Doctrine of God – THEO 626
CG • Section 8WK • 11/08/2019 to 04/16/2020 • Modified 02/01/2024
Course Description
A study of the existence, nature, and attributes of the triune God. Contains a study of such doctrines as the decree of God, Creation, the providence of God, and the doctrine of the Trinity.
For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.
Rationale
For students seeking advanced studies in theology and apologetics this course develops themes discussed in the foundational systematic theology classes relating specifically to the Christian doctrine of God. These include classic and modern discussions concerning the existence and attributes of God and with the works of God in relation to creation and providence. It is designed for those students who wish to secure a theology focus in their Master’s program or in preparation for admission to advanced programs such as the Th.M. or the Ph.D.
Course Assignment
Textbook readings and lecture presentations/notes
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 forum. Each thread must be 400-500 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 3 other peers’ threads. Each reply must be at least 250 words. (CLO: C)
Reflection Paper Assignment
The student will read America’s Four Gods by Froese & Bader and prepare a 2-page reflection on the question, “Why God?” Specifically, the question is related to the general understanding of the biblical God and how this compares to one's personal experience, church, and community. (CLO: D)
Research Project Assignments
The Research Project will engage the student in forming a research thesis into a developed research paper formatted in current Turabian style, and submitted 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. (CLO: C)
Research Project: Thesis and Summary Assignment
The student will design a thesis statement pertaining to theological investigation and project summary displaying analysis and integration of sources and development of ideas. (CLO: B)
Research Project: Outline and Introduction Assignment
The student will present an outline of required elements for the research project and an introductory paragraph which concludes with the thesis statement. (CLO: E)
Research Project: Final Submission Assignment
The student will present a 12-15 page research paper which presents the topic, analyzes the material, and defends the thesis. There will be one scholarly source used for each page of writing. (CLO: D)
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. The entire theological reflection journal assignment will be submitted during Module 8: Week 8. (CLO: F)
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. (CLO: C)
Essay: Mid Term 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: Final Assignment
The essay will be between three and four pages in length and compare/contrast key theologians regarding the Trinity.
