Online Courses

A survey course from a Wesleyan perspective that traces the social forces (sacred and secular) contributing to the development of Western civilization in global context from the Hellenistic period (c.1000 BC) to the Reformation era. The study of key events, ideas, personalities, and movements that have contributed to the major periods of history and the passages between them increases students' understanding of and appreciation for God's redemptive purposes. Students are enabled to build bridges from historical understanding to personal spiritual formation, the role of the church in society, and contemporary ministry.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Describe the general storyline of the history of the West and Christianity.
2. Be exposed to key cultural and philosophical developments and their influence on Western Civilization.
3. Describe the relationship between the Christian Church and culture.
4. Think critically about Western History.
5. Connect ministry context to an understanding of history of the West and Christianity.
6. Develop an appreciation of the Wesleyan perspective of Western Civilization.

The following are competencies for Ministry as outlined in the Sourcebook for Ministerial Development that will be addressed in this course:

• Ability to tell the story of Christian history and the development of creeds and major doctrines. (CN10)
• Ability to describe the mission and practice of the Church throughout its history. (CN11)
• Ability to understand, appreciate, and work sensitively with cultures and sub-cultures. (CX1)

There are no prerequisites for this course.