2ST624 Theology of the Westminster Standards John R. Muether, Instructor ()

2ST624 Theology of the Westminster Standards
John R. Muether, Instructor ([email protected])
RTS-Orlando Fall 2014
Course Outline
1. Introduction to Creeds & Confessions
2. Ancient Creeds
3. Continental Reformed Confessions
4. The Westminster Assembly and Its Work
5. The Standards in American Presbyterian Context
6. Survey of the Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapters 1-33
Course Requirements
1. Attendance and participation in all classes (10 %)
2. Research paper on the theology of the Standards (10-12 pages, 50 %)
3. Final Exam (40%)
4. Optional assignment: memorization of portions of WSC (10%).
Required Course Textbooks
1. A copy of the Westminster Standards (recommended: OPC/PCA clothbound eds.)
2. Trueman, Carl R. The Creedal Imperative. Wheaton: Crossway, 2012.
3. Either one of these books:
Fesko, J. V. The Theology of the Westminster Standards: Historical Context and Theological
Insights. 2014.
Letham, Robert. The Westminster Assembly: Reading Its Theology in Historical Context.
Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R, 2009.
Research Paper
Select a topic in Reformed theology (e.g. Scripture, creation, sabbath, justification, covenant of
works) and survey its development in the 16th century Reformers, in the Westminster Standards,
and in subsequent reflection in the Reformed tradition. How has there been development in the
understanding of this doctrine? What is the distinctive contribution of the Westminster
Assembly? How does it compare with previous and subsequent Reformed thought? How might
the church further to develop this teaching?
Course Objectives Related to MDiv* Student Learning Outcomes
Course: 2ST624 Westminster Standards
Professor: Muether
Campus: Orlando
Date: Fall 2014
MDiv* Student Learning Outcomes
In order to measure the success of the MDiv curriculum, RTS has defined the following as
the intended outcomes of the student learning process. Each course contributes to these
overall outcomes. This rubric shows the contribution of this course to the MDiv outcomes.
*As the MDiv is the core degree at RTS, the MDiv rubric will be used in this syllabus.
Rubric
Broadly understands and articulates knowledge, both
oral and written, of essential biblical, theological,
historical, and cultural/global information, including
details, concepts, and frameworks.
Significant knowledge of the original meaning of
Scripture. Also, the concepts for and skill to research
further into the original meaning of Scripture and to
apply Scripture to a variety of modern circumstances.
(Includes appropriate use of original languages and
hermeneutics; and integrates theological, historical,
and cultural/global perspectives.)
Significant knowledge of Reformed theology and
practice, with emphasis on the Westminster
Standards.
Demonstrates a love for the Triune God that aids the
student’s sanctification.
Strong
Burning desire to conform all of life to the Word of
God.
Embraces a winsomely Reformed ethos. (Includes an
appropriate ecumenical spirit with other Christians,
especially Evangelicals; a concern to present the
Gospel in a God-honoring manner to non-Christians;
and a truth-in-love attitude in disagreements.)
Ability to preach and teach the meaning of Scripture
to both heart and mind with clarity and enthusiasm.
None
Worship
Shepherd
Articulation
(oral & written)
Scripture
Reformed Theology
Sanctification
Desire for Worldview
Winsomely Reformed
Preach
Church/World
Mini-Justification
 Strong
 Moderate
 Minimal
 None
Moderate
Strong
Moderate
Student must grasp contents of the
Westminster Standards, understanding
their Scriptural basis and place in the
Reformed traditions.
Frequent reference to analysis of the
proof texts to the Standards.
Relation of the Standards to the other
Reformed symbols and standards is
stressed.
Relation of the Standards to the Christian
life is emphasized.
Strong
Students are taught how to Reformed
symbols are to be employed in debate
with those with whom they disagree.
Minimal
The role of the Standards in shaping the
character of Reformed preaching is
discussed.
Knowledgeable of historic and modern Christianworship forms; and ability to construct and skill to lead
a worship service.
Moderate
Chapters 1, 20, and 21 of WCF relate
directly to worship.
Ability to shepherd the local congregation: aiding in
spiritual maturity; promoting use of gifts and callings;
and encouraging a concern for non-Christians, both in
America and worldwide.
Ability to interact within a denominational context,
within the broader worldwide church, and with
significant public issues.
Moderate
The use of the Reformed confessions in
pastoral ministry is featured.
Minimal
Covers the different version of the WCF
and relation of Reformed confessions to
Reformed catholicity.