West Coast Baptist College



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BI 601 – Systematic Theology 1

Bibliology and Theology

J. Michael Lester

I. Course Description

This course builds upon the foundation laid in an undergraduate Bible doctrines class. This course examines the doctrines relating to the Bible and the Godhead. Special emphasis will be given to the study of general and special revelation, inspiration (with an understanding of inerrancy and the implications if this is not held), and canonization. In the area of theology, emphasis will be given to the attributes of God and how these relate to man.

II. Course Goals

a. To strengthen your understanding of the doctrine of the Bible, the doctrine of God, and provide an introduction to the study of Trinitarianism.

b. To enlarge your familiarity with current literature (both in journals and in academic books) on the doctrines of the Bible and God.

c. To provide an opportunity for understanding some of the issues in Contemporary Theology and how to formulate systematic answers from the Scriptures that deal with these tough questions.

d. To assist you in developing your own Bibliology and Theology Proper.

III. Course Objectives

As a result of taking this class, each student should be able to:

1. Develop a doctrinal statement concerning his beliefs about the Bible and God.

2. Recognize heresies (both historical and contemporary) that have arisen related to the Bible and God and be able to defend orthodox beliefs from those heresies.

3. Provide a biblical defense of inerrancy.

4. Provide context for understanding the sovereignty of God and the free will of man with a biblically balanced response.

IV. Course Requirements

a. Reading:

1. Millard Erickson, Christian Theology. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1998 (ch 8-20)

a. This book will be used for all Systematic Theology classes.

b. Erickson is a Baptist, is mostly conservative, but there are some sections WCBC would not endorse (as is the case with about all theology books).

2. Articles to read:

a. Benjamin B. Warfield, “The Indispensableness of Systematic Theology to the Preacher,” Chafer Theological Seminary Journal 13:2 (Fall 2008): 45-51.

b. Benjamin B. Warfield, “The Divine Origin of the Bible,” uploaded at .

c. Donald Green, “Evangelicals and Ipsissima Vox,” The Masters Seminary Journal 12:1 (Spring 2001): 49-68.

d. Robert L. Thomas, “Historical Criticism and the Evangelical: Another View,” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 43:1 (March 2000): 97-111.

e. Ronald Satta, “The Case of Professor Charles A. Briggs: Inerrancy Affirmed,” Trinity Journal 26:1 (Spring 2005): 69-90.

1 Benjamin B. Warfield, “The Formation of the Canon of the New Testament,”

f. Michael Carasik, “The Limits of Omniscience,” The Journal of Biblical Literature 119:2 (June 2000): 221-232.

g. Amos Yong, “Divine Omniscience and Future Contingents: Weighing the Presuppositional Issues in the Contemporary Debate,” Evangelical Review of Theology 26:3 (July 2002): 240-264.

h. Michael Stallard, “A Dispensational Critique of Open Theism’s View of Prophecy,” Bibliotheca Sacra161 (Jan-March 2004): 27-41.

b. Research:

1. You will write your own doctrinal statement on Bibliology and Theology Proper. This should be approximately 8-10 pages in length and supported with Scripture. It should represent primarily conclusions, not arguments. It may be in outline or paragraph form, whichever is most helpful for you.

2. You will write a 15+ page paper dealing with one specific aspect of Theology Proper or Bibliology. The topic must be approved by the professor. Indicate the question you are addressing (about one page in length), the biblical discussion of the issue in a biblical theology format(about four-six pages), the response to that question throughout church history(about four-six pages), the current issues revolving around that issue (about one-two pages, unless the problem is specific to this time period, which would be very rare), and finally your theology on the issue (about two-four pages).These page lengths are approximations and may be changed for your specific topic if the topic demands such a change. Here are some reminders regarding the paper:

a. Research should be from competent journals or academic books. Wikipedia is not an academic source.

b. The intended audience is knowledgeable biblicists. Therefore, you do not need to pad your report with lengthy Scripture quotations (simply cite the reference).

c. Follow Turabian style, and use the template located at

d. Use footnotes and a bibliography page.

e. Grading will be based on the following factors:

i. Thoroughness of research (partially judged by the number of sources)

ii. Comprehension of the topic and problems related to it historically

iii. Skillful handling of the text of Scripture in explaining Biblical Theology

iv. Accuracy and fairness in handling current positions fairly

v. Development of a carefully expressed theological conclusion based on the biblical and historical data

vi. Ability to express yourself accurately, succinctly, and biblically.

vii. DUE DATE: March 1, 2013 by midnight.

3. Essay Questions. The following questions should be answered using between 500-1000 words. Provide footnotes.

a. 2 Thessalonians 2.15 – Can Catholics use this verse to show that oral tradition is equal in authority to Scripture? Why or why not? DUE 1/28

b. Matthew 24.35 – Legitimately, and contextually, can this verse be used to prove the preservation of Scripture? If so, how? If not, what does it teach? DUE 1/29

c. Explain and argue the strengths and weaknesses of the teleological argument for God’s existence. DUE 1/30

d. Choose one attribute of God and explain it thoroughly. DUE 1/31

e. This question will center in Historical Theology. Most of us are stronger at Systematic Theology than Historical Theology – welcome to the club! Most evangelicals and fundamentalists struggle here. DUE 2/1

Pick one of the following positions, give a brief description of it, identify its strengths and weaknesses, indicate whether it is biblically supported, and whether you agree or disagree with the position.

i. Process Theology’s Trinitarianism

ii. Emil Brunner’s Trinitarianism

iii. Henry Fosdick’s Trinitarianism

iv. Augustine’s Trinitarianism

c. Exams and Quizzes:

1. There are no quizzes in this class. Work will be based on the writing projects, the reading projects, and the final examination.

2. One exam will be administered. It will be essay in nature and you will have a maximum of 150 minutes to complete.

IV. Course Guidelines for Papers

The following guidelines are to be used for your outlines:

a. All writing assignments will use the Times New Romans font, No exceptions!

b. All writing assignments will use size 12 font, no exceptions!

c. All writing assignments are to have proper title page.

d. All writing assignments will be based on the template provided at

e. All writing assignments are to be numbered in the bottom right hand corner.

f. All writing assignments may be emailed to me, or stapled and turned in on their due date at class.

g. All writing assignments MUST BE TURNED in on their due date – no exceptions, ANY PROJECT OR PAPER TURNED AFTER THE DUE DATE WILL RECEIVE A ZERO. If you have a question or an emergency comes up please talk with your instructor for a possible solution before the due date. No excuses will be accepted after the due date.

V. Course Expectations:

a. Classroom Civility:

As part of this class, you are an integral part of a learning community. Please be aware of your behavior and its effects on others. Talking, coming in late, leaving early, sleeping in class, and being discourteous can all diminish classmates’ learning experiences. Realize that everyone in this class might be in a position someday to recommend you professionally. Earn and keep their respect.

b. Classroom Attendance:

Be aware of the college policy regarding attendance. You are allotted 15% to be used if needed for missing classes. Once that 15% is used up, you will be dropped from the roster and receive a failing grade for the course.

c. Academic Dishonesty:

Scholastic dishonesty includes cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, or any other action that is not an honest participation in the learning process. By enrolling in this course, you have agreed to WCBC’s guidelines for handling academic dishonesty. Furthermore, you may not get caught in your attempt to cheat in this course, but remember the Holy Spirit knows everything; and though it may not seem to bother you, someday when you need God’s power, IT WILL MATTER THEN!!

d. Final Reminders:

• Your syllabus is one of the most important parts of your course. The success of you completing and passing this course will be determined by how much attention you give to this syllabus. My suggestion is record all the assignments on a calendar or some time activation method or device that will help you complete the assignments on time.

• I have tried in every way to make clear the expectations in this syllabus and to supply you with detailed information in order to clarify any issues that could arise in this course. However, what may seem clear to me may not be totally clear to you, so please feel free to ask any questions now or throughout the semester if you need clarification.

• If you follow this syllabus you will have a greater potential in passing this course and learning the truths presented in the lectures, projects and reading assignments.

• Finally, do not wait to get started on your projects, I understand some may need further explanation in class, but get going on what you can do! The semester will be packed with many extra curricular activities so the sooner you start the less pressure you will have at mid-term and at finals!

Bibliology / Theology Resources Bibliography

Allen, Ronald J. Thinking Theologically: The Preacher as Theologian. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 2008.

Benson, Clarence Herbert. Biblical Faith: Doctrines Every Christian Should Know. Biblical Essentials Series. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2003.

--------. The One True God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Biblical essentials series. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2004.

Berkhof, L. Systematic Theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans publishing co., 1938.

Berkouwer, G. C. General Revelation. Studies in Dogmatics. Grand Rapids: W.B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 1955.

--------. Holy Scripture. Edited by Rogers, Jack Bartlett. Studies in Dogmatics. Grand Rapids: W. B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 1975.

--------. The Providence of God. Studies in Dogmatics. Grand Rapids, MI: W.B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 1952.

Bunyan, John. A Confession of My Faith. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2006.

--------. Antichrist and His Ruin. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2006.

--------. Christ—A Complete Saviour. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2006

--------. The Acceptable Sacrifice. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2006.

Continuity and Discontinuity: Perspectives on the Relationship Between the Old and New Testaments : Essays in Honor of S. Lewis Johnson, Jr. Edited by Feinberg, John S. Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1988.

Cottrell, Jack. The Faith Once for All: Bible Doctrine for Today. Joplin, MO: College Press Pub., 2002.

Elwell, Walter A. and Barry J. Beitzel. Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1988.

Enns, Paul P. The Moody Handbook of Theology. Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1989.

Erickson, Millard J. Christian Theology. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1998.

Geisler, Norman L. and William E. Nix. A General Introduction to the Bible. Rev. and expanded. Chicago: Moody Press, 1986.

Grigoni, Michael R., Miles Custis, Douglas Mangum and Matthew M. Whitehead. Abraham: Following God’s Promise. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2012.

Grudem, Wayne A. Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Leicester, England; Grand Rapids, MI: Inter-Varsity Press; Zondervan Pub. House, 2004.

Hancock, Jimmie L. All the Questions in the Bible. 1st ed. Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1998.

Hannah, John D. Our Legacy: The History of Christian Doctrine. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 2001.

Henry, Carl Ferdinand Howard. God, Revelation, and Authority. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 1999.

Hodge, Charles. Systematic Theology. Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1997.

Hovey, Alvah. The Bible the Only Standard of Christian Doctrine and Duty, Roger Williams Heritage Archives, 1867.

Jenkens, C. A. Baptist Doctrines, Roger Williams Heritage Archives, 1890.

Jeter, J. B. The Inspiration of the Scriptures, Roger Williams Heritage Archives, 1890.

Kauffman, Daniel. Manual of Bible Doctrines. Elkhart, IN: Mennonite Publishing Co., 1898

Kelly, J. N. D. The Pastoral Epistles. Black's New Testament Commentary. London: Continuum, 1963.

Kendall, R. T. Understanding Theology, Volume 1. Ross-shire, Great Britain: Christian Focus, 1996.

--------. Understanding Theology, Volume 2. Ross-shire, Great Britain: Christian Focus, 2000.

--------. Understanding Theology, Volume 3. Ross-shire, Great Britain: Christian Focus, 2001.

Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn. God the Father, God the Son. Wheaton: Crossway Books, 1996.

MacArthur, John F., Jr. Alone With God. MacArthur Study Series. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1995.

Miley, John. Systematic Theology, Volume 1. New York: Hunt & Eaton, 1892.

--------. Systematic Theology, Volume 2. New York: Hunt & Eaton, 1893.

Packer, J. I. Concise Theology: A Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House, 1993.

Pink, Arthur Walkington. The Antichrist. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2005.

Ryrie, Charles. Ryrie's Practical Guide to Communicating Bible Doctrine. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2005.

--------. A Survey of Bible Doctrine. Chicago: Moody Press, 1972

Shedd, William Greenough Thayer. Dogmatic Theology. Edited by Gomes, Alan W. 3rd ed. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R Pub., 2003.

Showers, Renald E. There Really Is a Difference!: A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology. Bellmawr, NJ: The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, Inc., 1990.

Strong, Augustus Hopkins. Systematic Theology. Philadelphia: American Baptist Publication Society, 1907.

Swete, Henry Barclay. The Apostles’ Creed: Its Relation to Primitive Christianity. 3d ed. Cambridge: University Press, 1894.

Turnbull, Ralph G. Baker’s Dictionary of Practical Theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1967.

Vos, Geerhardus. Vol. 1, Reformed Dogmatics: Theology Proper. Edited by Gaffin, Richard B. Translated by Godbehere, Annemie. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2012.

Warfield, Benjamin B. The Works of Benjamin B. Warfield, Volume 1: Revelation and Inspiration. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2008

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