The intellectual tradition of the Church undergoes a profound transformation in the wake of Augustine’s thought, raising enduring questions that shape the course of medieval philosophy. This course traces the major metaphysical and theological debates from late antiquity through the high and late Middle Ages (c. 300–1500 AD), exploring how figures such as Boethius, Avicenna, Abelard, Averroes, Maimonides, Aquinas, Scotus, and Ockham engaged with and extended classical philosophical inheritance. Key disputes—such as those between realists and nominalists or Thomists and Scotists—will be examined with their philosophical distinctives and historical influence. Readings will include selections from primary texts, with attention to metaphysics, epistemology, and theological method. Prior familiarity with Plato and Aristotle is helpful but not required.

Although Protestants are familiar with the doctrine of sola Scriptura, they are less familiar with the equally important Reformation teaching that God reveals himself through the “two books” of Scripture and nature, and how the two relate. This  course, with readings from Aquinas, Calvin, Hemmingsen, and Hooker, along with key Scriptural passages, will help students understand the meaning of sola Scriptura and the use of moral reason in classical Protestantism.

Summer 2025

If we love God, we will seek to know him. What were the most important doctrines for Christians throughout history? Come learn how creeds build faith and spread the gospel.

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