Maelezo ya Kozi
This course surveys the development of the Christian Church from the end of the early church period (c. 500 AD) through the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century. Students will examine the theological, political, and spiritual developments that shaped medieval Christianity, the rise of the papacy, monastic movements, church-state relations, theological controversies, and the growing corruption that led to reform.
The second half of the course focuses on the Reformation era, highlighting key figures such as Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, and the English Reformers. Emphasis will be placed on the doctrinal recovery of sola Scriptura, sola fide, grace alone, Christ alone, and the glory of God alone, and how these Reformation principles continue to shape theology, worship, and church life today.
Students will also reflect on the enduring impact of this period on the African church—including ongoing issues of church authority, biblical literacy, justification by faith, and worship renewal.
Vitabu Vinavyopendekezwa
- 1Bainton, Roland. Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1950.
- 2Calvin, John. Selections from the Institutes of the Christian Religion. Edited by Hugh T. Kerr. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1989.
- 3Gonzalez, Justo L. The Story of Christianity, Volume 2: The Reformation to the Present Day. New York: HarperOne, 2010.
- 4McGrath, Alister E. Reformation Thought: An Introduction. 4th ed. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell, 2012.
- 5Needham, Nick. 2,000 Years of Christ's Power, Volume 3: Renaissance and Reformation. Fearn, UK: Christian Focus, 2004.