Course Description

Welcome to BML 102! This course offers a respectful and insightful exploration into the diverse tapestry of Christian beliefs. While many courses focus on the core doctrines that unite all Christians, this course examines the distinctive beliefs and historical backgrounds of major Christian denominations and traditions. We will investigate how different groups have understood key theological concepts, providing a framework for you to understand your own convictions more clearly and to engage with others in a more informed and gracious manner. This is not about proving one tradition right and others wrong, but about fostering understanding and appreciation for the rich diversity within the body of Christ.

Course Structure

This course is composed of five chapters. Each chapter includes a summary, five lessons, a chapter test, and a “Deep Dive” for further study. The course concludes with a final course test.

• Course: Syllabus + Interactive Syllabus + 5 Chapters + Course Test
• Chapter: Summary + 5 Lessons + Chapter Test + Deep Dive

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify Major Traditions: Recognize the primary branches of Christianity (e.g., Eastern Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, Protestantism) and their key historical origins.
• Articulate Key Doctrines: Explain the distinctive theological positions of major denominations on topics such as sacraments, church governance, and eschatology.
• Appreciate Historical Context: Understand how historical events and key figures shaped the doctrinal development of various traditions.
• Engage Respectfully: Develop the ability to discuss theological differences with charity, clarity, and respect for other believers.
• Clarify Personal Convictions: Use the comparative study to better understand and articulate their own theological positions.
• Promote Unity: Appreciate the common faith that unites Christians across denominational lines, even amidst doctrinal diversity.

Course Outline

Chapter 1: The Early Church – Foundational Unity and Early Divisions

• Lesson 1: The Apostolic Church: Core Beliefs of the First Believers
• Lesson 2: The Church Fathers and the Ecumenical Councils
• Lesson 3: The Great Schism: The Split Between Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism
• Lesson 4: Key Beliefs of Eastern Orthodoxy
• Lesson 5: Key Beliefs of Roman Catholicism

Chapter 2: The Protestant Reformation – A Renewal and a Splintering

• Lesson 1: The Seeds of Reformation: Wycliffe, Hus, and Erasmus
• Lesson 2: Martin Luther and the Lutheran Tradition
• Lesson 3: John Calvin and the Reformed Tradition
• Lesson 4: The Anabaptist Movement: The Radical Reformation
• Lesson 5: The English Reformation and the Anglican Tradition

Chapter 3: Denominations Arising from English and American History

• Lesson 1: The Puritans, Separatists, and the Congregational Tradition
• Lesson 2: John Wesley and the Methodist Tradition
• Lesson 3: The Baptist Tradition: Believer’s Baptism and Local Church Autonomy
• Lesson 4: The Restoration Movement: Churches of Christ and Disciples of Christ
• Lesson 5: The Holiness Movement and the Rise of the Nazarenes

Chapter 4: The Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements

• Lesson 1: The Azusa Street Revival and the Birth of Pentecostalism
• Lesson 2: Core Doctrines of Classical Pentecostalism (e.g., Assemblies of God)
• Lesson 3: The Charismatic Renewal in Mainline Denominations
• Lesson 4: The Third Wave and Vineyard Movement
• Lesson 5: Global Pentecostalism and its Diverse Expressions

Chapter 5: Contemporary Issues and Interdenominational Dialogue

• Lesson 1: The Ecumenical Movement: The Quest for Christian Unity
• Lesson 2: Understanding Non-Denominational Churches
• Lesson 3: Messianic Judaism: A Bridge Between Church and Synagogue
• Lesson 4: Key Areas of Current Theological Debate Across Denominations
• Lesson 5: Charting Your Own Beliefs: A Personal Statement of Faith

Assessments & Grading

• Chapter Quizzes: Short quizzes will follow each lesson to assess comprehension.
• Chapter Tests: A test at the end of each of the five chapters will review the material covered.
• Final Course Test: A comprehensive final exam will cover the key ideas from all five chapters.
• Passing Requirement: To successfully complete this course, you must achieve a score of 80% or higher on each of the five Chapter Tests and the Final Course Test.