Study of the nature and method of religious philosophical thinking. Aspects of religious faith and practice that provoke philosophical questions, such as arguments for and against the existence of God, relationship between God and human, origins and meaning of human life, the problem of good and evil, the human search for happiness and fulfilment, religious phenomena, and the relationship between faith and reason.
Introduction to morphology and grammar of New Testament Greek. Alphabet, rules of accents, conjugation, declension, forms of tenses, moods, other grammatical aspects, and basic vocabulary.
The issue of the authorship of the Gospels, their dating, place of writing, background, addressees, occasion, and purpose. The Synoptic Problem. The structure, contents, concerns, and main theological themes of these gospels.
The nature and method of propagation and expansion of Adventism in the Gold Coast/Ghana from the nineteenth century to present.
Rudiments and theory of music and music appreciation, hymnody, and African Christian music. The role of music in worship. Principles that undergird the choice of music and musical instruments for Christian worship. Acquisition of practical skills in music.
Continuation of RELT 121, covering remaining morphological and grammatical rules of New Testament Greek. Practice in reading and translation of simple texts from the Gospel of John.
Introduction to the Pentateuch and the Writings, covering issues of authorship/composition, background, structure, contents, and basic theological themes. Discussion of selected texts from an African perspective.
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RELT 213 History and Literature of the Intertestamental Period |
History and chronology of events sequel to the Old Testament period and preparatory to the New Testament period as related to the Jewish people. General introduction to the Jewish literature of the Second Temple period.
Method and approach of the study of ATR. The existing sources for the study of ATR. Reflections on some themes in the structure and characteristics of ATR and their relevance to society. Human relations with respect to nature, ecology, concepts of community, environment, traditional ethics and destiny. Basic belief systems in ATR with reference to the spiritual and physical realms, such as belief in God, earthly deity, and ancestors.
Introduction to the principles and practice of the pastoral care of individuals through the application of counselling techniques. Theological reflection on the counselling techniques in the context of pastoral redemptive care and actual skill of counselling through practical sessions.
Introduction to morphology and grammar of Old Testament Hebrew. Alphabet, vocalization, basic particles, nouns, adjectives, strong verbs (Qal and Piel), construct relationship, and basic vocabulary.
Introduction to the worldviews on the origins of life. Evaluation of the creation debate and evolutionary theory through counter scientific evidence and the biblical record.
Introduction to the Book of Acts, Pauline Epistles, and the General Epistles, covering issues of authorship, background, structure, contents, and basic theological themes.
An introduction to the gospel ministry. Equipping the prospective minister with strategies for effective mobilization of the church, especially the youth for service in the gospel commission.
Study of the Second Advent Awakening in the nineteenth century and subsequent development, organization, and history of the SDA Church, including the Adventist understanding of the prophetic ministry of E. G. White.
Continuation of RELT 221, covering remaining morphological and grammatical rules of Old Testament Hebrew: pronominal suffixes, strong verbs (Nifal, Pual, Hifil, Hofal, Hitpael), overview of weak verbs (all stems), and vocabulary. Introduction to BHS and practice in reading/translation of selected texts from Genesis.
Introduction to the Prophets including the historical books (Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings), the Major Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel) and the Twelve Minor Prophets (Hosea-Malachi). Composition, background, structure, contents, and basic theological themes.
Study of the methods of biblical interpretation. A review of historical development and an examination of hermeneutical presuppositions. Formulation of sound principles of biblical interpretation with application on selected texts representing the major genres of the Old and New Testaments, considering the African perspective.
Introduction to research methods and writing in theology with special focus on literature review or documentary research methodology. A proposal to be developed into senior research paper is required. May also be taught with special focus on descriptive survey research methodology.
Application of the skills of ministry, including participation in evangelism, congregational nurture and church growth, and preparation and presentation of a full range of Bible lessons. Student group attachment to churches under the supervision of respective church pastors. Discussion of reports in class.
Survey of the foundations for effective biblical preaching and study on the preparation and delivery of expository and topical sermons. The discovery of the exegetical idea of the text, the formulation of the homiletical idea, and principles of sermon delivery. Peer review on the delivery of sermons.
Study of effective church administration, the principles of shepherd leadership, and the role and function of the local pastor as the leader. The basic policies and structures of the Seventh-day Adventist Church within the Ghanaian context.
Study of the basic principles, practices, and methods related to the propagation of the gospel. Planning, budgeting, gaining local church participation, publicity, use of aids and audiovisual materials, and various other procedures of public evangelism. A proposal of evangelistic outreach required.
Survey of fundamental Christian beliefs and teachings, including revelation, inspiration, the Godhead, angels, the devil and the origin of sin, creation, man’s original condition and fall, state of the dead, the Holy Spirit, and the incarnation, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ.
The origins and development of Islam within its cultural context; life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) the origins of the Qur’an and the Hadith, the differences between them, and their relationship to earlier Scriptures. Broad themes and characteristics of Islam including the faith and practice, especially in Ghana.
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RELT 400 Internship: Ministerial Attachment & Literature Evangelism |
An eight-week field experience in a local church under the supervision of an experienced minister. Participation in various church functions, teaching, planning, and administration as well as personal ministry, visitation, Bible studies, literature evangelism, and other duties as prescribed by the supervisor. Taken during the long vacation after completion of level 300 courses. Performance of the student at the workplace is evaluated.
Issues in origin and characteristics of apocalyptic literature. Brief overview of apocalyptic writings in ANE, OT, and related Second Temple literature. The book of Daniel: authorship, background, structure, content, schools of interpretation, and exposition.
Instruction in the aspects of church ministry, including guidelines in organizing and leading church meetings and weekly worship services, and officiating in rituals and ceremonies. The class is used for practicum.
Continuation of RELT 324, covering topics including Sabbath, covenant, soteriology, baptism, ecclesiology, sanctuary service, Christian living, and eschatology. [Pre-req.: RELT 324]
Prerequisite: COSC121
Independent research and writing on an approved topic supervised by faculty member.
Study of the biblical origin, composition, principles, dynamics, and growth of marriage and family within the African context. Topics include the building of healthy relationships, spousal interaction, child or spousal abuse, problems in parenting, aging and health, and crises at critical periods in the life cycle. An examination of the principles involved in a mature approach to courtship, marriage and parenthood, and marital counselling.
Definition of and relationship between religion, gender, and culture. Theoretical and methodological issues; critique and deconstruction of religious traditions, beliefs and practices with regard to gender; reconstructing images of gender and power relationship. Current trends in gender issues in church leadership.
Religion and Ethics as socializing influences. Religion and development. Elements of individuality and plurality in religious communities and their relevance for Ghanaian society. Religious faith, property and wealth. Religion and politics in Ghana. Religious communities and the State in Ghana.
Survey of the Christian Church highlighting major historical and theological developments from the second century to the nineteenth century.
Study of the history and developments in Christianity in West Africa. An evaluation of the early missionary activities. Contemporary issues in missions and African culture.
Brief overview of apocalyptic writings in NT and related Second Temple literature. The book of Revelation: authorship, background, structure, content, schools of interpretation, and exposition.
Principles of managing church and personal finance. Financial planning, money management strategies, investing financial resource, and financial planning related to retirement. Preparation and analysis of financial statements, auditing and control systems, and budgeting. Proposal writing for small scale business funding.
A study of the growth pattern and challenges of the church in West Africa. Current trends in Mainline Churches, Pentecostalism, Charismatism, and AICs. Evaluation of the impact of the growth pattern on the society.
Study of African Christian and Liberation theologies. Issues of contextualization, enculturation, and localization of Christian theology. [Pre-req.: RELT 413]
A seminar exploring current topical issues in systematic theology. Peer review papers on topics to be decided by lecturer.
A seminar exploring issues in theology and African culture. Peer review papers on topics such as polygamy, libation, healing, chieftaincy, ancestral beliefs, rites of passage, taboos, deliverance and exorcism, and other issues of current interest.
A seminar exploring issues in theology and ecology. Peer review papers on topics such as environmental ethics, environmental sustainability, ecological sanitation, ecological preservation, and other issues of current interest.
A seminar on issues peculiar or relevant to Seventh-day Adventist theology. Peer review papers on topics such as the heavenly sanctuary, pre-advent judgment, three angels’ messages, remnant, gift of prophecy, spiritualism, health reform, and other issues of current interest.
Introduction to and practical application of various technological devices and software related to the work of a local pastor, covering topics such as sound systems, lighting systems, multimedia systems, software for word processing, power point presentations, spreadsheet and database, and theological software tools (e.g., Bibleworks).
Introduction to the rudiments of auto-mechanics, auto-electrical as well as auto-maintenance. Familiarization with common auto-mechanic and electrical faults/failures, and how to prevent or repair them.
Introduction to the basic techniques of horticulture with particular emphasis on modern methods of grafting, seed nursing for gardening and field orchard. Practical experience through involvement in the ecological farm projects at Valley View University.
Introduction to the rudiments of masonry with reference to mortar mixing, block moulding, and block laying. Practical experience through involvement in masonry activities at a recommended building site.
Introduction to the basics of real estate management, covering topics such as land acquisition, documentation, development, management, and maintenance.
Survey of the archaeological, cultural, geographical, historical, and literary backgrounds of the Old Testament. [Complementing RELT 213].
Introduction to the syntax of New Testament Greek. Readings in selected texts of the Greek New Testament. [Pre-req.: 211]
Introduction to Biblical Hebrew syntax and textlinguistics. Readings in selected texts of the Hebrew Bible. [Pre-req.: 311]
A brief survey of the history and transmission of the text of the New Testament. Introduction to the steps and tools for the exegesis of the Greek New Testament. Practice in exegesis of selected texts. An exegetical paper required. [Pre-req.: RLBS 226]
A brief survey of the history and transmission of the text of the Old Testament. Introduction to the steps and tools for the exegesis of the Hebrew Bible. Practice in exegesis of selected texts. An exegetical paper required. [Pre-req.: RLBS 316]
Study of the history and method of Biblical Theology. The unity and relationship between the Old and New Testaments. Survey of major theological themes in the Bible.
Overview of early, medieval, and modern Western and African Christian philosophers and philosophical systems, with emphasis on the development of prominent philosophical perspectives, their proponents, and their influence on theology.
Study of the nature, function, purpose, methods, and practice of constructive theological activity. The role of theology in the life of the church.
Study of the development and history of the Christian doctrine of the Trinity. The existence, nature, and distinctive functions of the Godhead. Understanding the terminologies of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit in the context of human salvation.
Study of the development and history of Christian anthropology. Creation, nature, sin, fall, death, and restoration of humans. Their relationship to God.
Study of the development and history of the Christian doctrine of salvation. The meaning and means of salvation. Relationship between law and grace. The experience of salvation.
Study of the development and history of Christian teachings about last-day events. Major systems of eschatological interpretation. Second coming of Christ; Judgment; Millennium; New Earth.
The Jewish and Graeco-Roman setting and the beginnings of the Church. Christianity and the Roman Empire. Attacks on Christianity and the work of the Apologists. Outstanding religious movements and personalities. Asceticism and Monasticism. Christianity in North Africa.
Study of the self-understanding, mission, and development of the Christian church during the medieval period from the Council of Chalcedon in C.E. 451to the beginning of the Reformation. The heresies, dogmas, papacy, relationship between church and state, religious persecutions, and the longings for reformation.
The background to the Reformation. The causes of the Reformation. Martin Luther and the Holy Roman See. The Formation of Lutheran Churches. The Roman Catholic Reformation (The Counter-Reformation). The Reformation and the emergence of Missionary Societies.
The aftermath of the Reformation. Puritanism, Rationalism, Evangelism, and the rise and development of denominationalism, the Enlightenment and its influence upon Christian thought, and the influence of changing worldviews upon theology.
Study of the establishment and development of Christianity in West Africa. Assessment of materials on the history of the Church in West Africa. Stages of mission: (1) Catholic, Portuguese (15th century); (2) Protestant and Catholic (from 18th century); AICs, Pentecostalism, and Charismatism. Mission and West African Cultures―impact and consequences.
Study of the beginnings and development of Christianity in Ghana. Overview of mission theories and methods of mainline Churches (e.g., Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist). The AICs, Pentecostalism, and Charismatism in Ghana. Recent trends of Christianity on Ghanaian culture.
Meaning, biblical and theological foundations of mission. Study of the “Missio Dei” in both the Old and New Testaments; continuity and discontinuity. Application of the biblical material to mission theory and practice today.
Study of the expansion of the Christian Church. Survey of the history, theories and methods, and strategies of Christian missions. The Early Period–from Pentecost to the Middle Ages. The Medieval Period to the 19th Century. The Modern Period (from 20th Century). Current trends and challenges in missions.
Study of the missionary theories and methods used in propagating the gospel in West Africa. European and American missionaries. Catholic missions; Protestant missions; Pentecostal missions; Charismatic missions; AICs. Current trends and challenges in missions. Impact of Christian missions on West African cultures.
The fundamental teachings of some of the major religious traditions of the East/Orient (e.g., Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism. Sikhism and Confucianism). Conceptions and categories of Ultimate reality; Anthropology; Soteriology and Rituals. Aspects of their modern manifestations especially in Ghana. Approaches to Christian missiology among Oriental religious communities.
Overview of major beliefs and practices of Islam. Similarities and differences in major beliefs and practices between Islam and Christianity and their implications for Christian witness. Approaches to Christian missiology among Muslim communities.
Overview of major beliefs and practices of ATR. Similarities and differences in major beliefs and practices between ATR and Christianity and their implications for Christian witness. Approaches to Christian missiology among ATR communities.
Study of the nature of pastoral ministry. The biblical, theological and theoretical foundations for the practice of ministry. The divine calling to ministry, ministerial ethics, and ministerial responsibility to the community.
Study of the biblical foundations for Christian witnessing; Christ’s method in witnessing and discipleship. The principles and dynamics of sharing the gospel message in the neighbourhood, at work, and in the friend-to-friend approach of personal Bible studies. Faith-sharing and faith barriers.
Study of the biblical foundations for Church planting. The principles and strategies in establishing Churches in various localities. The need for church planting models; Basic plans for beginning a church; Principles of Church growth.
Study of church operations from an integrated viewpoint. Application of knowledge from the functional areas of the church to strategic issues and problems found in organizational settings. Topics include determining mission, purpose and philosophy of the Church, identifying various strategic options, making strategic analysis and choice, setting long-term objectives, and implementing strategic decisions. A sample of church strategic plan required.
Study of the theology, elements, and history of Christian worship. Components of worship service. Mastery of liturgical elements associated with birth, marriage, dedications, baptism, prayers, funeral, and other ceremonies. Traditional worship services; contemporary worship forms. Principles of dynamic worship services.
Biblical, theological, historical, and practical study of spiritual formation for Christian ministry. Examination and engagement in spiritual disciplines foundational to a strong devotional life and Christian service. Relationship between personal, corporate, and social spirituality, particularly the role of a spiritual guide in the development of spiritual formation in others.
Meaning, biblical and theological foundations for young people’s ministry. Its development, history, role and function within the mission and life of the church and community.
Study of youth psychology. Juvenile delinquency and associated legal and societal factors. Sociological analysis of the behaviour and problems of youth. Principles of youth remediation.
Study of biblical teaching on human sexuality. Physiological, psychological, emotional, and social aspects of human sexuality vis-à-vis the Christian response to sexuality as sacred gift. Strategies for preventing sexual misconduct.
Study of postmodern culture and its influence on Christian youth. An analysis of approaches and models of Christian witness that engage the critical, intellectual, and religious issues of postmodern culture. Strategies to win, retain, and develop youth for the Church.
Application of counselling theories and techniques to young counselees in the postmodern context. Examination of Christian counselling models and their application to the young people. Practical experience in counselling (e.g., adolescence, pre-marital, and marriage and family).
Study of the traditional worship forms, their suitability, and contextualization for the postmodern youth. Developing principles, plans, methods, and resources for youth worship services. Young people’s participation in Church services and activities.
Study of the biblical/theological, historical, and legal foundations for ministry outside the church setting. Understanding chaplaincy within the mission and life of the church; Relationship between chaplaincy and pastoral ministry.
Study of the general ministry tasks of the chaplain: minister (religious functions), pastor (spiritual care provider/counsellor), intercessor (advocate and liaison), and healer (physical, psychological, and spiritual). General chaplaincy requirements and qualifications, endorsement, and accountability.
Study of the specific qualifications, requirements and training of military/police chaplains. Ministry tasks of military/police chaplain. Unique factors for military chaplaincy (e.g., privileged communication, non-combatancy). Practical experience through student attachment to military/police institutions under the supervision of resident chaplains. Discussion of reports in class.
Study of the specific qualifications, requirements, and ministry tasks of campus chaplaincy. Practical experience through student attachment to educational institutions under the supervision of resident chaplains. Discussion of reports in class.
Study of the specific qualifications, requirements, and ministry tasks of healthcare chaplaincy. Unique factors for healthcare chaplaincy (e.g., hospice and palliative care, medical ethics). Practical experience through student attachment to healthcare institutions under the supervision of resident chaplains. Discussion of reports in class.
Biblical, theological, historical, and practical study of spiritual formation for the Christian chaplain. Examination and engagement in spiritual disciplines foundational to a strong devotional life and chaplaincy service. Relationship between personal, corporate, and social spirituality, particularly the role of a spiritual guide in the development of spiritual formation in others.
Study of human as psychological being from the biblical perspective. Perceptual, cognitive, emotional, and motivational dynamics of personality in the context of pastoral care.
Survey of clinical and abnormal psychology, including historical development, theoretical perspectives on causes and intervention, classification of disorders, diagnosis, and assessment. Legal and ethical issues relating to major psychological abnormalities. Current developments in clinical research and techniques in health psychology, behaviour medicine, psychopathology and mental health.
Introduction to major theories and practices in counselling. The philosophy, functions and organization of counselling in the church and in school settings. Development of initial skills in counselling in simulated practice sessions.
Study of the factors necessary for building healthy relationships within the family group and with significant others, as well as an examination of the principles involved in a mature approach to courtship, marriage and parenthood. The African perspective on marriage.
Study of crisis intervention skills and counselling. Needs assessment; Intervention methods; Referrals. Application of counselling techniques to various crises situations (e.g., medical, physical, mental health, personal and spiritual crises).
Study of issues related to pastoral counselling in the African cultural context. Critical evaluation of Christian counselling models and practice. Enhancing pastoral care in the African context through the application of culturally relevant counselling techniques, principles, and practice.