HIS 302: Reformation and Modern Church History

Title: HIS 302: Reformation and Modern Church History

Subtitle: Transformations and Challenges from the 16th Century to Today

Course Name & Level: Reformation and Modern Church History, Bachelor Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Reformation, Modern Church, Church History

1. Introduction:

This course examines the significant transformations in church history from the Reformation to the modern era, focusing on key figures, movements, and theological developments. Students will explore the ongoing impact of these changes on contemporary Christianity.

2. Course Description:

An advanced course focusing on the historical and theological developments in the church from the Reformation through the modern period, emphasizing the influence of King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.

3. Course Purpose:

To understand the key events and figures of the Reformation and modern church history and their impact on contemporary Christian faith and practice.

4. Course Objectives:

To explore the historical context, key events, and influential figures of the Reformation and modern church, and to understand their impact on the development of Christian doctrine and practice.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Reformation: A 16th-century movement for the reform of abuses in the Roman Catholic Church, leading to the establishment of Protestant churches.
• Counter-Reformation: The period of Catholic resurgence initiated in response to the Protestant Reformation.
• Great Awakening: A series of religious revivals in the American colonies during the 18th century.
• Modernism: A movement that sought to reconcile Christian faith with modern science and philosophy.
• Ecumenism: Efforts to promote unity among different Christian denominations.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Reformation and Modern Church History: Overview of the scope and significance of this period.
• Martin Luther and the 95 Theses: Examination of Martin Luther’s role in initiating the Reformation.
• Key Figures of the Reformation: Study of significant figures like John Calvin, Ulrich Zwingli, and Henry VIII.
• The Counter-Reformation: Examination of the Catholic Church’s response to the Reformation.
• The English Reformation: Exploration of the religious changes in England during the 16th century.
• The Puritans and Pilgrims: Study of the Puritan movement and its influence on American Christianity.
• The Great Awakenings: Examination of the religious revivals in America and their impact.
• The Rise of Denominations: Exploration of the development of various Christian denominations.
• The Modern Missionary Movement: Study of key figures and movements in modern missions.
• Ecumenical Movements: Examination of efforts to promote unity among Christian denominations.
• Challenges in the Modern Church: Exploration of contemporary issues facing the church today.
• Impact on Contemporary Christianity: Understanding how historical events have shaped modern Christian faith and practice.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and historical events related to the Reformation and modern church history.
• Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics in church history.
• Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on a chosen topic related to Reformation and modern church history.
• Midterm Exam: An exam covering the first half of the course material.
• Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering the entire course.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions and group activities.
• Presentation: A presentation on a significant figure or event in Reformation or modern church history.

8. Research References:

• The Reformation: A History by Diarmaid MacCulloch. eBook format. MLA Citation: MacCulloch, Diarmaid. The Reformation: A History. Viking, 2003.
• Christianity’s Dangerous Idea: The Protestant Revolution—A History from the Sixteenth Century to the Twenty-First by Alister E. McGrath. eBook format. MLA Citation: McGrath, Alister E. Christianity’s Dangerous Idea: The Protestant Revolution—A History from the Sixteenth Century to the Twenty-First. HarperOne, 2007.
• The Great Awakening: A Brief History with Documents by Thomas S. Kidd. eBook format. MLA Citation: Kidd, Thomas S. The Great Awakening: A Brief History with Documents. Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2008.
• The Church in the Modern Age: The I.B.Tauris History of the Christian Church by Jeremy Morris. eBook format. MLA Citation: Morris, Jeremy. The Church in the Modern Age: The I.B.Tauris History of the Christian Church. I.B.Tauris, 2007.
• The Modern Theologians: An Introduction to Christian Theology Since 1918 edited by David F. Ford and Rachel Muers. eBook format. MLA Citation: Ford, David F., and Rachel Muers, editors. The Modern Theologians: An Introduction to Christian Theology Since 1918. 3rd ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2011.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of the history of the Reformation and the modern church, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.