Biblical and Religious Studies (BRS)
BRS 305 Theology I: The God of the Gospel - 3 Units
This course reflects upon the triune God and the God-world relation. It introduces theological methodology and treats the doctrines of general and special revelation, particularly that of Holy Scripture. The course also engages theology proper (the divine perfections and personal attributes of the Holy Trinity) and the works of God in creating and providentially caring for the cosmos, including humans.
BRS 306 Theology II: The Gospel of God - 3 Units
This course focuses on the gospel, the economy of salvation, the incarnation of the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The course begins by treating the human condition as now fallen, and sin as the backdrop of the gospel. Attention then turns to the work of Christ, particularly the atonement and accomplishment of redemption as the content of the gospel. The course then considers the application and consummation of redemption by examining the work of the Holy Spirit, the nature, mission, and destiny of the church as the gathered people of God as the climax of the gospel. The course concludes with a consideration of how the gospel story ends, for believers and unbelievers, in the glory of God's being all in all in the new heaven and new earth. Prerequisite: BRS 305.
BRS 338 Theological and Sociological Foundations of Evangelism - 3 Units
A study of the theology of evangelism and contemporary sociological factors of conversion. Examination of the gospel message and biblical reasons for doing evangelism and consideration of issues in understanding why people convert, in order to formulate an evangelical understanding of evangelism. Contemporary evangelistic methods and evaluation of them in light of the material presented in class. Students are challenged to make evangelism a component of daily life whether in a vocational ministry or a secular occupation.
BRS 340X History of Christianity - 3 Units
A survey of the history of the Christian church from the New Testament to the present. Approximately equal time is spent on the early, medieval, Reformation, and modern periods. Cross-listed with HI 340X.
BRS 363X Survey of Religious Diversity - 3 Units
A survey of the world's major religions, including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other religious movements. The specific aim of the course is to learn how to understand and engage a full range of religious worldviews from the perspective of the Christian faith. Special attention is given to comparing and contrasting religious movements with the historic Christian faith. The course probes various dimensions of the problem of religious truth, explores the possibility of constructing a systematic understanding of religions, and seeks to formulate creative and thoughtful responses to the problem of religious diversity. Cross-listed with PH 363X.
BRS 400 Bible and Ministry Senior Seminar - 3 Units
A seminar that focuses on the needs and issues related to preparing for postgraduate ministry or education. Includes in-depth study of selected problems and recent developments related to biblical studies, theology, and ministry. Fulfills the IDS 499X Integrative Thought Capstone requirement for Bible and Ministry majors. Prerequisites: BI 105, BI 115, and CM 172.