Bible

How does a boy build an ethical framework from which to make decisions in everyday life?

What is a life worth living and how might faith be connected with that goal?

The essential questions which all religions seek to address are the basis of studies in our Bible Department. With an emphasis on the teachings of the Christian faith, boys discuss the scriptures, traditions and backgrounds as they work to understand their spiritual journey.As students examine theological, ethical, and historical questions, they also learn to think analytically, listen, and respond respectfully to a variety of perspectives and opinions. They share their responses creatively through projects, presentations, and discussions. We intend to respect students of all faiths and no faith even as there is a strong primary focus on Christianity.

Biblical Archaeology students discover the relationship between history and the Bible, as they practice the methodology of archaeology or try their hand at creating a modern day artifact, connecting it to the art, architecture, culture, and history of Middle Eastern civilizations.

Boys learn how to make decisions in the context of faith when faced with the complexity and ambiguity of daily life.

close up of a male student in class taking notes

Course Descriptions

BIB120 New Testament

The course will provide an introduction to the Gospel writings, Paul and other Epistles. Matthew through Revelation will be covered, examining critical, historical, cultural, and theological issues, along with a summary of Apocryphal literature. The class will attempt to offer awareness, understanding, and context of the major parables and acts related in the Bible. Students would learn about the Bible's compilation and meaning through history. Semester course. Grade: 11-12. Prerequisites: None

BIB130 Introduction to Biblical Ethics

This course is a study of the nature, methods and application of Biblical ethics to the world in which we live. "Biblical ethics" refers to ethical behaviors based on the principles and examples from the Bible, especially the New Testament. Students will explore moral and ethical decision-making, the principles of morality found in the Bible, and the application of those principles to the great environmental, public policy and personal issues of our time. Students will employ critical thinking and research tools as they explore these issues within the context of the Bible and faith. Semester course. Grade: 11-12. Prerequisites: None

BIB410 History of Western Religious Thought

Humans have sought to connect with God from the beginning of time in almost every cultural setting. This class will explore archaeology, anthropology, history, art, sociology, and theology as it seeks answers to some of the questions that have been at the heart of all religions. The major religious traditions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam will illustrate the heritage of the Fertile Crescent's monotheistic faiths. The course will also examine scripture, symbols, rituals, and the current sites considered sacred places. Students will express their own views and conclusions through papers, oral and multi-media presentations, debates, art projects and video productions. Semester course. Grade: 11-12. Prerequisites: None

BIB415 Life Worth Living

What does it mean for a life to go well? What would it look like for a life to be lived well? In other words, what kind of life is worth desiring? We will explore these questions through engagement with the lives and visions of religious and philosophical traditions, both modem and ancient. Readings and engagement with other forms of media will permit us to consider other answers that we do and do not finding compelling. This course will be focused on classroom discussions, not lectures. The goal is not to convince students of any particular answer to these big questions. It is, instead, to prompt students to think about their answers and how these may guide their life decisions on a daily and longer term basis. Semester course. Grade: 11-12. Prerequisites: None

BIB416 Difficult Questions for People of Faith

Why do bad things happen to good people? Is there a meaning and purpose to life? Are science and faith complementary or incompatible? Humans have asked these and other difficult questions throughout recorded history. This class contemplates such hard questions from various philosophical positions, faith traditions, and worldviews, including a focus on how the Bible addresses them. Through case studies from contemporary society, students will examine and discuss (i) how different approaches may inform (or not) different practices, policies, debates, and ways of life and (ii) how to discuss doubt and difference in ways that are civil and productive. Students’ writings will include an articulation of their own worldview. Semester course. Grade: 11-12. Prerequisites: None