An introduction to the discipline of Christian theology from a uniquely Wesleyan-Holiness perspective with attention to its task, sources, scope and vocabulary, as well as the integration of theology with ministry. Emphasis will also be placed on critical Christian thinking and on comparative analysis of theological belief systems of a variety of religious groupings. Prerequisite: Biblical Interpretation.

Upon completion of this course, the student will demonstrate knowledge and abilities in the following areas:

1. Appreciate the critical relationship between theological integrity and vital Christian spirituality within the context of ministry.
2. Understand and appreciate the life of the mind and the proper role of reasoning in the Christian life and ministry.
3. Learn to think theologically and apply the discipline of doing theology to contemporary ministry, spiritual formation, and personal life and family.
4. Analyze a variety of theological belief systems and religious groups for the purpose of identifying what distinguishes and affirming what unites.
5. Comprehend the foundations and distinctiveness of the unique Wesleyan-holiness theological tradition.
6. Grasp the discipline of theology with attention to definition, theological terms, categories of theological reflection, objections to theology, and the task, sources, and scope of theology.
7. Lay the foundations for the study of systematic theology and its major headings.

The following are Competencies for Ministry as outlined in the Sourcebook on Ordination USA that will be addressed in this course:

1. CN8 Ability to demonstrate an understanding of theological reflection, including its sources, its historical development, and its Wesleyan contemporary expressions.
2. CN10 Ability to tell the story of Christian history and the development of creeds and major doctrines.
3. CN 11 Ability to describe the mission and practice of the Church throughout its history.
4. CH2 Ability to discern and make ethical decisions in the midst of a complex and/or paradoxical context within a Wesleyan framework.

It is recommended that the following modules be taken before taking this module: Telling the Old Testament Story of God, Telling the New Testament Story of God, Communicating with Spoken and Written Language, and Exploring Christian Ministry.