Religion and Theology explores in an academic way the biblical story of the history of redemption, as it is centred and unified in Jesus Christ, and the implications of that story for a Christian worldview, for the various disciplines of Christian theology, and for the academic study of other religions. In addition to biblical studies and theology, these include ethics, the history of Christianity, the mission of the church and world religions. Central to these areas is an emphasis on the all-embracing scope of the Christian faith and its relevance for all of human life. All academic work, including theology, is subject to ultimate religious commitments. So, this department also studies unbiblical philosophies and assumptions which can lead theology and biblical studies astray. This is especially important for the study of church history, the mission of the church, and the contemporary religious situation. The goal of all these studies is to help students become intellectually mature Christians who are well informed about their faith, who learn from the insights of various Christian traditions, and who wisely engage in the church’s mission to witness to Christ until He comes again.
Skills Developed As a Religion and Theology Major
- A foundation in biblical & theological knowledge, and in Christian worldview
- Skill in methods of interpretation
- Close, intensive reading of Scripture and other texts
- Ability to analyse and explain ideas and their practical impact
- Rooting out basic assumptions of thought and practices
- Basic language skills in biblical Greek
- Discussion Skills
- Openness to insights of other traditions
- Work Independently
- Oratorical Skills
Sample Fields of Work and Career Titles
| Minister of Music |
Professor |
| Director of Religious Education |
Pastor/Minister |
| Missionary |
Youth Minister |
| Campus Minister |
Chaplain |
| Church Camp Director |
Teacher |
| Guidance Counsellor |
Columnist or Journalist |
| Religious Bookstore Staff |
Arts Consultant |
| Editorial Assistant |
Psychologist |
| Student Development Staff |
Social Worker |
Sample of Redeemer Religion Majors' Career Titles
Many Redeemer graduates have been employed as pastors and youth ministers.
Instructor of Linguistics, Wycliffe Bible Translators, Etobicoke
Research Officer, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation
Pastor, Faith Christian Reformed Church, Burlington
Associate Professor of Biblical Studies, Institute for Christian Studies, Toronto
Residential Dean, Grenville Christian College, Brockville
Intern Counsellor, Catholic Family Services of Hamilton
English Ministry Director, Windsor Chinese Baptist Church