Theological Questions

# Theological Questions

Course Description

**Theological Questions** is an introductory course designed to help students explore some of the most important questions human beings have asked about God, faith, Scripture, suffering, morality, Jesus Christ, the Church, and the meaning of human life.

The course is based on the open educational textbook *Theological Questions* by Todd Hanneken of St. Mary’s University. The textbook presents theological questions within their historical contexts, beginning with ancient Israel and continuing through early Judaism and Christianity, Christendom, the Protestant Reformation, modern Christianity, and contemporary questions of faith.

Students will learn how theological ideas develop over time and how different Jewish and Christian communities have responded to important questions about God and the world. The course encourages students to read carefully, understand different perspectives, examine biblical and historical evidence, and reflect on the meaning of faith.

Students will read assigned sections of the textbook, study the questions presented in each lesson, complete multiple-choice assessments, and submit written assignments based on their reading.

**Course Level:** Introductory

**Subject:** Theology / Christian Studies

**Primary Textbook:** *Theological Questions* — Todd Hanneken

**Format:** Online, self-paced study

**Assessment:** Reading, multiple-choice questions, reflection, and written assignments

By completing this course, students will develop a stronger biblical framework for understanding and responding to important theological questions.

Students will learn how to approach theological questions through careful study of Scripture, considering biblical context and the overall message of the Bible.

Students will explore important Christian doctrines concerning God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, humanity, sin, salvation, faith, grace, the church, Christian living, death, resurrection, and eternal life.

Students will learn to distinguish between essential Christian doctrines and theological subjects on which faithful Christians may hold different interpretations.

Students will develop skills for examining difficult questions with humility, wisdom, prayer, and respect for Scripture.

Students will learn how biblical passages can be studied together rather than relying on isolated verses when forming theological conclusions.

Students will strengthen their ability to explain Christian beliefs clearly and thoughtfully when discussing questions with other believers or people exploring Christianity.

By the end of the course, students will have a stronger foundation for theological study and will be better prepared to continue studying Scripture, Christian doctrine, apologetics, and ministry-related subjects.

Theological Questions is a Bible-centered course that explores important questions about Christian belief, doctrine, and life. The course is designed to help students think carefully about theological subjects while keeping Scripture at the center of their study.

The course begins by considering how Christians should approach theological questions and why biblical context, careful interpretation, prayer, humility, and responsible study are important. Students are encouraged not simply to search for quick answers, but to examine what Scripture teaches and how individual passages relate to the broader biblical message.

Throughout the course, students explore questions concerning the nature and character of God, the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, creation, humanity, sin, salvation, grace, faith, repentance, Christian discipleship, the church, prayer, suffering, spiritual growth, death, resurrection, judgment, and eternal life.

Attention is also given to questions that Christians may understand differently. Students are encouraged to approach such subjects respectfully, distinguish central Christian doctrines from secondary theological disagreements, and evaluate different perspectives in light of Scripture.

The course also emphasizes practical application. Theology is not presented merely as academic knowledge but as truth that should influence worship, character, relationships, decisions, service, and everyday Christian living.

By studying these theological questions, students will develop a stronger biblical foundation, greater confidence in studying Christian doctrine, and better preparation for continued Bible study, discipleship, apologetics, and ministry training.