History of Spiritual Formation – DSMN 860
CG • Section 8WK • 11/08/2019 to 04/16/2020 • Modified 12/12/2022
Course Description
This course is an examination of the historical practices of spiritual formation throughout the life of the church. Focused on primary materials, this course will explore salient themes related to spiritual formation through the lens of discipline, theology, and practice.
For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.
Rationale
A doctoral education in ministry and spiritual formation must necessarily introduce students to the historical practices and seminal works within the field. This course will orient students to the spiritual formation practices, writings, and theology of stalwarts such as Augustine, Owen, and Edwards, among others.
Course Assignment
Textbook readings and lecture presentations
Course Requirements Checklist
After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.
Discussions (2)
Through the assigned discussions, the student will reflect on era-specific theologians, philosophies, and practices. (CLOs: A, B, C)
Memo Assignments (7)
Throughout the course, the student must complete seven reflective Memo assignments which are based on the assigned readings and prompts. (CLOs: B, C, D).
The Five Solas Assignment
The student will examine the theological and historical implications of the five solas (Sola Christus, Sola Fide, Sola Scriptura, Sola Gratia, and Sola Deo Gloria). The student will also explain how the five solas apply to the process of spiritual formation and are evidenced in spiritual formation practices today. (CLOs: A, B, C, D)
History Project Assignments (4)
The student will complete four history projects throughout the term, each focusing on the same selected topic of spiritual formation. Special attention will be given to the philosophies, written works, and practices of era-specific theologians. At the end of the course, the student should have a historical understanding of how specific perspectives and practices related to their selected topic have evolved throughout the life of the Church. (CLOs: A, B, C)
