For as long as humans have existed they have attempted to answer these questions: What is so special about us humans? From where do we originate and what distinguishes us from the rest of creation? What are we made up of? What is our purpose and destiny in life? Why should humans be blamed for something they did not commit? Philosophers, Christian theologians, anthropologists and scientists all have something to say. In this course we will address these important questions from a biblical and theological perspective. Some topics will include: (CEU 3.0)

1. The origin of man
2. The status of man within creation
3. The problem with non-theological anthropologies: Luther and his “Disputation on Man” (1536)
4. The image of God and its ethical implications for today
5. The Humanum is formed and defined through relationships
6. Dualism: soul and body
7. The battle of Spirit and flesh
8. Original sin and concupiscence: Why should I be blamed for something I did not do?
9. Simul iustus et peccator: Are Lutherans correct on Romans 7:14-25?
10. Past, contemporary and future discussions on man’s origin and destiny: Medieval theology, Enlightenment, Darwinism, humanism, Existentialism, Posthumanism
11. What it means to be human in a technological society
12. Mission as restoration of man to God’s likeness
13. Sexualism and Transgenderism
14. Approaching human life with a robust Trinitarian theology