Module THMN46130: The Doctrine of the Trinity: History, Systematics, Practice

Department: Theology, Ministry and Mission

THMN46130: The Doctrine of the Trinity: History, Systematics, Practice

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To enable students to undertake in-depth critical study of the doctrine of the Trinity in relation to its biblical foundations, systematic connections, historical expressions and contemporary relevance.
• This module investigates central historical and doctrinal developments in the doctrine of the Trinity from its New Testament origins to contemporary issues. Drawing on primary sources and critical scholarship, the module will devise a theological framework in which to assess the different ways in which the doctrine of the Trinity has been understood over time. The relationship between the doctrine of the Trinity and contemporary ministry and mission will examined and assessed.

Content

• This module will explore the doctrine of the Trinity and may include the following:
• Exploration of the doctrine’s biblical foundations
• The Councils of Nicaea and Constantinople
• Pneumatology, Christology and Patrology in Trinitarian perspective
• Modernity and the Doctrine of the Trinity
• Contemporary Perspectives such as Feminism, Global Readings, the Trinity among the Faiths
• The Trinity in non-textual culture (e.g. art, liturgy, hymnody or material evidence)
• Attention to the relationships between the Doctrine of the Trinity and the contemporary Christian practice of discipleship, mission, and ministry

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a sophisticated understanding and depth of knowledge of the doctrine of th Trinity in relation to its biblical foundations, systematic connections, and historical and contemporary expressions.
• Understand, assimilate and evaluate critically advanced scholarship and research findings relating to the doctrine of the Trinity.
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the methodologies applicable to doctrinal study of the Trinity.

• Demonstrate a specific understanding of methods and tools for the study of the doctrine of the Trinity, including the ability to compare and evaluate primary sources and to distinguish the perspectives of historical research and of systematic theological engagement with the thought forms of different eras.
• Critically evaluate and apply methods for relating the doctrine of the Trinity to Christian practice.

• Carry out systematic and creative research into complex issues and communicate findings with clarity, sensitivity, fairness and imagination to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Demonstrate the ability to interpret and assess the plural nature of the sources and to contextualise critically conflicting interpretations and contrasting theological positions on the doctrine of the Trinity.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures provide content, a conceptual framework and a survey of approaches to doctrine that enable students to locate their learning in a wider context, make connections with other disciplines, and evaluate and apply their learning to different contexts.
• Seminars offer students an opportunity to present, evaluate and apply their knowledge to specific reading contexts, and to engage with teaching staff and peers in debate and reflection.
• Guided reading in conjunction with lectures and seminars encourages independent learning and underpins the knowledge and understanding gained in lectures and seminars.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

a) A 1,500-word written critical engagement with one source relating to the summative assessment AND/OR b) A 10-minute presentation on the text.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.