Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies

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 or demonstrate a comparable level of writing competence to fulfill general competency requirements and to proceed to ENG 123 - Intermediate Composition. Students may only earn credit for ENG 113 or ENG 113E - Composition Enriched with Lab. (3 units)

Intermediate Composition

Continued practice in writing and research strategies, with emphasis on critical thinking, information literacy, argument, analysis, and interpretation of multicultural and interdisciplinary readings. Includes the writing of a major research paper in addition to several shorter essays. Students may earn credit for either ENG 123 or ENG 123E - Intermediate Composition Enriched with Lab. Prerequisite: ENG 113 with a grade of C- or better or evidence of comparable level of writing competency. 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

This class examines the books of Genesis - Kings (as listed in the Hebrew canon) with special attention given to the theological contributions each book provides for the overall shape of the Old Testament. The historical background of Israel and the Ancient Near East will also be considered. Core requirement for Applied Theology or Christian Studies majors. (3 units)

Latter Prophets and Writings

This class examines the books of Isaiah - 2 Chronicles (as listed in the Hebrew canon) with special attention given to the theological contribution each book provides for the overall shape of the Old Testament. The literary structure of each book and the cultural background of Israel and the Ancient Near East will also be considered. Core requirement for Applied Theology or 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)

Comparative Religions

This course is an introduction to the major religious traditions of the world, particularly Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The historical development and key figures, as well as major doctrines and practices are explored. (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 challenges, and practical leadership strategies. (3 units)

History of Baptist Thought

An examination of Baptist history and doctrine with respect to other Christian denominations and non-denominational churches. Attention will be given to the global impact of Baptists through local church renewal, promotion of religious liberty, participation in missions, and biblical fidelity. Core requirement for Applied Theology students, 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

This course will explore perennial social ethics issues as they relate to Christian faith and life. Topics include key social problems, the Church's historical responses to those issues, and the biblical teachings with regard to core Christian doctrines (e.g., creation, fall, redemption, image of God, neighbor love). Standard models of Christian engagement in society with respect to the individual believer, the local church, and the global Christian Church will also be considered. Prerequisite: 3 units of Biblical Studies coursework. (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)

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)