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THL330 Global Christianity Since 1700 (8)

Abstract

This subject provides a comprehensive view of the global Christian movement over time. It explores the expansion and development of Christianity as a world religion between 1700 and today, concurrently with European colonisation and the emergence of the modern missionary movement. The subject examines themes in world Christianity from historical, theological and sociological perspectives. These themes include: the inculturation of Christianity, dialogue with other faiths, the impact of poverty and demands for social justice, hermeneutical diversity, and the rise of fundamentalism and Pentecostal movements. These themes are discussed with reference to non-western contexts, in comparison with Anglo-American and European trends.

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Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: THL330
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Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Theology

Assumed Knowledge

THL131 and THL132

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the context of Christianity's global expansion after 1700
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of major themes in the global expansion of Christianity
  • be able to discuss and evaluate critically how contemporary Christianity has become a largely non-Western faith
  • be able to develop a basic taxonomy of world Christianities
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the issues surrounding the inculturation of the Christian faith
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role of religion in the development of national identity
  • be able to demonstrate critical engagement with historical claims made about the religious past
  • be able to exhibit advanced shills in historical enquiry
  • be able to demonstrate self guided and colaborative learning

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • an introduction to the historiography of contemporary world Christianity
  • contemporary issues in the sociology and history of religion
  • Christian missions and their relationship with race and empire
  • the impact upon Western Christianity of the Enlightenment, science, industrialisation and secularism
  • the ecumenical movement
  • the inculturation of Christianity, with special reference to African, Asian or Pacific Christianity
  • poverty, social justice and political struggle in the non-Western world
  • theology and history, with special reference to liberationist, feminist, post-colonial, and ecumenical theologians
  • Christianity and nationalism
  • Christianity and other faiths
  • Christian fundamentalism
  • the rise of Pentecostalism

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The information contained in the 2015 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 01 October 2015. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.