T7101A Introduction to Theology

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The purpose of this unit will not be to focus upon any particular theological topic, but rather it will seek to introduce you to the nature and task of theology in general, namely the atmosphere in which theology is undertaken. And so, this unit will want to endeavor to introduce you to the major issues and concerns which arise from the study of theology in general. How is one to approach the study of theology? How is it similar to other subjects within the university campus? How is it unique? Is it different? Indeed, as you proceed through the course unit, you will come to an appreciation of the uniqueness of theology when compared to other academic disciplines within the university campus.

Background
The word ‘theology’ as it is used today is a very broad term understood as one among a myriad of academic disciplines studied within a university context. Accordingly, for many, theology, at first glance, is all about the study of God, an intellectual inquiry, in much the same way that geology or biology is the study of the earth or life respectively. This course unit will attempt to enquire into the unique nature and method of theology. It will ask questions such as: how is theology similar to the other fields of study that are found in a university? How is it different? To what extent must theology assimilate to the methodologies of these tertiary studies? Or does it have its own?

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and purpose of theology;
• Identify and explain the doctrinal presuppositions that are the foundation for Theology;
• Analyse the writing of several theological thinkers and key theological texts, ancient and modern;
• Make use of an appropriate methodology for particular theological tasks;
• Apply the skills of theological reflection to life in the community of faith.

Weekly Topics

1. Introduction and Requirements to the Course Unit
2. Towards a Definition of Theology: Nature and Subject of Christian Theology
3. Theology: A Theandric Endeavour; Prayer, the Mystical Atmosphere of the Theological Enterprise
4. Theological Method: An Orthodox Contribution
5. Theology in the Ancient Greek Philosophical Tradition, the Scriptures and the Fathers
6. Theology and the Academic Disciplines: A Comparative Study
7. Ontological and Moral Presuppositions for Theologizing: 'Anima Naturaliter Christiana'
8. Dogmatic Presuppositions for Theologizing: Creation of the World ex nihilo
9. Dogmatic Presuppositions for Theologizing: Creation of the Human Person in the Image and according to the Likeness of God
10. Dogmatic Presuppositions for Theologizing: The Necessity of the distinction between the 'essence' and 'energy' in the understanding of God
11. The presupposition par excellence of Theologising: the Incarnation and the Theandric Character of Jesus
12. Revision and Concluding Remarks.