This is the first course students take for the M.A. in Theology and the M.Div. degree programs. It is a one-week intensive study that introduces students to the spiritual practices associated with what John Wesley called "works of piety" or the "means of grace." During this week, students live in community together and engage in both the academic study and the practice of these acts of piety. This initial course provides students with insights and opportunities that are vital to the "abbey" emphasis of the graduate program, including participation in a yearlong Wesleyan class meeting and stresses the essential role that acts of piety play in the ongoing life and ministry of the Church. Typically offered: Autumn.

This is the second intensive course students will take for the M.A. in Theology and the M.Div. degree programs. It introduces students to the practices of support and advocacy associated with what John Wesley called "works of mercy." Students learn about these acts of mercy from front-line practitioners working in the Pacific Northwest. Focusing on such practices helps define the "apostolate" emphasis in the M.A. and M.Div degrees, and deepens students' understanding of and engagement in practices vital to the graduate program and to the ongoing life and ministry of the church. Typically offered: Autumn.

Functions as a capstone course to be taken in the student's final year of seminary. Includes reflection back on previous work in seminary and plans for the future in light of the three foci of academy, abbey, and apostolate. Continues the work of communal spiritual formation begun in THEO 6001 by worshipping together, and the outworking of one's faith in ministry as begun in THEO 6002 by participating in a year-long mentoring program. Typically offered: Autumn.

Equips students to interpret and teach Christian Scripture in relation to scholarship, ministry, and spiritual formation. Students will learn and carefully evaluate a variety of historical, literary, theological, and practical strategies for the interpretation and application of Scripture. Foundational in this course is a conception of Scripture that is indispensable for teaching diverse biblical texts to a global audience. Typically offered: Autumn.

Explores the history of Christianity from its beginnings through the fall of Constantinople. With particular attention to primary sources, the course introduces students to the thought, institutions, missionary endeavors, and modes of piety that marked Christianity, in its various contexts, during that period.

Explores the basic beliefs and practices of the historic Christian faith in active engagement with the contemporary world. The course introduces students to the doctrines of the Triune God, creation, and human nature with particular attention to their ethical, missional, and devotional embodiments.

Equips students to interpret and teach the Old Testament as Christian Scripture. Students will survey Old Testament literature, learning to use a variety of approaches in adapting Scripture's witness to God for today's church and world.

Explores the history of Christianity from the late medieval roots of the Reformation through the 19th century. With particular attention to primary sources, the course introduces students to the thought, institutions, missionary endeavors, and modes of piety that marked Christianity, in its various contexts, during that period.

Explores the basic beliefs and practices of the historic Christian faith in active engagement with the contemporary world. The course introduces students to the doctrines of the person of Jesus Christ, the work of Jesus Christ, and salvation with particular attention to their ethical, missional, and devotional embodiments.

Equips students to interpret the New Testament as Christian Scripture. Students will survey New Testament literature, learning to use a variety of approaches in adapting Scripture's witness to God for today's church and world.

Explores the history of Christianity from the beginning of the 20th century to the present. With particular attention to primary sources, the course introduces students to the thought, institutions, missionary endeavors, and modes of piety that marked Christianity, in its various contexts, during that period.

Explores the basic beliefs and practices of the historic Christian faith in active engagement with the contemporary world. The course introduces students to the doctrines of the Holy Spirit, the church, and Christian hope with particular attention to their ethical, missional, and devotional embodiments.

Emphasizes the essentials of Koine Greek vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, enabling the student to begin reading the New Testament and with the potential to study other kinds of Greek literature, including the Septuagint. Requirements include class participation, regular homework assignments, including translation from and into Greek, an event journal, and both midterm and final exams.

Emphasizes the essentials of Koine Greek vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, enabling the student to continue reading the New Testament without looking up every word and with the potential to study other kinds of Greek literature, including the Septuagint. Requirements include class participation, regular homework assignments, including translation from and into Greek, an event journal, and both midterm and final exams.

Emphasizes the essentials of Koine Greek vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, enabling the student to read the New Testament for exegetical and homiletical purposes while knowing most of the grammar and with the potential to study other kinds of Greek literature, including the Septuagint. Requirements include class participation, regular homework assignments, including translation from and into Greek, an event journal, and both midterm and final exams.

Surveys the essentials of biblical Hebrew, including grammar, morphology, syntax and vocabulary, through the translation of selected Old Testament texts.

Continues to survey the essentials of biblical Hebrew, including grammar, morphology, syntax and vocabulary, through the translation of selected Old Testament texts. It seeks to provide a beginning knowledge of the exegetical task and the tools to achieve it. This course is meant to be taken in a sequence with Hebrew I. If the sequence is interrupted, a placement exam must be passed before the second quarter begins.

Continues to survey the essentials of biblical Hebrew, including grammar, morphology, syntax and vocabulary. It seeks to provide a beginning knowledge of the exegetical task and the tools to achieve it. This course is meant to be taken in a sequence with Hebrew I and II. If the sequence is interrupted, a placement exam must be passed before the third quarter begins. Includes a translation of the book of Jonah.

Studies a selected text or texts from the Greek Old Testament (Septuagint) and/or the Greek New Testament. This course will include an in-depth exegetical treatment of the text, focusing on linguistic analysis of the Greek text. Attention will be given to historical, literary, and theological questions, as well as selected issues in the history of interpretation.

Studies a selected text or texts from the Hebrew Old Testament. This course will include an in-depth exegetical treatment of the text, focusing on linguistic analysis of the Hebrew text. Attention will be given to historical, literary, and theological questions, as well as selected issues in the history of interpretation.

Introduction to the interpretive practice of close reading of a single biblical book (e.g. Genesis, Psalms), several related biblical books (e.g. Samuel-Kings, the Book of the Twelve), or a biblical theme (e.g. Biblical Theology of Migration).

Introduction to the interpretive practice of close reading of a single biblical book (e.g. Luke, Revelation), several related biblical books (e.g. the Johannine Letters), or a biblical theme (e.g. Biblical Foundations for Reconciliation).

This course involves a text centered analysis of a single biblical book (e.g. Genesis, Luke) or several related biblical books (e.g. Samuel-Kings, the Pauline Letters). Cross-listed with THEO 4250 for undergraduate students. Typically offered: Winter.

This course introduces students to contextual Biblical hermeneutics and the skills necessary to apply these interpretive methods for effective ministry among diverse and marginalized communities. Students will grow in the ability to understand ancient Biblical texts and their modern context, and learn how to effectively interpret the Scriptures to address a wide range of global and contemporary concerns. Typically offered: Alternate Years.

Examines the theological vision of John Wesley and the theological methodologies, doctrinal commitments and strategies for Christian formation characteristic of the Wesleyan tradition, and explores their relevance for contemporary Methodist, Wesleyan and Holiness church bodies.

Examines the doctrinal content, aesthetic form and intended ethical outcomes of Christian worship. Representative liturgies and theologies of word and sacrament from the Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Protestant traditions will be studied in detail. The class may make several Sunday morning site visits to churches in the Seattle area which use these liturgies.

Examines a representative theologian or a theological topic of significance for students preparing for ministry. Representative theologians include Augustine of Hippo, Martin Luther, and Karl Barth. Potential topics include missional theology, theodicy, theology and the moral imagination, and contemporary intellectual currents.

Examines contextual theologies of reconciliation in particular cultural/geographic settings and communities for their essential relevance to dominant cultures. Potential topics include Asian American ministry, Native American/Indigenous theologies, urban theologies of place, and other intercultural perspectives.

Equips the student to design and lead faith communities in worship. The course explores the relevance of theological and biblical instruction, through a variety of resources such as music, visual arts, poetry, drama and dance.

Explores theological understandings of disability, with attention given to historical, cultural, medical, educational, psychological, and legal perspectives. Attention will also be given to ministries of care, support and advocacy to and with people with disabilities, as well as ministry to and with their families. Typically offered: Alternate Years.

Examines the relationship between the ministry of the church and the complicated realities of race and culture in the modern world. The course will trace the development and varying interpretations of racial and cultural identity through theological and non-theological materials as well as cultivate a theological framework to negotiate these realities in the church and the world.

Explores gender and issues of sexuality through hermeneutical, historical, theological, and ecumenical resources to consider the challenges and possibilities of considering male and female as created in the imago dei. The course will apply these insights to the intersections of gender and ministry for the contemporary church.

Trains future Christian leaders to be socially and culturally relevant in the face of growing demographic shifts, and prepares students to use the lenses of Bible reconciliation theology, critical thinking, multicultural perspectives, social change analysis, and community building skills for leadership in the work of reconciliation in the church and broader society. Students will study the biblical and sociological principles that guide reconciliation ministry, identify the skills necessary for reconciliation and examine leadership models of reconciliation practice. An experiential-learning component is included to provide students with a laboratory for hands-on practice and contextual ministry.

Equips students to minister effectively in cross-cultural and multi-ethnic settings, focusing on the Christian formation of the minister, communication, preaching, teaching, conflict-resolution and contextualization issues. Based on clear biblical, theological, liturgical, and sociological principles, we will identify the skills necessary for reconciliation ministry to flourish and explore how to meet the complex needs of a diverse, multicultural audience effectively.

There is a great need in our society for preachers who can proclaim with passion and vision both what things are not of God in the world (criticizing); and the new reality God will bring to fruition in the future (energizing). Prophetic proclamation offers hope and a moral imagination of a new day and the promise of liberation for all people to reach their full God-given potential. This course will equip and empower brave, prophetic preachers to address pressing issues of justice, diversity, reconciliation, and equity facing the church and the world in the 21st century. Though it is preferable for students to take THEO 6740 Preaching: From Scripture to Sermon for prior training in homiletics, it is not a pre-requisite. This course is open to any seminary student interested in sharpening their prophetic discernment and intercultural proclamation skills. Typically offered: Spring.

Examines religions such as Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Taoism, Shinto, and primal faiths. Each religion is studied in philosophical and cultural context. From the perspective of the Christian faith, each religion is approached with appreciation and critique, seeking points of contact and also areas of contrast.

Introduces students to practical theology as disciplined reflection on the church's life and ministry in response to God's revelation. Students will be encouraged to reflect critically on congregational practices in worship, education, pastoral care, and mission. Grounded in both theology and the social sciences, students will be equipped to design more faithful and effective ministries in multicultural, local, and global church contexts.

Explores various models of Christian discipleship that are intended to sustain a lifetime of ministry, and various processes of vocational discernment. Patterns of Christian spirituality that lead to growth in holiness will be examined and practiced. Attention will be given to the cultivation of devotional exercises in the life of congregations and other Christian organizations.

Explores theological understandings of youth and family, with attention given to historical, sociological, and psychological perspectives. Attention will also be given to various ministry models for youth and families. Typically offered: Alternate Years.

Ministry leaders play a critical role in forming the faith of those in their ministry. The formation of Christian identity takes place in both formal and informal teaching ministries of the church. Formal moments include baptism, the Lord’s Supper, Sunday school, confirmation, children’s messages, Bible studies, youth group, retreats, and camps. Other informal, but still formative educational moments include the ways the community embodies its beliefs through serving the community, educating the public, and participating in local civic life. In this class, students will identify, evaluate, and create learning goals for the teaching ministry in their setting. Students will gain skills in culturally responsive teaching methods. Students will also grow in their understanding of human development that will help them create age-appropriate learning experiences for the entire lifecycle. Typically offered: Alternate Years.

Introduces the student to the theological context and practical dynamics of preaching. This course centers on preparation methods, presentation skills and critical review experienced in actual preaching by the students in the class sessions. Competencies include public speaking/proclamation, coherent organization and convincing presentation, theological understanding and solid biblical interpretation and vocational readiness. Typically offered: Winter.

Focuses on different paradigms and practices in evangelism and mission throughout the history of the Christian church, as well as different theological and literary approaches to understanding and communicating the good news of the kingdom of God. Attention will be given to sociological and cultural influences of postmodernism on popular culture. Equips students to generate new strategies for engaging the emerging generation with the gospel.

Identifies the key issues surrounding effective administrative, organizational and leadership principles and practices as they relate to the needs of the local and global church. Various approaches to church management and leadership will be looked at within the total context of the practice of ministry and the mission of the Church in the world.

Investigates a broad array of methods and skills for providing effective spiritual care and moral guidance to individuals, couples, and families within a Christian congregation. The resources of Christian Scripture and practical theology, as well as contemporary psychology and social theory (e.g., family systems theory, personality theory, and basic psychotherapy) will be used to train students to help their future parishioners meet their personal and social needs, conduct their interpersonal relationships, and handle life's problems, conflicts, crises and transitions in healthy, responsible and constructive ways.

Explores the basic building blocks of what it means to lead well in a ministry setting and highlights practical, research-based strategies for learning and growing on the job. Topics will include calling and purpose, building and developing your team, dealing with conflict, leading under pressure, balancing work and life, and the paradox of sacrifice and success.

Assists current and future church leaders to combine business skills with theological grounding in order to establish social enterprises and fresh expressions of church. Students will apply economic and business knowledge to areas of pastoral support and teaching. They will develop a workable social venture business plan to apply this learning directly to a particular faith community. Course content will include church planting models, financial management and accounting, and community exegesis.

Examines the polity of a given denomination and the congregations that belong to it. Explores the ways in which a given denomination's ecclesiology, governance structures (legislative, executive and judicial), social policies and ecumenical relations have evolved historically and in which they presently function. It is presumed that all the students enrolled in a given section of this course belong to or intend to join the denomination in question and are preparing for ordination or other professional service therein.

Examines the history of a given denomination from its founding to the present day. Attends to its major theological voices and to the ways in which its doctrines, policies and practices have been shaped both by the various nationalities and ethnic groups which have affiliated with it and by the religious, socio-cultural and economic conditions of the nations in which it has taken root (especially the USA). It is presumed that all the students enrolled in a given section of this course belong to or intend to join the denomination in question and are preparing for ordination or other professional service therein.

Narrates the story of Methodism from the time of John Wesley through the twenty-first century, including the growth of American Methodism, the rise of Holiness denominations (Free Methodism, Nazarenes, etc.), the Holiness precursors of Pentecostalism, the development of the United Methodist Church, and the spread of global Methodism. United Methodist students completing this course will fulfill the denomination’s history requirement, in preparation for UMC ordination. Typically offered: Alternate Years.

The purpose of this course is to integrate what the students have learned about Christian Scripture, history, theology and ethics with their disciplinary knowledge, and to explore ways of appropriately “theologizing” the work that they do in their other fields. Typically offered: Occasionally.

Serves as the capstone seminar for those in the MA in Business and Applied Theology program. Provides an opportunity for students to correlate the learning they have received in graduate theology core classes and the Social and Sustainable Enterprise classes from the School of Business, Government and Economics.

Provides the opportunity for the student to study a topic of special interest under faculty supervision. Permission to enroll must be granted by the Dean of SOT or the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies. To secure permission, the student must submit a proposal outlining the objectives of the project and demonstrating why his/her educational interests are best served in this way. The proposal must be signed by the faculty member who has agreed to supervise the project.

Supervised ministry, taken for academic credit, and carried out in a local congregation, clinical setting (hospital, prison, etc.), parachurch agency, or church-related non-profit organization. Minimum time commitment per quarter is 10 hours per week at the placement site for 10 weeks. All sites by which SPS students can satisfy their Contextual Education requirement must be approved by the Dean of SOT or the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and must agree to abide by the SPS Contextual Education Handbook.

Intensive on-site supervised ministry that provides students with an opportunity to reflect on the practice of ministry in light of prior learning in THEO 6940 and other courses. All 6 credits will be completed in one quarter or summer (30 hours per week for 10 weeks). May not be taken in conjunction with any more than 3 additional quarter credits of course work. Internships must be approved by the Dean of SOT, the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, or the SPU faculty member assigned to teach this course during the quarter in which the internship takes place. All sites at which SPS students can satisfy their Contextual Education requirement must be approved the by Dean of SOT or the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and must agree to abide by the SPS Contextual Education Handbook.

Provides a detailed examination of a topic in Christian Scripture, theology, or ministry chosen by the instructor. The course may be taught in an intensive format by a visiting faculty member. Students receive credit for the course as a Scripture, Theology or Ministry elective, depending on topic.

Investigates the intersections between worship and the arts through rotating topics, with the goal of enabling students to see how the creative arts can empower the life of the Church and its ministry to the world. Topics may include music, literature, film, visual art, and more.

Investigates a specific social issue of widespread current concern to church and society, or offers concentrated training in some issue of personal or professional interest to clergy and other persons engaged in ministry or Christian service. One section of this mini-course will typically be offered each quarter (including summers), with topics alternating between social issues and matters of professional development, and with alternative scheduling models (two-day intensives, weekend retreats, half-quarter modules, etc.) routinely being used.

Provides the opportunity for students to synthesize various aspects of their academic studies and to apply them to a concrete ministry setting. Components of the project can include but are not limited to contextual studies of major theologians, movements, and teachings, past and present; an exploration of the spiritual practices that bring together theology, prayer, and ministry in a particular context; and a qualitative study that facilitates a deep understanding of a particular ministry. The Masters Project is required of students in the MA in Reconciliation and Intercultural Studies and the MA in Asian American Ministry degree programs. It is to be guided and monitored, from beginning to end, by an SOT faculty member or designate.

Explores issues and questions pertaining to ministry across cultural boundaries. Students will have the opportunity to experience and reflect on specific historical and theological issues of culture and ministry as they pertain to a specific locale. This will include engagement with local ministries, developing paradigms of holistic ministry, biblical foundations of missions, theology of religions and community exegesis and development. Students must receive the approval of the Dean of the School of Theology or the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies prior to enrolling.

Provides the opportunity for students to utilize competencies developed in their coursework by engaging in a sustained research project on a carefully framed topic. This course is a faculty-supervised research component of the MA (Christian Scripture) and MA (Christian Studies) degree programs. The topic and research methodology must be approved in advance by the faculty supervisor.