One of my favorite things about Cedarville University is that every student, no matter their major, will receive a Bible minor. The Bible minor is a five-class minor which encourages you to think critically and ask important questions about God, the Gospel, and the Bible as a whole. The course formats and the phenomenal professors help to mature you in your faith and equip you with the knowledge to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19, ESV).
A great advantage of these courses is that your background doesn’t impact how meaningful the classes are to you. Whether you have read the Bible a hundred times or are a new believer and are just reading the Bible for the first time, the classes and professors do an excellent job of explaining concepts and addressing any questions students may have. These classes helped me comprehend and understand the meaning of passages I hadn’t heard of and deepen my understanding of ones I had, making these courses some of the most influential classes I have ever taken.
Bible and the Gospel
The first class of the Bible minor is Bible and the Gospel. This course provides a solid foundation for the upcoming classes, teaching you essential techniques for interpreting and studying the Bible. These techniques enable you to understand Scripture on a deeper level, giving you insight into crucial concepts and making connections you otherwise wouldn’t have made. Additionally, this course provides skills necessary for sharing the Gospel, which significantly develops students’ spiritual maturity.
The topics of this class include:
- Defining the Gospel and what it entails.
- How and why the biblical canon was created and the Holy Spirit’s role in its formation.
- Learning interpretation skills by understanding the author’s intent.
- The role your local church plays in your walk with Christ.
This course serves as an excellent starting point for the Bible minor and sets you up for success. Personally, the skills and strategies I learned from this course have made a tremendous difference in how I read and study the Bible and have prepared me for the rest of the Bible minor.
Old Testament Literature
Old Testament Literature is the second course in the Bible minor. As you probably figured, this course takes you through a detailed study of the Old Testament books. While studying these books, the class emphasizes the authors’ intent and the historical backgrounds, themes, and purposes of each book (which are some interpretation techniques learned in Bible and the Gospel).
I particularly enjoyed this class due to the uniqueness of some of the stories. Many Old Testament books, such as Obadiah or Micah, are covered less often in Bible studies or church sermons; however, these books have incredible stories and can be greatly impactful if studied correctly. Furthermore, studying the covenants and prophesies in the Old Testament that are later fulfilled is remarkable. Seeing how God worked in the past and continues to work now is eye-opening. This course exemplifies how God always fulfills His promises and remains faithful to us no matter how much we stray.
New Testament Literature
New Testament Literature is the third course of the Bible minor, covering the New Testament scriptures and the 400-year intertestamental period. I am taking this course now, and I love it. It begins with a brief discussion of the time between the Old and New Testaments, then jumps right into the Gospels. One focus of the course, and my favorite part, is connecting the Old Testament to the New Testament and seeing Jesus fulfill all the Scriptures that prophesy about the future Messiah in the Old Testament. Similar to the previous course, this class emphasizes the authors’ historical background, intent, and purpose of writing the Scriptures.
I find something so motivating and exciting about reading the New Testament, especially the Gospels, and seeing all the wise words of the authors and Jesus Himself. This course is greatly strengthening my faith as I see and connect all the Scriptures and read about what Jesus has in store for humanity.
Theology I and II
The final two classes of the Bible minor are Theology I and II. Although I have yet to take these classes, I’ve heard nothing but good things about them. They do a great job at helping you apply the biblical knowledge you’ve accumulated by addressing contemporary questions and problems. These courses are great for closing out the Bible minor because they prepare you for the challenges that will arise when going and sharing God’s Word, which we are all called to do.
The main topics of Theology I include a critical analysis of:
- The Triune God and theological doctrines.
- Creation, mankind, and end times (Revelation).
- Sin and its effects.
As a continuation of these ideas, Theology II reflects on:
- Christ’s teachings and His explanation of salvation.
- The Holy Spirit’s works.
- The Church and its role in today’s society.
Additionally, both courses include a reflection on the purpose of studying doctrine. They will incorporate conversation between the Bible and contemporary theological writings, as well as the students’ thoughts, to accurately and meaningfully reflect on all these topics. These courses are designed to develop the student’s ability to think critically and apply the knowledge they have gained over the past few classes, tying everything together and applying it practically.
Final Thoughts
The Bible minor is a life-changing opportunity that will drastically strengthen your faith. We are so blessed with the ability to take these classes, and they should not be taken for granted. We must use the knowledge gained from these classes to expand God’s kingdom and share the good news. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19a ESV).
Do you want to get a sneak peek at these classes? Or do you want to share these classes with parents, friends, or your church? Cedarville offers course videos and materials for these courses online! Check out the Bible Minor Project to get started.
Major and Year of Graduation: Psychology major, class of 2027.
Favorite Study Spot: Either the lower library or HSC study rooms.
Favorite Music Artist: Almost Monday.
Favorite Quote: “If you only do what you can, you’ll never be more than you are now.”
What do You Like to do in Your Free Time? Workout and play any sport.
Favorite Bible Verse: Joshua 1:9.
Tags: #academics, #bibleminor, #cedarville, #classes, #college, #education
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