CHURCH HISTORY I. Victor Melnychuk. I. Course Description. II. Course Objectives. III. Required text. IV. Course grading. V. Research paper topics

CHURCH HISTORY I

Victor Melnychuk

I. Course Description

This course charts the history of the church from the birth of Christianity through the Roman era and up to the Reformation. Special emphasis is placed upon the development of theology and various heresies both within and outside of the church. Historical data will be analyzed with integration of concept of God working out His objectives in history through human beings. Given the large amount of material needing to be covered in only one semester, this course is intended as a general introduction to, rather than an exhaustive treatment of the subject matter.

II. Course Objectives

Each student would be given sufficient exposure and instruction in this course so that he/she:

· Has an adequate, sound, informed knowledge of the History of the Christian Church.

· Is able to employ Church History to expose heresies and their beginnings.

· Is confident in the Christian faith

· Appreciate the power of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit.

· Is resolved before God to stand firm and not to yield when temptation and compromise press in from all sides.

· Is able to earnestly contend for the faith which once was delivered unto the saints.

· Is able to communicate these truths to others and employ history in preaching the truth.

III. Required text

Cairns, Earl E. Christianity Through the Centuries.

IV. Course grading

1. Mid Term Exam……………………………. 25%

2. Final Exam…………………………………. 25%

3. Book report…………………………………. 20%

4. Research paper………………………………30%

V. Research paper topics

1. Explain how the “man-bridge” apostle Paul was able to cross cultures and make the gospel relevant to the Greek world. How his principles can be applied today?

2. Explain early church struggle with pagan philosophies. What principles we can learn from that struggle that can be applied today?

3. Explain how the Canon of the New Testament was formed. Why is it different from the other early Christian writings? Why is it important to understand?