Global Christianity since 1700

Abstract

This subject provides a comprehensive view of the global Christian movement over time. It explores the expansion and development of Christianity as a world religion between 1700 and today, concurrently with European colonisation and the emergence of the modern missionary movement. The subject examines themes in world Christianity from historical, theological and sociological perspectives. These themes include: the inculturation of Christianity, dialogue with other faiths, the impact of poverty and demands for social justice, hermeneutical diversity, and the rise of fundamentalism and Pentecostal movements. These themes are discussed with reference to non-western contexts, in comparison with Anglo-American and European trends.

Syllabus

The historiography of contemporary world ChristianityContemporary issues in the sociology and history of religionChristian missions and their relationship with race and empireThe impact upon Western Christianity of the Enlightenment, science, industrialisation and secularismThe ecumenical movementThe inculturation of Christianity, with special reference to African, Asian or Pacific ChristianityPoverty, social justice and … For more content click the Read More button below.

The historiography of contemporary world Christianity
Contemporary issues in the sociology and history of religion
Christian missions and their relationship with race and empire
The impact upon Western Christianity of the Enlightenment, science, industrialisation and secularism
The ecumenical movement
The inculturation of Christianity, with special reference to African, Asian or Pacific Christianity
Poverty, social justice and political struggle in the non-Western world
Theology and history, with special reference to liberationist, feminist, post-colonial, and ecumenical theologians
Christianity and nationalism
Christianity and other faiths
Christian fundamentalism
The rise of Pentecostalism

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to demonstrate a broad and coherent knowledge of the context of Christianity's global expansion after 1700;

be able to analyse and critically review major themes in the global expansion of Christianity;

be able to analyse and critically evaluate how contemporary Christianity has become a largely non-Western faith;

be able to demonstrate a broad and coherent knowledge of the inculturation of Christian faith in various contexts since 1700;

be able to articulate and critically review the historical relevance and implications of religion in the formation of national identities;

be able to analyse and critically evaluate historiographical approaches to the church across different cultures, ecclesial communities, and worldviews;

be able to research and communicate the relevance of historical documents for understanding the historical origins of contemporary churches in Australia and Asia; and

be able to demonstrate self-guided and collaborative learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills relevant to history as a discipline.

Assumed knowledge

Students are recommended to have prior knowledge equivalent to or studied THL131 and THL132.

Enrolment restrictions

This subject is not available to students who have completed subject THP400 as it is a paired subject and shares similar content.

Incompatible