Exploring Theology Autumn 2026
Exploring Christian Belief
Year B of the Exploring Theology programme is primarily devoted to rigorous study of study of theology and the Christian tradition, focusing on the diversity of history, approaches, and understandings found in Christianity. This year, Exploring Christian Belief, will be divided into three terms: Church through the ages, Perspectives on God, and Living out the Christian Faith.
Church through the ages
The Autumn Term looks at where the Christian faith has come from and how it has developed, from the time immediately following the Ascension of Jesus through to the 20th Century. We will explore how key theological beliefs have their origins in debates that emerged from thought-worlds shaped by the social, political, cultural and spiritual knowledge and concerns of particular times and places in history. We will ask how (and whether) they remain fresh and valuable in the moment of history we inhabit today.
The draft plan for the term is subject to change.
Week 1 22nd September An overview of Christian History
Week 2 29th September The Early Church and the Parting of Ways from Judaism
Week 3 6th October The Relationship between Church and Empire
Week 4 13th October On the Nature of Christ and His Salvation
Week 5 20th October The Trinitarian Controversy: The Councils and the Development of Doctrine
Week 6 27th October On the Nature of Humanity, Sin and Goodness
Week 7 3rd November East and West: Schism and Unity in Christianity
Week 8 10th November The Development of Monastic Traditions
Week 9 17th November The Age of Reformations
Week 10 24th November Faith & Reason? The Enlightenment and the Great Awakening
Taught by a team of experts in the field.
Assignments
If you sign up to write assignments there will be two study skills sessions on Zoom. These will be held 5:30-6:30pm on 6th October and 20th October.
Assignments are due for submission on the following dates:
Book Review: 20th October
Essay: 24th November
