COURSE OVERVIEW
Systematic Theology is offered in two parts - Systematic Theology I and Systematic Theology II. This course, Systematic Theology I will introduce you to some of the fundamentals of Systematic Theology. The purpose of the course is not to try to cover all aspects of Systematic Theology, but rather to excite in you a desire for further study and to give you a foundational understanding to make this happen.
THIS COURSE WILL EXPLORE:
- The purpose and sources of systematic theology and the skills required to engage in the discipline.
- An introduction to the discipline of systematic theology.
- Engagement with a variety of doctrines such as the Word of God, God, and the Trinity.
- Beginning to apply systematic theology to life.
SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY I: God, Humanity and the World
How we understand God, ourselves and our world defines who we become and the lives we lead. This module explores these essential topics by examining some of the fundamentals of Christian theology. Specifically, this course looks at God (Theology proper), including the doctrine of Trinity, knowledge of God (revelation), Creation, humanity (anthropology) and sin. Far from being abstract notions far removed from practical concerns, theology is shown to be relevant, and indeed vital, to real life.
SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY II: Christ, Spirit and the Church
God is on a redemptive mission in our world and invites us to participate. This module seeks to understand God's redemptive purposes by examining more fundamentals of Christian theology, as it builds on those covered in Systematic Theology I. Specifically, this module looks at Christ (Christology), salvation (soteriology), atonement, the Holy Spirit (pneumatology), church (ecclesiology) and "final things" (eschatology). Understanding these foundational concepts helps us better understand Christian faith and the mission into which God invites us.
LECTURER: DR. RICHARD GOODWIN
ACADEMIC DIRECTOR OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
PhD in Theology, MA in Theology, BCS
Richard Goodwin began teaching at Pathways in 2014. He is currently also Adjunct Assistant Professor of Theology and Culture at Fuller Theological Seminary in Los Angeles. He earned a PhD in Theology (Otago) and an MA in Theology (Fuller). His doctoral thesis explored the intersection of faith and movies, and he is interested in the ways Christians engage the wider culture, especially with respect to the arts and pop culture. Prior to theological study, Richard served as a youth pastor for seven years at Raleigh Street Christian Centre in Cambridge.