CT2196B Wesleyan Theology for Today

Description

Lecturer Glen O’Brien writes, “It has often been noted that John Wesley’s approach to theology was ‘conjunctive.’ In other words, it tries to hold together themes that are often seen as opposites. It takes a ‘both/and’ rather than an ‘either/or’ approach - faith alone but also good works, personal holiness but also social justice, God's work in me but also my response to God. Wesleyan theology is aimed at transformation, both personal and social which is why it has been referred to as 'practical divinity.'  When you hear the word ‘practical’ you may think of learning how to do certain things such as increasing your church’s membership, writing a better sermon, or planning a good funeral. Rather, Wesleyan theology is ‘practical’ because it deals primarily with the ‘practice’ of living the Christian life. It is ‘experiential’ rather than abstract and speculative. Theological knowledge is not to be sought for its own sake but so that we may love God and neighbour more fully. You are invited to an exploration of this fascinating living tradition in the unit Wesleyan Theology for Today.” 

Level

Undergraduate Level 2

Semester

Semester 1 2027

Delivery Mode

Online

Dates

22 February - 28 May 2027

Students are expected to attend weekly one-hour Zoom tutorials throughout the semester. 

We recommend that you allocate 12 hours a week for all study activities. 

Lecturer/s 

Reverend Professor Glen O’Brien 

Prerequisites 

18 points in CT. 

Learning Activities 

Resources provided asynchronously online (lectures, reading, videos, podcasts), supported by regular synchronous Zoom tutorials. The unit may also be offered in an Intensive mode utilizing these same resources. 

* This unit is offered at Undergraduate and Postgraduate level. Students may engage with people across both levels when this unit is delivered. 

Assessments 

Assessment 1 – 25%
Assessment 2 – 25%
Assessment 3 – 50% 

Learning Outcomes 

Upon successful completion of this unit, it is expected that students will be able to: 

1. Outline the main ideas originating from John Wesley and those of major Wesleyan scholars. 
2. Analyse source materials in Wesleyan studies. 
3. Demonstrate a knowledge of the historical context from which Wesleyan theology emerged. 
4. Articulate the significance of themes in Wesleyan theology for contemporary thought and practice. 

Text Books 

There is no required text for this unit.