Biblical Studies Major (M)

The theology department identifies its purpose in terms of Concordia’s statement of purpose, especially the following statements with spiritual focus:

“The total program is centered in the Christian philosophy with a confessional Lutheran emphasis…. Concordia University seeks to develop mature Christians in whom knowledge and understanding of the Holy Scriptures, the inspired, inerrant Word of God and the source and norm of Christian truth, are united with personal faith in Jesus as God and Savior. Concordia’s spiritual resources are directed to the development of Christian faith and practice of Christian virtues so that the student can form value judgments and arrive at ethical principles required for purposeful living. Concordia’s programs … nurture religious commitment, provide insights for Christian action in the world, and … provide an opportunity for intelligent selection of vocations for service to God, church and society…. Concordia … is interested in exerting a Christian influence on the community, nation, and world.” (Departmental Statement of Purpose, August 30, 2002)

The Biblical Studies major forms students to serve Christ in the church and in the world with a focus on the Bible.  Students will learn the main message of the Bible and will begin to mine its depths in order to prepare for professional church work, study for graduate school in Christian theology or a related field, or be a more informed lay leader in a Christian congregation.  This study is a good foundation for further work not only in the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod but for all Christian denominations. 

As a student, you will explain and analyze the basic tenets of the Christian faith.  Through this understanding, you will apply the Christian worldview and doctrines to current situations and to historical programs and situations.  Grow in your relationship with Christ and put His teachings into practice in your own life.  

Program Learning Outcomes

  • Students will develop an understanding of the origin of the Bible, recognize the unique qualities of God’s Word, appreciate the varied yet unified content of the Old and New Testaments, and use sound principles in interpreting Scripture.
  • Students will recognize the Bible as the authoritative source for knowledge of God and humankind, articulate key doctrines of the Christian faith, especially the gospel of Jesus Christ, and apply the teachings of Scripture to the life of the individual.
  • Students will develop an appreciation for how God has worked in history, recognize key figures and movements in the life of the Church, and identify the state of theology today.
  • Students will grow in their relationship with Christ and will put his teachings into practice in their vocations.
  • Students will observe, assess, and interpret today’s cultures and world views. Students will be familiar with various methods of delivering and defending biblical truth in a relevant and practical way to diverse groups.
  • Students will demonstrate an understanding of research skills in the discipline.

Curriculum

Core Requirements45
Major Requirements 133
Electives48
Minor: Required (minimum 18 credits)
Total Hours126
1

This major/minor is not permitted to share (overlap) any credits with the core curriculum, with a major, with a minor, or with a certificate per departmental policy unless otherwise specified in the curriculum. 

Major Requirements

Required Core Courses
Old Testament
Biblical Theology
A Survey of Christian Thought
Required Courses
REL 203New Testament3
REL 490Senior Seminar I3
REL 491Senior Seminar II3
5 Courses in Biblical Content15
At least 3 credits must be from an Old Testament upper level Bible course and at least 3 credits must be from a New Testament upper level Bible course
Select either the language track or the theology track9
I. Language Track
Greek I
Greek II
Greek III
OR
Hebrew I
Hebrew II
Hebrew III
II. Theology Track
Choose 9 credits of upper level REL courses (Biblical content courses are strongly recommended)
Total Hours33