THEO 626 Doctrine of God

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

For the student seeking advanced studies in theology and apologetics, this course develops themes discussed in foundational systematic theology classes, specifically relating to the Christian doctrine of God. These include classic and modern discussions concerning the existence and attributes of God, as well as the works of God in relation to creation and providence. It is designed for the student who plans to secure a theology focus in his/her Master’s program or in preparation for admission to advanced programs, such as the Th.M. or Ph.D.

Textbook readings and lecture presentations/notes

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (2)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt for each discussion. Each thread must be 400-500 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge through 3-5 in-text citations. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 3 other peers’ threads. Each reply must be at least 250 words and must incorporate 1-2 in-text citations. (CLO: C)

Comparison Paper Assignment

The student will read the assigned sections of Barrett and Peckham and prepare a two-page essay in Turabian format, comparing and contrasting their portrayal of God, utilizing scriptural and theological insights. Though a specified number of theological citations is not required, any sources cited must be in Turabian format. (CLO: D)

Research Project Assignments (4)

The Research Project will engage the student in developing a research thesis into a well-formatted research paper, adhering to the current Turabian style, and submitting it in four stages.

Research Project: Annotated Bibliography Assignment

The student will identify five scholarly books or journals related to a research topic concerning the doctrine of God and prepare an annotation of 150 words per resource. Turabian formatting is required. (CLO: C)

Research Project: Thesis and Summary Assignment

The student will design a thesis statement related to theological investigation and a project summary that displays the analysis and integration of sources, as well as the development of ideas. A one-two sentence Thesis and a one-two paragraph summary of the paper must be included. At least 7 preliminary scholarly sources should be listed in Turabian bibliographic format. (CLO: B)

Research Project: Outline and Introduction Assignment

The student will present an outline of the required elements for the research project, along with an introductory paragraph that concludes with the thesis statement following Turabian formatting. (CLO: E)

Research Project: Final Submission Assignment

The student will present a 12-15 page research paper in Turabian format that presents the topic, analyzes the material, and defends the thesis. One scholarly source will be used for each page of writing. (CLO: D)

Essay Assignments (2)

The essays provide an opportunity to demonstrate awareness of key biblical and theological concepts considered in the reading and study during the course modules. Essays must be in Turabian format. (CLO: C)

Essay: Midterm Assignment

The essay is to be between 1000-1200 words and uses comparison/contrast to demonstrate biblical and theological analysis of course materials regarding God’s love and immutability.

Essay: Trinity Assignment

The essay will be between three and four pages in length and compare/contrast key theologians regarding the Trinity.

Theological Reflection Journal Assignment

The student will keep a weekly journal reflecting on the importance and significance of the study of the Christian doctrine of God. The journal will reflect on personal, practical, and ministry applications of what the student is learning. The student will write a journal entry each week for a total of 8 entries, totalling 12-16 pages. The entire theological reflection journal assignment will be submitted during the final Module. (CLO: F)