John Brug

A list of satellite courses offered by Prof. John Brug

Catholicism Today
We will study contemporary Catholicism to see if there has been any significant change in the doctrinal positions of Rome which divided Lutherans from Catholics at the time of the Reformation. Special attention will be given to such controversial doctrines as papal authority, justification, purgatory, the role of Mary, etc. We will examine the Lutheran-Catholic dialogues which have been presented as attempts to resolve these differences. We will also assess the party strife in the Catholic church. Another focus of our attention will be practical problems and questions concerning Lutheran-Catholic relationships, such as current Catholic practices concerning mixed marriages, adult converts, and liturgy. We will also examine and evaluate contemporary Catholic worship and preaching. Finally, we will discuss our attitudes and actions in dealing with Catholics.

SQ course: 15 hours
PI course: 5-15 hours

The Theology and Practice of Prayer
The first part discusses the biblical doctrine of prayer on the basis of key passages. An exegesis of the Lord's Prayer is included. The second part covers practical suggestions for practicing prayer in the family, in the church, and in the devotional life of the pastor.

SQ course: 15 hours
PI course: 5-15 hours

Jerusalem Through the Ages
This presentation deals with the history and archeology of Jerusalem through the ages with a special emphasis on AV materials. The temple and Jesus in Jerusalem are two areas of concentration.

SQ course: 15 hours
PI course: 5-15 hours

Studies in Psalms and More Psalms
Study of the Hebrew text of a selection of psalms not included in the seminary psalms course with an aim of providing background for a Bible class on a segment of psalms.

SQ course: 15 hours
PI course: 5-15 hours

The Menace of Islam
A survey of the history and teaching of Islam, including African-American Islam, followed by discussion of outreach methods and special obstacles pertaining to mission work among Muslims. A secondary aim is providing pastors with material to teach a Bible class on Islam.

SQ course: 15 hours
PI course: 5-15 hours

Introduction to Archaeology
1) A study and evaluation of archeological methodology, the contributions it makes to biblical studies and its limitations. 2) Findings of archeology relevant to specific portions of biblical history.

SQ course: 15 hours
PI course: 5-15 hours

Biblical Geography
1) We will study the basic elements of biblical geograpyy. 2) We will see how it enriches or understanding of biblical events..

SQ course: 15 hours
PI course: 5 hours

Present-day Applications on Problems Related to Church and State
The first sections discuss principles of church and state and issues of Christian citizenship on the basis of Scripture. The last sections discuss current problems of church and state in light of important legislation and court decisions.

PI course: 5-6 hours

A Doctrinal Evaluation of the ELCA
Reviews the history and doctrinal background of the predecessor churches of the ELCA. Presents the doctrine of the ELCA as it is revealed in the founding documents, in the writings of its theologians, in its ecumenical agreements and in its popular periodicals and preaching. ( I am in the process of updating this. It should be ready by summer of 2008).

PI course: 5-6 hours