Write a research paper on a topic of your choosing related to the material covered in the course. Examine a specific theological issue, consider the theological developments in a specific geographical area, or examine the theological background of their own ecclesial and ethnic heritage. The better research papers will have a burning question that you are trying to answer. For some the question is clear, for others, the questions emerge as you begin to research by reading several journal articles in the topic of your interest. Once the question is clear, then you can begin to create your argument. It is critical that you have an outline or a plan for your paper. Do not proceed with your paper before first developing a master outline. Describe key religious beliefs & practices to demonstrate an understanding of the religion. Follow the below guidelines: 1. Select a topic, thesis statement, and a brief description for professor approval 2. It must be a minimum of 12 – 15 pages, not including outline, abstract and bibliography. 3. It must cite at least six outside sources, other than the required textbooks for the course. 4. The paper must include a short synopsis (abstract) of no more than 100 words, which gives a short summary of your main argument and conclusions. 5. The paper must include an outline of the paper. 6. The paper must include an introduction and a conclusion. Text Books during the course 1. Tennent, Timothy C. Theology in the Context of World Christianity: How the Global Church Is Influencing the Way We Think About and Discuss Theology. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2007. 2. Kim, Sebastian and Kirsteen Kim. Christianity as a World Religion. New York, NY : Bloomsbury Academic, 2016. 3. Muck, Terry. The Missional Perspective: What Does it Mean to Read the Bible Missiologically? Topics covered during the course Christianity as a World Religion Theology in a Global Context Christianity in East Asia and Anthropology Christianity in Asia: Middle East and Theology Christianity in Africa Christianity in Latin America: Pentecostalism and Pneumatology Christianity in Latin America: Liberation Theology Christianity in Europe: Soteriology Christianity in Europe: Eschatology. Christianity in North America Christianity in North America: Faith in a Migrant Here are a couple of reminders: 1. Remember to be specific in choosing a context or a time period so that you can have depth of analysis. 2. Identify at least 6-8 academic journal articles (!) that specifically address your topic. 3. Identify a clear research question and develop a clear thesis statement that identifies the topic and what you will demonstrate in your paper
