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105 IM 558 History of the Christian World Mission In this seminar course, students investigate key persons and topics in the geographical expansion of the church. Topics explored include monasticism, Roman Catholic missionary orders, Pietism, colonialism, and the rise of ecumenism. Two hours. IM 581 Islam and Current Events With approximately 1.4 billion Muslims in the world today, it is predicted that by the year 2020, Muslims will comprise a quarter of the world's population. This course will introduce basic information about Islam along with various approaches and implications for Christian witness. It also examines the issues behind the agenda and anger of militant Islam and explores some possible responses. It will carefully examine the war that is being waged for the minds and hearts of Muslims who are pulled in opposing directions: modernity and open-mindedness vs. Islamic fundamentalism and/or fanaticism. The Israel/Palestine conflict and other current events will also be explored. Two hours. IM 610 Mission and Culture Explores the foundations and implications of the mission paradigm in hermeneutics, theology, and ministry with particular attention given to the exegesis and engagement of culture in mission. Offered fall semesters. Two hours. IM 612 Understanding the Rural Context An overview of ministry in the town and country culture with an emphasis on understanding the varied types of town and country contexts and how each affects pastoral work and strategy. The town and country culture is experienced as well as studied during the class. Two hours. IM 613 Chinese Worldviews Today The course offers an understanding of the various worldviews as found in modern China. It will provide an overview of Chinese culture and of the historical development of Daoist, Confucian, and Buddhist thought and practice along with some folk and local traditions. One main question we shall explore is: How do these traditions of thinking and practice shape the worldviews of Chinese people today? Another question we shall explore is: how does modernity, in all its dimensions, including Marxism, also shape Chinese thought today. Finally, the course will examine the development of Christian thought and practice in China and how Christian thought and practice interacts with modern Chinese worldviews today. Two hours. IM 621 Communicating and Leading in Intercultural Contexts This course emphasizes the importance of building healthy relationships as a key to effective leadership in intercultural contexts. Topics addressed include listening, constructive confrontation and conflict management, problem solving, and building trust. In addition, the course helps students develop a biblical perspective on culture and the application of key communication principles in working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Offered spring semesters, odd years. Three hours. IM 640 The Holy Spirit and Intercultural Mission Examines the unique role the Holy Spirit has played biblically and historically in carrying out the mission of the church. Students critique the emphasis in missions on signs and wonders and arrive at a balanced theology of miracles and healing. They are also introduced to the concept of power encounter and are given guidelines for dealing with demonized people. Two hours.