UndergraduateDiscover the Heart
and Soul of God's Word

This course examines the basic issues in biblical hermeneutics, including the nature of historical-grammatical interpretation, genre analysis, historical and cultural background, literary analysis, and application. This course examines what it means for humans to have God’s word inscripturated into language.

This course focuses on the content of the Old Testament and introduces methods for studying the Bible. Particular attention is paid to learning the various genres of the Old Testament and to the introduction of critical issues for biblical studies. Alongside the coverage of the biblical narrative, the students will study major historical and cultural developments in the ancient Near East that cast light on the Old Testament.

An introduction to world religions including their historical developments, beliefs, and practices. The course takes an empathetic approach to religion, understanding and appreciating religion as a response to the question of human existence. The religions studied include, but are not limited to, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and East Asian religions. Special attention is given
to the similarities and differences among world religions.

This course focuses on the content of the New Testament and continues developing methods for studying the Bible. Particular attention is paid to the various genres of the New Testament while introducing critical issues for biblical studies. Major historical and cultural developments in the Mediterranean area of the Hellenistic period are surveyed.

A biblical, historical, and systematic treatment of four theological topics: the doctrine of revelation, theology proper, anthropology and Christology. The relevance of these topics to the student’s personal life, the corporate life of the Church, and the cultural milieu is emphasized.

A biblical, historical, and systematic treatment of the remaining theological topics: pneumatology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology.

Practical field experience in a ministry context designed to help the student develop ministry skills and to clarify the student’s sense of vocation.

A capstone experience that helps students envision how they might contribute to fulfilling God’s purpose in the world. Specific attention will be given to the topics of calling, career, decision making, and personal finance. Students will assemble a portfolio of a variety of materials to assist them in formulating next steps after graduation.

Students have the opportunity to travel abroad to Greece or Israel and Palestinian territories.

Led by Cornerstone professors, our two-week Israel Experience study tour meets a course requirement and offers you in-depth, on-site learning experiences at places such as Jerusalem, Judea, the Coastal Plain, the Negev, the Dead Sea, the Jordan Valley and Galilee.

As a biblical studies major, you have the opportunity to qualify for advanced standing at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. This gives you the option to apply up to 24 of your bachelor’s degree credits toward a master’s degree in divinity, ministry, biblical studies or counseling. This is a useful way to complete up to 25% of your master’s degree before graduating from Cornerstone.