Christian Theologies of Non-Christian Religions
HTS2802, Christian Theologies of Non-Christian Religions, Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Fall 2008
Dr. Paul D. Numrich
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course examines the variety of Christian theologies of other religions and considers case studies of interreligious relations. Biblical, denominational, institutional, traditional, and other factors are also explored. Students are encouraged to develop their own theologies of other religions.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Survey the variety of Christian theologies of other religions.
2. Consider case studies of interreligious relations.
3. Develop one’s own theology of other religions in preparation for faithful participation in interreligious relations and informed leadership among fellow Christians.
4. Enhance the scholarly enterprise of Trinity Lutheran Seminary and the Theological Consortium of Greater Columbus.
READINGS:
Numrich, Paul D. The Faith Next Door: American Christians and Their New Religious Neighbors. New York: Oxford UP, forthcoming.
Pittman, Don A., Ruben L. F. Habito, and Terry C. Muck, eds. Ministry and Theology in Global Perspective: Contemporary Challenges for the Church. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1996.
“We explain the fact that the Milky Way is there by the doctrine of creation, but how do we explain the fact that the Bhagavad Gita is there?”[1]
“Claimed, gathered, and sent by God’s grace for the sake of the world, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in and through its churchwide expression will: . . . Deepen and extend our global, ecumenical, and interfaith relationships for the sake of God’s mission; and Assist this church to bring forth and support faithful, wise, and courageous leaders whose vocations serve God’s mission in a pluralistic world.”[2]
“Strategic Directions of the Churchwide Organization,” Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 5 Oct. 2008 <http://archive.elca.org/planning/summary.pdf>.