Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries

Composition

This is a process-based writing class that focuses on academic writing, reading, and critical thinking as expressed in expository and analytical writing assignments through 5 to 7 substantial essays over the course of the semester. Develops fluency, coherence, style, effectiveness, and literary analysis. Students must pass this course with a C- or better to fulfill general competency requirements and to proceed to ENG 123. Prerequisite: ENG 103. Placement into this course is determined by ACT/SAT scores. Placement may be challenged by the Writing Placement Exam. (3 units)

Intermediate Composition

Continued practice in writing with emphasis on critical thinking, argument, analysis and interpretation of multicultural readings and other interdisciplinary expository materials. Includes the writing of a major research paper (or report) in addition to several shorter essays requiring various types of documentation. Fieldwork required. This course requires LiveText. Prerequisite: ENG 113 with a grade of C- or better unless the student has demonstrated writing competence through a written placement exam. Note: Students must successfully complete this course with a grade of C- or better to fulfill general education requirements and to begin any literature course. (3 units)

Pentateuch and Former Prophets

An introduction to the Pentateuch and Former Prophets sections of the Hebrew Bible and the ancient Near Eastern cultural and historical background of Israel's history and sacred literature. Special emphasis will be given to the ways in which the literary forms of the Old Testament express Israel's understanding of God's activity in the world and the history of the nation. Core requirement for Christian Studies majors. (3 units)

Latter Prophets and Writings

An introduction to the Latter Prophets and Writings sections of the Hebrew Bible and the ancient Near Eastern cultural and historical background of Israel's history and sacred literature. Special emphasis will be given to the ways in which the literary forms of the Old Testament express Israel's understanding of God's activity in the world and in the history of the nation. Core requirement for Christian Studies majors. (3 units)

Jesus and the Gospels

An investigation of the testimony provided by the Gospels concerning the life of Jesus of Nazareth, with special attention given to the critical issues prompted by such study. Core requirement and prerequisite for upper division Gospel courses (CST 330, 331) for Christian Studies majors. (3 units)

Paul and the Early Church

An introductory consideration of the incidents, individuals, and issues included in the historical, epistolary, and apocalyptic portions of the New Testament. Core requirement and prerequisite for upper division Pauline courses (CST 440, 441) for Christian Studies majors. (3 units)

Introduction to Philosophy

This course introduces students to the meaning and basic categories of philosophy such as epistemology and philosophy of religion. This is accomplished through an exploration of the primary issues and central figures within the discipline. Particular relevance is given to the development of a Christian World-view and the role philosophy plays in life and culture. (3 units)

Christian Theology I

An expanded study of the biblical doctrines of God, humanity, and sin. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Applied Theology or Christian Studies major. (3 units)

Christian Theology II

An expanded study of the biblical doctrines of salvation, the person of Christ, the church, and last things. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Applied Theology or Christian Studies major. (3 units)

Pastoral Leadership

Pastoral Leadership is an intensive study of the leadership role of the pastor in relation to the nature of the church, leadership models, leadership challengers, and practical leadership strategies. (3 units)

History of Baptist Thought

An introduction to Baptist history, Baptist doctrine, and the organizational structure of the Southern Baptist Convention. Core requirement for Christian Studies majors and minors. (3 units)

Biblical Interpretation

A historical and theoretical consideration of interpretative methodology as illustrated by and applied to selected texts from various portions of the biblical materials. Core requirement for Christian Studies majors and minors. Prerequisite: Previous Biblical Studies coursework. (3 units)

Church History

A survey of the development of the Christian church from the close of the New Testament period to the present time, with special attention to the origin of various denominations. Core requirement for Christian Studies majors and minors. (3 units)

Christian Missions

An examination of the issues faced by today's Christian missionaries, including divine call, recruitment, theological issues, cultural problems, political involvement, methodology, and indigenization. Student involvement in missions-related activities is expected. (3 units)

Christian Social Ethics

An introduction into the world of Christian Social Ethics. The course will explore particular and pressing social ethics issues and perennial themes related to Christian living and the interplay between biblical Christian faith and contemporary social issues. Topics include introduction of key social problems, the Church's historical responses to those issues, current Christian positions, and the biblical teachings and core Christian doctrines (e.g., creation fall, redemption, image of God, neighbor love) which relate to these issues. Standard models of Christian engagement in society and responsibilities of the individual believer, the local church, and the global Christian Church will be considered. (3 units)

Biblical Preaching

A study of the basic principles for preparing and delivering biblical sermons, with an emphasis on the writing, delivery, and analysis of expository sermons. Prerequisite: Previous Biblical Studies coursework. (3 units)

Biblical Theology

An introduction to the Bible's theological and canonical formation, major themes, and overall story with a specific emphasis on the relationship between the Testaments. An Online and Professional Studies BACS students only. (3 units, Online and Professional Studies)

Pastoral Ministry

A study of the practical duties of the modern pastor, with emphasis given to problems arising in the performance of regular pastoral duties as well as those created by the environment. (3 units)