Social Ethics

SOC 621NE
Old Testament Prophets’ Cry for Justice
Credits: 2

This course examines the Old Testament prophets and their call for social justice. It offers opportunity for an in-depth examination of the prophets’ exhortations and teachings on God’s justice for the Israelite community. Particular attention is given to the Minor Prophets, including Amos, Hosea, and Micah. Reflection on this prophetic literature provides an opportunity to delineate the significance of the prophetic cry for justice for the Church today.
[M.Div. requires one SOC course]

SOC 625NE
Christian Social Ethics in the Public Realm
Credits: 2

This course is an introduction to the basic themes in Christian theology as they relate to contemporary social issues and public policy. The course provides a Christian global perspective that relates theology and ethics to ministry and service in the public realm. Topics include a survey of existing justice and moral theories that relate to cultural analysis and ministerial practice. Areas that will be explored include power, government, war, wealth and poverty, gender, and diversity. The goal is to provide students with both theological and ministerial tools to address important social issues in their churches, community, and larger society. (This course was originally offered as THE 625NE, Christian Social Ethics in the Public Realm.)
[M.Div. requires one SOC course]

SOC 642NE
Jesus and the Poor: Biblical Perspectives on Economic Justice
Credits: 3

Howard Thurman’s question, “What, then, is the word of the religion of Jesus to those who stand with their backs against the wall?” is a perennial one. This course begins in the New Testament with a study of Jesus’ relationship with the poor and his sayings regarding poverty, wealth, and discipleship. Topics also include exegeses on key biblical passages regarding economic justice in both the Old and New Testament and an examination of contemporary successes and failures of the local and global Christian Church to end economic oppression. The course explores the implications for applying a biblical ethic of justice to individual Christian discipleship and corporate church witness.
[M.Div. requires one SOC course]

SOC 655NE
Violence Against Women - Theological and Social Issues
Credits: 2

This course addresses the problem of violence against women from a Christian theological perspective. Violence against women is defined in both legal and spiritual language that provides a description of the problem and a framework for addressing this important issue. The course will provide an analysis of current theories and practices. Topics include violence against women as an international human rights issue, the responsibility of the Church in its prophetic role to provide a response, and exploring the biblical basis for addressing this issue.
[M.Div. requires one SOC course]