Courses

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Biblical Literature and Languages - A.B. - Courses*

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BIL-101 Old Testament Survey3 Hours
- A study of the Old Testament, highlighting the cultural background underlying the books of the Old Testament. Topics include major archaeological finds, Old Testament culture as it relates to today's culture, and the foundational relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament.
BIL-102 New Testament Survey3 Hours
- This course covers the literature of the New Testament. Special attention will be given to the life of Christ and the history of the early church, including the life of Paul.
BIL-202 Inductive Bible Study3 Hours
- This course studies the basic principles involved in the study of the Bible. Assumptions concerning scriptural authority are presented as well as procedures for careful observation, analysis and interpretation of the text. Particular attention is given to the use of scriptures as a foundation for expository preaching and theological reflection. This course is the prerequisite for all upper-level Bible courses offered in the Division of Religion and Philosophy. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102 or permission of the department. Not available to students with credit in BIL-201.
HBR-201 Beginning Hebrew I3 Hours
- An introduction to biblical Hebrew designed to give the student sufficient knowledge of the grammar and tools available to be able to do basic study of the Hebrew Bible in the original language.
GRE-201 Beginning Greek I3 Hours
- This course presents an overview of the categories of Koine Greek syntax with an emphasis on translation. With the help of Greek tools, students will acquire the basic translation skills needed to read the Greek New Testament.

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BIL-203 Advanced Inductive Bible Study3 Hours
- This course is an advanced course to further develop Biblical study skills initially discovered in BIL-201 Methods in Bible Study or BIL-202 Inductive Bible Study. It will further broaden the assumptions, procedures, and guidelines in the interpretation of the Bible. Emphasis is placed upon the refinement of the student's skills in observation, interpretation, and application. The course is designed to develop the student's ability to study the Scriptures accurately, systematically, and independently as a basis for both personal and professional use of the Bible in the future. Prerequisite: BIL-201 or BIL-202.
BIL-231 Biblical Archaeology3 Hours
- An investigation into the methods and details of the science of archaeology. Special interest will be expressed in explorations of the last hundred years in the Near East with special attention given to how these findings relate to Scripture. Chronologically, the time covered will be from about 10,000 BC to 200 AD. Prerequisite: BIL-101 or permission of instructor.
BIL-231CC Council for Christian Colleges and Universities3 Hours
- No description available.
BIL-235 Life and Letters of Paul3 Hours
- This course surveys the life, ministry, letters, and thinking of the apostle Paul as found in the book of Acts and his own letters.
BIL-240 Teaching the Bible to Adults3 Hours
- A course exploring the methods of teaching the Bible to adults seeking life change. The course content includes adult learning theory, adult teaching methods, and small group leadership skills. As part of the course each student completes a segment of practice teaching both in and out of the classroom which is evaluated professionally with an eye toward improvement. Prerequisites BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-280 Lands of the Bible3 Hours
- An advanced study of the lands of the Biblical text with focus on the land of Israel. Emphasis will be given to the geographical and topographical features of the land that bring insight and understanding to major events in the Old Testament, the ministry of Jesus, and the journeys of Paul. Additional focus will be given to the historical and cultural implications of these Biblical events. Subjects of interest would include how geography and topography affected the settlement of people groups, trade and travel, internal and international war, economic advancement, social and religious customs, and the spreading of the gospel to the Gentile world. Pre-requisite BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-281 Jerusalem and Its People1 Hours
- This course will investigate the importance and development of the city of Jerusalem from its initial settlement through the modern era. Particular attention will be given to Jerusalem's geographical setting and archaeological remains. In addition, the city's theological significance for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam will be discussed. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-282 Art, Architecture, Artifacts of the Biblical World1 Hours
- The objective of this museum course is to examine first-hand the evidence that illuminates the context of the biblical narrative. Cultures of interest include those of Syria-Palestine, Transjordan, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean world. This class may be repeated one time in a subsequent semester upon permission of the professor. Travel and entrance fees required. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-301 Pentateuch3 Hours
- The first five books of the Bible are studied as organized wholes. The origin of the world, the creation of man, the calling of Israel, and her place in the plan of redemption are noted throughout. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.
BIL-302 Historical Books3 Hours
- A study of each of the historical books from Joshua to Esther, tracing the history of Israel from the entrance into Canaan through the exile and return. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.
BIL-302CC Council for Christian Colleges and Universities3 Hours
- No description available.
BIL-303 Synoptic Gospels3 Hours
- An intensive study of the Gospel of Mark, with attention given to the parallel accounts in Matthew and/or Luke. Examination of unique material in the first and third gospels. Special note will also be made of various solutions to the synoptic problem and to such concepts as the Messiah and the Kingdom of God. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.
BIL-304 Johannine Literature3 Hours
- A study of the Gospel of John and the three Epistles. Such concepts as Logos, truth, life, light, and love will be given special attention. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.
BIL-306CC Council for Christian Colleges and Universities3 Hours
- No description available.
BIL-333 Biblical Foundations of Worship3 Hours
- Explores worship in the Old and New Testaments in context with other worship patterns of the day. Traces liturgy, Scripture, music, sacred sign-acts, symbolism, festivals, and sacred space as elements of worship through Bible history. Also examines passages relevant to understanding a biblical theology of worship.
BIL-380 History of the Biblical World3 Hours
- This course will examine how the political, social, cultural and religious history of ancient civilizations within the biblical narrative affect biblical interpretation. Particular focus will be given to the historical events that engage the people and the land of Syria-Palestine. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102. BIL-280 recommended.
BIL-381 Cultural Settings of the Bible3 Hours
- An investigation of life in the biblical world. This investigation will focus on questions such as: How did they worship? What types of architecture did people build? What occupations did they have? What did they wear? What types of art and literature did they create? Special attention will be placed on topics that bring understanding to the interpretation of the biblical narrative. This class may be repeated one time in a subsequent semester upon permission of the professor. If taught abroad, travel and participation fees will be required. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-382 Inter-Testament Literature3 Hours
- A study of the history and literature of the period between Malachi and the New Testament. Special emphasis will be on the background from which New Testament movements came. Offered alternate years. This course satisfies either Old or New Testament requirements.
BIL-391 Directed Studies in Biblical Literature1-2 Hours
- This course prepares students to perform basic research in which they learn to use Off Campus Library Services (OCLS), electronic periodical indexes, and information resources. Students will identify and select appropriate material for inclusion in a college level research project which will be submitted at the conclusion of the course.
BIL-399H Honors Thesis/Project3 Hours
- Work with a faculty mentor and in cooperation with an Honors College advisor, producing a research thesis or creative project.
BIL-402 Major Prophets3 Hours
- The office and function of Hebrew prophecy is noted and the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel are studied in the light of their own times. Prerequisite: BIL-201, BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.
BIL-403 Minor Prophets3 Hours
- The twelve books designated as minor are studied in similar manner as the Major Prophets. Prerequisite: BIL-201 or BIL-202 or permission of instructor. Offered alternate years.
BIL-404 Acts of the Apostles3 Hours
- Primarily a study of the Book of Acts. Attention will be given to the development of the concept of the church, as well as its historical setting in the first two centuries of the Christian era. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of instructor.
BIL-407 The General Epistles3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.
BIL-408 The Apocalyptic Literature3 Hours
- A careful study of the Revelation and its relationship to the book of Daniel and to other apocalyptic writings. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of instructor. Offered alternate years.
BIL-410 Wisdom Literature3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of the wisdom books in the Old Testament, specifically, Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of department.
BIL-411 Psalms3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of the Book of Psalms. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.
BIL-412 Romans and Galatians3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of Paul's letters to the Romans and the Galatians. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or BIL-203 or permission of department.
BIL-413 The Corinthian and Thessalonian Letters3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of Paul's letters to the Corinthians and the Thessalonians. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.
BIL-414 The Prison Epistles3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.
BIL-415 Pastoral Epistles3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of Paul's letters to Timothy and Titus. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.
BIL-416 Hebrews3 Hours
- A detailed and analytical study of Hebrews. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or permission of department. Offered alternate years.
BIL-422 Greek Bible3 Hours
- A study of selected New Testament passages in the original Greek. This course expands vocabulary and builds depth in one's understanding of Greek morphology, syntax, and semantics. Prerequisite: Beginning Greek competence or permission of department. Can be repeated.
BIL-430 Advanced Topic in Biblical Studies3 Hours
- This course covers a specialized and advanced topic in biblical studies that is not covered in the normal curriculum. It is always offered with a subheading and is repeatable under a different subheading. Prerequisite: BIL-202.
BIL-475 Independent Learning in Biblical Literature1-3 Hours
- Individually arranged research into biblical problems, languages, and/or doctrines. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
BIL-475CC Global Studies Program1-4 Hours
- No description available.
BIL-480 Archaeology of Syria-Palestine3 Hours
- This class will be held in the land of Israel and will require student participation in archaeological field work. While digging, areas of focus will include archaeological techniques and methods, and the analysis of pottery and stratigraphy. In addition, the interpretation of stratigraphy and artifacts at key archaeological sites in Israel will be considered as well as current debates and discussions among archaeologists. Prerequisite: BIL-101 and BIL-102 or permission of Division.

40 credit hours

* Student must take either HBR-201 OR GRE-201. Program requires an additional 18 credit hours of Advanced Bible courses (balanced program in OT and NT) and 10 credit hours of a cognate in a field consistent with the student’s vocational goals and approved by the student’s advisor. Up to 9 credit hours of Hebrew and/or Greek beyond HBR-201 or GRE-201 may be included in the OT and NT Bible or School courses, if those 9 credit hours are not already counting toward a Biblical Languages minor.

Biblical Literature Minor - Courses**

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BIL-101 Old Testament Survey3 Hours
- A study of the Old Testament, highlighting the cultural background underlying the books of the Old Testament. Topics include major archaeological finds, Old Testament culture as it relates to today's culture, and the foundational relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament.
BIL-102 New Testament Survey3 Hours
- This course covers the literature of the New Testament. Special attention will be given to the life of Christ and the history of the early church, including the life of Paul.
BIL-202 Inductive Bible Study3 Hours
- This course studies the basic principles involved in the study of the Bible. Assumptions concerning scriptural authority are presented as well as procedures for careful observation, analysis and interpretation of the text. Particular attention is given to the use of scriptures as a foundation for expository preaching and theological reflection. This course is the prerequisite for all upper-level Bible courses offered in the Division of Religion and Philosophy. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102 or permission of the department. Not available to students with credit in BIL-201.

24 credit hours

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HBR-201 Beginning Hebrew I3 Hours
- An introduction to biblical Hebrew designed to give the student sufficient knowledge of the grammar and tools available to be able to do basic study of the Hebrew Bible in the original language.
HBR-202 Beginning Hebrew II3 Hours
- A continuation of HBR-201, this course attempts to complete the student's knowledge of basic Hebrew grammar and vocabulary. At the end of the first year the student should be able to translate from the original text with some basic proficiency. Prerequisite: HBR-201.
GRE-201 Beginning Greek I3 Hours
- This course presents an overview of the categories of Koine Greek syntax with an emphasis on translation. With the help of Greek tools, students will acquire the basic translation skills needed to read the Greek New Testament.
GRE-202 Beginning Greek II3 Hours
- A continuation of GRE-201, this course assumes knowledge of basic Greek syntax and completes the student's knowledge of Greek forms and basic vocabulary, diminishing the need for auxiliary aids in translation. Prerequisite: GRE-201.
HBR-422 Hebrew Bible3 Hours
- A study of selected Old Testament passages in the original Hebrew. This course expands vocabulary and builds depth in one's understanding of Hebrew morphology, syntax, and semantics. Prerequisite: HBR-202 or permission of division. Can be repeated.
GRE-422 Greek Bible3 Hours
- A study of selected New Testament passages in the original Greek. This course expands vocabulary and builds depth in one's understanding of Greek morphology, syntax, and semantics. Prerequisite: Beginning Greek competence or permission of department. Can be repeated.

18 credit hours

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BIL-280 Lands of the Bible3 Hours
- An advanced study of the lands of the Biblical text with focus on the land of Israel. Emphasis will be given to the geographical and topographical features of the land that bring insight and understanding to major events in the Old Testament, the ministry of Jesus, and the journeys of Paul. Additional focus will be given to the historical and cultural implications of these Biblical events. Subjects of interest would include how geography and topography affected the settlement of people groups, trade and travel, internal and international war, economic advancement, social and religious customs, and the spreading of the gospel to the Gentile world. Pre-requisite BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-380 History of the Biblical World3 Hours
- This course will examine how the political, social, cultural and religious history of ancient civilizations within the biblical narrative affect biblical interpretation. Particular focus will be given to the historical events that engage the people and the land of Syria-Palestine. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102. BIL-280 recommended.

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BIL-103 Bible Land Tour3 Hours
- This course comprises daily lectures on a tour to the Near East with Israel as the main focus. It involves a study of actual Biblical sites, especially those revealed by archaeological excavations. While the major emphasis will be the biblical history in its geographical setting, much will be learned about the religions of Judaism and Islam, the present social structures of society in Israel, and the existing tensions between Jew and Arab.
BIL-281 Jerusalem and Its People1 Hours
- This course will investigate the importance and development of the city of Jerusalem from its initial settlement through the modern era. Particular attention will be given to Jerusalem's geographical setting and archaeological remains. In addition, the city's theological significance for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam will be discussed. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-282 Art, Architecture, Artifacts of the Biblical World1 Hours
- The objective of this museum course is to examine first-hand the evidence that illuminates the context of the biblical narrative. Cultures of interest include those of Syria-Palestine, Transjordan, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean world. This class may be repeated one time in a subsequent semester upon permission of the professor. Travel and entrance fees required. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-381 Cultural Settings of the Bible3 Hours
- An investigation of life in the biblical world. This investigation will focus on questions such as: How did they worship? What types of architecture did people build? What occupations did they have? What did they wear? What types of art and literature did they create? Special attention will be placed on topics that bring understanding to the interpretation of the biblical narrative. This class may be repeated one time in a subsequent semester upon permission of the professor. If taught abroad, travel and participation fees will be required. Prerequisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-382 Inter-Testament Literature3 Hours
- A study of the history and literature of the period between Malachi and the New Testament. Special emphasis will be on the background from which New Testament movements came. Offered alternate years. This course satisfies either Old or New Testament requirements.
BIL-480 Archaeology of Syria-Palestine3 Hours
- This class will be held in the land of Israel and will require student participation in archaeological field work. While digging, areas of focus will include archaeological techniques and methods, and the analysis of pottery and stratigraphy. In addition, the interpretation of stratigraphy and artifacts at key archaeological sites in Israel will be considered as well as current debates and discussions among archaeologists. Prerequisite: BIL-101 and BIL-102 or permission of Division.
HBR-201 Beginning Hebrew I3 Hours
- An introduction to biblical Hebrew designed to give the student sufficient knowledge of the grammar and tools available to be able to do basic study of the Hebrew Bible in the original language.
HBR-202 Beginning Hebrew II3 Hours
- A continuation of HBR-201, this course attempts to complete the student's knowledge of basic Hebrew grammar and vocabulary. At the end of the first year the student should be able to translate from the original text with some basic proficiency. Prerequisite: HBR-201.
GRE-201 Beginning Greek I3 Hours
- This course presents an overview of the categories of Koine Greek syntax with an emphasis on translation. With the help of Greek tools, students will acquire the basic translation skills needed to read the Greek New Testament.
GRE-202 Beginning Greek II3 Hours
- A continuation of GRE-201, this course assumes knowledge of basic Greek syntax and completes the student's knowledge of Greek forms and basic vocabulary, diminishing the need for auxiliary aids in translation. Prerequisite: GRE-201.
LAT-201 Beginning Latin I3 Hours
- An introduction to the basic forms, syntax, and vocabulary of Latin.
LAT-202 Beginning Latin II3 Hours
- A continuation of LAT-201, this course prepares the student for the translation of Latin literature. Prerequisite: LAT-201.

JUC Geographical and Historical Settings of the Bible

Courses taken through Jerusalem University College may be applied toward elective hours in this minor with permission from the School of Theology and Ministry.
Those majoring or minoring in Biblical Literature may only apply 3 credit hours of this minor toward their Biblical Literature.
This minor requires at least 15 hours unduplicated in any other major or minor.

18 credit hours

Summer in Israel Prerequisite Courses for Undergraduate Students

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BIL-280 Lands of the Bible3 Hours
- An advanced study of the lands of the Biblical text with focus on the land of Israel. Emphasis will be given to the geographical and topographical features of the land that bring insight and understanding to major events in the Old Testament, the ministry of Jesus, and the journeys of Paul. Additional focus will be given to the historical and cultural implications of these Biblical events. Subjects of interest would include how geography and topography affected the settlement of people groups, trade and travel, internal and international war, economic advancement, social and religious customs, and the spreading of the gospel to the Gentile world. Pre-requisite BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-281 Jerusalem and Its People1 Hours
- This course will investigate the importance and development of the city of Jerusalem from its initial settlement through the modern era. Particular attention will be given to Jerusalem's geographical setting and archaeological remains. In addition, the city's theological significance for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam will be discussed. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.

4 credit hours

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INT-124 Cross Cultural Exposure Trip2 Hours
- The purpose of this couse is to facilitate greater understanding of what is involved in cross-cultural ministries. It is available to students who will be entering into significantly different cultural setting for at least three weeks, and is designed to equip and prepare them to engage that culture in ways that are transformational, appropriate and effective. Prerequisite: INT-120 or INT-220.
BIL-282 Art, Architecture, Artifacts of the Biblical World1 Hours
- The objective of this museum course is to examine first-hand the evidence that illuminates the context of the biblical narrative. Cultures of interest include those of Syria-Palestine, Transjordan, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean world. This class may be repeated one time in a subsequent semester upon permission of the professor. Travel and entrance fees required. Pre-requisites: BIL-101 and BIL-102.
BIL-480 Archaeology of Syria-Palestine3 Hours
- This class will be held in the land of Israel and will require student participation in archaeological field work. While digging, areas of focus will include archaeological techniques and methods, and the analysis of pottery and stratigraphy. In addition, the interpretation of stratigraphy and artifacts at key archaeological sites in Israel will be considered as well as current debates and discussions among archaeologists. Prerequisite: BIL-101 and BIL-102 or permission of Division.

Geographical and Historical Settings of the Bible (4 credit hours)
This intensive three-week class examines the geography and topography of the land of Israel through first-hand travel. Specific biblical cities will be visited and their archaeological findings will be discussed. The implications upon history and the biblical narrative will be of central concern. This course is offered in conjunction with IWU’s affiliate relationship with Jerusalem University College. Map work prior to arrival is required. Travel expenses and all applicable fees required.

10 credit hours

***INT-124 fulfills IWU’s Intercultural Experience General Education requirement.

Summer in Israel Courses for Graduate Students

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INT-124 Cross Cultural Exposure Trip2 Hours
- The purpose of this couse is to facilitate greater understanding of what is involved in cross-cultural ministries. It is available to students who will be entering into significantly different cultural setting for at least three weeks, and is designed to equip and prepare them to engage that culture in ways that are transformational, appropriate and effective. Prerequisite: INT-120 or INT-220.
MIN-510 Biblical Archeology3-5 Hours
- This class will examine the discipline of archaeology and its relationship with the interpretation of Scripture. The art, architecture, and artifacts uncovered in the lands of the Bible will be considered. The cultural remains at key archaeological sites in Israel will be examined, with specific attention given to the city of Jerusalem. The student's knowledge of the biblical culture may be developed through one or all of the following learning methods: student participation in archaeological field work, visiting museum collections, and classroom instruction. Travel expenses and all applicable fees required. (Biblical)

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Courses

Preview your classes

Biblical Literature and Languages - A.B. - Courses*

Also choose from the courses listed below*

Biblical Literature Minor - Courses**

Biblical Languages Minor - Courses

Biblical History and Geography Minor - Courses

Summer in Israel Prerequisite Courses for Undergraduate Students

Summer in Israel Courses for Undergraduate Students***

Summer in Israel Courses for Graduate Students