3KL220N The Christian Worldview in Apologetic Perspective: Key Approaches and Themes

All versions:
3KL220N (2024—2025)
3KL220N (2023—2024)
3KL220N (2022—2023)

Course code: 3KL220N

Course name: The Christian Worldview in Apologetic Perspective: Key Approaches and Themes

Semester: Autumn

Location: Kristiansand, Online study

Academic year: 2023–2024

Language: English

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Available for course students: Yes

Application: Apply at our local applicationpage

Required prerequisite knowledge

One Year Study in Theology, Religion or Philosophy.

Recommended prerequisite knowledge

A basic introduction to Christian Apologetics, such as provided in 3KL101, 3KL103 or 3KL104/3KL106.

Relevance within study programme

The course can be part of the Bachelor in Practical Theology and Leadership and an elective course both in the Bachelor in Theology and in the Professional Study of Theology (the candidatus theologiae degree).

Introduction

The Christian Worldview in Apologetic Perspective explores the challenges and opportunities for Christian apologetics in a late modern pluralistic setting

The first part presents and evaluates different apologetic perspectives, while the second part explores a number of apologetic areas, comprising a proposed "canon" for Christian apologetics in a late modern setting.

The course aims at equipping the students with basic insights into methodological and strategic issues in Christian apologetics

Learning outcomes descriptors

After completed course the student has attained the following learning outcomes.

Knowledge

The student

  • has an understanding of key approaches in current Christian apologetics
  • has a basic knowledge of central themes in Christian apologetics

Skills

The student

  • can critically assess various approaches in Christian apologetics
  • can reflect independently and critically on apologetic challenges and opportunities
  • can respond to basic questions and objections to the Christian faith, on different arenas and in different formats

General competence

The student

  • can apply strategies for Christian apologetics in Christian communication in different contexts
  • can contribute to a renewed

Content

Part A: Introduction to different apologetic approaches (4 ECTS)

This part will introduce reflection on methodology in Christian Apologetics, by exploring and evaluating the discussion between five main apologetic approaches within a broad evangelical theological context.

Part B: Introduction to key issues in Christian apologetics (6 ECTS)

This part will present and discuss a proposed "canon" of thematic areas for Christian apologetics in a late modern context. The proposed themes are:

  • Faith and Knowledge
  • Pluralism and Truth
  • God and Reality
  • Good and Evil
  • Sources and History
  • The Identity and Resurrection of Jesus
  • Humanity, personal identity
  • The Justification for Ethics 

Teaching and learning methods

The 3KL220N course is offered online.

The curriculum is introduced through a series of web lessons, with a variety of digital learning resources.

The course offers five digital / local sessions with lectures and workshops. The sessions will make use of a flipped classroom approach, with presentations, interactive discussions, and media examples, involving both faculty and students.

The digital /local sessions in 3KL220 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a fertile learning environment.

Scope

250 hours.

Coursework requirements

One 1500 words (plus minus 20%) assignment with questions on each of the apologetics issues.

Grading, coursework requirements

Approved/not approved

Final assessment

Final assessment in 3KL220N is a one week home exam on a pre-assigned topic. The assignment is distributed at the beginning of the exam.

The exam is comprised of a written paper of 3000 words (plus minus 20%).

Grading, examination

Assessed according to the standard A-F grading system.

Permitted aids under examination

All

Assessment language

English or a Scandinavian language

Progression requirements

None

Practice

None.

Credit reductions

4 ECTS in relation to 3KL211.

Course evaluation

Annual course evaluation in accordance with the quality assurance system for NLA University College. Students may also give their feedback on the course in the student group/in class.

Available as Single Course

Yes. 

Digital reading list

Follow this link for reading list and academic resources.