Course Details for Graduate Certificate in Theology
Distance Learning campus
Semester 1, 2020
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.
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.
148.615/715 New Testament: 1 Corinthians
This course examines the life setting, contents and theological perspectives of 1 Corinthians, together with a consideration of selected themes in Pauline theology. There is also exegesis of selected English texts, or translation and exegesis of selected Greek texts.
202.615/715 Christology
This course examines traditional and contemporary theologies of the person and work of Christ, theology of revelation and Scripture.
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.
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.
403.615/715 Spirituality for Ministry
This course builds on the topics and spiritual disciplines introduced in 401 Formation. The focus is on developing approaches to life and ministry which will help to maintain balance, sustainability and growth in ourselves and others. The term “ministry” here has the broad sense of using our gifts and our time for God’s service, whatever our context.
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.
466.715 Philosophy of Ministry
This course seeks to draw together student’s prior internship courses, and wider academic learning through the formulation of a personal philosophy of ministry. Ministry experience along with formal reflection will foster the clarification of ministry skills, knowledge and personhood while integrative tutorials seek to prepare students to transition into new ministry environments.
513.615/715 Pastoral Care in Life’s Crises
This course explores pastoral approaches to significant life crises, including experiences of loss, death and dying, getting married, divorce, alcoholism, mild depression, past hurts, and developmental issues.
561.615 Introduction to Preaching
This course helps prepare students to preach biblical sermons that witness to the Good News of Jesus Christ. Preaching is an event where we participate with the triune God in faithfully proclaiming the Gospel so that people may faithfully respond.
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.