The following identifies courses offered in previous years:
Courses in 2010-2011
Spring/Summer 2011
BTS-5085/3 Parables of Jesus through Mid-Eastern Eyes [B/C]
By examining ancient Middle Eastern culture and especially the Gospel of Luke, students will gain a richer and more thorough appreciation of the life and teachings of Jesus.
Instructor: Arley Loewen (SBC); Time: May 2-6, 2011, 9am-5pm -Syllabus-
(Special Note: This course will be offered at Steinbach Bible College).
5313/3 Ministry in Multicultural Perspective [PT/C] CANCELLED
Instructor: Arley Loewen (SBC); Time: May 16-20, 2011, 9am-5pm. -Syllabus-
BTS-5311/3 Discerning Missional Vocation [PT/C] CANCELLED
Instructor: Lois Barrett (AMBS); Time: May 28, May 30-June 3, 2010; 9am-5pm -Syllabus-
BTS-5312/3 Pastoral Care and Counseling [PT]
This course gives attention to the various processes that the church uses to help people grow in faith. It considers the importance of listening and communication skills, and addresses ways in which pastors and counselors might respond to crisis and loss. The aim of the course is to help students nurture the people of God in negative and positive situations, and to equip leaders with knowledge and skills that can help meet the spiritual needs of the people of God that have been placed into their care.
Instructor: Delores Friesen (MBBS); Time: June 6-10; 9am-5pm -Syllabus-
BTS-5312/3 Evangelism and Disciple-making in an Urban Culture [PT/C] Course cancelled due to instructor’s health issues
Graduate Courses Offered through the Canadian School of Peacebuilding (CSOP) that may be used as electives.
Students must register through the CSOP
(www.cmu.ca/csop)
Covenants of Peace and Justice
BTS-3995/3 & BTS-5995/3; June 6-10
Stan McKay -Syllabus-
This course will introduce a Cree Christian perspective on living in covenant relationships. An examination of biblical covenants, historic First Nations treaties and contemporary struggles for justice will be the focus for exploring the role of peacemakers in a global context. There will be discussion about the centrality of the natural world in developing approaches to peacemaking. There will be time each day in “sharing circles,” which will enable students to share from their perspectives and learn from each other. The final day may include a feast and conversations about our philosophies of life that help or hinder our work for justice and peace. Bring a folding chair or blanket so that we can spend time outdoors for a part of each day.
Peace and Justice in Islam: A Shi’ite Perspective CANCELLED
RLGN/PCTS 2950/3 & RLGN-4950 Topics in Religion; June 6-10
Mohammad Ali Shomali
Fellowship of Reconciliation: Reflections on 100 Years of Faith-Based Peacebuilding CANCELLED
BTS-3995/3 & BTS-5995/3; June 20-24
Paul Dekar
Winter
LANG-2420/3 Elementary Biblical Greek II
(WTC: TBIST-6116)
A continuation of the fundamentals of Koine Greek grammar and vocabulary. Selected prose texts in the New Testament will be read and translated. Prerequisite: LANG-2410/3.
Instructor: Gordon Zerbe; Slot 10 T,TH 2:30-3:45
BTS-4100/3 Biblical Theology: Defusing the Theological Minefield of the Old Testament [B]
(WTC: TBIST-7140 Biblical Theology)
The primary objective of this course is to articulate the notion of a theological centre in the Old Testament and to verify how it is expressed in its various parts. This “centre” will be used as a principle of integration for the diversity of phenomena attested in the Hebrew Bible and to facilitate the discussion of its theological and pastoral relevance. In addition, we will examine such critical issues as the notion of war, the sacrificial system, the nature of sin, blessings and curses, justice, the law of retribution, covenant, etc.
Instructor: Pierre Gilbert; Slot 29; W 6:00-8:45
BTS-4150/3 Jesus—Historical and Theological Investigations [B]:
(WTC: TBIST-7155 Topics in NT Studies)
A study of Jesus and the Gospel sources in light of modern historical study, and a review of theological interpretations of Jesus and his ministry throughout history and in the present.
Instructor: Sheila Klassen-Wiebe; Slot 5; MW 2:30-3:45
BTS-4400/3 Preaching [PT]
(WTC:TAPTH-7480 Preaching and Contemporary Life)
This course will explore the nature and purpose of preaching, basic techniques of effective oral communication, creative sermon forms, how to move from biblical text to sermon, the power of stories and illustrations, and effective sermon delivery. Students will preach and listen to practice sermons in class.
Dan Epp-Tiessen; Slot 6; MW 4-5:15
BTS-4595/3 Topics – Theologies of the Reformations [H]
(WTC: TTHCH-7215 Age of Reform)
The multiple reformations of the sixteenth century (Lutheran, Swiss, English, Radical, Calvinist, Catholic and so on) produced a variety of theologies, the study of which will be the central concern of this course. While attention will be paid to several dimensions of the reformations—imagination, art, hymnody, politics, women—the course will consist mainly in reading and thinking about theology from the pens of a number of preachers, theologians, and other characters.
Instructor: Paul Doerksen; Slot 30; TH 6:00-8:45
BTS-4720/3 Contemporary Theological Themes – The Gift [T]
(WTC: TTHCH-7262 Themes in Theology)
Much contemporary theological reflection proceeds by examining the category of the gift. The gift is offered as a way of reconceiving God “without being.” It is seen as an alternative to the preoccupation with debt and sacrifice characteristic of certain readings of atonement. It is taken to suggest a way of understanding the relationship between God and humans in non-competitive terms. And it is proposed as
an alternative to the metaphors of ownership that governs capitalist economies. This course explores several recent discussions of the gift, concentrating on some of the key differences and debates that arise
between them. Special focus will be given to the work of Jean-Luc Marion, Jacques Derrida, and John Milbank.
Instructor: Chris Huebner; Slot 21; M 8:30-11:20
BTS-5002/3 Old Testament: A Theological Introduction [B]
WTC: TBIST-5100 Introduction to Scripture I)
This course will provide a general introduction to the Old Testament, which is designed to help the students make sense of the corpus on its own terms, i.e., in respect to its historical and literary moorings, and to make it possible for the student to discern the unity, the theological significance, and the possible relevance of the Hebrew Bible. The course will cover three distinct areas: methods of interpretation, basic themes (the land, the promise, the covenant, war, justice, etc.) and its theology.
Instructor: Pierre Gilbert; February 21-25; 9am-5pm
BTS-5330/3 Spiritual Formation for Ministry [P]
(WTC: TAPTH-7420 Introduction to Ministry)
This experience-based seminar provides students an opportunity to develop pastoral/ministerial identity and self-understanding through the use of personality tests, readings, reflection papers and class discussions. It provides a forum for faith sharing and for developing self-awareness of gifts and competencies. Particular attention will be given to spiritual formation for ministry including the development of a growth plan in spiritual disciplines. (Normally taken within the first 30 credit hours).
Instructor: Irma Fast Dueck; Slot 25; TH 2:30-5:15
BTS-5700/3 Dietrich Bonhoeffer [T/C]
(WTC: TTHCH-7275 Studies in Peace and Justice)
In this course we will read and analyse the writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. The course will guide students in the writings of this important theologian who lived and wrote during the tumultuous years of the first half of the previous century. We will examine the social, political, and theological contexts in which Bonhoeffer wrote and lived. This means that, while Bonhoeffer will be the focus, the writings of other scholars like Ernst Troeltsch, Friedrich Schleiermacher, and Karl Barth, for example, will also be studied. Yet the dominant focus of this course will be to guide students through the writings of Bonhoeffer. Of course, we will also ask what the 21st century Christian church can learn from the life and thought of this important theologian.
Instructor: Harry Huebner; Slot 23; T 2:30-5:15
Fall
LANG-2410/3 Elementary Biblical Greek I(WTC TBIST 6116)
This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of Koine Greek grammar and vocabulary. Selected prose texts in the New Testament will be read and translated. LANG-2410/3
Instructor: Gordon Zerbe;
BTS-4160/3 Theology of the Book of Exodus [B]
(WTC:TBIST-7121 Torah)
One could argue that the book of Exodus is the central book of the Old Testament because it depicts God’s primary act of salvation in Israel’s history. This course will use careful exegesis as a springboard for exploring Exodus’ understanding of human enslavement, the nature of salvation, the character of God, the shape of the redeemed life, covenant and obedience, and proper worship. The course will also examine how Exodus themes and theology are utilized in other biblical traditions, especially in telling the story of Jesus.
Instructor: Dan Epp-Tiessen;
BTS-4420/3 Christian Worship [PT]:
This course will include a biblical, historical, and theological examination of worship, as well as focus on issues related to the contemporary practice of worship, including worship in the Anabaptist-Mennonite experience. Practical implications of worship will also be explored such as worship planning, worship leading, and the visual arts in worship.
Instructor: Irma Fast Dueck;
BTS-4740/3 Systematic Theology [T]
(WTC:TTHCH-5230 Introduction to Theology)
This course gives attention to the major themes of Christian belief such as revelation and the authority
of scripture, God and creation, the nature of humanity, the person and work of Jesus Christ, sin and salvation, the nature of the church and its practices, the Christian life, and eschatology.
Instructor: Karl Koop;
BTS-5050/3 New Testament Exegesis and Interpretation: Luke-Acts [B]
(WTC:TBIST-7131 Exegesis and Interpretation of the Christian New Testament)
In this course students will study the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles as two parts of a unique biblical narrative, which begins with the ministry of Jesus and ends with the spread of the church “into all the world.” The course will examine various themes distinctive to Luke-Acts as well as specific texts. In the process students will be exposed to various scholarly interpretations and methods in the academic study of Luke-Acts. This course will also attend to the theological message of the two part story and the power of this story to shape individuals and the church today. Class sessions will consist of lectures and discussions around specific passages and topics.
Instructor: Sheila Klassen-Wiebe;
BTS-5710/3 Monasticism—Old and New [H/T/C]
(WTC: TTHCH-7221 Church in the Modern Era)
This course is about the ‘monastic impulse’ that has arisen time and again during the long history of the Christian church. As Christianity kept spreading rapidly throughout the known world, its faithfulness to its core message eventually came into question. Monastic movements arose–at different times and under varying circumstances–to insure that at least some minority groups of Christians would continue to model a more faithful expression of Jesus’ ‘new humanity’ usually organized around the strict rule of the founder of each order, which might differ in specifics but invariably included the vow of celibacy for its monks or nuns. In our time a ‘New Monasticism’ is responding to the ‘monastic' impulse in our post-Christendom context. It shares with the Monasticism of history the emphasis of a disciplined intentional community but sees no need to rule out the married life of its members. We will explore the monastic impulse, past and present, and examine its message and relevance for our time.
Instructor: Titus Guenther;
BTS-5900/3 Research and Methodology [I]
This course will equip students with fundamental skills in theological reflection, research and writing. It will examine theological methods with a particular emphasis on praxis approaches and will assist students in the rudimentary steps of thesis research and writing.
Instructor: Irma Fast Dueck; Slot 25; TH 2:30-5:15
Courses in 2009-2010
BTS-4140/3 Readings in Biblical Greek [B] (Formerly: 10.414/3): Translation and interpretation of selected New Testament Greek passages. Increasing competence in vocabulary and grammar will be emphasized. Prerequisite: LANG-2420/3
Instructor: Sheila Klassen-Wiebe
BTS-4295/3 Literary Theory and Scripture Interpretation [T] (Formerly: 63.480/3): Students will survey theoretical trends in literary analysis. Topics range from the possibility of determining meaning and intention in a text to whether a text may be seen in the colour of a flower. Further topics include Northrop Frye’s notion of the Bible being the code for all western literary expression to Terry Eagleton’s theory that all literary criticism is political in nature.
Instructor: Gordon Zerbe
BTS-4500/3 Topics in Mennonite Studies – Anabaptist Mennonite Spirituality [H/P]: This course poses the question of a paradigmatic Anabaptist-Mennonite spirituality within the context of wider ecumenical Christian descriptions and understandings. Working together in a collaborative seminar, students will read, present and discuss literature related to historic and contemporary expressions of Anabaptist Mennonite spirituality.
Instructor: Gerry Ediger
BTS-4720/3 Contemporary Theological Themes – Theology and Truth [T]: For centuries, Christians have enquired into the relationship between theology and truth, or faith and reason. In early and medieval Christianity, this discussion gave special attention to the theme of martyrdom and the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity. This course will examine contemporary theological debates about knowledge and truth by bringing them into conversation with this early Christian and medieval inheritance. In doing so, students will be introduced to several key voices in contemporary theology, most notably Alasdair MacIntyre, John Milbank, and John Howard Yoder.
Instructor: Chris Huebner
BTS-5042/3 Old Testament Exegesis and Interpretation – Psalms [B]: This course examines the Book of Psalms, surveying, first of all, the poetic literature in the Ancient Near East and examining the fundamental characteristics of Hebrew poetry, and then giving primary attention to exegetical, hermeneutical and pastoral considerations. Students will discover various ways in which the Psalter can be used in the life of the Church—in preaching, teaching, counseling, spiritual formation, chaplaincy, corporate worship, and individual prayer.
Instructor: Pierre Gilbert (MBBS)
BTS-5313/3 Topics in Practical Theology – Introduction to Pastoral Ministry [P]: This course is an introduction to the biblical, historical, and theological roots of the different aspects of pastoral ministry in the local congregation, including the development of a contemporary theology of ministry.
Instructor: Arden Thiessen (SBC)
BTS-5330/3 Spiritual Formation for Ministry [P]: This experience-based seminar provides students an opportunity to develop pastoral/ministerial identity and self-understanding through the use of personality tests, readings, reflection papers and class discussions. It provides a forum for faith sharing and for developing self-awareness of gifts and competencies. Particular attention will be given to spiritual formation for ministry including the development of a growth plan in spiritual disciplines. (Normally taken within the first 30 credit hours).
Instructor: Irma Fast Dueck
BTS-5500/3 Topics in History of Christianity – Apostle’s Creed to Vatican II [H/T]: This ecumenical study of various Christian creeds will bring to light the seemingly paradoxical unity of the one church and the diversity of the many churches. At the same time it will underscore the dynamic nature of Christian theology and call attention to significant turning points in the history of the church.
Instructor: Karl Koop
BTS-5900/3 Research and Methodology [I]: This course will equip students with fundamental skills in theological reflection, research and writing. It will examine theological methods with a particular emphasis on praxis approaches and will assist students in the rudimentary steps of thesis research and writing.
Instructor: Irma Fast Dueck
BTS-4180/3 Jews and Christians in Greco-Roman Society [B/C] (Formerly: 10.418/3): This course will study the development of Jewish and Christian self-definition during the formative years of the new community of Christians in the Greco-Roman world. The investigation will focus on Jewish religious and social life in the second temple period, the pre-Pauline Jewish Christian community, Paul and the launching of the Gentile world mission, the development of Christologies in the new communities, and the forces that separated the Christian and Jewish communities.
Instructor: Gordon Zerbe
BTS-4595/3 Topics in History of Christianity – Readings in Early Anabaptism [H]: This course will give attention to selected Anabaptist writers of the sixteenth century. Readings will focus on such reformers as Michael Sattler, Balthasar Hubmaier, Pilgram Marpeck, and Menno Simons.
Instructor: Karl Koop
HIST-4950/3 Topics in History – North American Evangelicalism [H]: This course introduces students to the history of evangelicalisms in North American Christianity. It will examine the character of evangelicalism and its interaction with North American culture by looking at selected themes, social, and religious practices, and by close readings of primary theological, literary, and historical texts written by or about evangelicals and evangelicalism.
Instructor: Brian Froese
BTS-5010/3 The New Testament – A Theological Introduction [B]: This course will provide an orientation to the New Testament as the second part of the church’s Scripture, with special attention to its literary features, diverse contents, historical and cultural contexts, and theological significance.
Instructor: Gordon Zerbe
BTS-5050/3 New Testament Exegesis and Interpretation – The Gospel of John [B]: This course will explore the literary character and theological message of the Gospel of John within its social historical context. Particular attention will be given to the Gospel's distinctive portrait of Jesus within the canon and to the response that this Gospel invites from both ancient and modern readers. The course will investigate broad themes within the Gospel, will engage students in close reading of specific texts, and will examine prominent issues in scholarly study of the Gospel.
Instructor: George Shillington
BTS-5310/3 Topics in Practical Theology – Ecclesiology: Mission, Ministry, and the Body of Christ [P/T]: This course develops a theological framework for ministry that is rooted in the missio Dei (the sending of God) through the church as the Body of Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It examines a theology of the church in its biblical, historical and contemporary expressions, giving particular attention to practices of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Consideration will also be given to the current context of the church, both globally and locally, in light of contemporary challenges.
Instructor: Irma Fast Dueck
BTS-5700/3 Topics in Theology – Karl Barth and Rowan Williams [T]: An extended examination of the writings of Karl Barth and Rowan Williams. Special attention will be given to the otherness or absence of God, the nature of theological discourse, the doctrines of creation, election, and reconciliation, and the political task of the church.
Instructor: Chris Huebner
BTS-5710/3 Topics in Christianity and Culture: Missional Theology [T/P/C]: This course considers the biblical-theological claim that ecclesiology and missiology cannot be severed but are intimately bound together, and that the church is always in a missionary encounter with our culture and the cultures of the world.
Instructor: Titus Guenther
BTS-5082/3 Topics in Biblical Studies – The Problem of Evil [B]: The Holocaust is a vivid reminder of one of the greatest mysteries and critical issues of human existence: the presence of evil in the world and the nature and extent of human freewill. It has been said that any philosophical or theological system that cannot stand in the face of the Holocaust, cannot be valid. This course will survey some of the major responses offered in various religious and philosophical traditions and investigate the problem of evil from a biblical perspective.
Instructor: Pierre Gilbert (MBBS)
BTS-5810/3 Biblical and Theological Studies Tour – The Holy Land in Perspective [B/C]: This course is a three-week encounter with the “Holy Land” (Israel/Palestine) and its people. In making the connection between the ancient stones and the living stones, tour members will discover the wonder and the complexity of these two worlds that coexist side by side. Often they will find themselves pressed into two worlds at the same time-the world of the biblical text and the press of the contemporary political agenda. For updates and itinerary, please http://www.cmu.ca/studytour2010.html>
Instructor: Gordon Matties
BTS-5740/3 Theologies of Peace and Justice [T/C]: This course will introduce students to the literature in contemporary Christian ethics with a special focus on peace and justice. In it we will examine material that sometimes falls under the heading of political theology. Students will read from the following: Walter Rauschenbusch, Reinhold Niebuhr, H. Richard Niebuhr, Karl Barth, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Alasdair MacIntyre, John Howard Yoder, Stanley Hauerwas, Oliver O’Donovan, John Milbank and William Cavanaugh.
Instructor: Harry Huebner
BTS-5312/3 Topics in Practical Theology – Christian Leadership Development [P]: Many individuals emphasize the importance of leadership in the effectiveness of the church and organization. For effective leadership to be a reality, churches and organizations will need to be involved in leadership development. The questions are: what is Christian leadership and how is it intentionally developed? The course will interactively engage the student in understanding biblical perspectives of leadership and leadership development from which evaluation will be made of contemporary understandings of leadership and leadership development. The course will enable the student to apply Christian leadership understandings contextually as well as construct a model of leadership development for his/her environment.
Instructor: Doug Berg (MBBS)
BTS-5301/3 Christian Spirituality – Christian Formation in the Congregation [P]: This course on Christian formation in the life and ministry of the congregation examines how faith is nurtured to maturity in the church and how leaders are equipped to guide the congregation in its growth. Focusing on three essential arenas of congregational life – worship, community and mission, the course explores key biblical-theological foundations for Christian formation, provides guidance for a variety of formation ministries, and introduces practical leadership tools for stimulating and nurturing growth in faith.
Instructor: Marlene Kropf (AMBS)
BTS-5702/3 Topics in Theology – Theological Understandings of Jesus [T]: This course studies various theological understandings of Jesus as expressed in biblical, historical, and contemporary texts. Attention will be given to exploring the pastoral and missional implications arising from different ways of understanding the person and work of Jesus, especially the atonement.
Instructor: Mark Baker (MBBS)
BTS 5314/3 Poets, Prophets & the Music of Social Justice [P]
This course will examine the relationship of worship and social justice, exploring poets and prophets from biblical times on, many of whom come from the fringe of the church, giving particular attention to their importance in the struggles for justice in the developing world. We will share their gifts and consider creative ways in which to enable Christians today to embrace God who is always larger than the church. Students wanting to take this course will need to register through CMU’s Canadian School of Peacebuilding.
Instructor: John L. Bell and Irma Fast Dueck
BTS-4720/3 Mennonite Approaches to Peace and Justice [T/C]
This course will seek to do the following: First, it will draw from the professor’s experiences in peacemaking as one who has been involved in both Christian Peacemaker Teams and Mennonite Central Committee. Second, it will examine peace and justice literature by both Mennonite and non-Mennonite authors. Among such authors are: John H. Yoder, Gordon Kaufman, J. Denny Weaver, A. James Reimer, Duane Friesen, Alasdair MacIntyre, and Stanley Hauerwas. Third, it will seek to develop a viable peace/justice theology especially for organizations like MCC. To meet the latter objective the professor will rely heavily on students and the experiences they bring to the class. All students and practitioners welcome. Students wanting to take this course will need to register through CMU’s Canadian School of Peacebuilding.
Instructor: Harry Huebner
BTS-5314/3 Thriving in a Firestorm: Congregational Peacebuilding [P]: Research studies verify what experience tells us: the majority of Christian congregations endure internal conflict. At any given time, one fifth of congregations are engaged in serious conflict. Conflict is a fact of congregational life which can be skillfully or awkwardly managed. This course will examine the “firestorm” of faith-based conflict. We will survey problems which typically lead to conflict, unique dynamics of healthy and unhealthy group interactions that commonly occur, and creative ways of using conflict in faithful, lifebuilding ways. We will use didactic methods which include personal reflection, academic investigation, case study, and a variety of resource materials. Students wanting to take this course will need to register through CMU’s Canadian School of Peacebuilding.
Instructor: Lois Edmund
Courses offered in 2008-2009
BTS-4510/3 Evangelical Spirituality in Historical and Theological Context [H]
(Formerly 10.451/3) This course is a conversation with, and about, selected men and women of the Evangelical movement since the 1700s, both British and North American, both historical and contemporary. We will engage: a collection of papers that will deal with foundational concerns, sources, critique, application and disciplines; some primary writings of contemporary Evangelicals; and biographical and primary source material of past Evangelicals. Students will be in conversation with the instructor and with one another, with a book by a contemporary leading Evangelical, and will create, with a classmate, a two-way conversation between two historic Evangelicals centred on the themes of the course. A class ethos of broad conversational engagement of head, heart and hand will be fostered.
Instructor: Gerry Ediger (CMU)
BTS-4740/3 Systematic Theology [T]
(Formerly 10.474/3) This course gives attention to the major themes of Christian belief such as revelation and the authority of scripture, God and creation, the nature of humanity, the person and work of Jesus Christ, sin and salvation, the nature of the church and its practices, the Christian life, and eschatology.
Instructor: Karl Koop (CMU)
BTS-4750/3 Trinity – One God, Three Persons [T]
(Formerly 10.475/3) An examination of the ways in which God has been characterized as triune by classic and modern theologians of the Christian tradition. Particular attention will be given to how Scripture has been interpreted by the authors, the formal structures of their doctrines of God, as well as the anthropological and soteriological implications of the doctrine of the Trinity. In a word, the questions we will be asking are: what does it mean to say that God is a trinity? What does it matter to say that God is a trinity? Among the authors to be studied are Augustine, Aquinas, Lossky, Barth and LaCugna.
Instructor: Justin Neufeld (CMU)
BTS-5000/3 The Old Testament: A Theological Introduction [B]
This course will provide a general introduction to the Old Testament, which is designed to help the student make sense of the corpus on its own terms, i.e., in respect to its historical and literary moorings, and to make it possible for the student to discern the unity, the theological significance, and the possible relevance of the Hebrew Bible. The course will cover three distinct areas: methods of interpretation, basic themes (the land, the promise, the covenant, war, justice, etc.), and its theology.
Instructor: Pierre Gilbert (MBBS)
BTS-5710/3 The Emerging/Missional Church [P/C]
This course studies the profound changes the Christian church finds itself in today. The church is in a transition from its unravelling Christendom status to an “emerging church,” from a focus on self-preservation to “missional church,” and from a majority church to a minority church in the North Atlantic world – and vice versa in the Global South where we witness rapid growth. What shall the “emerging/missional” church be like? How will it relate to its various cultural surroundings? According to Christianity today, “Emerging catches into one term the global reshaping of how to ‘do church’ in postmodern culture.”
Instructor: Titus Guenther (CMU)
BTS-4150/3 Jesus: Historical and Theological Investigations [B]
(Formerly 10.415/3) A study of Jesus and the Gospel sources in light of modern historical study, and a review of theological interpretations of Jesus and his ministry throughout history and in the present.
Instructor: Sheila Klassen-Wiebe (CMU)
BTS-4751/3 Continuity and Change in Anabaptist Theology [H/T]
This course will explore the dynamic and evolving shape of Anabaptist identity. Attention will be given to confessions of faith in the Anabaptist tradition, as well as recent theological impulses, such as the writings of John Howard Yoder, A. James Reimer, and others.
Instructor: Karl Koop (CMU)
BTS-5050/3 NT Exegesis and Interpretation: Matthew [B]
This course will investigate the literary design, contents, social setting, and theological perspective of the Gospel according to Matthew. Its distinctive contribution to the canonical portrait of Jesus will be considered, as well as its place within the context of emerging Christianity and in the history of Christian theology.
Instructor: Gordon Zerbe (CMU)
BTS-5320/3 Preaching
Basic elements of public speaking will be examined followed by a detailed study of preaching. The nature and role of preaching as related to the task of the Church will be emphasized. Practice in the preparation, delivery, and evaluation of sermons will be included. Prerequisite: 30 credit hours of university-level studies, including 6 credit hours in Biblical and Theological Studies.
Instructor: Dan Epp Tiessen
BTS-5500/3 Augustine and Luther [H]
Two of the most profound and influential thinkers of Western Christianity will be considered. Students will address classical questions about God and the world, morality and belief.
Instructor: Karl Koop (CMU)
BTS-5900/3 Research and Methodology [M]
Instructor: Irma Fast Dueck (CMU)
BTS-5040/3 Old Testament Exegesis: Wisdom Literature [B]
In an age that is increasingly being characterized by the absence of moral consensus, Hebrew wisdom literature can make a significant contribution to the understanding of the Christian faith for today. The reason is simple: the Wisdom books are specifically designed to address an audience that is faced with options, but will not accept to be coerced by tradition. The Wisdom writers thus do not dictate a point of view, but simply ask that their perspective on faith receive a fair hearing. To such an audience, then, the wise do not propose dogma, but extend an invitation to seriously consider what gives true significance to human life from a faith perspective. In this course, we will consider Wisdom literature first in Ancient Near Eastern literature, then in the Old Testament. We will examine the books of Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon.
Pierre Gilbert (MBBS)
BTS-5312 Christian Practices in a Technological Culture [P/C]
Technology permeates every aspect of our lives – our work, our play, our worship, our family time. It dramatically shapes the meaning of our existence and frequently disorients Western Christians in our relationships with our Creator, with creation, and with other human creatures. By combining lectures, seminars, and Christian disciplines, this class will explore the writings of philosopher-theologians Albert Borgmann, Jacques Ellul and George Grant, Anabaptist theologian John Howard Yoder, and cultural critic Neil Postman. The goal of the class is to provide a language, develop a conceptual framework, and promote Christian spiritual disciplines toward a critical Anabaptist theology and practice regarding the use of technology
Andy Brubacher Kaethler (AMBS)
BTS 5313/3 Pastoral Care and Counselling [P]
A study of the church as a caregiving community, focusing on the giving of pastoral care and counseling through the life span and at key passages and crises such as: birth, baptism, marriage, career transition, accident, illness, or death.
Instructor: David Rose (MBBS)
BTS-5310/3 Adolescents at Risk [P]
This course is designed to address specific personal behavioural, emotional and relational issues faced by new millennium adolescents. It will prepare students who are planning to be involved in congregational youth ministry for a greater level of relational effectiveness through a deeper understanding and awareness of a number of specific adolescent struggles. They will develop a greater freedom to address and discuss these issues with both adolescents themselves and the adults who intersect with the adolescent world.
Marv Penner (CMU sessional)
BTS-5311/3 Leadership in Multicultural Perspective [P/C]
Effective ministry in a multi-cultural climate is one of the most difficult tasks we face today. Globalization is transforming contemporary society rapidly, and as a result we are witnessing an increasing clash of cultures, both here at home and internationally. The cultural shift is having radical impact on churches as well. In the light of this new reality, are misunderstandings and conflicts inevitable? How can Christians be godly leaders and minister effectively in our world when cultures are so very different from each other?
• Should leadership be horizontal or authoritarian?
• In terms of the gospel, has Jesus freed us from “shame” or “guilt”?
• Should we introduce change or encourage continuity in our ministries?
• Should we plan for the long-term or live spontaneously, for the moment?
• What about the masculine or feminine in leadership?
• Does servant leadership work in authoritarian cultures? Is a leader the "patron" of a group or an individual hero?
Cultures approach these issues and other paradigms very differently. This course will explore different cultural paradigms in our multicultural world and examine biblical responses to them. We will see how followers of Jesus “have the best of both worlds” so to speak and can play a unique role as godly leaders.
Instructor: Arley Loewen (SBC)
BTS-5314/3 Poets, Prophets, and the Music of Social Justice: Towards Holistic Worship [P]
Especially among Protestant traditions, the post reformation period has seen a gradual shift in focus from the all-embracing God of scripture for whom nature, industry, wealth and intimate love were all under the divine aegis, to a God who seems at times disconnected from the concerns of social justice, domestic abuse, international debt, the despoliation of the natural order, racism, neo-colonialism, and the ever-present threat of annihilation by nuclear war. This course will seek to correct this examine the relationship of worship and social justice. It will explore poets and prophets from biblical times to the present, drawing on various traditions including the fringe of the church, giving particular attention to their importance in the struggles for justice in the developing world. We will share their gifts and consider creative ways in which to enable Christians today to embrace God who is always larger than the church.
Instructor: John L. Bell (Iona Community) with Irma Fast Dueck CMU
Courses offered in 2007-2008
10.323/3 Biblical Interpretation across Cultures: In the Context of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.
The course explores a variety of interpretive concerns that intersect either in the foreground or the background of the conflict: (a) the impact of historical experience on the two people groups (e.g. Crusades; Holocaust, formation of the state of Israel; etc.), (b) perspectives on the relationships among God, people and land in the biblical texts; (c) the contribution of biblical interpretation to construing the relationship between Judaism and Christianity, including topics like Zionism, supersessionism, and popular Christian eschatology. (Gordon Matties)
10.322/3 Apocalypse: Then and Now. With its ten-horned beasts, evil empires, angelic hosts, and disintegrating cosmos, apocalyptic literature has inspired movements throughout history that proclaim the End is near. This course explores the origins, worldview, and content of apocalyptic texts like Daniel, Revelation, Ezekiel 38-39, Mark 13, and selected non-canonical writings. The course also engages apocalyptic-inspired writers, movies, and movements and explores continuities and discontinuities between “apocalypse then and now”. (Dan Epp-Tiessen)
10.351/3 Anabaptism, Pietism, and Evangelicalism.
A study of Anabaptism, Pietism, and Evangelicalism and their influence on each other. Attention will also be given to understanding the distinctive and common elements of these movements. (Karl Koop)
10.371/3 Theology of Mission.
A critical survey of the history of Christian mission throughout the world to provide a framework for an understanding of recent developments in the theology of mission. Mennonite contributions to this discourse will receive significant attention. The course will conclude with a consideration of the nature of missionary witness to secular Western society. (Titus Guenther)
10.374/3 Social Issues in Christian Perspective.
An examination of how the Christian imagination informs and addresses several social issues in today’s world. Students will choose a specific social issue from areas such as medical ethics, business ethics, political ethics, and sexuality. (Chris Huebner)
10.390/3 Christian Spiritual Formation.
A course designed to help students deepen their spiritual formation in the context of their own Christian tradition. To this end students will conduct primary research into their own tradition of Christian spirituality in dialogue with other traditions. Participation in selected spiritual practices and a weekend retreat are expected. (Gerry Ediger)
10.414/3 Readings in Biblical Greek.
Translation and interpretation of selected New Testament Greek passages. Increasing competence in vocabulary and grammar will be emphasized. (Sheila Klassen-Wiebe)
10.470/3 Contemporary Theologians: Radical Orthodoxy.
This course will focus on several theologians of the important contemporary movement called Radical Orthodoxy. The principal authors studied will be John Milbank, Graham Ward, and Catherine Pickstock. Several additional readings will be assigned, including some from North America like William Cavanaugh. (Chris Huebner)
10.451/3 Topics in the History of Christianity: The Early Church.
This course is a study of the development, in the early church, of the canon and creeds, of basic Christian affirmations like the trinity, Christology, and salvation, and of practices like baptism and the Lord's Supper (Eucharist). Connections will be made with contemporary Christian beliefs and practices. (John J. Friesen)
10.504/3 Old Testament Exegesis and Interpretation: Genesis.
As a book about beginnings—the beginning of the world and the beginning of God’s people—Genesis is foundational for both the biblical story and the Christian faith. Through careful exegesis of specific passages, this course will explore the key themes, leading characters, and narrative techniques of the book, as well as its theological contribution to the larger biblical story and the Christian faith. (Dan Epp-Tiessen)
10.572/3 Philosophical Theology: Life, Death, and the Question of Happiness.
Do we live in a world that seeks to deny death, to evade it, or is our world best described as the embodiment of a culture of death? What does all this have to do with happiness, or the good life? Does death name something that is altogether other than life, or is death somehow to be approached as if it names a part of what we would call a life? In what ways are our lives bound up with a series of transactions with the dead? This course explores some contemporary philosophical and theological approaches to life and death, particularly as these relate to the question of happiness. It also examines some of the ways these concepts and the relationship between them has changed over time. These themes will be taken up through an engagement with the work of Martin Heidegger, Giorgio Agamben, Catherine Pickstock, Luc Ferry, Jonathan Lear, and others. (Chris Huebner)
10.531/3 Topics in Practical Theology: Introduction to Pastoral Ministry.
(Arden Thiessen)
10.325/3 The Problem of Evil in Biblical Perspective
The reality of evil and range of human freewill represent a formidable challenge to reason, faith and human experience. Beginning with reflection on the Jewish Holocaust and other genocides, the course introduces some of the major responses to moral, amoral and metaphysical evil offered in various religious and philosophical traditions, and focuses the issue from the perspective of biblical theology. (Pierre Gilbert)
10.329/3 Jesus in John.
This course is a study of the literature and theology of the Gospel and Letters of John. It will examine the distinctive portrayal of Jesus in the Johannine writings and the implications of that understanding of Jesus for ancient and contemporary readers. (Sheila Klassen-Wiebe)
10.389/3 Latin American Theology: From Conquest to “Good News.”
This course examines a variety of theological developments in Latin America from colonial times to contemporary expressions of Christianity, including Roman Catholic, Evangelical, Pentecostal, Liberation and Base Church Community, and Anabaptist theologies. (Titus Guenther)
10.340/3 Preaching.
Basic elements of public speaking will be examined followed by a detailed study of preaching. The nature and role of preaching as related to the task of the Church will be emphasized. Practice in the preparation, delivery, and evaluation of sermons will be included. (Dan Epp-Tiessen)
10.472/3 Contemporary Theological Themes: Hermeneutics and Critical Theory.
This course examines some key approaches and debates concerning the interpretation and criticism of texts. Students will survey a range of approaches, from New Criticism and reader-response theory to structuralism and post-structuralism. In doing so, attention will be paid to the following sorts of questions: What is a text? What is an author? How are we to understand the activities associated with the reading and criticism of texts? What does it mean to speak of the meaning of a text? Is meaning something that is found or made? If it is found, where is it to be found? If it is made, who makes it? (Chris Huebner)
10.531 Topics in Practical Theology: Critical Issues in Congregational Worship. 9:00-5:00 p.m.
(Christine Longhurst)
10.501/3 The New Testament: A Theological Introduction.
The aim of the course is to lead students into a working knowledge of the various documents of the New Testament with a view to authentic appropriation in personal life and community. Lectures, discussions and research should open up windows onto the history of the text, canon, and interpretation of the writings. In addition, students will be invited to experiment with various approaches to reading the multiple textures within the New Testament.
(George Shillington)
10.550/3 Topics in the History of Christianity: From Apostles Creed to Vatican II.
This ecumenical study of various Christian creeds will bring to light the seemingly paradoxical unity of the one church and the diversity of the many churches. At the same time it will underscore the dynamic nature of Christian theology and call attention to significant turning points in the history of the church
(Karl Koop)
10.570/3 Topics in Theology: Barth and Bonhoeffer.
This course examines of the thought of Karl Barth and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Both theologians are significant in shaping the debate for contemporary theology, raising the question of the very nature of theology as a mode of enquiry, especially in relation to nineteenth century liberalism, the tradition they both inherited. Brief attention will also be given to how this European theological discussion was received in North America. (Harry Huebner)
10.593/3 Biblical & Theological Studies Tour: Ancient Stones, Living Stones: A Cross-Cultural Encounter in the Holy Land.
The course is a three-week encounter with the land (Israel/Palestine) and its people. Walk into the world of the biblical texts. Visit the ancient stones, the important biblical/archaeological sites and pilgrimage locations. And engage in conversation with the living stones, the many and varied people-groups living in present-day Israel/Palestine (Jews, Christians, and Muslims). Discover the complexity of conflict and the prospects for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Wrestle with the challenges this provides for Middle Eastern and Western Christians. In making the connection between the ancient stones and the living stones, tour members will often find themselves pressed into two worlds at the same time—the world of the biblical text and the press of the contemporary political agenda. For updates and itinerary, please see www.cmu.ca/studytour2008.html
(Gordon Matties)
10.508 Topics in Old Testament Studies: Old Testament Theology.
(Pierre Gilbert)
10.506/3 Preaching Biblical Texts: The Sermon on the Mount.
(Herb Kopp)
Exegesis and Interpretation of Selected New Testament Books)
10.531/3 Topics in Practical Theology: Effective Models of Christian Leadership.
(Doug Berg)
10.531/3 Advanced Youth Ministry: Canada's Teens: Sociological and Theological Reflections.
(James Penner and Jeff Carter)
10.550/3 Topics in History of Christianity: Evangelism in the Early Church. (Alan Kreider)
