Courses in this department deal with doctrines in a topical manner, traditionally known as the “Theological Encyclopedia.”
ST11 – Introduction to Reformed Theology (3 Credit Hours)
No Prerequisites
Instructor: Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr.
Description: A survey of the system of Christian thought using the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms as guides, with the intent of grounding students in biblical Reformed theology. Includes required readings in Calvin’s Institutes, as well as catechism memorization.
ST31 – Prolegomena & Theology (3 Credit Hours)
Prerequisites: ST11, OT14, NT12
Instructor: Dr. Ryan M. McGraw
Description: Prolegomena treats the doctrine of Scripture and the doctrine of God as providing the fundamental principles undergirding theology as a discipline. Stresses definitions of theology and the doctrine of Scripture in particular. Theology proper treats the doctrine of God, the Trinity, divine decrees, the definitions of theology, and the doctrine of Scripture, highlighting the practical elements of Trinitarian theology.
ST32 – Creation, Man, & Sin (3 Credit Hours)
Prerequisite: ST31
Instructor: Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr.
Description: A study of the doctrines of creation, the creation of man, the Imago Dei, the covenant of works, the fall of man, and the effects of sin on creation, demonstrating the theological importance and pastoral usefulness of these truths.
ST41 – Christ & Salvation (3 Credit Hours)
Prerequisite: ST32
Instructor: Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr.
Description: A study of the doctrines of the plan of salvation, the covenant of grace, the person and work of Christ, and the ordo salutis, with the application of salvation, from regeneration to assurance, demonstrating the theological importance and pastoral usefulness of these truths.
ST42 – Ecclesiology & Polity (3 Credit Hours)
Prerequisites: ST41
Instructor: Dr. Ryan M. McGraw
Description: Treats the doctrine of the church in relation to the Trinity, covenant, and Pneumatology. Examines the doctrine of the church from Scripture and then shifts into the nature and practice of biblical polity, or church government, aiming in particular at developing the students’ love for the church and their ability to participate in the courts of the church at every level.
ST44 – Eschatology (2 Credit Hours)
Prerequisites: ST41
Instructor: Dr. Ryan M. McGraw
Description: A study of the biblical teaching on the “last things.” The course follows the classic pattern of death, judgment, heaven, and hell. While the course treats contemporary questions, such as millennial views, its primary aim is to teach Divinity students how to preach the gospel and to minister to people in anticipation of standing before Christ’s judgment seat. This course brings the other courses in the Systematic Theology curriculum towards their fruition and goal.
ST50 – Presbyterian Theology in the American 19th Century (2 Credit Hours)
No Prerequisites
Instructor: Dr. C.N. Willborn
Description: A consideration of the theological stances and contributions of nineteenth century American Presbyterian scholars. Contributions and developments include the doctrine of adoption, ecclesiology, the office of deacon, biblical theology, and covenant theology. This course includes two days of lectures and walking tours in Columbia and Charleston (overnight accommodations in Charleston are required) at historic Presbyterian sites. The objective of the course is to enjoy theology by expanding our appreciation for biblical and systematical theology as it was expounded by select American Presbyterians of the nineteenth century. As we consider their views, expositions, and contributions to the knowledge and love of God, we shall find a more central home for theology in our faith and practice – both in our lives and in our churches.
ST55 – Calvinism & Culture (2 Credit Hours)
No Prerequisites
Instructor: Faculty
Description: A survey of how Reformed theologians have viewed the world in which they lived and of views held by several different schools of Reformed thinkers.
ST57 – Introduction to Reformed Scholasticism (2 Credit Hours)
No Prerequisites
Instructor: Dr. Ryan M. McGraw
Description: An introduction to the theological method of historic Reformed orthodoxy. Included is instruction on research methodology and an examination in an important period for the formulation and codification of Reformed theology. Students are enabled to ground contemporary Reformed theology on a classic foundation using primary source reading, research, and writing, with heavy emphasis on Latin texts of systematic theology and learning to express themselves well in writing on this topic. Latin language competency is recommended, but not required. Though there are no formal prerequisites for this elective, it is recommended that students complete ST11 and AT21 before enrolling in this course.
ST58 – Theology of John Owen (2 Credit Hours)
No Prerequisites
Instructor: Dr. Ryan M. Mcgraw, Dr. Ian Hamilton
Description: An introduction to the life and thought of John Owen, often known as the greatest theologian produced by the British Isles. Students learn to read and digest the works of this massive doctrinal and practical thinker, focusing primarily on Owen’s historical context, his Trinitarian piety, his views of the knowledge of God and true theology, his covenant theology, the law and the gospel, Christology, and his exposition of Scripture. Though there are no formal prerequisites for this elective, it is recommended that students complete ST11 and HT32 before enrolling in this course.
ST59 – Seminar in Augustine’s City of God
No Prerequisites
Instructor: Faculty
Description: An examination, through reading and discussion, of Augustine’s defense of Christianity and development of the City of God and its conflict with the city of man throughout biblical history. Though there are no formal prerequisites for this elective, it is recommended that students complete ST11 and HT22 before enrolling in this course.
ST62 – Seminar in Modern Theology (2 Credit Hours)
Prerequisites: ST11, AP21
Instructor: Dr. Scott Cook
Description: This course will give students a basic introduction to the key movements, figures, and ideas in contemporary theology. The class will primarily consist of lectures and discussion of primary texts from key figures being covered in lecture material. Special attention will be given to sermons from contemporary theologians in order to see the connection between contemporary theology and contemporary spirituality. It is recommended that students complete HT32 before enrolling in this elective course.
