Overview of MTh in Scripture and Theology for Practice Modules

TH7802 The Doctrine of Scripture

The module consists of an evaluation of different approaches to Scripture, in relation to tradition and reason, and in terms of its interpretation. It covers both historical and contemporary questions; this it does in an historical-progressive manner.

TH7803 The Practice of Modern Hermeneutics

The module begins with an historical review of recent Christian interpretations of the Scriptures in order to give a broader perspective to modern hermeneutics. This is followed by a study of the theology and practices of black, feminist, as well as lesbian and gay theologies. This provides a platform for analysing the methods adopted by theologians of these positions. An examination of the writings of key proponents is undertaken.

TH7821/TH7822 Research Methods

The module provides instruction on the necessary skills for academic research, in particular theological research, as well as academic writing skills.

In summary, the module:

Provides guidance on skills required in both researching and academic writing
Gives practice in a variety of writing tasks required of a professional academic writer
Considers general philosophical approaches to research
Discusses quantitative and qualitative approaches to research
Considers some distinctives of theological research methodology
Considers ethical and ‘political’ issues surrounding research

TH7804 The Development of the Doctrine of the Trinity

As an introduction, classic statements of the doctrine of the Trinity are presented and reflected upon, leading to an exploration of the origins of the doctrine in New and Old Testaments.
The development of the doctrine from Scripture in the early and mediaeval church is considered, examining various hermeneutical models deployed, the development of Trinitarian vocabulary and the important complementary roles of cataphatic and apophatic knowledge of God.
The significance of distinctive developments of the doctrine are surveyed as they appear in representative theologies of historical Evangelicalism, Eastern Orthodoxy, the Western tradition, Roman Catholicism and contemporary theologians—for example there will be consideration of the contributions of Calvin, Owen, Edwards, the Cappadocian Fathers, Augustine, Hilary, Bonaventure, von Balthasar and other authors whose works are cited in the accompanying bibliography. The module leads to a consideration of the implications of the doctrine of the Trinity for personal spirituality, ecclesial worship and practical ministry.

TH7805 Scriptural Studies in Christology and Soteriology

The module consists of an examination of Christology and Soteriology in the context of biblical theology. The module begins with an introduction to the distinctive methods and skills of bilical theology. By doing so, an understanding is given of the differences between a confessional approach and a biblical approach. The chosen topics are interrelated in that the person of Christ is defined by his work and therefore they are mutually beneficial to study together. These two doctrines are considered and the methods and outcomes of two leading representatives of the biblical theology movement are then examined in some detail.

TH7806 Creation and Ecology

The doctrine of Creation continues to be a theological matter needing its own presentation. Reformed evangelicalism, having emphasised the priority of soteriology, has often overlooked this key doctrine. Also, biblical principles relating to environmental care and responsible ecosystem development have been articulated only recently, and not often at church level. This module seeks to address these two matters.

Biblical references concerning both Creation and living responsibly as a Christian believer within it are explored. Various interpretations of these references are evaluated, and some attempt is made to systematise them. A historical survey yields the close relationship existing between the doctrine of Creation and other key doctrines, such as ‘regeneration’, ‘new creation’, ‘new heaven and new earth’. A biblical doctrine of Creation is developed and assumptions underlying both biblical and non-biblical (world-) views of origins are discussed, considering also scientific and philosophical issues, such as design and purpose, space and time, and current ideas of origins. Two workshops are led by visiting lecturers who have had input into these fields. Emphasis, however, is placed upon developing a Creation theology sensitive to ecological issues, and answering questions like, does Scripture suggest value in biodiversity, ecological reclamation, regeneration, development and conservation? Which biblical principles might serve to shape an ecological stewardship? How are the principles of stewardship to be implemented practically? Which biblical principles regulate the exploitation and management of organic, inorganic, animate and human systems?

TH7807 Aspects of Modern Mission

Through engagement with key commentators, this module explores the Scriptural concept of mission in the light of John’s Gospel, considering notions of ‘sending’ exhibited in the Gospel as they relate to intra-Trinitarian relationships, to the disciples of Jesus and the church. It explores the Gospel’s view of the ‘world’ and of the human condition.

It introduces students to missiological texts with a view to critical examination of missiological trends. It further provides an opportunity for critical exploration of aspects of current mission practice in the modern world.

TH 7808 Biblical Law

The focus is on biblical law (the law of the Old Testament, or Hebrew Bible), and includes such landmark figures as Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus of Nazareth. It explores the nature of biblical law, legal thinking and legal institutions by setting the biblical texts in their ancient Near Eastern literary, social and theological context. In doing so, it considers what it means to see biblical law as an integration of different instructional genres which together express a vision of a society accountable to God. The unit critically examines much of biblical law and narrative that has formed the basis of Western civilisation, including the Ten Commandments, and explores differences between biblical law and modern legal concepts and legal assumptions. Close attention is paid to the relationship between biblical law and biblical narratives.

There will be 10 seminar topics from among the following: (1) Making sense of biblical law; (2) Covenant; (3) Natural Law; (4) Judges and Courts; (5) Humanity and the Environment; (6) People and Land; (7) Social Welfare; (8) Homicide and Vengeance; (9) Theft and Burglary; (10) Marriage and Divorce; (11) Sexual offences; (12) Law in the Second Temple Period; (13) The Trials of Jesus.

TH7809 Pastoral Response to Trauma

In summary, the module:

provides teaching in working with a practical theological model suited to trauma response under the authority of Scripture.
reflects upon aspects of biblical anthropology and neurophilosophy that are relevant to understanding trauma in people as a spiritual/religious phenomenon.
explores doctrinal themes significant for a biblical approach to trauma in terms of a Christ-centred Theodrama. Such themes are: evil and suffering, providence, grace, compassion, justice and reconciliation.
focuses upon the priority of divine love, and of the virtuous Christian community being above the necessity of technical skill, whilst not ignoring the place of the latter.
includes an exercise in responding to constructed traumatic scenarios.

Dissertation

The module entails the preparation of an extended piece of writing on a selected topic. The topic, which will relate to the student’s programme aims and learning outcomes, is identified in the context of study for the Research Methods module. The dissertation is based upon largely independent research, albeit under the supervision of a tutor.