2007-2008 Grace University Catalog

Division of Biblical & Theological Studies

Overview & Justification for this Division

At Grace University, the Bible is central to each program of study. The Faculty and the Administration believe there is nothing more important for the Christ-follower than growth in knowledge and application of the scriptures. Accordingly, all students pursuing a Bachelor degree, and many pursuing an Associate degree, will take the equivalent of a major in Bible ( 30 or more credit hours of Bible and Theology, depending upon the program).

We believe that pursuit of such study is important for the following reasons:

1. The Bible is God’s written, inerrant revelation concerning who He is and what He desires for creation, a desire most fundamentally revealed in the person, work and reign of Jesus Christ;
2. The Bible provides a unifying matrix in which Christians can integrate their particular disciplines of study with their obligations to kingdom living;
3. A Bible-centered education helps a student evaluate competing systems of thought readily found in one’s surrounding culture;
4. A sound study of the scriptures lays a necessary foundation for transformation into Christlikness; and
5. Sound study of scripture lays a foundation for understanding one’s vocation in relationship to the church and to the world.

Division Objectives

The following objectives of the Division of Biblical & Theological Studies are applicable to all programs offered by Grace University and are listed below rather than with each program. We desire that:

1. Students gain understanding into scripture through (a) an extensive investigation of its contents, (b) the application of sound interpretive principles to that content, and (c) the presentation and the development of a sound theological system of its teachings;
2. A student be able to demonstrate the ability to think logically and critically from a biblical world view;
3. A student improve his or her proficiency in the personal study of Scripture through competent usage of the tools necessary for sound Bible study;
4. A student demonstrate his or her respect and commitment to God and his written revelation through (a) personal growth in prayer, worship, Bible study and obedience, and through (b) contributions to the corporate expressions of the community of believers;
5. Each student be responding to his or her understanding of the Scriptures in such a way that the combination of Scriptures and the Holy Spirit effect spiritual transformation; and;
6. The student be able to effectively communicate his or her understanding of the teachings of Scriptures to others.