Unit 4560: Foundations and Contemporary Perspectives in Theology

1. Introduction to Theology

1.1 Definition of Theology

• Meaning and etymology
• Purpose and aims

1.2 Scope of Theology

• Branches: Systematic, Historical, Moral, Comparative, Liberation
• Interdisciplinary nature

2. The Nature of God

2.1 Attributes of God

• Omnipotence, Omniscience, Omnipresence
• Immanence vs Transcendence

2.2 Theological Perspectives

• Monotheistic views
• Polytheistic and pantheistic perspectives
• Process theology and other modern views

3. Religious Scriptures and Sacred Texts

3.1 Significance in Theology

• Role in faith and practice
• Authority and inspiration

3.2 Interpretation Methods

• Hermeneutics and exegesis
• Literal vs allegorical readings
• Contextual and historical approaches

4. The Problem of Evil

4.1 Conceptualizing Evil

• Definitions and categories (moral, natural evil)

4.2 Origins and Existence

• Theodicy: attempts to reconcile evil with an omnibenevolent God
• Free will defense
• Soul-making theodicy

4.3 Implications for Theology

• Impact on beliefs about God's nature
• Challenges to faith

5. Faith and Reason in Theology

5.1 Relationship Overview

• Complementarity and tension between faith and reason

5.2 Philosophical Engagement

• Rational arguments for God’s existence
• Role of revelation and mysticism

5.3 Contemporary Perspectives

• Dialogue between science and theology

6. Liberation Theology

6.1 Origins and Historical Context

• Latin American roots
• Key figures and texts

6.2 Principles and Focus

• Emphasis on social justice and the poor
• Praxis and activism

6.3 Impact on Theology and Society

• Influence on global theological discourse

7. Comparative Theology

7.1 Purpose and Methodology

• Dialogue vs. syncretism
• Comparative analysis techniques

7.2 Case Studies

• Comparative beliefs about God, salvation, and ethics
• Interfaith dialogue and understanding

8. Theological Ethics

8.1 Ethical Theories in Theology

• Natural law, divine command, virtue ethics

8.2 Key Concepts

• Morality, sin, virtue, and ethical decision-making

8.3 Application

• Contemporary moral issues within religious contexts

9. Historical Development of Theology

9.1 Early Theology

• Patristic and medieval periods

9.2 Reformation and Modern Era

• Major movements and figures

9.3 Contemporary Trends

• Postmodern and liberation influences

10. Contemporary Issues in Theology

10.1 Theology and Science

• Evolution, cosmology, and theological responses

10.2 Technology and Ethics

• Bioethics, AI, and theological reflections

10.3 Gender and Theology

• Feminist theology and gender justice

10.4 Environmental Theology

• Eco-theology and stewardship of creation