Michael Leapley

EDUC 431S
9/5/19

Welcome to Mr. Leapley’s Senior Theology Class!

The Official Plan: This course will help you explain why Christianity is true and scrutinize the
various worldviews that permeate our culture. You will analyze different understandings of truth,
reality, and how people should live. You will engage in learning proper scripture interpretation
principles (hermeneutics) and support for the authenticity of the Bible. You will conclude this
course with a systematic study of James through Revelation, emphasizing relevant issues and
current events that relate to these books.

The Rule: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with
all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love
your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:37-39

God is first. Others are second. You are third.

Bell Ringer: Everyday at the start of class, a question will be written on the board. In your
journal, record the question, your ideas, and your thoughts. This is a completion grade! So don’t
worry about “right” and “wrong” answers. I want to see what you are thinking so I can cater this
class to your needs! Your journal will be turned in every Friday before the weekend.

Projects and Papers: I will assign homework sparingly, so when you do have a project or
paper assigned it is important! I expect you to do your best work. If you give me your best, I will
give you my best! I will fight for you and champion your cause. If you give me your best effort, I
will do everything I possibly can to help you earn an A in my class.

Grades: Teaching a theology course creates a unique situation. I want to make this clear that I
am NOT grading your faith. I am merely grading your knowledge of a subject--the subject being
theology. So as you receive your grades this year remember this truth that is the crux of
Christianity----> Though mankind deserves damnation, Jesus freely saves us by grace through
faith. There is nothing we need to do to earn salvation, Jesus has done it all for us.

Behavior: I believe that you all are adults, and I will treat you accordingly. Therefore,
misbehavior will not be tolerated. If you make a problem for yourself and/or others, I will deal
with it directly and swiftly. Respect your neighbor!

Contact Me: If you ever have questions or want to learn more about a specific topic, don’t
hesitate to email me! ----> mleapley@lutheranhighschool.org

You are little theologians!