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Title: HIS 601: Early Church History and Development
Subtitle: The Foundations and Growth of the Early Christian Church
Course Name & Level: Early Church History and Development, Master Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Early Church, Church History, Christian Development
1. Introduction:
This course examines the history and development of the early Christian church from the apostolic age to the early medieval period. Students will explore key events, figures, and theological developments that shaped the early church.
2. Course Description:
An advanced course focusing on the history and development of the early Christian church. Emphasis is placed on understanding the historical context, significant events, influential leaders, and theological controversies that contributed to the formation and growth of the early church.
3. Course Purpose:
To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the early church’s history and development, enhancing their ability to appreciate the roots of Christian faith and practice.
4. Course Objectives:
To explore and analyze the key events, figures, and theological developments in early church history, understanding their significance for contemporary Christian life and ministry.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Apostolic Age: The period in early church history when the apostles were alive and leading the church.
- Patristic Era: The period in early church history following the apostolic age, characterized by the writings and teachings of the Church Fathers.
- Council of Nicaea: The first ecumenical council held in 325 AD, which addressed the Arian controversy and formulated the Nicene Creed.
- Martyrdom: The act of suffering death as a witness to one’s faith in Christ.
- Creeds: Formal statements of Christian beliefs, developed to unify and clarify the faith.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to Early Church History: Overview of the course and its objectives.
- The Apostolic Age: Examination of the early church during the time of the apostles, including key events and teachings.
- Persecution and Martyrdom: Study of the persecution of early Christians and the role of martyrdom in shaping the church.
- The Church Fathers: Exploration of the writings and contributions of the early Church Fathers.
- Councils and Creeds: Analysis of the major church councils and the development of Christian creeds.
- Heresies and Orthodoxy: Examination of early church heresies and the establishment of orthodox beliefs.
- Constantine and the Christian Empire: Study of the impact of Emperor Constantine on the early church and the Christianization of the Roman Empire.
- Monasticism: Exploration of the rise of monasticism and its influence on early Christianity.
- Theological Controversies: Examination of key theological debates and their resolutions in the early church.
- Mission and Expansion: Study of the early church’s missionary efforts and the spread of Christianity.
- Church and Society: Analysis of the relationship between the early church and the surrounding society.
- Legacy of the Early Church: Reflection on the lasting impact of early church history on contemporary Christianity.
7. Assessments with Descriptions:
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key events, figures, and theological developments in early church history.
- Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
- Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on a chosen aspect of early 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 aspect of early church history and development.
8. Research References:
- The Early Church: History and Memory by Ivor J. Davidson. eBook format. MLA Citation: Davidson, Ivor J. The Early Church: History and Memory. Baker Academic, 2008.
- The Rise of Christianity: History, Documents, and Key Questions by Rodney Stark. eBook format. MLA Citation: Stark, Rodney. The Rise of Christianity: History, Documents, and Key Questions. HarperOne, 1997.
- Early Christian Doctrines by J.N.D. Kelly. eBook format. MLA Citation: Kelly, J.N.D. Early Christian Doctrines. HarperOne, 1978.
- The Story of Christianity, Volume 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation by Justo L. González. eBook format. MLA Citation: González, Justo L. The Story of Christianity, Volume 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation. HarperOne, 2010.
- The First Thousand Years: A Global History of Christianity by Robert Louis Wilken. eBook format. MLA Citation: Wilken, Robert Louis. The First Thousand Years: A Global History of Christianity. Yale University Press, 2012.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of early church history and development, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
