THL468 The Triune God (8)

This subject explores the development of the Christian understanding of God as Trinity, from the biblical origins of the doctrine to key historical and theological developments in the first five centuries and also to the rejuvenation of the doctrine in more recent decades. It considers the implications of renewed trinitarian thought for theology, Christian anthropology, ecclesiology, worship, ethics, mission and interfaith dialogue, as well as its possible misuse.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
On Campus
Canberra Campus
United Theological College
Online
Canberra Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: THL468. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Theology

Enrolment Restrictions

Graduate Certificate in Theology
Graduate Diploma of Theology

Not available to students who have completed THL316 (paired subject).

Assumed Knowledge

THL460, THL410 and THL407

Subject Relationships

THL316 Paired Subject

Incompatible Subjects

THL316

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate considerable familiarity with the biblical origins of the Christian understanding of God as Trinity;
  • be able to reflect critically on the early emergence of trinitarian themes in Christian debates about God;
  • be able to discuss and evaluate classical developments in trinitarian doctrine with special reference to Athanasius, the Cappadocian theologians and Augustine;
  • be able to review critically recent developments in trinitarian thought and their contemporary implications, particularly in the contexts of Australia, Asia and the South Pacific;
  • be able to analyse and evaluate various critiques of trinitarian theology; and
  • be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Biblical foundations
  • The philosophical, Christological and political underpinning of trinitarian theology
  • Pivotal thinkers: Athanasius, the Cappadocians and Augustine
  • The loss of trinitarian consciousness
  • The contemporary renewal of trinitarian theology
  • The social Trinity
  • Implications of trinitarian thought for theology, Christian anthropology, ecclesiology, worship, ethics, mission, interfaith dialogue
  • Implications of trinitarian theology for contemporary Australia, Asia and the South Pacific

Contact

For further information about courses and subjects outlined in the CSU handbook please contact:

Current students

Future students

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: July 2019. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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