RLT2140

Christian theology I: creation, revelation, eschatology

P Connell and P Gwynne

8 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Clayton

ObjectivesStudents who successfully complete this subject should have gained some knowledge and appreciation of the historical development of the articulation of the central Christian teachings about the creation of the universe, the possibility of God's self revelation to human beings and the meaning of death and the afterlife; be able to evaluate a variety of contemporary attempts to express these teachings in the light of the philosophical and scientific ideas shaping today's culture; an acquaintance with the principal sources of official Christian statements of these teachings; have acquired the critical and analytical skills needed to interpret such statements; have acquired the theological understanding required for effective communication (both verbal and written) of the core meaning of these teachings.

Synopsis The subject is intended to be a presentation of the Christian understanding of the possibility of human knowledge of God and of a self revelation of God within human history; the role of God in the origin of the universe and the emergence and evolution of human society; the human experience of death and the possibility of an afterlife.

Assessment Two seminar papers (1000 words each): 30% Research essay (2500 words): 45% Oral examination (15 minutes) or an optional written examination (1.5 hours): 25%

Recommended texts

Carroll D A pilgrim God for a pilgrim people Gill and Macmillan, 1988
Dulles A Models of revelation Doubleday, 1983
Hayes Z Visions of a future Michael Glazier, 1989
Hill W J Search for the absent God: tradition and modernity in religious understanding Crossroad, 1992
Macquarrie J In search of deity SCM, 1984

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