Pentecostal Charismatic Studies (Masters)

A study of the development of the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements in the 20th century. Cross-listed with HIS 528.

Investigates the role of the Holy Spirit in the primitive Christian community. The ministry of the Spirit in the worship and interpersonal relations of Christians will be stressed. Includes a special unit on the theology of the Church. Cross-listed with BTH 533.

An exegetical and theological examination of the classical Pentecostal understanding of Spirit baptism. The historical development of the doctrine and relevant hermeneutical issues will also be considered. Cross-listed with BTH 534.

An exegetical and biblical theological study of all the major references to the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament with emphasis on the various aspects of the work of the Spirit in the lives of God's people. It will also show how these themes provide foundational support for Pentecostal experience and doctrine. Cross-listed with BTH 538.

Explores Pentecostalism's contribution to contemporary mission theology. Special attention will be given to missiological issues relating to Pentecostal theology and praxis, the biblical validity and relevance of spiritual power encounter, and signs and wonders. Cross-listed with BTH 540 and MHT 540.

Examines the biblical, historical and theological development of the doctrine of initial evidence for the baptism in the Holy Spirit in the Pentecostal Movement. Cross-listed with HIS 546.

Examines the biblical expressions of the person and work of the Holy Spirit. His vital role in providing regeneration for the repentant, sanctifying the convert, baptizing the believer and giving and empowering ministries for service to the Kingdom of God will be considered. Cross-listed with THE 621.

Analyzes signs and wonders in the Scriptures with reference to the various words which express these phenomena and the cultural contexts that shaped the worldviews of biblical authors and their opponents. Related issues of contemporary interest and relevance (e.g., their relationship to faith and spiritual warfare) will also be considered and the scriptural evidence examined. Cross-listed with BTH 632.

Considers the healing ministry of God in today's world. Surveys the biblical and theological perspectives and the history of divine healing in the Church. Special emphasis will be placed upon the role of the doctrine and practice of divine healing in the Pentecostal/Charismatic movements in the twentieth century. Cross-listed with THE 633.

Combines biblical (especially the Gospels and Paul's Letters), missiological, theological and pastoral insights to the charismata (gifts of the Spirit), presenting the biblical-theological basis for understanding and charismatic nature of the New Testament church and its ministry. Topics include developing biblical insights and principles for the use and praxis of spiritual gifts in the church. Emphasis is given for pastors and missionaries to grasp the sensitivities and unique needs of multi-cultural churches, especially as it relates to spiritual gifts. Most importantly, the development of gift ministry in our own lives is emphasized, encouraged and practiced. Cross-listed with BTH 635 and PTH 635.

Each student in the Master of Arts in Theological Studies program must enroll in this graduate seminar course before completion of the degree. The preparation of a major seminar paper affords students an opportunity to demonstrate competencies within their chosen concentrations through research, interpretation and writing. Cross-listed with BNT 646, BOT 646, MHT 646, and THE 646.