Dogmatology

1407 Philosophy
A select survey is provided of key philosophical ideas and debates with a view to how theologians have interacted with them over the course of time. Special attention is also given to the development of Reformed philosophy, in particular the Philosophy of the Cosmonomic Idea.

1408 Introduction to Theology
This course explores what theology should be from the Reformed perspective. The starting point is A. Kuyper's Principles of Sacred Theology. Topics discussed include the specific subject matter of theology, its relation to other disciplines, and the division of theology.

1409 Symbolics
Symbolics is the study of the symbols (creeds and confessions) of the church. This first course in Symbolics aims at a thorough knowledge of the three Ecumenical Creeds and the Three Forms of Unity. The history and text of these creeds and confessions are discussed in the freshman year. In Semester I the focus is on the ecumenical creeds, in Semester II on the Three Forms of Unity.

2409 Dogmatics I
In the first semester, the focus is on introductory questions (prolegomena), such as the nature, method and source of dogmatics, followed by revelation and Scripture. In the second semester the doctrines of the triune God and the divine decree are dealt with.

2410 Advanced Symbolics
A study of the history and text of the Protestant symbols as described by P. Schaff in the Creeds of Christendom, volumes I & III. The lectures concentrate on a selected topic related to the Reformed confessions.

3409 Dogmatics II
In the first semester, the focus is on the work of God in creation and providence, and the doctrines of man, sin and covenant. Christology, dealing with the person and work of Jesus Christ, is discussed in the second semester.

3410 Ethics I
An introduction to Ethics is followed by a discussion of the Ten Words of the Covenant.

4411 Dogmatics III
In the course, the doctrines of the church and the means of grace are studied in Semester I, followed by a discussion of soteriology and eschatology in Semester II.

4412 Contemporary Issues
The church today is confronted with numerous challenging issues, both doctrinal and ethical. A number of these issues will be explored and evaluated on the basis of God's Word and the Reformed confessions.