Theological Skills Level 1

Course 1:

Introduction to Theology (BAT024)

This course is designed for students interested in gaining a foundational understanding of the study of God, religious beliefs, and the nature of the divine. Topics will include the history and development of theology, key figures and movements, and an examination of various theological systems and beliefs. Students will also learn how to engage critically with
theological texts and debates.

Course 2:

An Orientation to Biblical Studies (BAB001)

This course is an introduction to the study of the Bible, its origins, and its significance. Students will explore the historical context and literary forms of the Old and New Testaments, as well as gain an understanding of the various methods and approaches used
in biblical interpretation. The course will also introduce students to key themes and figures in the Bible, including the role of the prophetic tradition, the life and teachings of Jesus, and the formation of the early Christian church.

Course 3:

Introduction to Pastoral Care (Part 1) (BAM311)

This course is the first in a two-part series on pastoral care. It provides an overview of the role of the pastor in providing spiritual guidance and support to individuals and communities. Topics will include the nature and principles of pastoral care, the spiritual and psychological dimensions, and the skills necessary for effective pastoral counselling. Students will also learn about the role of the pastor as a shepherd, teacher, and leader.

Course 4:

The Biblical Foundation of Mission (BAH936)

This course explores the Christian tradition’s biblical basis for mission and evangelism. Topics will include the nature of the gospel, the call to mission, and the theological foundations of the mission. Students will learn about the missional context of the New Testament and the role of the early Christian church in spreading the gospel message. The course will also cover the role of mission in the contemporary church and the importance of cultural engagement in mission.

Course 5:

The Synoptic Gospels (BAB41)

This course studies the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, known as the “Synoptic Gospels”. Students will explore the content, style, and purpose of these Gospels and will gain an understanding of their historical context and significance. Topics will include the life and teachings of Jesus, the nature of the kingdom of God, and the role of the Holy Spirit in
the early Christian church.

Course 6:

Acts and the Pauline Epistles (BAB091)

This course studies the New Testament books of Acts and the Pauline Epistles (letters written by the apostle Paul). Students will explore the historical context of these books and the theological and ethical teachings of the apostle Paul. Topics will include the early Christian church’s growth, the Holy Spirit’s role in the church’s life, and the significance of Paul’s teachings for developing Christian theology and practice.

Course 7:

The Gospel of John and 1, 2 & 3 John (BAB414)

This course studies the Gospel of John and the letters 1, 2, and 3 John. Students will explore the content, style, and purpose of these books and will gain an understanding of their historical context and significance. Topics will include the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of John, the nature of Christology (the study of the nature and person of Jesus), and the role
of the Holy Spirit in the church’s life.

Course 8:

Introduction to Pastoral Care (Part 2) (BAM142)

This course is the second in a two-part series on pastoral care. It builds on the foundation established in Part 1 and examines the skills and techniques necessary for effective pastoral counselling. Topics will include active listening, empathy, and the role of prayer and meditation in pastoral care. Students will also learn about the ethical and legal considerations involved in pastoral counselling and have the opportunity to practice pastoral care skills in a supervised setting.

Course 9:

Hermeneutics (BAB081)

This course is an introduction to the study of biblical interpretation, also known as hermeneutics. Students will learn about the various methods and approaches used in biblical interpretation and will be introduced to critical hermeneutical theories and
principles. Topics will include the historical-critical method, the literary approach, and the theological interpretation of scripture. Students will also learn about the importance of context and the role of cultural and historical influences in biblical interpretation.

Course 10:

Revelation (BAB639)

This course studies the book of Revelation, one of the most enigmatic and fascinating books in the New Testament. Students will explore the content, style, and purpose of Revelation and will gain an understanding of its historical context and significance. Topics will include the nature of apocalyptic literature, the role of symbols and visions, and the impact of Revelation on later Christian thought and practice.