Course Details for Graduate Diploma of Theology
Distance Learning campus
Semester 1, 2021
106.515 Hebrew 1
This course explores an introductory study of biblical Hebrew, including basic vocabulary and key points of grammar. Note for 2024: For distance learning it is strongly encouraged that students attend the two weekly classes (as per the Henderson Theology timetable) via Zoom to get the most out of the course.
108.515 Greek 1
This course is an introductory study of the grammar and vocabulary of Biblical Greek, and its application in translation and exegesis. Note for 2024: For distance learning there will be two online classes each week during the evenings on Mondays and Thursdays 7-9pm. Attendance is strongly encouraged to get the most out of this course.
111.615 Interpreting the Bible
This course is an introduction to biblical interpretation, grammatico-historical exegesis, biblical genres, historical developments, historical-critical and literary-critical methods, and hermeneutical considerations, including hands-on experience in exegeting biblical texts.
115.515 Reading the Bible
This course aims to introduce the broad shape of the biblical story and show how the Christian gospel is integral to biblical theology. It explores the unity, diversity and central themes of the Bible to make sense of the relationships between the Bible, theology, and all of life.
123.615/715 Prophets
This course examines the nature of Old Testament prophecy, the language of prophecy, and the eighth century prophets with special reference to the book of Amos. Either a) exegesis of selections of the English text of Amos, or b) translation and exegesis of selections of the Hebrew text of Amos.
140.515 Reading the New Testament
This course aims to develop and apply a broad understanding of New Testament foundations, and their interpretation and application within church, mission, and community contexts.
202.615/715 Christology
This course examines traditional and contemporary theologies of the person and work of Christ, theology of revelation and Scripture.
210.615/715 Relational and Biblical Apologetics
This course looks at such issues as: the appeals to reason, evidence, experience, revelation and faith in apologetics: the role of 'points of contact': popular excuses for avoiding or rejecting Christianity: the existence of God; the problems of evil and suffering; alternatives to the Christian faith in a pluralist world; the relationship of the faith to the wider spheres of human knowledge - especially history, the social sciences and scientific method; the debates over creation and evolution; the central roles of Christ and Christian Scripture. The course aims both at answering objections and also at building bridges for the Gospel of Christ.
211.615/715 Theological Ethics
This course introduces students to ethical decision-making and Christian ethics, including the biblical underpinnings of ethics, morality, justice, and virtue. It is also an introduction to individual and social ethics, and concepts of justice, virtue and vice.
215.515 Beginning Theology
This course aims to integrate and apply theological reflection, providing opportunities for learners to develop skills for working with biblical texts in appropriate leadership, church, mission, or community contexts.
307.615/715 History of New Zealand Christianity
This course is an in-depth survey of the development of Christianity in Aotearoa New Zealand, from the arrival of Samuel Marsden in 1814 until the present day.
401.515 Formation
This course aims to help learners reflect on personal and communal spiritual formation, through engagement with Scripture, theological understandings and a variety of Christian spiritual traditions. This reflection will include (1) evaluation of key aspects of their own formation, (2) evaluation of their experiences of personal and communal strategies intended to facilitate spiritual growth, and (3) the development of spiritual practices which will strengthen their contribution to enhancing human wellbeing within their own social and cultural contexts.
406.615/715 Models of Spirituality
This course explores a variety of significant traditions within Christian spirituality, including their biblical and historical origins, and considers their contribution to spiritual life in the contemporary world.
464.615 Leadership Dynamics
This course explores interpersonal dynamics in leadership. Leadership theory meets practice through the experience of ministry, mentoring, specific models of reflective practice, an examination of the student’s own leadership style and integrative tutorials with a specific focus on communication, group dynamics and leadership styles.
500.515 Connecting with Youth & Young Adults
This course introduces students to biblical and theological foundations for youth ministry, including effective and sustainable youth ministry, engagement with theory and practical approaches, and responses to the pastoral needs of young people.
505.515 Christian Leadership & Mission
This course aims to explore and evaluate a range of mission, church, and community-based programmes and applies faith-based principles in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. Learners will reflect on how personal and communal expressions of faith can enhance the wellbeing of others in a range of social and cultural contexts.
511.615/715 Pastoral Care in Community
This course is an introduction to the principles and practices of pastoral care in, through and beyond the local church. The course is grounded in vision of community as a paradigm for transformation and carries a fundamental commitment to care of the whole person. Within this relational frame, various approaches to pastoral care, care in life’s stages and transitions as well as care of the carers will be explored.
617.615/715 Mercy, Justice, and Social Transformation
This course identifies the theological and global realities of suffering, injustice and need. It affirms the holistic nature of God’s mission to the world and the call to express mercy and justice, seeking to bring social transformation through community, national and international aid and development. This course seeks to develop creative approaches to holistic social transformation through engagement with theology, history and contemporary interventions.
This timetable is correct at the time of publication; however the College reserves the right to cancel courses, or alter lecture times should circumstances arise. Up to date information is available at any time by contacting the College.