Module Narrative

Module Code: THE3000
Module Title: Reflections in Applied Theology and Christian Ethics
Level: 6
Credit points: 30
Module Leader: Dr Emmanuel Tukasi

Aims
This module aims to enable students to explore the inter-relationship between theological and Christian ethics. Students will be encouraged to reflect on theological issues and to apply their theological understanding to the major ethical issues confronting society today. Students will examine the issues faced by the New Testament church and the ways in which the New Testament writers developed an ethical framework for the Church.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge
On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:

1. critically evaluate the role of theology in current ethical decision making (A1)

2. assess key aspects of current theological disputes in relation to their application to the field of ethical morality (B2)

3. critically evaluate contemporary ethical discussions in relation to differing views of ethical decision making (A3)

4. critically evaluate ethical issues challenging Christians today and apply theological principles in formulating an ethical standard

Skills
This module will call for the successful student to demonstrate:

5. an independent critical approach to study (C1)

6. an ability to communicate the current major ethical issues within society

7. the application of Christian approaches and solutions to contemporary ethical issues in society

Syllabus
Biblical moral norms in the teaching of Jesus and the Apostles; an evaluation of what is meant by love from a theological basis; absolutes in ethical questions; principles involved in making ethical decisions; ethical models and approaches; issues in Contemporary Christian Ethics; learning from Scripture and Church history in making moral choices today; the course will include: contemporary ethics, sexual ethics, ethical decisions in medical practice, Christian citizenship in the nation state, international relations and other Christian ethics.

Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy
Staff-led lectures examine theological issues arising in ethical decisions and the various surrounding controversies. Further interactive lectures consider the application of Christian approaches and solutions to ethical issues in society today and the application of theological principles in formulating an ethical standard.

Student-led discussion groups in week 9 (formative assessment) act as a focus for further evaluation of topics concerning current ethical discussions and differing views of ethical decisions.

Students negotiate topics in week 10 for individual or group presentations (summative assessment) in week 13. A 1500 word outline and analysis will follow this assessment in week 14.

In addition, a 3000 word essay concerning the major ethical issues today and the role of theology in making ethical decisions is required in week 21 (summative assessment).

Tutorial time enables Tutors to give formative feedback on draft essays, guidance to students on developing their presentations and constructive feedback on summative work.

Independent study to supplement these activities is an essential element of the programme, including reading and producing the module assignments.

Assessment Scheme

  •  Student-led discussion groups (formative assessment) in week 11 [outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7]
  • Individual or group presentations in week 13 and a 1500 word outline and analysis in week 14 (summative assessment) [outcomes 5 and 6]
  • Essay 3000 words (summative assessment) in week 24 [outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7]

Assessment Weighting
Presentation and outline                                        50%
Essay                                                                  50%

Learning materials

Essential

Ford, D. 2007. Shaping Theology: Engagements in a Religious and Secular World. Oxford: Blackwell.

Gill, R. Ed. 2001. The Cambridge Companion to Christian Ethics (Cambridge Companions to Religion). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Recommended

Atkinson, D. 1994. Pastoral Ethics. Oxford: Lynx.

Barton, J. 2003. Ethics and the Old Testament. London: SCM.

Geisler, N. 1981. Options in Contemporary Christian Ethics. Grand Rapids: Baker.

Higginson, R. 1988. Dilemmas. London: Hodder & Stoughton.

Lovering, E. and Sumney, J. L. Eds. 1996. Theology and Ethics in Paul and His Interpreters: Essays in Honour of Victor Paul. Furnish. Nashville: Abingdon Press.

Sanders, E. P. 1991. Paul: a very short introduction. Oxford: OUP.

Smith, C. 2009. The Jews, Modern Israel and the New Supercessionism: Resources for Christians. Lampeter: Kings Divinity Press.

Stott, J.R.W. 1999. New Issues Facing Christians Today. London: Marshall Pickering.

Wright, C. J. H. 2004. Old Testament Ethics for the People of God. Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press.

Wright, N, T, 2005. Paul in fresh perspective, London: SPCK.