An exploration of the theology of sex and marriage in
Christianity from the patristic period to the contemporary
church.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: Graduate students will write a research paper on a topic chosen
in consultation with the professor and will be responsible for
leading one day of class discussion.
Athena Title
Sex Marriage Christian Theol
Prerequisite
Junior or senior standing or permission of department
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students should be able to examine key biblical texts and theological interpretations related to sex, marriage, and human relationships in Christian tradition.
By the end of this course, students should be able to identify and explain how Christian teachings on sex and marriage have evolved from early Christianity through the Reformation to contemporary debates.
By the end of this course, students should be able to compare and analyze differences in beliefs and practices regarding marriage, sexuality, celibacy, and gender roles across various Christian denominations and traditions.
By the end of this course, students should be able to evaluate theological arguments on topics such as premarital sex, contraception, same-sex relationships, divorce, and reproductive technologies in light of Christian ethics.
By the end of this course, students should be able to analyze how historical and contemporary cultural shifts, including feminism, secularism, and LGBTQ+ movements, have influenced Christian teachings on sex and marriage.
By the end of this course, students should be able to write a sexual ethics paper that appropriately employs ethical methodology in order to clearly and persuasively defend their own views on sex and marriage.
Topical Outline
I. Introduction to sex and marriage in Christian theology
II. Sex and marriage in the Bible
III. Historical Christian perspectives on sex and marriage
IV. Contemporary Christian perspectives on sex and marriage
V. Christian views on gender and gender roles
VI. Contemporary cultural and social influences on the Christian understanding of sex and marriage
VII. Theological reflection on sex and marriage in the modern world
