COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Writing & Research for Theological Study Seminar (Part 1)

This course assists students in techniques of research and writing for biblical and theological study.  It is offered every year during the fall semester.

 Writing & Research for Theological Study Seminar (Part 2)

This course provides basic information on writing and research needed for academic success.  Lecture and discussion will focus primarily on the Ashland Theological Seminary Writing Handbook.  Students will have individual and small group exercises to sharpen their skills.

 The Call to Ministry

This course will examine the biblical, theological and historical understanding of the concept “call to ministry.”   The course will examine the content, structure and hermeneutics of biblical and non-biblical call narratives.  The course will also attempt to help the students wrestle with his or her self-understanding of call to ministry

 Tools for Biblical Interpretation

The primary purpose of this course is to acquaint the student with the biblical tools necessary for appropriate and relevant biblical interpretation. The secondary purpose is to give student a brief introduction to the nature and history of the text and the kinds of methods utilized in interpreting the text.

 Theology for Life

The purpose of this course is to offer the student a quick survey of the main topics in Christian Theology.  The goal is a working acquaintance with the basic doctrines of Christianity at a pre-seminary level.

 Survey of the Bible

This course is a study of the writings of the Christian Bible. Students will investigate the transmission of the biblical text, its contents, and message. Attention will be given to the historical circumstance surrounding their composition as well as the variety of literary styles. Students should gain sensitivity toward the assortment of writings and be able to appropriate their use for the present Church.

Highlights of Church History

This course is a study of significant formative events in Christian history. Students will trace the development of ancient Christianity through to the contemporary Church. Emphasis will be placed on events that shaped doctrinal, textual, and stylistic differences within the Christian faith. Students should gain an understanding of the origins and diversity of the practice of Christianity.

Introduction to Counseling

This course is designed to equip the student with knowledge of the essential counseling skills such as attending, listening, probing

 Introduction to Hispanic Theology

This course is designed to introduce students to the emergence of Hispanic/Latino Theology in the United States.  Special attention will be given to Virgilio Elizondo, Orlando E. Costas, Justo L. Gonzalez, and others key figures that affected the shape of this movement, as well as the role of the women and the womanist movement with Hispanic/Latino Theology.

 History of the Hispanic Church

This course explores a global perspective on church history and theology, with special focus on Hispanic Christianity.

 Interpreting the Old Testament

An introduction to the Hebrew Scriptures with a focus on preaching and teaching the good news of salvation and liberation, and the message of the Kingdom of God in the context of Latino churches.

 Interpreting the New Testament

This course provides an introductory study of the four Gospels in the New Testament showing how each bears a different perspective on the life and ministry of Jesus.

 Introduction to Christian Education 

This course explores the importance of Christian education in the Hispanic church context.  Organization, administration, teaching and curriculum will be studied.