Introduction to Systematic Theology

Course Overview

• Professor Jay Shim introduces the course titled "Systematic Theology Number One," focusing on three main doctrines: the Doctrine of God, humanity, and Christ.

• He shares his background, mentioning five years of teaching experience at Evangel University and expresses a desire for personal interaction with students despite the online format.

Teaching Philosophy

• Emphasizes that learning theology is not merely about accumulating information but involves heartfelt engagement and faith-based understanding.

• Stresses the importance of holistic education in theology, which includes emotional and spiritual dimensions alongside academic rigor.

Interaction and Engagement

• Professor Shim aims to foster interaction through lectures, reading assignments, responsive writing (journals), discussions, and a term paper.

• He expresses interest in how students perceive Christian theology within their cultural, political, and social contexts.

Syllabus Introduction

Course Structure

• The professor begins discussing the syllabus while navigating technical challenges with screen sharing.

• The course description highlights its goal: helping students appreciate key Christian doctrines and apply them to life and ministry.

Textbooks Used

• Lists four primary textbooks:

• Herman Bavinck's Reformed Dogmatics (abridged edition).

• Our Reasonable Faith by Bavinck as a classic reference.

• Christian Dogmatics: Reformed Theology for the Church, emphasizing broad Christian perspectives without Roman Catholic connotations.

• His own book Christian Faith, published last year, focusing on biblical interpretation as foundational to theology.

Course Assignments

Reflection Journals

• Students will complete seven reflection journals constituting 65% of their overall grade. Each journal requires a one-to-two-page single-spaced paper summarizing themes and personal reflections on readings.

Discussion Responses

• In addition to journals, students must write six discussion responses on assigned topics. This component encourages dialogue among diverse student backgrounds from various countries.

Course Overview and Expectations

Importance of Participation

• Students are encouraged to share their reflections and responses during discussions, emphasizing that understanding may vary even with the same material.

• Active participation is crucial as it constitutes 15% of the overall grade, highlighting the importance of engagement in class activities.

Assignments and Grading Breakdown

• The term paper, which is 4-5 pages long, accounts for 20% of the total grade and is due on either May 22nd or 28th; specific instructions will be provided later.

• Consistent engagement through weekly journals and discussions is mandatory; failure to participate regularly can lead to not passing the course. Attendance will be assessed primarily through these submissions.

Course Calendar and Deadlines

• A detailed course calendar outlines seven journal assignments with specific due dates; students should prepare early for deadlines at the semester's end. Journal number two is due on March 9th.

• The term paper deadline is set for March 23rd, indicating a busy schedule towards the end of the semester with multiple assignments due simultaneously. Students must manage their time effectively.

Weekly Structure and Resources

• Each week includes a lecture video along with reading assignments; students are advised to follow a structured approach: watch lectures first, then read assigned materials before completing journals or discussions.

• All resources including readings, videos, journals, and discussion prompts will be accessible in designated lessons for each week throughout the semester. Students should check regularly for updates on class activities via the bulletin board.

Spiritual Reflection and Learning Goals

• The instructor expresses a desire for collaborative learning about God’s doctrines (God, humanity, Christology) while encouraging diligent Bible study among students to foster proper understanding and discernment in their learning journey. Prayer is invoked for guidance in this process.