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The EfM program consists of four years of study:
- Year One - Hebrew Scriptures
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The Hebrew Scriptures are also known as the Old Testament. Year
One of EfM focuses on the text of the Hebrew Scriptures as well as
foundational concepts such as Creation, Sin, Judgment and Redemption.
The Four-source Documentary Hypothesis is discussed and the four
sources traced through the Hebrew Scriptures. Readers are introduced
to "moral autonomy" and the idea of "corporate
guilt". With the story of Abraham, the idea of what it means to
be faithful is explored. Different types of Hebrew Law are explored.
We listen to the prophetic voice and look at the messianic vision, a
picture of hope. The year ends with a look at wisdom and apocalyptic
literature. More detail is included in the Year One resource
- Year Two - Christian Scriptures
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Christian Scriptures, the New Testament, are perhaps more familiar
to Christians, as they contain the books of the bible that define what
it means to be Christian. Included in Christian Scriptures are the
four Gospels, the Book of Acts and the letters attributed to Paul and
other disciples. Prior to examining the actual text of the Christian
Scriptures, a great deal of time is spent introducing the student to
the world in which Jesus lived. The concept of "Biblical
Criticism" is also examined.
- Year Three - Church History
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Year Three of EfM begins with the early church and traces the
history of the Church up to the American Revolution. The student
examines early Christian Documents, reads samplings of the writings of
the early Church Fathers, and follows the opposing interpretations
that result in the division between the East and the West in spite of
the efforts of the Church Councils. The student is introduced to
Augustine, Medieval monasticism, mysticism and scholasticism. The
climate leading to the Great Reformation is examined as well as the
way in which the Reformation progressed throughout Europe,
including Germany, Sweden and England. The Roman Catholic
Church's response is explored. The texts continue through the 16th and
17th Centuries with a focus on the Anglican Church. The religious
climate in Europe prior to the colonization of the American Colonies
is studied, with Year Three ending with American Independence.
- Year Four - Theological Choices
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Year Four begins where Year Three left off - with the American
Revolution - and leads the student through the theology of modern
times to the current time. The text is closest to the experience
of the participants and therefore have the greatest impact on their
ministries.
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"Since God's word is something both heard and done, the
theology presented in these readings is one of both reflection and
action. As reflection, the readings attempt to clarify the issues
facing the church and the meaning of Christian faith in a religiously
pluralistic world. At the same time, they intend to elicit a response
in action based on the implications of theology."
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"Two questions have guided the authors of these readings: In
what directions might and inquirer look to be reasonable informed
about the Christian church today? And, what are the implications of
this knowledge for one's life and ministry in the twenty-first
century?" (Ross Mackenzie, General Editor, 1987 Preface to
Theological Choices)
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