Institute of Christian Studies

This course will be a study of various forms of violence and abuse and the theological and practical implications of the Gospel of the kingdom for these topics.

First, we will investigate two forms of violence and abuse (sexual assault and domestic violence) to better understand each issue as well as the prevalence of the issue and effects on victims.

Second, we will study the theological subjects of the Gospel to lay a foundation for how these biblical themes affect our view of violence and abuse.

Third, we will explore the how the Gospel offers help, hope, and healing to victims. This part of the course will include issues from both Christian thought and practical theology. We will focus on theological engagement and practical engagement.

Objectives

For students to understand the numerous dimensions of sexual assault and domestic abuse.

For students to be aware of the scope of the problem of violence and abuse and to be aware of the prevalence and effects for victims.

For the student to be able to formulate a theology of violence and abuse.

For students to understand how the theological subjects of the Gospel lay a foundation for how biblical themes affect how we view violence and abuse.

For students to be able to relate major themes of Christian theology to violence and abuse.

For students to be able to articulate how Gospel-based hope and healing relates to violence and abuse.

For students to know that individuals and the Church can respond practically with help and victim advocacy.

For students to learn about the experiences of and responses to sexual and domestic violence.