Course details

Bible, religion and philosophy

Jo-Ann Brant, Professor of Bible, Religion & Philosophy
Andrea Dalton, Adjunct Professor of Bible and Religion
Keith Graber Miller, Department Chair, Professor of BRP, SST Leader Cambodia (SP)
Paul Keim, Professor of Bible & Religion
Regina Shands Stoltzfus, Assistant Professor of PJCS
Bob Yoder, Youth Ministry Director

Introduction

The Bible, religion and philosophy department offers the following programs:

• Major in Bible and religion
• Major in youth ministry
• Minor in Bible and religion
• Minor in youth ministry
• Certificate in biblical studies

More information is available at the department Web site at www.goshen.edu/bibrelphil.

The Bible and religion major is designed to provide students with an introduction to biblical studies and the academic study of Christian and other religious traditions, while affirming their faith and orienting them toward the value that the Anabaptist tradition places upon the Bible and the church. The major requires courses on the content and methods of biblical study, church history, theology, ethics and philosophy, and culminates in a senior seminar in narrative theology.

The youth ministry major draws on the strengths of the Bible and religion program but adds courses specifically related to youth ministry and also supporting courses from psychology; sociology; peace, justice, and conflict studies; music; and physical education.

Career and post-graduate opportunities

A major in Bible and religion is of particular value to students contemplating graduate study in Bible, religion or theology, mission and service occupations in the church or broader pastoral work. A major in youth ministry is designed as pre-seminary preparation for work in youth ministry or other church ministries

Recent graduates have gone on to become pastors, service workers, professors, hospital chaplains, teachers, journalists, public relations consultants, lawyers, farmers, computer analyists, musicians, artists, business executives, translators, and church administrators.

Regardless of their future occupations, majors are given a strong foundation for careful reading of texts, thinking theologically, considering the relevance of faith for their daily lives, and active participation in congregational life.

Major in Bible and religion

39 credit hours

• Bibl 300, Jesus and the Gospels 3
• Bibl 301, Hebrew Scripture 3
• Elective in Bible 3
• Rel 320, Christian Faith 3
• Phil 200, Introduction to Philosophy3
• Phil 302, Ethics and Morality 3
• One of the following: 3
  Rel 318, Anabaptist/Mennonite History
  Hist 321, History of Mennonites in America
• One of the following: 3
  Phil 307, Asian Thought
  Rel 311, Abrahamic Religions
• Other courses in the department or related courses such as Hist 304, Psyc 314, or courses at AMBS, in consultation with the adviser 9
• Bibl/Rel 409, Internship 3
• Bibl/Rel 410, Seminar 3

Major in youth ministry

40 credit hours

• Bibl 300, Jesus and the Gospels 3
• Bibl 301, Hebrew Scripture 3
• Rel 210, Introduction to Youth Ministry 3
• Rel 320, Christian Faith 3
• Rel 374, Contemporary Issues in Youth Ministry 3
• One of the following: 3
  Rel 318, Anabaptist/Mennonite History
  Hist 321, History of Mennonites in America
• Course on worship selected from the following: 3
  Rel 322, Worshipping Communities
  Mus 311, Topics in Music Literature: Church Music
  AMBS course in worship
• Rel 405, Spiritual Care and Healing 3
  or AMBS course in spirituality or pastoral care
• PJCS 210, Transforming Conflict and Violence 3
  or PJCS 325, Mediation: Process, Skills and Theory
• Educ 309, Educational Psychology: Secondary 3
  or Psyc 210, Developmental Psychology
• Course on sexuality selected from the following: 3
  Rel 330, Religion and Sexuality
  Soc 210, Sociology of the Family
  Soc 260, Human Sexuality
• PhEd 102, First Aid and CPR 1
• Rel 409, Internship 3
• Rel 410, Seminar 3

Planning guide

First year	General education Knowing the Bible or Reading the Bible
Second year	General education SST 200-300 level courses in major, Bibl 301
Third year	General education Upper-level courses in major, Bibl 300 Related courses
Fourth year	Balance of general education Balance of major Course at AMBS Internship Seminar

Planning and advising notes

Bible 100/200 may not be applied to the Bible and religion major. Students are encouraged to focus their plan of study by selecting electives in the following areas: ministry inquiry, religious studies, theology, biblical studies, philosophy. Suggestions are available from Bible, religion and philosophy department faculty advisers.

Bible and religion majors are strongly encouraged to take at least one course at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) in Elkhart, IN. One course per semester may be taken there as part of a full-time Goshen College registration. For AMBS course listings, see http://www.ambs.edu/academics/courses  

Minor in Bible and religion

18 credit hours

• Bibl 300, Jesus and the Gospels 3
• Bibl 301, Hebrew Scripture 3
• Elective in Bible 3
• Phil 302, Ethics and Morality 3
• Rel 320, Christian Faith 3
• Elective in religion or philosophy 3

Minor in youth ministry

18 credit hours

• Rel 210, Introduction to Youth Ministry 3
• Rel 374, Contemporary Issues in Youth Ministry3
• PJCS 210, Transforming Conflict and Violence 3
• Two courses selected from the following: 6
  Rel 320, Christian Faith
  Bibl 300, Jesus and the Gospels
  Bibl 301, Hebrew Scripture
• One course selected from the following: 3
  Educ 309, Educational Psychology: Secondary
  Psyc 210, Developmental Psychology
  Rel 330, Religion and Sexuality
  Soc 210, Sociology of the Family
  Soc 260, Human Sexuality

Certificate program

A one-year certificate program is available in biblical studies. See the department chair or the registrar for more details.

Bible courses

BIBL 100 Knowing the Bible 3
This course will cover the basic narrative structure of the Bible, the main characters and themes and will address the following questions: How did the Bible come to be? How does one understand Scripture? In what contexts does one read Scripture? This course is for people with very little or no formal background in the Bible. Bibl 100 or 200 fulfills the lower-level Bible literacy general education requirement. Students who do not know which level to take are encouraged to take the placement test scheduled at the beginning of each semester or to consult with either Professor Brant or Keim.

BIBL 200 Reading the Bible 3
This course will focus upon questions of genre and composition and interpretation of the Bible and will address the following questions: How does genre affect how we read? How is doctrine derived from Scripture and how does it influence our own readings? How are various modern methodologies used to understand the Bible? How does one distinguish between opinion and reasoned interpretation? This course is for students who have studied Scripture in a formal setting such as in high school, Sunday school or academic courses and who know the basic narrative structure and main characters. Note: Students who take Bibl 100 cannot use Bibl 200 to satisfy the additional general education Bible and religion requirement. Bibl 100 or 200 fulfills the lower-level Bible literacy general education requirement. Students who do not know which level to take are encouraged to take the placement test scheduled at the beginning of each semester or to consult with either Professor Brant or Keim.

BIBL 201 Elementary New Testament Greek 3
Basic vocabulary, verb structure and grammar of New Testament Greek; reading and translation in first chapters of the Gospel of John. This course does not meet the Bible/religion general education requirement. It may, however, meet the basic Bible literacy requirement for students who place out of Bibl 200 on the Biblical Literature placement test. Prerequisite: Bibl 100, Bibl 200 or equivalent.

BIBL 204 Hebrew Language and Culture 3
Students will work through a standard grammar of biblical Hebrew, building a working vocabulary of 600-800 words. The Book of Ruth will be read in its entirety, along with representative selections from the major genres of biblical Hebrew literature. Attention will also be devoted to the cultural settings reflected in the texts. Offered alternating years with Bibl 201. This course does not meet the Bible/religion general education requirement. It may, however, meet the basic Bible literacy requirement for students who place out of Bibl 200 on the Biblical Literature placement test.

BIBL 300 Jesus and the Gospels 3
Study of the life and teachings of Jesus, focusing on the proclamation of the reign of God and Jesus' messianic identity as the Son of God. Examination of Jesus in his historical setting will be balanced with discussions of Jesus' call to discipleship and theological interpretations of the Gospels. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200 or consent of instructor. BRP majors are encouraged to add a one-hour depth credit.

BIBL 301 Hebrew Scripture: 3
Content of this course will alternate every other year with one of the following topics. <br><I>Prophets.</I> A study of the important corpus of prophetic literature from the Hebrew Bible. Attention is given to historical, social, literary and theological features of the texts. Broad surveys of the prophetic writings will set the stage for close reading of selected oracles. Balancing the ethos of the Hebrew prophets with the demands these texts place on the contemporary audience keeps the Scriptural nature of this foundational material constantly in view. <br><I>Wisdom and Psalms.</I> Alongside law, history and prophecy, the wisdom and poetry sections of biblical Hebrew writings give expression to the formative power of this significant literary, theological and social movement in ancient Israel. Primary attention will be given to the universal perspectives reflected in the books of Ecclesiastes, Proverbs and Job, with selective attention given to the wisdom corpus of the Apocrypha. Significant time will also be devoted to the laments, hymns, and pilgrimage songs of the book of Psalms. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200.

BIBL 303 Paul and the Early Church 3
Study the ministry of Paul and and the growth of the early church by traveling through the geography and social world of the early church and reading the Book of Acts and Paul's letters. Explore Paul's understanding of Jesus Christ and the nature of the Christian communities he established. Discussion will range from Paul's counsel on issues such as church life, the role of women and the state, and circumcision to his theological teachings on salvation and end times. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200.

BIBL 304 Writings of John 3
A study of the theology, themes, literary structure and social world of the fourth Gospel. Special attention is given to unique contributions of the fourth Gospel to the New Testament canon, to our understanding of the Christ event and to Christian thought. Other Johannine writings are examined in relation to the Gospel. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200 or consent of instructor.

BIBL 310 Topics in Biblical Studies 3
Lecture, research and discussion oriented around specific biblical studies themes such as the book of Revelation, leadership in ministry, spiritual and pastoral care. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200.

BIBL 321 Biblical Themes of Peace 3
A study of the themes and concepts that provide a biblical basis for nonretaliation and peace making. Particular attention is given to the nature of God's sovereignty, forgiveness versus vengeance and love of enemies. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200.

BIBL 324 Women in the Bible 3
An examination of the characterization of women in Old and New Testament narratives, their role in biblical societies and the early church and their representation in Judeo-Christian culture, particularly our contemporary culture. The course draws upon current research and exegetical strategies in Biblical studies. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200

BIBL 409 Bible Internship 3
An approved internship or work experience related to biblical studies. Examples are: Ministry Inquiry Program, supervised work in local campus ministries, church agencies or hospital chaplaincy.

BIBL 410 Bible Senior Seminar 3
Advanced work in principles and problems of biblical studies through the examination and assessment of narrative theology and ethics. Constant attention is given to meaningful articulation of faith.

Religion courses

REL 202 Religion in the Americas 3
An overview of religious institutions and individual expressions of religious faith in the Americas. The course includes some attention to historical developments across the Americas, but focuses primarily on recent or contemporary religious meovements, realities, themes and issues in North America. The course also provides an introduction to the discipline of religious studies and is designed for colloquium students.

REL 209 Field Experience 3 (1-3)
A field placement in applied ministry or discipleship at a camp, retreat center, congregation or religious organization. Appropriate for credit by experience registration.

REL 210 Introduction to Youth Ministry 3
Focuses on aspects of pastoral identity formation, theological understanding for and history of youth ministry, various models of youth ministry and issues related to spiritual development of youth. Attention will also be given to issues regarding size of youth groups, organizational nature of ministry, mentoring, abuse, suicide, evaluation, self-care, humor and recreation. Includes attending a national or regional youth ministry training event.

REL 310 Topics: 3
Lectures, research and discussion of specific topics in religion such as politics and religion, spirituality, religion and the media.

REL 311 Abrahamic Religions: 3
This course will focus primarily on Judaism in one year and primarily on Islam in the alternate year. Both versions of the course will consider the deep-rooted connections among the three great Abrahamic religions.<BR><I>Judaism: </I>An introduction to the essential beliefs, texts and religious practices of Judaism. The course will survey biblical and talmudic foundations, sketch the main lines of historical development in Jewish life, thought and religion, and explore the rich vocabulary of Jewish identity. An engagement with central concepts such as God, Law and Israel will shape the process of familiarizing students with the customs, rituals and values of contemporary Judaism. The class will visit a local synagogue and have the opportunity to engage in conversation with the rabbi and members of the Jewish community. Special attention will be devoted to an appreciation of the deep continuities that exist among the "peoples of the book," as well as recognition of the unique contributions each has made to contemporary world culture.<BR><I>Islam:</I> An introduction to Islamic religion, culture and civilization. An historical survey will introduce students to the origins and early development of the religion of Islam, its rapid spread and flourishing and its interactions with the Western world. A thorough understanding of the core religious beliefs of Islam will be emphasized, through the examination of primary and secondary texts, the use of rich media resources, guest speakers, and a field trip to a local mosque, with an opportunity to speak with the imam and other members of the community. Some of the contemporary issues facing Muslims around the world and in North America will be discussed.

REL 315 Religion in Culture & Society 3
(Cross-listed from Soc 315) An analysis of the social, cultural and political contexts that profoundly affect religious institutions and expressions, and upon which religion has an influence. Course includes such topics as meaning and belonging, modern individualism, dynamics of religious collectives and the impact of religion on social change.

REL 316 Liberation Theologies 3
Focuses on three contemporary theologies of liberation (Latin American Liberation Theology, North American Black Theology and North American Feminist Theology) as they are developing in the Americas. The course examines similarities and differences among these three theologies - in conversation with Womanist and Latina theologies - as each addresses specific theological questions raised by the people of God in actual contemporary situations of exploration and oppression. The course also has a praxis component in which students move outward into the community.

REL 317 Islam and Judaism 3
An introduction to the essential beliefs, religion, texts and cultures of Islam and Judaism. Along with Christianity, these religious traditions represent the great cultural heritage of the Ancient Near East. A survey of essential Scriptures and exploration of primary doctrines will lay the groundwork for understanding these traditions with more clarity and sympathy. The living, contemporary communities of faith which claim direct descent from the Scriptures and doctrines of these formative cultures will become familiar through personal interaction with Muslims and Jews - both in the classroom and on field trips to mosque and synagogue. Emphasis will be placed on the deep continuities that exist among the "peoples of the book," as well as the unique contributions each has made to contemporary world culture.

REL 318 Anabaptist/Mennonite History 3
(Cross-listed from Hist 318) Introduction to Mennonite history and thought. About one-third of the course is devoted to Anabaptism. Special attention given to distinctive Anabaptist religious ideas, changes in Mennonite religious ideas and practice in Europe, migrations, contrasts in social-communal practices among Mennonites and related groups.

REL 320 Christian Faith 3
An introduction to theology, examining the character of Christianity by identifying and defining basic features and themes (e.g. Christology, atonement, church, eschatology). Careful attention will be paid to both historical development of theology as well as contemporary credibility. Prerequisite: Bibl 100 or 200 or consent of instructor.

REL 321 History of Mennonites in America 3
(Cross-listed from Hist 321) Emphasis on Mennonites as a people developing and interacting with the larger American society, using themes such as migration, community formation, beliefs, acculturation and pacifist citizenship in war and peace.

REL 322 Worshiping Communities 3
An introduction to the forms, styles, and history of Christian worship. Content includes a survey of the liturgical year and the major traditions of Christian spirituality. In addition, students will reflect on themes ranging from public and private forms of worship to the aesthetics of worship spaces. Students will also have the opportunity to actively reflect on how social realities and political concerns can be resources for discipleship, spiritual growth, and corporate worship.

REL 328 Spiritual Writings of Women 3
A survey of women's writings about the spiritual journey. Includes a range of medieval through 20th-century women. Examines women's use of their experiences as one source of theologizing.

REL 330 Religion and Sexuality 3
An exploration of the meaning and purpose of human sexuality in the context of Christian (and other) religious faith(s) and in relation to culturally based attitudes. Topics addressed will include body phenomenology, body theology, gender issues, historical developments, sexuality and spirituality, singleness, marriage, friendship, sexual violence, and a variety of other theological, ethical and relational issues. The course draws extensively on feminist models, themes and authors.

REL 374 Contemporary Iss in Youth Ministry 3
This course considers the challenges of our ever-changing world and explores the pastoral care issues of adolescent youth that result from these dynamics. We will also examine programmatic ways for us to respond in our youth ministry settings that appropriately seeks to strengthen youth in their faith journey. Students will also engage in various prayer exercises and develop a list of practical ministry resources.

REL 402 Christianity & Modern Thought 3
A seminar examining and assessing narrative theology and ethics. An attempt to state faith in meaningful terms by understanding the principles and structures of narrative and habitually using them. This course also serves as the senior seminar for Bible and religion majors, and only seniors are allowed in the course. Participation for non-Bible and religion majors requires the consent of the professor.

REL 409 Religion Internship 3 (1-3)
Approved intern or work experience related to studies in religion. Examples are Ministry Inquiry Program, supervised work in campus ministries, church agencies, chaplaincy or congregational programs.

REL 410 Religion Senior Seminar 3
Advanced work in principles and problems of religious studies through the examination and assessment of narrative theology and ethics. Constant attention is given to meaningful articulation of faith. (See Rel 402, Christianity and Modern Thought))

Philosophy courses

PHIL 200 Introduction to Philosophy 3
An introduction to the major problems of philosophy such as the nature of knowledge and reality, the relation of faith and reason, moral reasoning, politics and aesthetics. Discussion of the problems is driven by self-examination of each student's reasoned ideas and the contributions of major philosophers from a variety of traditions.

PHIL 302 Ethics and Morality 3
A study of the nature of moral claims and the bases for ethical principles.The course draws on both moral philosophy and on Christian ethical reflection, addressing the development of character as well as the patterns and methods for both individual and corporate decision-making.

PHIL 307 Asian Thought 3
The main aim of this course is to introduce the student to the questions, methods, goals and character of Asian philosophies and to instill in him or her a sensitivity to the profundity of thought that informs Asian history and culture.

PHIL 310 Topics in Philosophy 3
Study in specific areas of philosophic thought such as ancient/medieval, logic, modern philosophy, theory of knowledge, theory and problems of reality.

PHIL 400 Individual Readings in Philosophy 1
Students take initiative to develop a plan with a department faculty member. By consent of the faculty member only.