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Textual Criticism
The science of Textual Cristicism
“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:8).
Since inspiration, by its very definition, extends only to the original manuscripts of the Bible, and since none of the original manuscripts are in existence today, how can we rely on the accuracy of our modern Hebrew and Greek Bibles? The answer to this question is found in the science of Textual Criticism.
WHAT IS TEXTUAL CRITICISM?
Textual criticism is scholarly work with available manuscripts aimed at the recovery within the limits of possibility of the original text.
We do not have the original papyri that Moses used to write the Torah. We do not have the original letter of Paul to the Galatians which contains his own signature. All we have are copies. In some instances they are copies of copies of copies.
Textual criticism involves carefully examining those copies to find out what is the original text.
TWO BASIC TYPES OF CRITICISM
There are two basic kinds of criticism in use among Biblical scholars today. They ought to be distinguished from the outset.
1. Higher Criticism.
Higher Criticism looks to the outside factors of the book. It asks such questions as…
- Who wrote the book?
- Where was the book written?
- When was the book written?
- What outside factors influenced the writing of the book?
- Why was the book written?
Biblical Studies
What is Biblical Studies?
Connecting with God’s vision and purpose through the study of His Word is a rewarding endeavor. Diving deeper into the Bible raises an awareness of the passion Jesus had for all of us, a passion that will often leave the reader asking more questions.
In the end, a deeper knowledge of His mission throughout the scriptures generates an intense passion to learn more.
Biblical studies is the in-depth look at the message of the whole Bible including its original language, context, and overall mission and purpose. At Biblical we teach that the entire Bible points to Jesus Christ and His mission. From the Old Testament to the New Testament we see the writers pointing to Christ and instructing us in the mission of God.
Biblical Counseling
Simply put, Biblical counseling is counseling that seeks to impart the wisdom of Scripture into the life of an individual and guide them to lasting growth and change. Biblical counseling seeks not only to change a person’s life but their heart as well. Providing hope from the Word of God, the ultimate goal of biblical counseling is to draw the individual to Christ and the work of the cross. The skills and knowledge gained from biblical counseling are useful for pastors, church leaders, or anyone interested in counseling from the biblical perspective.
If you’re looking for seminary level training to equip you with biblical counseling skills, but are not interested in pursuing a degree program, then our certificate program may be just what you’re looking for. This certificate provides the opportunity to bring current counseling skills to the forefront of ministry, helping people grow and change. Our courses, taught by leaders in the field, will provide insight into key issues that those serving in ministry frequently face. Who is this Certificate for?
The certificate program provides an opportunity for those in a wide range of ministry service to bring current counseling skills to their ministries that will help people to grow and change.
In addition to those who wish to examine the possibility of a future MA in Counseling degree, others who will benefit include pastors, church leaders, pregnancy counseling volunteers, crisis hot liners, educators, home school personnel, those in a social service environment, and anyone with a desire to explore counseling from a biblical perspective.