The Doctrine of Revelation & Scripture

Theology in Context Seminar / REL472 / 4 Credits / Northwestern College / Spring 2002

Instructor: Michael Andres
andres@nwciowa.edu

Office/Hours: VPH115, ext. -7079

Class Time: TTh  9:25-10:55

Class Location: VPH304

Course Description:

This course is a research seminar in which students will explore contemporary questions and issues in light of the Christian religious theological tradition.  It features the writing and presentation of a major paper, discussions, analysis and critque of research.  This semester we will explore issues surrounding the doctrine of revelation and the doctrine of Scripture.

Course Objectives:

(1) To further develop careful research and analytical skills.
(2) To grasp an historic, evangelical, and Reformed doctrine of revelation and Scripture, while interacting extensively with other theological traditions.
(3) To reflect on the meaning and application biblical authority in Christian theology.
(4) To think more clearly, consistently, historically and biblically about the doctrine of revelation and the doctrine of Scripture.
(5) To consider how one’s view of revelation and Scripture ought to affect the faith and practice of the Church and draw one closer to the living God.

Primary Texts:

Bible (modern translation, NIV preferable; bring to every class period).  [B]
Carson and Woodbridge, ed.s, Scripture and Truth (Baker Book House, 1998)  [CW]
Fackre, Gabriel, The Doctrine of Revelation (Eerdmans, 1997).  [F]
REL472 Course Reader [R]
Satterthwaite, Philip E., and Wright, David F., A Pathway into the Holy Scripture (Eerdmans, 1994). [S]

Course Requirements:

(1) Class attendance/participation: Participation and attendance are mandatory; one express purpose of this course is to discuss theological issues in a seminar format.  After three unexcused absences, students will be graded down one letter grade for every subsequent unexcused absence.
(2) Readings:  Reading should be completed before class time listed.  It is the responsibility of the student to be aware of forthcoming reading assignments given in syllabus.
(3) Quizzes:  Six quizzes will cover material from course texts and course reader. Top five quiz scores count towards final grade.  Quizzes can only be rescheduled with advance permission of instructor.
(4) Written Projects: Three written analyses are required.
(5) Oral Presentation:  One oral presentation is required.

Guidelines for Written Projects
 

Assessment of Written Projects:

Students will be evaluated according to the comprehension, analysis, and quality demonstrated in their analyses.  Be sure to give a clearly elucidated argument for your views.  Double space, use normal margins and 12 cpi font. If you use other resources, include proper footnotes/endnotes and bibliography.  Please include name, RSC box #, course, word count, and subject/person analyzed at top of title page.

Course Assessment:

Quizzes = 50 points/10 points each
Oral Presentation = 50 points
Written Analysis  = 200 points/100 points each
Integration Paper  = 200 points

Final Exam Schedule:

No final exam.

Course Assistance:

I have an open door policy.  Please come by my office, preferably at office hours, if you have any questions or are having any problems with the reading, lectures, note taking, written project, etc.  Or come by for a cup of tea and chat about life.  For further assistance in academic matters help is available through Patti Thayer at Academic Support (VPH 125B).  Academic Support is there to help you so if you are having difficulties do not hesitate to ask for assistance.

Course Schedule:
 

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