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Biblical Studies

What is it?

Trinity’s Biblical Studies major will not only give you an outstanding background in the Old and New Testaments, it will also expose you to philosophy, the history of Judaism and Christianity and sophisticated biblical interpretation methods. By tackling these subjects in depth, you will develop strong critical thinking, writing and research skills.
Throughout your studies, you will be encouraged and challenged to grow in your faith and use your understanding of Scripture to teach and serve others. So, come to Trinity and grow in Christ, biblically-ground your faith, and develop a deeper meaning for your life.

What’s special about Biblical Studies at Trinity?

Our Trinity Core and Biblical Studies Major will ground you in the living Word of God for your life—intentionally integrating your head (faith seeking understanding), heart (worship and devotion), and hands (ministry in God’s world).

Trinity’s approach to biblical studies holds that the Bible is Scripture, which means it is authoritative for our life and faith, not just a field of study. Then, distinctively, we hold in tension the orthodox interpretations of the Church with the methods of scholarly research for meaningful application for your life today. So, our discussions are honest and challenging, while still faithful.

What degree will I get?

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biblical Studies

What can I do with it?

Enter seminary. Become a missionary. Work in a non-profit. Write about spiritual or faith issues. Start a ministry. Pursue graduate school. Work in any field that is a match for a solid liberal-arts education. (Please note that some churches and ministries may require additional graduate study or professional training.)

Program Faculty

Faculty in the Biblical Studies department combine a commitment to scholarship with a passion for challenging students to discover a deeper meaning and personal transformation through God’s self-revelation. We invite you to encounter Jesus Christ, as revealed by Scripture, as we wrestle together with the ancient biblical texts for “faith seeking understanding” (phrase coined by Anselm of Canterbury, c. 1033-1109). Click here to meet your professors (and “wrestling coaches”) and department head Beth Elness-Hanson.

Resume-building internships:

The Biblical Studies major doesn’t require internships, but you will engage in a Biblical Studies Practicum. Previously students have led Bible studies in churches or researched and prepared scholarly papers to present at academic conferences and for local pastors.

Course Sampling

RELI 322 History of Ancient Israel: The covenant of God with Israel (introduced in the Trinity Core) is followed through the stages of history from Joshua to Nehemiah. From Israel’s rise as a nation, to its division, fall, and exile from disobedience, these books end with Israel’s restoration. Tracing Israel’s relationship with God in these biblical books of history gives huge opportunities for application in our lives today.

RELI 371 Apocalyptic Literature: In this course you will read the “end times” books of the Bible, especially Daniel and Revelation, and will explore different interpretations of these challenging works. The central message of calling God’s people to patient endurance in difficult times and gives us hope for the future.

RELI 331 Luke-Acts: The Gospel according to Luke portrays the radical mission of Jesus Christ, who shakes up the status quo and includes even the marginalized in God’s grace and plan of salvation. Acts continues with the amazing work of the Holy Spirit in the early Church. Both inspire and challenge us--as Jesus’ followers today--to a life of faithful witness in an antagonistic world.

GREK 301 Greek I: This introductory course gives you the preparation for reading and translating New Testament Greek with enough skill to pursue independent study or continue with Greek studies. Focusing on vocabulary and grammar, you will also translate simple New Testament passages.