Religion
REL 105 Introduction to the Bible (3) A
An overview of the literary genres, contents, and major themes of Biblical literature, focusing on an understanding of the Bible in its original contexts.
REL 130 Introduction to World Religions (3) B
A survey of the ideas and practices of the major world religions, including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism.
Note: A supplementary fee may be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course.
REL 131 Introduction to Christian-Islamic Engagement (3) O
This course is a student of the beliefs and practices of Islam and their relationship with those of Christianity for the purpose of fostering genuine Christian-Islamic dialogue. The course begins with a study of Jesus and Muhammad according to early Christian and Muslim literary sources. It then examines connections between the historical development of both religions which involves a study of the Five Pillars of Islam against the backdrop of Christian antiquity. The course concludes with a survey of contemporary examples of Christian- Islamic engagement.
REL 161 Introduction to Christian Theology (3) A
A survey of the major Christian doctrines expressed in the Apostles’ Creed, including Theology proper, Christology, Pneumatology, Ecclesiology and Eschatology.
REL 204 Christian Studies Educational Travel Study (3) O
This course combines educational travel, study, and reflection to examine one or more topics related to biblical studies, theology, or Christian spirituality. Destinations vary from year to year.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department.
REL 210 Life and Letters of Paul (3) B
A study of the literary and theological legacy of the apostle Paul. This course will examine his biography, the sociology of the Pauline churches in the context of the first century, and significant aspects of his thought.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 211 Spiritual Formation in the Christian Tradition (3) A
A study of spiritual formation in the Christian tradition, examining the nature and critical implication of Christian conversion, along with the disciplines necessary to spiritual growth.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: A supplementary fee may be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course.
REL 212 Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament (3) O
An exegetical study of the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Songs, and Ecclesiastes. These books will be examined for their content, theological messages, poetic styles, and settings within the wisdom literature genre in the Ancient Near East as well as their impact on and relevance to contemporary issues.
REL 220 Pentateuch (3) O
A study of the first five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy), focusing on the historical and cultural contexts of these documents as well as on their literary structure, theology and contemporary relevance.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 231 Isaiah (3) O
An exegetical study of Isaiah with attention given to historical and social context, literary form, critical issues, and theological significance.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 240 The Synoptic Gospels (3) B
A study of the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, with particular attention given to the theological contribution of each Gospel. Students will also be introduced to contemporary methodologies for studying these Gospels.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 261 Issues in Systematic Theology (3) A
This course consists of an overview of the historic teaching of the Christian church regarding the work of Jesus Christ, the atonement, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, soteriology, the Church, the sacraments, and the consummation of history.
Note: This course cannot apply as a senior REL in Arts and Science programs.
Prerequisite: REL 161
REL 281 Muslim Faith and Practice (3) O
A survey of basic Muslim practice and belief paying special attention to the place of Muhammad in Muslim history and tradition, the Quran and the hadith (traditions).
REL 282 Jesus from Muslim Perspectives (3) O
In this course, students will explore orthodox and historical Muslim beliefs about Jesus based on two major sources, the Qur’an and the hadīth, and will compare passages in both sources with the Christian Bible. In addition, students will learn about contemporary Muslim beliefs concerning Jesus not necessarily based in historical orthodox teaching. Teaching tools will include video, readings, forum discussions and assignments to reach course objectives.
REL 299 Special Topics in Christian Studies (3) O
Special studies in Christian Studies, as announced.
Prerequisite: REL 105 and REL 161 or permission of the department
REL 301 Apologetics (3) O
This course is a survey and examination of the history of and rationale for Christian apologetics. This includes an introduction to and exploration of the key questions and arguments that have arisen in both the tradition and in the contemporary context. The course also focuses on the relation between faith and reason, revelation and knowledge, belief and unbelief, and church and culture – all with the intent of more deeply learning what it means to be a faithful and thoughtful Christian witness.
Prerequisite: REL 161
REL 304 Christian Studies Educational Travel Study (3) O
This course combines educational travel, study, and reflection to examine one or more topics related to biblical studies, theology, or Christian spirituality. Destinations vary from year to year.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department
REL 311 The Craft and Discipline of Spiritual Writing (3) O
An exploration and practice of various forms of spiritual writing, drawing on biblical genres as well as historical and contemporary examples to deepen and sharpen students’ writing skills. The focus will be on the aims, strategies and craft of good spiritual writing.
Prerequisite: REL 161
REL 315 Hermeneutics (3) A
In this course students are exposed to the steps and tools for interpreting the Bible. Students will also be introduced to contemporary methods of studying the Bible.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 325 Topics in the Old Testament (3) O
Special exegetical studies in the Old Testament, as announced.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 329 Residential Schools and Christian Theology (3) B
An interdisciplinary exploration of the relationship of Christianity to the cultures in which it finds expression. In particular, this course looks at the history of residential schools in Canada as lens through which to constructively examine Christian belief and practice. We will use church responses to residential schools (before, during, and after the residential school era) to foster a critical engagement with the way sources of knowledge (such as scripture, tradition, culture and history) inform theology. This course will actively engage the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: A supplementary fee may be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course.
REL 332 Psalms (3) O
An exegetical study of the Psalms with attention given to historical and social context, literary form, critical issues, and theological significance.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 334 Prophecy and Deconstructive Theology (3) O
An advanced exploration of the theology and theological impact of prophecy and prophetic literature in ancient Israel and in Christian theology. Using both historical critical and theological approaches, this course explores the ways in which prophecy and the prophetic literature functions as a deconstructive response to constructive religious systems and practices. This will also include ways in which these texts and their theological disposition can be observed serving similar disruptive functions throughout Christian history and in contemporary situations, including how they serve as instructive guides for ongoing critiques of religious practices, leaders, and institutions by peripheral insiders.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 335 The Rise and Fall of the Israelite Monarchy (3) O
This course examines the rise and fall of the monarchy in ancient Israel through a survey of the historical books of the Old Testament.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 348 Luke-Acts and the Mission of God (3) O
A thematic exploration of Luke and Acts in their historical, literary, and social contexts, in which the former records the words and deeds of the Spirit-filled Jesus who ministers to “the sinners and tax collectors” and the latter records those of Spirit-filled early Christians who bear witness to the exalted Christ. The course focuses on distinct themes of the Luke-Acts narrative that relate to the mission of God for Jew and Gentile, including salvation for all, social justice, Spirit baptism, signs and wonders, and religious persecution.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 350 The Book of Revelation (3) O
An exegetical study of the Book of Revelation with attention given to historical and social context, literary form, critical issues, and theological significance.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 352 The Gospel and Letters of John (3) O
An exegetical study of the Gospel of John, and 1, 2, and 3 John with attention given to historical and social context, literary form, critical issues, and theological significance.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 353 Gospel of Mark (3) O
Originally, the Gospel of Mark was not read but rather heard by early Christians in the form of a dramatic re-telling. This influences how contemporary students of Mark should interpret his text. Additionally, Mark’s audience would have had a keen understanding of the Old Testament which would enable them to appreciate Old Testament terms and themes which Mark applies to Jesus. Employing the methods of aurality (Mark written for the listener) and intertextuality (Mark’s use of the Old Testament), this course is an exegetical study of Mark’s Gospel. From this analysis, the course will touch on contemporary issues such as suffering, servant leadership, and the end times.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 354 Romans (3) O
An exegetical study of the Epistle to the Romans with attention given to historical and social context, literary form, critical issues, and theological significance.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 355 Topics in the New Testament (3) O
Special exegetical studies in the New Testament, as announced.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 356 Corinthian Correspondence (3) O
An exegetical study of 1 and 2 Corinthians with attention given to historical and social context, literary form, critical issues, and theological significance.
Prerequisite: REL 105
REL 358 History and Polity of the Church of the Nazarene (3) A
This course traces the formative influences that led to the American Holiness movement and the Church of the Nazarene. The polity of the Church, as well as her major figures and events, are explored. Attention will be given to themes of holiness theology in the context of the growth of the Church of the Nazarene.
Note: This course is cross-leveled at the graduate level as THEO 641.
REL 362 Alliance History and Thought (3) A
A survey of the origins of The Alliance Canada in its social, cultural, and theological contexts. The course also examines and evaluates various continuities and changes in The Alliance Canada thought and practice.
Prerequisite: REL 161 or HI 263. Prerequisite will be waived for students who are in a denominational credentialing process.
Note: This course is cross-listed as HI 362 and is cross-leveled as CH 610/THEO 640.
Note: For the online version of the course there is a class limit of 20 students and preference is given to those living outside of Calgary.
REL 364 Prayer Paths to God (3) B
An advanced course which studies the historical theology and practice of Christian prayer as it pertains to understanding the role of prayer within the spiritual life. The course is taught from a broadly Christian perspective and includes practical opportunities to try different forms of prayer.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: This course is cross-leveled as CST 662.
Note: A supplementary fee may be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course.
REL 367 Theologies from the Margins (3) B
A study of theological work that has come from groups on the social and historical sidelines, focusing on their historical developments and biblical/theology arguments. The course will centre on Latin American Liberation, Feminist, Indigenous, and Black theologies, but may also include Minjung, Dalit, and Woman theologies, as well as the exploration of theologies of sex and gender.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: This course can fulfill a senior theology elective for ministry students. This course is cross-leveled at the graduate level as THEO 667.
REL 369 Trajectories in Reformation Theology (3) O
An advanced course which does an in-depth, comparative analysis of magisterial Protestant, Catholic and Radical Reformation within the context of early modern European society. A broad spectrum of subjects will be covered including soteriological and ecclesiological themes, church/state relations, political/socioeconomic theory, structures of family life and the relationship between the Reformation and the Renaissance.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: This course can fulfill a senior theology elective for ministry students. This course is cross-leveled as THEO 669.
REL 370 Theology and Practice of Worship (3) A
A study of the key biblical, theological, historical and philosophical dimensions of Christian corporate worship in which students will be given opportunity to consider these aspects through the lens of various Christian traditions. Attention also is given to the planning and leading of worship gatherings and to the role that music in particular plays in the experience of community worship.
Prerequisite: REL 161
REL 372 Christian Ethics (3) B
A study of influential ethical models current in contemporary moral philosophy. An evaluation of these models provides material for the construction of a Christian ethic based on the Scriptures and the moral teaching of the church.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: This course can fulfill a senior theology elective for ministry students.
REL 373 Wesleyan Theology (3) O
Through an exploration of the historical and social background of the eighteenth century and, more particularly, the lives, writings, and legacies of John and Charles Wesley, this course will investigate the implications of the Wesleyan theological heritage in respect to the nature of God and humanity, salvation and sanctification, spiritual growth, church life, worship, and social witness.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: This course can fulfill a senior theology elective for ministry students.
REL 375 Theology of Mission (3) O
This course is the exploration of the theological issues pertaining to the mission of God. It will begin by exploring the mission of God in Christ continued by the Holy Spirit through the Church. After examining the Scriptural basis for mission, it will turn to consider the historical development of a theology of mission and, finally, the continuing significance of mission for today.
Prerequisite: REL 161
REL 377 Theology and Popular Culture (3) O
An exploration of contemporary culture for the reception of biblical literature and theological themes. Particular attention will be given to popular media like film and television, popular music, graphic novels, and mass-market books, but some attention may also be given to more consciously artistic forms of expression dating back to the mid-twentieth century. This course will be conducted as a discussion-based seminar, requiring significant preparation and engagement from students.
Prerequisite: REL 105, REL 161
REL 378 Global Missiology (3) B
An exploration of mission theologies and practices from Latin America, Africa, East and South Asia. Students will be exposed to scholars and mission practices from locations in the world where the church is thriving, and equipped with relevant skills for appropriate and effective relationships in our increasingly globalized world.
Prerequisite: REL 161
REL 380 Political Theology (3) O
This course surveys ancient and modern political systems and moral philosophies and examines them theologically, setting them in conversation with a theological and pastoral ethics of forgiveness and reconciliation. It thus provides a framework which sheds light on ecological, economic, relational, and social justice concerns.
Prerequisite: REL 161
Note: This course is cross-leveled as THEO 680.
REL 381 The Theology of Dietrich Bonhoeffer (3) O
A study of the life and thought of twentieth century theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Through lectures and text discussions students will learn from his historical context, ecclesial activism, and theological ethics.
Prerequisite: REL 161 and REL 261
Note: This course is cross-leveled as THEO 681.
REL 399 Special Topics in Christian Studies (3) O
Special studies in Christian Studies, as announced.
Prerequisite: REL 105 and REL 161 or permission of the department
REL 401 Biblical Theology (3) O
A study of both the major theological themes in the Bible, and the methodological issues related to using the Bible as a theological resource. Attention will be given to both unifying themes and to issues of dissonance between themes in the Bible. This course will operate as a discussion-based seminar.
Prerequisite: REL 315
REL 404 Christian Studies Educational Travel Study (3) O
This course combines educational travel, study, and reflection to examine one or more topics related to biblical studies, theology, or Christian spirituality. Destinations vary from year to year.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department
REL 405 Special Topics in Christian Studies (3) O
Special studies in Christian Studies, as announced.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department
REL 460 Theology Seminar (3) O
A seminar course introducing advanced students to significant texts in the Christian theological tradition. The texts to be studied will vary from time to time according to the interests and expertise of the instructor. Representative texts might include John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion, part-volumes of Karl Barth’s Church Dogmatics, and the works of Ambrose of Augustine, Martin Luther, Hildegard de Bingen, and Katherine Sonderegger.
Prerequisite: REL 261
Note: This course can fulfill a senior theology elective for ministry students.
REL 489 Field Placement in Christian Studies (3) A
A field placement to be arranged with a local business, non-profit agency, religious organization, or other community partner, in which students apply their biblical and theological knowledge and/or their analytical, research, and communication skills in the workplace.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department
REL 490 Independent Research in Christian Studies (3) O
Independent Study consists of an individual research project which investigates a problem area or topic not treated extensively in a regular course.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0