T8191 – Christian Apologetics
Unit Code
T8191
Unit Name
Christian Apologetics (postgraduate)
Unit Weighting
9 Credit Points
Type of Unit
Foundational
Prerequisites, corequisites or exclusions
Nil
Academic Staff
Very Rev. Dr. Antonios Kaldas. MBBS (USyd) GradDipPhil (MQ) MRes (MQ); PhD Cand (MQ)
Curriculum Objectives
This course unit a broad overview of Orthodox Christian apologetics and serves as a foundation for more detailed study of specific issues in apologetics. It addresses the philosophy, logic, methodology, and practice of apologetics in the 21st century west by applying them to the exploration of a series of challenges to Christian faith.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit students will be able to:
1) Demonstrate a critical understanding of the nature of Christian apologetics, and the various approaches available
2) Discuss how various cultural and theological forces have changed the current environment for Christian apologetics
3) Critically analyse the apologetic literature relevant to this unit
4) Articulate both classical and contemporary arguments and defences for Christian life and faith
5) Critically apply the results of their study to contemporary questions raised by their society
Content
1) Apologetics in review
2) Features of the current cultural and theological context
3) Modern and postmodern models of apologetics
4) Existence and character of God
5) Identity and relevance of Jesus
6) Reliability of scripture
7) Problem of evil and suffering
8) The Christian apologist in contemporary contexts
UNIT WEEKLY SCHEDULE
Week 1. Introduction: “Christianity is Outdated”
Week 2. Truth. “We Can Know Everything”
Week 3. God I. “God Does Not Exist”
Week 4. God II. “God Does Not Exist”
Week 5. Problems for Theists. “God makes no sense”
Week 6. Naturalism & Physicalism. “The universe is all there was, is, or ever shall be.”
Week 7. Humans: image and likeness. “Humans are just physical.”
Week 8. Science/reason/philosophy and faith. “Science has disproved Christianity.”
Week 9. The Bible as scripture and historical record. “The Bible is unreliable.”
Week 10. Evidence for the Resurrection, Christ the Perfect God-man. “Jesus Never Existed / Jesus was just a nice guy.”
Week 11. Christianity changed the world. “Christianity is bad for the world.”
Week 12. Dialogue with Guest Atheist(s). “Christians and Atheists can’t talk to each other.”
