About this course

This course is free because of the generosity of our Vision Partners.

In this course, you will explore the theological richness of creation as a doctrine central to the Christian faith. Through a comprehensive study of Scripture, historical theology, and contemporary reflection, you will develop a robust understanding of how divine action is revealed in the biblical account of creation and how this doctrine unfolds through patristic, medieval, and Reformation thought. You will examine Genesis 1 and 2 in detail, trace creation themes across both Testaments, and engage influential voices from Augustine to Calvin. By the end of the course, you will have a theologically informed and pastorally relevant doctrine of creation that strengthens both your understanding and your ministry practice.

Course objectives

In this course, we'll focus on:

  • How to interpret Genesis 1 and 2 theologically and within their ancient context.

  • How divine action is understood across Scripture and the Christian tradition.

  • Key views of creation from early Church Fathers through medieval and Reformation theology.

  • How creation, divine action, and providence shape worship, redemption, and pastoral practice.

Course outline

    1. About AWKNG

    1. About this course

    2. What you will learn

    3. What you need

    4. Further reading & theological sources

    5. Instructor

    1. Pre-work 01

    2. Session 01

    3. Quiz 01

    4. Discussion 01

    1. Pre-work 02

    2. Session 02

    3. Quiz 02

    4. Discussion 02

    1. Pre-work 03

    2. Session 03

    3. Quiz 03

    4. Discussion 03

    1. Pre-work 04

    2. Session 04

    3. Quiz 04

    4. Discussion 04

Creation and Divine Action in Scripture and Tradition

  • Free
  • 12.5 hours of video content
  • 15 Modules

Additional course details:

  • Difficulty level: 4

    The learning difficulty for this course is 5 out of 5. It is recommended for advanced students and above.

  • Unlimited access

    You receive unlimited access to the course once you enroll.

  • Certificate of completion

    You automatically receive a certificate of completion once you finish the course.

Instructor

Dr. Joshua R. Farris

Joshua R. Farris is Humboldt Experienced Researcher Fellow and on Research Faculty at the University of Bochum. Previously, he was the Chester and Margaret Paluch Professor at Mundelein Seminary, University of Saint Mary of the Lake and Henry Fellow at TEDS, The Creation Project and Fellow at Heythrop College. He has taught at several universities in philosophy, theology, and Great Books. He has recently completed The Creation of Self (The Creation of Self, https://www.johnhuntpublishing.com/iff-books/our-books/creation-self-case-for-soul).