This course is an introduction to the interpretation of the Bible, seeking to provide a historical perspective and reliable principles with which to study, interpret, and apply Scripture.

Text Book Needed:

Duvall, J. Scott, and J. Daniel Hays. Grasping God's Word: A Hands-on Approach to Reading, Interpreting, and Applying the Bible. Third Edition. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.

Duvall, J. Scott, and J. Daniel Hays. Grasping God's Word--Workbook. Third Edition. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.

To complete the course, the student is required to accomplish the following: 

1. Reading: The student is required to read and understand all concepts in the text book. Other reading and studying may also be required. 

2. Examinations: The student is required to complete all quizzes and tests administered by the instructor, based on the textbook and notes. Exams and approximately 8-10 quizzes may vary by number of questions and answered type (i.e. multiple choice and essay). The lowest quiz grade will be dropped and the rest averaged. No makeup quizzes will be given. 

3. Citation Info

Grasping God's Word has proven itself in classrooms across the country as an invaluable help to students who want to learn how to read, interpret, and apply the Bible for themselves. The third edition, revised based on feedback from professors, will continue to serve college-level students and lay learners well in their quest to gain a firm grasp on the rock of God’s word.

Old Testament scholar J. Daniel Hays and New Testament expert J. Scott Duvall provide practical, hands-on exercises to guide students through the interpretive process. To emphasize the Bible’s redemptive arc and encourage correlation across the biblical canon, the authors have included a call to "Consult the biblical map.