Course Details for Bachelor of Theology (BTh)
Distance Learning campus
Semester 2, 2024
107.515 Hebrew 2
This course is a continuation of 106.515 Hebrew 1 and develops students in preparation for translation and exegesis of biblical Hebrew. 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.
109.515 Greek 2
This course is a continuation of 108.515, a study of the grammar and vocabulary of New Testament Greek, and its application in translation and exegesis. Note for 2024: For distance learning there will be two online classes each week during the evening on Mondays and Thursdays 7-9pm. Attendance is strongly encouraged to get the most out of this course.
120.515 Reading the Old Testament
This course aims to develop and apply a broad understanding of Old Testament foundations, and their interpretation and application within church, mission, and community contexts.
126.615/715 Wisdom
This course explores the distinctive features of Old Testament wisdom and her texts, her key concerns, and her place in the life of faith, work and learning, ultimately to find that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Prov. 9:10).
149.615/715 Epistles 1
This course explores the life setting, text, and theological perspectives of selected New Testament epistles from either Galatians, Colossians, Ephesians, or 1 John. After exploring the background to the epistle, the letter will be thoroughly exegeted, key themes will be identified and explored, and the message of the letter will be applied to contemporary life and ministry.
201.515 Engaging Theology
Aim: To explore systematic theology and teach learners to think theologically. It examines God’s self-revelation, how that revelation can be understood, and why it is foundational for Christian faith. To then explore the arrangement of this revelation into a set of core beliefs and their application to everyday living.
203.615/715 The Trinity
This course examines the existence and nature of the triune God; biblical overview of the person and ministry of the Holy Spirit; God in creation and providence; the problem of evil; humans made in the image of God; the nature and origins of sin; dialogue with some contemporary and scientific reflections on creation and humanity; angels and powers and principalities.
217.515 Pasifika Theology
To explore how theology is done contextually in the Pacific region through the examination of Pacific concepts, stories, and socio-politico-economic structures of life. The understanding developed provides a foundation for shaping Pacific ministries based on biblical interpretation, theological reflection, and religious practice.
308.515 Christian History: Our Story
This course offers a survey of major developments in the history of Christianity from the early church through to the 21st century with attention to the life and thought of key individuals.
309.615/715 A History of Evangelicalism
This course explores the history of the Evangelical movement, from its emergence in eighteenth and nineteenth century Britian to its present global reach and articulates Evangelicalism’s distinctive theological and missional character in the contemporary context and in Aotearoa.
312.515 Ngā Hunga Hohourongo (The Gospel Peacemakers)
To explore Māori responses to the introduction of Te Rongopai—the Gospel—to Māori society. The message of the Gospel contends with utu, war, and the law/lore of tapu. Initially, chiefly mana resisted any Christian pacifist ideas which were seen as a part of conversion. This course provides an overview of 'peace-orientated Christianity' and its impact on Māori society through the agency of the bible as a book of peace.
351.715 Research Topic 1: Christian Thought and History
This course provides an opportunity for preparing an extended research paper of 6,000 – 8,000 words on a topic not specifically covered elsewhere in a student’s programme of study. It requires the development of research skills and the ability to present a sustained argument on an issue of some complexity. A Research Topic may be proposed in any of the following subject areas: Bible, Theology, or History. The research topic may only be undertaken with the approval of the head of school or delegate.
352.715 Research Topic 2: Practical Theology
This course provides an opportunity for preparing an extended research paper of 6,000 – 8,000 words on a topic not specifically covered elsewhere in a student’s programme of study. It requires the development of research skills and the ability to present a sustained argument on an issue of some complexity. A Research Topic may be proposed in any of the following subject areas: pastoral theology, practical theology, or missiology. The research topic may only be undertaken with the approval of the head of school or delegate.
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.
474.530 Leadership Internship I
This course aims to evaluate Christian leadership models within the context of church, mission, and community ministries. Interns will build, lead, and contribute to teams in a way which reflects their sense of call and personal strengths, and through the application of leadership practices that enhance the goals of their chosen ministry. Note:There is an additional course cost of about $150 to pay for CliftonStrengths online assessment and coaching.
475.530 Leadership Internship II
This course aims to apply a range of key Christian leadership skills to develop and lead a team. The intern will plan and execute an assigned ministry project which will contribute to the goals of a church, mission, or community ministry.
478.615 Practicum I
This course aims to build ministry awareness, leadership resilience, and competence in a field of the student’s choosing. Students are given scope to engage in an area of ministry or vocation in order to develop their proficiency in that field through reflective practice and field-based experience. The course focuses on embodied learning where specific fieldwork-related competencies are aligned to a student’s practicum goals.
479.715 Practicum II
This course aims to build ministry critical awareness, leadership resilience and competence in a field of the student’s choosing. Students are given scope to engage in an area of ministry or vocation in order to develop their proficiency in that field through reflective practice and field-based experience. The course focuses on embodied learning where specific fieldwork-related competencies are aligned to a student’s practicum goals.
542.615/715 Youth Ministry Leadership
This course explores the topic of leadership in youth ministry with an emphasis upon developing sustainable leadership practices. Topics covered in the course include: biblical and theological reflection on leadership; personal and communal practices to support effective and sustainable leadership; risk management; management and teamwork; and nurturing new leaders.
575.615/715 Pastoral Leadership
This course explores the integration of biblical, theological and management perspectives for church ministry. Students will critically evaluate a range of approaches and work toward a personal philosophy of church leadership and management.
590.715 Capstone: Integrative Practice
This course explores biblical, theological, and practical studies by means of a process of spiritual formation. Students will reflect on their key learnings and faith journey over their course of study and articulate a personal ethos for their vocation in the mission of God through interaction with peers and faculty members. Entry into this course for non-BTh students is by application to BTh programme lead.
607.615/715 Christianity and Other Religions
This course is an introduction to the Christian study of World Religions, theology of religions and issues relating to pluralism, community relationships, dialogue and evangelism. An introduction to primal religions, Islam, Eastern religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism, as well as alternative or neo-pagan spiritualities in Western contexts. The course balances sympathetic appreciation, understanding and sensitivity with positive evangelistic commitment.
618.615/715 Ecological Mission
This course examines the biblical and scientific narratives with regard to the interconnectedness within nature, and reflects upon the current ecological state of the planet. Engaging with biblical, historical and contemporary theologies of nature, the course then explores the Christian rationale for sustainability offering a framework for ecological ethics and practices consistent with caring for creation. This is a joint venture between Laidlaw College and A Rocha.
653.715 Tikanga Rangahau
Working closely with the course co-ordinator this course offers the opportunity for in depth individual research on a particular aspect of Māori theology studied in the indigenous courses. The aim is to identify and become familiar with resources on the chosen topic, to strengthen knowledge base, and to comment and critique on findings.
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.