the purpose,of reading narrative texts from the Hebrew Bible.,Fall semester, even years. |
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| TH 252 Biblical Hebrew II | 4 |
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Continuation of TH 251. Spring semester, odd,years. |
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| TH 255 Reading the Bible Through the Centuries | 3 |
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This course examines the major shifts in Biblical,interpretation throughout history. As an,historical study, the emphasis will be on primary,sources. We will begin with the way Scripture,interprets itself and then move successively from,the ancient or early church period to medieval,authors, Reformation thinkers, through the,Enlightenment, and into the modern era. Through,this course students will begin to reflect on the,different ways that they interpret the Bible for,themselves as well as to give them a library of,techniques to work with as they interpret the,Bible in their future life and work. |
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| TH 261 C.S. Lewis | 3 |
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The thought of C.S. Lewis, as found in his,philosophical, theological and imaginative works,,and the interconnections between those works.,Critical evaluation of Lewis's ideas and,application of those ideas to contemporary,issues. Also listed as PH 261. Periodic offering. |
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| TH 272 Jesus, the Gospels, and the Church in L,atin America | 3 |
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This course offers a study of the life and,teachings of Jesus in the canonical Gospels with a,particular emphasis on social, political, and,theological issues pertinent to a Latin American,context. |
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| TH 275 Bible and Gender | 3 |
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The primary purpose of this course is to develop,deeper thinking with regard to the various roles,of women and men in Old and New Testament texts,and what we can learn from them. Emphasis will be,on informed analysis, with full awareness of the,sociological gender-biases that have molded both,the texts and their traditional interpretations.,Offered through continuing studies. |
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| TH 279 Theology and Film | 3 |
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In this course, we will watch excellent films,,read fascinating essays, and have good,conversations about some of the most important,things in life. The topics we will explore,include friendship, work, love, forgiveness,,happiness, death, and God. Periodic Jan Term,offering. |
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| TH 285 God, Sex and Relationships | 3 |
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This course analyzes the interconnections between,God, sex, and human relationships. It examines how,our assumptions about God and the Bible foster or,hinder our understanding, experience and,interactions with God and with one another. It,explores how categories of race, status and gender,arise from the historical and cultural contexts of,the Bible and how they can be overcome by oneness,and communion in Christ. |
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| TH 288 Genesis in the Letters of Paul | 3 |
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This course examines the Pauline Epistles through,the lens of the Old Testament book of Genesis.,Each Pauline letter will be examined,systematically, addressing the biblical themes of,Creation, Sin, Death, Exile, Covenant, Slavery,,and Redemption found in Genesis. |
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| TH 301 Spiritual Classics: Books That Can,Shape Your Life | 3 |
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This seminar introduces students to classic,spiritual writings from Jewish, Catholic, Eastern,Orthodox and Protestant traditions that have,shaped the lives of Christians around the world.,Through narratives (stories, autobiographies,,plays and films) and personal reflections,(sermons, essays, hymn texts and letters) students,will examine how others have sought to love God,,others, and themselves in their cultural context.,Authors include Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Isak Dinesen,(Karen Blixen), Abraham Heschel, Martin Luther,King, Jr., Brother Lawrence, C.S. Lewis, George,MacDonald, Kathleen Norris, Henry Nouwen, Flannery,O'Connor, Dorothy Sayers, Mother Teresa, and,Simone Weil. |
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| TH 302W Environmental Ethics | 3 |
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An exploration of scientific, philosophical, and,religious views concerning the non-human world and,our responsibilities towards other creatures,,fellow human beings, and future generations.,Includes readings in classic environmental texts,,a service learning component, and a focus on,practical issues relevant to the northwestern,United States. |
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| TH 304W Race and the American Church | 3 |
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This readings- and discussion-based historical,seminar is an invitation to listen to the voices,and consider the perspectives of Christian leaders,and scholars representing Native American, African,American, Latin American and Asian American,communities, and to explore the complex role of,American Christianity in issues of race. |
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| TH 306 History and Theology of Worship | 3 |
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History and theology of the practice of corporate,worship and the role of music in worship from the,Old Testament to the present. Particular emphasis,will be placed on the evolving role of,congregational song in worship. |
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| TH 310 New Testament Greek I | 4 |
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The basic vocabulary and grammar required for,reading the Greek New Testament. An intensive,course. Fall semester, odd years. |
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| TH 311 New Testament Greek II | 4 |
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Translation of the Epistles of John and selected,passages from the Gospel of John in Greek. An,intensive course. Prerequisite: TH 310. Spring,semester, even years. |
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| TH 313 History of Christianity I | 3 |
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The history, thought, and practices of the,Christian church from its beginning to the dawn of,the Reformation. Fall semester. |
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| TH 314 History of Christianity II | 3 |
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The history, thought, and practice of Christianity,from the beginning of the Reformation to the,present, with special emphasis on the major,reformation, renewal and revival movements that,have shaped the modern church. Spring semester. |
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| TH 315 History of Christianity | 3 |
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The history, thought, and practices of the,Christian church. We will read over the shoulders,of Christians in different times and places as,they discuss questions such as, "Who is God?" "Who,is Jesus?" "Who are we?" and "How should we live?",As an historical study, the emphasis will be on,primary sources so that we can hear from the,Christians of the time where God was moving and,with what kinds of people the Spirit hangs out.,The hope is that through this course students will,begin to reflect on these questions for themselves,as well as build a library of resources to help,them think about life questions when they arise. |
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| TH 318 Greek Reading and Exegesis I | 3 |
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This course develops proficiency in the grammar,and vocabulary of Koine Greek through the reading,of a variety of Greek texts, particularly in the,New Testament, and it introduces students to the,fundamentals of New Testament exegesis.,Prerequisite: TH 311. Fall semester, even years. |
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| TH 319W Greek Reading and Exegesis | 3 |
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Fall semester, even years. |
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| TH 322 Faith, Fear, and Fragility | 3 |
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In his book The Soul of Shame, psychiatrist Curt,Thompson says, "We deeply long for connection, to,be seen and known for who we are without,rejection. But we are terrified of the,vulnerability that is required for that very,contact." This course aims to explore, understand,,and begin to transform the way we engage that,basic human reality-the longing for and yet fear,and pain of authentic relationship-in the context,of Christian discipleship. |
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| TH 322W Faith, Fear, and Fragility:,Emotional & Relational Wellness in the,Context of Discipleship | 3 |
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In his book The Soul of Shame, psychiatrist Curt,Thompson says, "We deeply long for connection, to,be seen and known for who we are without,rejection. But we are terrified of the,vulnerability that is required for that very,contact." This course aims to explore, understand,,and begin to transform the way we engage that,basic human reality-the longing for and yet fear,and pain of authentic relationship-in the context,of Christian discipleship. |
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| TH 323 Religion in American Public Life | 3 |
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The major themes, movements, problems, people and,institutions in American Christian history, with,emphasis on the public practice of the Christian,faith. Fall semester, even years. |
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| TH 327 Theology of Justice and Diversity | 3 |
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In recent years conversations about justice and,diversity have become increasingly polarizing,,especially among Christians. With the emergence of,social-media-inspired activism and increasing,levels of diversity and disparity, these,conversations have become more heated than ever.,This course provides students with the theological,and biblical tools necessary to meaningfully,engage these conversations. It pays special,attention to issues of race, gender, and land, and,it attempts to listen carefully to a diversity of,voices and perspectives. This is a,service-learning course, which means that students,will engage the theme of justice holistically and,experientially as they regularly interact with,members of the Spokane community. |
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| TH 331 Old Testament Theology | 3 |
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The content and theology of the Old Testament in,light of its literary, historical and religious,background, with a view to gaining a good working,knowledge of the Old Testament. This course is,designed for Theology majors. Non-majors are,encouraged to take TH 231 Introduction to the Old,Testament, though any student who has completed,another theology course is welcome. Fall,semester. |
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| TH 334 Youth Ministry | 3 |
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An introduction to the theology of youth ministry;,different approaches and models for reaching,teens; understanding adolescents in their various,cultures; the structures and institutions that,affect youth; development and management of youth,programs; basic principles and skills necessary,for reaching youth both within and outside the,church. Spring semester. |
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| TH 337 Romans | 3 |
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Paul's letter to the Romans is perhaps the most,influential individual piece of literature in all,of Christian history. Martin Luther found in it,the verses that shaped the Protestant world;,Evangelicals turn to it for their "steps to,salvation"; and contemporary scholars still debate,nearly every verse of the letter. In short, every,Christian should study it deeply. It had a lot to,say to Christians struggling in the 1st century,and it has just as much to say to Christians,struggling in the 21st century. Those taking this,course for the biblical literature credit should,have at a minimum a basic understanding of the,biblical narrative and Christian thought. Spring,semester. |
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| TH 337W Romans | 3 |
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The Letter to the Romans is praised as the Apostle,Paul's magnum opus. Martin Luther referred to it,as "purest gospel" and the "daily bread of the,soul." Romans has profoundly shaped the Christian,Church and its various branches since the day of,its writing, and it remains perhaps the most,debated book in all of Christian Scripture. This,course will examine the historical, literary, and,theological contexts of the letter, consider the,various historical and contemporary approaches and,readings assigned to the letter, and engage with,the text as a message that still speaks to and,directs God's people today. Those taking this,course for the biblical literature credit should,have at a minimum a basic understanding of the,biblical narrative and Christian thought. Spring,semester. |
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| TH 341 New Testament Theology | 3 |
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This course will examine the New Testament with,attentiveness to its historical, literary, and,theological contexts. It will emphasize the ways,in which the New Testament authors utilize the Old,Testament Scriptures and will introduce students,to some of the major theological and interpretive,issues in studying the New Testament. Students,will reflect on the potential relevance of the,Christian gospel for themselves and for various,aspects of contemporary life. This course is,designed for Theology majors and minors, but,students who already have a working knowledge of,the Bible are also welcome to take it. Spring,semester. |
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| TH 343 Hebrew Reading & Exegesis I (Narrative) | 2-3 |
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For students who have completed TH 251 and TH,252. Reading and exegesis of selected narratives,of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). Fall,semester, odd years. |
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| TH 344 Hebrew Reading & Exegesis II (Poetry) | 2-3 |
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See TH 343. Spring semester, even years. |
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| TH 346 Israel-Palestine Study Abroad Prep,Course | 2 |
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A prerequisite to the Israel-Palestine Study,Abroad Program. This prep course introduces,students to the historical, cultural, and,religious dimensions of Israel-Palestine and,prepares them to engage with these dimensions once,on site. |
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| TH 347 Israel-Palestine Study Abroad | 4 |
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This course travels to Israel-Palestine: the,homeland of Ancient Israel, Judaism, Christianity,,and Islam. We visit sites considered holy to each,of the above religions, engage with the people of,the land, and wrestle with the way in which,Western theology and politics have influenced,these ancient Eastern cultures and religions. Our,focus is on the history of the land and its people,from Ancient Mesopotamia (8000 BCE) until today,,with specific emphasis on the timelines of the,biblical narrative and the modern,Israeli-Palestinian conflict. |
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| TH 350 Gender Theologies | 3 |
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This course invites students into an appreciative,and critical dialogue with a broad spectrum of,contemporary feminist theologies as they reflect,on the classical themes of Christian theology,such as God, Christ, creation, human nature, sin,and grace, church, spirituality, ministry and,ethics. Spring semester. |
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| TH 359 Classical and Early Christian Sites,in Greece | 3 |
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A January study program in Greece, introducing,students to Bronze Age, Classical, Roman, and,Byzantine sites with a particular focus on early,Christian sites associated with the Apostle Paul.,Students also study Ancient and Byzantine art,,Eastern Orthodoxy, the Ottoman Empire, the rise of,modern Greece, and the landscape, natural history,,culture and politics of the country. Jan Term,,even years. |
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| TH 359H Classical and Early Christian Sites,in Greece | 3 |
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A January study program in Greece, introducing,students to Bronze Age, Classical, Roman, and,Byzantine sites with a particular focus on early,Christian sites associated with the Apostle Paul.,Students also study Ancient and Byzantine art,,Eastern Orthodoxy, the Ottoman Empire, the rise of,modern Greece, and the landscape, natural history,,culture and politics of the country. Jan Term,,even years. |
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| TH 360 Backpacking With the Saints | 3 |
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Study of the spirituality of desert ascetics and,the role wilderness has played in traditions of,Christian spirituality. Students will focus on,silence, simplicity, solitude, Scripture, prayer,,and the relation of landscape to spiritual,formation. The course combines traditional,academic study with 3 weeks in the desert, 1 week,of which will be a backpacking trip. Students will,practice the disciplines we study and will explore,the role wilderness has in their own spiritual,formation. |
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| TH 361 Christian Theology | 3 |
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In this course we will explore all the major areas,of Christian theology. What do Christians believe?,How do those beliefs hang together? Who is God?,Why does the world exist? What is the meaning of,life? Why is there so much suffering and evil in,the world? Who is Jesus Christ? What is salvation?,What is the point of the church? What is the,relationship between Christianity and politics?,What is spirituality? Where do we find hope? In,this course, we will explore these and other,important questions together. Fall semester. |
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| TH 362 Women & Gender in Christianity | 3 |
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This course introduces students to topics on women,and gender in Christianity. It explores how,categories of race, status and gender arise from,the historical, cultural and ecclesiastical,contexts throughout the ages. Consideration will,be given to doctrine and practices affecting,women, men and gender variant persons and to the,capacity of transforming cultures by engaging,effectively in social justice issues. Also listed,as WGS 362. Fall semester. |
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| TH 363 Monasticism: Old and New | 3 |
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An exploration of monasticism, its genesis,,history, theology, and practices, as well as how,the model of monasticism might be applicable to,various Christian communities today, including,the family. At Tall Timber Ranch in the Cascades., Jan Term, even years. |
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| TH 366 The Church in Central America | 3 |
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A foundational course for the Central America,Study Program. A study of the religious influence,on the development of each country and the current,state of the church in Central America. Spring,semester, every third year. |
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| TH 367 The Triune God | 3 |
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Christian life and confession are only as good as,the God who underlies it. After surveying the,so-called rediscovery of the Trinity in the 20th,century, we will explore the biblical foundations,of the doctrine and its historical development.,Our discussions will require that we give special,attention to several contemporary challenges.,These include the possibility of gendered language,for God, the relationship between the Trinity and,things like pastoral ministry, human personhood,and worship. We will also consider the,implications of this doctrine for the world,religions. (A writing intensive option is also,available. See TH-367W.) |
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| TH 367W The Triune God | 3 |
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A form of TH-367, structured for students seeking,writing-intensive credit. |
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| TH 368 Interpreting Scripture | 3 |
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This course enables students to develop skills,for interpreting Scripture, exploring the ways in,which Scripture has been read in various times,and places, introducing hermeneutical theories,concerning its meaning and significance, and,providing practical tools. Spring semester. |
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| TH 369 Science and Faith | 3 |
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An introduction to relationship between science,and Christian faith as potentially complimentary,ways of knowing, with a focus on questions that,contemporary scientific interpretations of,reality raise for biblical faith and questions,that biblical faith raises for the understanding,and application of science. |
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| TH 370 World Religions | 3 |
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This course exposes students to the beliefs,,cultures, and histories of a variety of,non-Western peoples and encourages students to,think about the presence and significance of,religious traditions worldwide. While there will,be opportunities to discuss the similarities and,differences between these traditions and the,Christian faith, our central goal is to understand,each tradition sympathetically, on its own terms.,Come prepared to read rich and difficult primary,texts, to watch documentaries and interview guest,experts, and to take-in a few beautiful films. (A,writing intensive option is also available. See,TH-370W.) |
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| TH 370W World Religions | 3 |
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A form of TH-370, structured for students seeking,writing-intensive credit. |
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| TH 372W Three Outsiders: Kierkegaard, Barth, and,Bonhoeffer | 3 |
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This seminar is a study of the life and thought,of,Soren Kierkegaard, Karl Barth, and Dietrich,Bonhoeffer. Specifically, it will examine their,penetrating attacks on religion and the church,,as,well as their brilliant and timely suggestions,for,what it means to follow Jesus Christ (and to be,the church) in a context that is no longer,predominantly Christian. Fall semester. |
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| TH 373W Who Is Jesus Christ? | 3 |
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Jesus asked his disciples, "Who do you say that I,am?" and the church has been pondering that,question ever since. For the last two millennia,Christians have struggled to understand and,respond to this central mystery, and in this,seminar we will join that ongoing conversation.,We will orient ourselves around a single,question, "Who is Jesus Christ?" and throughout,the semester we will read and think about some of,the very best answers that Christians have ever,given to this fundamental question. Fall semester. |
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| TH 377 Theology in the Public Square | 3 |
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This theology course is unique for at least one,reason: it is not about salvation. Rather it is,focused on common grace and the role Christians,might play within the American public square. We,will start by examining the theological warrant,for this kind of public engagement. We will,consider the ways faith rightly functions in this,context, and also the ways it is prone to,malfunction. We will discuss the (sorely needed),virtues that make constructive conversation,possible. And in solidarity with our neighbors, we,will frame life's deepest problems as matters of,the common good and our shared condition. We are,especially interested to shed light on the,following: personhood, dignity and our most basic,needs; the fears that burden us; community and its,barriers; and the nature of excellent work, our,tendencies toward exhaustion, and the freedom that,comes with play. In all of this, the goal is,clearer understanding and the courage to act upon,it. (A writing intensive option is also available.,See TH-377W.) |
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| TH 377W Theology in the Public Square | 3 |
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A form of TH-377, structured for students seeking,writing-intensive credit. |
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| TH 380 Young Life Leadership | 1 |
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TH 380 YL Practicum is for Young Life leaders who,are in the Student Staff Training Program. It is,a discipleship/training program that allows,motivated and ministry minded college leaders to,understand the heart of true ministry. Through,both formal training and direct ministry,experience, students will learn and reflect upon,how to effectively carry out excellent YL,ministry with kids. Students can take course for,a maximum of 2 credits per year. Instructor,permission required. |
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| TH 381 Campus Ministry | 2 |
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Designed to explore all aspects of campus-based,ministry, including developing a philosophy of,ministry, designing and implementing a strategy,for leadership development, and the principles,and skills necessary to cultivate a sustainable,approach to leadership in ministry. Fall semester. |
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| TH 384 The Bible and Outsiders | 3 |
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The United States as a melting pot is considered,beautiful to some and reproachful to others, with,confessing Christians casting their vote on both,ends of the spectrum. Those who constitute the,melting pot are considered by many in America as,'outsiders'-those who do not belong. Other,'outsiders' include the poor, refugees, women,,the incarcerated, those disabled or mentally ill,,those caught in forms of modern-day slavery, and,religious and ethnic minorities, to name just a,few. What is the relationship between such,'outsiders' and the gospel of Christ, and what,should be the relationship between such,'outsiders' and followers of Christ? This course,will trace throughout the biblical narrative the,ways in which God used such 'outsiders' to bring,redemption to the world. We will discover in,God's journey toward humanity and in Jesus's,calling of humanity what should be humanity's,vocational response toward one another, not least,toward those considered 'outsiders'. This is a,service-learning course, in which students will,interact face-to-face on a regular basis with,some of the most vulnerable people in Spokane.,Due to the service-learning component and the,fall-semester offering, this course is not,recommended for Freshman. |
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| TH 393 Christian Spirituality | 3 |
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The history, theology and practice of,spirituality, and its implications for life today,as we worship, work, build friendships and play.,Fall and Spring semesters. |
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| TH 396 Environmental Ethics | 3 |
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An exploration of scientific, philosophical, and,religious views concerning the non-human world and,our responsibilities towards other creatures,,fellow human beings, and future generations.,Includes readings in classic environmental texts,,a service learning component, and a focus on,practical issues relevant to the northwestern,United States. |
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| TH 433 Theology and Practice of Ministry I | 1 |
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An exploration of ministry that is biblically,informed and culturally relevant.This course is,the first of two required capstone courses for,the Theology Department's Ministry Formation,major and minor. Spring semester. |
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| TH 434 Theology and Practice of Ministry II | 1 |
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An exploration of ministry that is biblically,informed and culturally relevant. This course is,the second of two required capstone courses. Fall,semester. |
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| TH 436 Internship in Ministry - Music | 2 |
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A supervised experience of ministry in a local,church or Christian organization. The internship,will require mentoring, service, reflection and,study. By permission only. Two-semester sequence:,Two credits to be completed fall semester and two,credits to be completed spring semester. |
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| TH 499 Senior Seminar | 1 |
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Writing and discussion intended to give senior,students an opportunity to integrate the various,strands of their theological education, evaluate,their theological and spiritual development, and,spiritual development, and reflect on their sense,of calling for the future. To be taken Fall,semester of the student's senior year. |
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Whitworth’s theology department is committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our courses offer students opportunities to explore the meaning and significance of the Christian message. Together we reflect on some of the most important questions in life: Who is God? Why does the world exist? What is the point of life? What does the Bible teach and how do we read it well? What can we learn from Christians through the ages? How does the Christian faith address the most pressing social and political issues of our time? We believe that a good theological education has the power to transform your life, no matter what career path you ultimately choose. Whitworth theology majors have assumed leadership roles in ministry, education, non-profit work, business, law, medicine, and many other fields.
Requirements for Focused Track, Theology Major, B.A. (33) |
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| TH 315 | History of Christianity | 3 |
| TH 331 | Old Testament Theology | 3 |
| TH 341 | New Testament Theology | 3 |
| TH 361 | Christian Theology | 3 |
| 21 |
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Requirements for Intensive Track, Theology Major, B.A. (45) |
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| TH 315 | History of Christianity | 3 |
| TH 331 | Old Testament Theology | 3 |
| TH 341 | New Testament Theology | 3 |
| TH 361 | Christian Theology | 3 |
| 33 |
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Requirements for Biblical Languages Track, Theology Major, B.A. (46) |
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| TH 315 | History of Christianity | 3 |
| TH 331 | Old Testament Theology | 3 |
| TH 341 | New Testament Theology | 3 |
| TH 361 | Christian Theology | 3 |
| TH 310 | New Testament Greek I | 4 |
| TH 311 | New Testament Greek II | 4 |
| TH 251 | Biblical Hebrew I | 4 |
| TH 252 | Biblical Hebrew II | 4 |
| 18 |
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Theology Minor
Whitworth’s theology department is committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our courses offer students opportunities to explore the meaning and significance of the Christian message. Together we reflect on some of the most important questions in life: Who is God? Why does the world exist? What is the point of life? What does the Bible teach and how do we read it well? What can we learn from Christians through the ages? How does the Christian faith address the most pressing social and political issues of our time? We believe that a good theological education has the power to transform your life, no matter what career path you ultimately choose. Thus, a theology minor pairs well with every major.
Requirements for Theology Minor (15) |
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| 15 |
Worship Leader Minor
The worship leadership minor is an interdisciplinary minor designed to prepare students of any major to lead music in church. The program balances music studies (music theory/ear training and private lessons, Music of the Christian Church) and theology (Christian Theology and History and Theology of Worship) with a semester-long internship in a local church and Intro to Worship Leadership, in which students regularly prepare and receive feedback on music that they prepare to lead in worship.
Requirements for Worship Leadership Minor (20) |
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| MU 104 | Music of the Christian Church | 3 |
| MU 110 | Music Theory I | 3 |
| 2 |
| MU 111 | Ear Training I | 1 |
| MU 205 | Introduction to Worship Leadership | 3 |
| MU 306 | History and Theology of Worship | 3 |
| or TH 306 | History and Theology of Worship |
| TH 361 | Christian Theology | 3 |
| TH 436 | Internship in Ministry - Music | 2 |
Dean of Arts and Sciences
JOHN PELL
Chair
HALEY JACOB
Professors
KARIN HELLERJONATHAN MOOADAM NEDER
Associate professors
HALEY JACOBJOSH LEIMJEREMY WYNNE
Assistant professors
SAMANTHA MILLER DEREK TAYLOR