RSTH 521 - Theology I: Revelation, Theology-Integration & the Nature of God This course is designed to integrate traditional themes and categories in systematic theology with psychology and spiritual formation. An exploration into the nature, method and rationale of Christian theology interfaced with the practical emphasis on spiritual theology, which has as its end the love of God. Emphasis is given to a study of revelation, both general and special, inspiration, canonicity and illumination of Scripture in the life of growth. Attention will also be given to the nature of theology, spiritual theology and their metaintegration with the manifold creation disciplines (psychology, sciences, arts, humanities etc.). Particular attention given to the doctrine of God, His existence, attributes, Trinitarian nature and knowledge of God in the light of the believer ʼ s deep beliefs of the heart and unconscious theology which may hinder spiritual growth. Attention is also given to biblical interpretation, study, mediation and psychological issues involved in its application to life. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 4. RSTH 522 - Theology II: Works of God, Wisdom, Humankind & Sin An investigation into God ʼ s eternal plan including His kingdom purpose and redemptive focus, His work of creation and continued activity with creation, angels both good and evil including their origin, present state, work and destiny. This also involves an in- depth discussion of natural law, integration and the wisdom of God evident in the works of God (OT wisdom literature). Particular emphasis is given to the creation of humans in God ʼ s image, human nature, the fall and effects of sin upon humanity, human life in relation to the divine institutions of the family and civil government as this interfaces Spiritual Theology, integration and the end of loving God. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 3. RSTH 540 - Theology I: Theoretical Foundations of Integration This course helps prepare the first year students both personally and theoretically to meaningfully integrate psychology and theology. The course investigates research and theory regarding the spiritual developmental process of graduate students in psychology, the philosophy of science (both modern and postmodern perspectives), methodological issues in integration, Christian epistemology, an overview of the conceptual overlap between systematic theology and psychology, and the potential implications of integration for both disciplines. Unit(s): 2. RSTH 550 - Theology II: Spiritual Theology and the Dynamics of Change This course treats the nature of new life in Christ, the role and meaning of the cross in the Christian life, and the process of formation in the Spirit. Particular attention is given to understanding the implications of life in Christ regarding guilt, shame, legalism, and loneliness as well as the New Covenant ministry of the Spirit in transforming the heart in light of the dynamics of original sin, early relational development, and the habits of sin developed over time. Attention is also given to the developmental stages of spiritual growth. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 3. RSTH 603 - Theology III: Christ, Salvation & the Spirit An investigation into the person and saving work of Christ, particularly the nature and application of salvation and their relation to spiritual formation. Attention is given to the person and ministry of the Holy Spirit, particularly as it relates to His indwelling ministry within the psychological dynamics of the human soul. Special emphasis on the practice of sanctification in personal Christian living. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 4.
RSTH 604 - Theology IV: The Church & Eschatology The study of the broad kingdom purpose of God and the future events related to the destiny of history and individuals including Christ ʼ s coming in its phases, the millennial reign of Christ, the resurrections, the judgments and eternal state. Emphasis will also be given to their relevance to spiritual formation and human guilt, anxiety and repression of these realities. The inception and nature of the church as the new kingdom community, both as a living organism and an organization, its function, ordinances and place and mission in God ʼ s purpose and human happiness. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 3. RSTH 613 - Theology III: Spiritual Theology and the Dynamics of Change II This course continues the discussion of spiritual formation / sanctification with a focus on the means of grace. The course focuses on the Spirit's use of the Word of God, the people of God, trials, and spiritual disciplines in Christian transformation. The interrelationship of natural formation and spiritual formation is also explored. Prerequisite(s): Required Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 3. RSTH 614 - Theology IV: Biblical Interpretation and New Testament Psychology This course is meant to assist the student in the investigation of what Scripture has to offer for the development of psychological theory and practice. The course covers the nature and authority of Scripture, the illumination of the Spirit, and biblical hermeneutics. The course will include a study of various biblical texts that are particularly relevant for psychological theory and practice as well as a hermeneutical project that requires each student to interpret, contextualize, and apply a biblical passage relevant to psychological theory and / or practice. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 3. RSTH 615 - Theology V: The Kingdom of God and Human Flourishing This course develops a theology of the kingdom of God as providing a comprehensive vision of the Christian life in the present age and the age to come. Attention is given to how the work of the Christian psychologist fits within God's kingdom plan as well as the notion of a vocational calling to psychology as "kingdom work." Life within the kingdom of God requires an understanding of Christian ethics understood as the theory and praxis of living a good life and being a good person. Special attention is given to the place of moral values in psychological theory and practice, the history of ethical theory, virtue ethics, and developing an informed position on contemporary ethical issues (e.g., abortion, divorce, social justice, etc.). Since the ultimate fulfillment of ethics is the prefect shalom of God's fully realized kingdom, this course also addresses the issues in eschatology, including a theology of death, the intermediate state, heaven and hell. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 3. RSTH 625 - Theology V: Christian Ethics An introduction to ethics including the nature of personal character, virtues and vices, and their relationship to the spiritual disciplines as means of spiritual growth into the image of Christ. Attention is given to understanding the personal dynamics involved in good and bad character in light of sin, common grace, religious defenses and the Spirit-infused virtues of faith, hope and love transforming the so called “natural virtues.” Particular emphasis is given to an introduction to the spiritual disciplines and their role in Christian spiritual formation and the development of virtue. Attention is also given to the history of ethics in light of the contemporary milieu and practical ethical issues such as divorce, abortion, homosexuality, euthanasia and the human control of human beings. Note(s): Required of Psy.D., Ph.D. Unit(s): 3. RSTH 730 - Independent Study Individual work, directed reading or special problems in theology. Such study must be done with the approval and supervision of a faculty professor of record. The student is expected to submit a detailed course proposal on an arranged course form available from the Registrar ʼ s Office. Note(s): Required courses may not be taken through independent study. Elective. Unit(s): 1 - 3.
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