CT9196B 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
Postgraduate Elective
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 15 hours a week for all study activities.
Lecturer/s
Reverend Professor Glen O’Brien
Prerequisites
24 points in CT.
Learning Activities
Resources made available asynchronously in Ark (lectures, set readings, videos and 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:
- Connect the main ideas originating from John Wesley with their subsequent development in the Wesleyan theological tradition.
- Critically analyse and connect primary and secondary source materials in Wesleyan studies.
- Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the historical context from which Wesleyan theology emerged.
- Critically articulate the major themes in Wesleyan theology and their significance in contemporary thought and practice.
- Critically analyse Wesleyan theological discourse beyond the Anglo-American context to include voices from the global Wesleyan community.
Text Books
There is no required text for this unit.