Northwestern’s religion department is large for a college our size and serves all students through general education courses in biblical studies and Christian theology. Your major courses will help you develop your Christian worldview and further strengthen your foundational knowledge in Scripture, theology and the practice of ministry.
Christian Mission Minor
The Christian Mission minor prepares students for intercultural competence in Christian ministry. The program integrates biblical and theological reflection with opportunities for experiential learning. Demographic changes in North America coupled with globalization have enormous implications for how we engage in mission. The minor helps students understand their calling and employ their gifts in loving God and their neighbor through any chosen occupational field.
| Requirements |
| REL 290 - Christian Witness |
| REL 294 - Introduction to Christian Missions |
| REL 295 - Intercultural Communication |
| REL 390 - World Religions |
| REL 392 - Topics in Missiology |
| Choose eight credits: |
| REL 310 - Christian Spirituality |
| REL 317 - Topics in Old Testament Studies |
| REL 322 - Topics in New Testament Studies |
| REL 328 - Biblical Interpretation and Theology |
| REL 375 - Topics in Theology |
| SOC 290 - Cultural Anthropology |
| Total credits required: 24 |
Students must also complete an approved cross-cultural immersion. This requirement may be satisfied by, but not limited to, the following: Summer of Service; mission internship; an approved study-abroad program, such as those offered by the Council for Christian College & Universities; or any study-abroad program recognized for credit by Northwestern College. Other programs may be created and approved by the instructor if they allow sufficient mission experience and reflection.
A topical and selective study of major missiological themes, permitting students to read and reflect intensively upon the nature and challenge of Christian mission. Topics will vary from year to year. Sample topics might include Religious Conversion, The Finality of Christ in a Pluralistic World, Interfaith Dialogue, Contextualization, Women in Mission Yesterday and Today.Prerequisite: REL294 or permission of instructor.(4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
An introduction to the study of humanity across time and space, comparing societies and cultures to identify likenesses and differences. The study of anthropology develops an appreciation for the diverse ways human beings have approached universal situations: relationships between individuals and groups, adaptations to physical and economic environments, approaches to the infinite. Western and non-Western cultures are studied, ethnographic fieldwork goals and techniques discussed, and problems of ethnocentrism and culture change addressed.(4 credits)
An examination of Christian witness as verbal proclamation (evangelism), as reasoned response (apologetics), as a distinctive lifestyle and as the practice of social justice. Prerequisite: REL262 (4 credits)
A general overview of the biblical foundations and historical evolution of Christian mission, with special emphasis upon the modern development of mission theory and practice.Prerequisite: REL262(2 credits)
A study of a single book or larger section of the Old Testament or a current area of critical inquiry concerning the Old Testament. Possible topics include, but are not limited to, the Pentateuch, the Historical Writings, the Prophets, and the Poetic and Wisdom books.Prerequisites: REL110 and sophomore class standing.(2 credits)
A study of a single book or larger section of the New Testament or a current area of critical inquiry concerning the New Testament. Possible topics include the Synoptic Gospels, the Book of Acts, the Johannine Literature, the Epistolary Literature, the Apocalypse.Prerequisite: REL110 and sophomore class standing.(2 credits)
An examination of the past and present methods and proposals for biblical interpretation and biblical theology. The course will analyze and critique various models for hermeneutics and theological interpretation and also assist students in constructing exegetical methods that are biblically based, theologically informed and culturally relevant.Prerequisite: REL110.(4 credits)
A study of one or more standard areas of theology, (such as the doctrines of Revelation, God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, Humanity, Salvation, the Church, and Last Things) from a classical as well as a contemporary perspective.Prerequisites: REL110 and 262.(4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
The major religions of India, East Asia and the Middle East are examined in the light of the Christian faith. This course emphasizes the interaction of religion and culture with a view to cross-cultural understanding. In-depth research into a specific culture and religion is required.(4 credits)
