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B.A. in Biblical Studies
Equip with God's word
The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies is an academically rigorous and spiritually enriching
undergraduate degree program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the
Bible, Christian theology, and the historical and cultural contexts of the biblical world. This
program is ideal for individuals seeking to pursue ministry, advanced theological studies, or a
deeper intellectual and personal engagement with the Christian faith.
The BA in Biblical Studies offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes both the
academic and devotional study of Scripture. Students will engage in close analysis of the Old and
New Testaments, learn to interpret biblical texts using various hermeneutical approaches, and
explore the development of Christian doctrine throughout history. Very importantly, MBC’s
program in biblical studies heavily stresses the application of Scripture and theology to
discipleship. This program thus integrates theology, biblical languages, worldview, ethics, and
practical ministry as well as discipleship training to prepare graduates for service in churches,
non-profit organizations, education, and other ministry-based vocations as well as further
graduate study.
Overview
Where can I go with this degree?
Graduates of the BA in Biblical Studies program are well-prepared to enter seminary or
graduate-level theological education. You will also equipped for roles in pastoral ministry,
Christian education, missions, youth ministry, nonprofit leadership, and other areas of service
for the local church and beyond.
MBC's Academic Mission
Want the Full Breakdown?
View the full course plan and degree requirements in our Academic Catalog:
Degree Specific Courses
These are all the Biblical Studies courses offered at Montana Bible College.
BS 402 EPISTOLATORY BOOKS AND LITERATURE
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Spring
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the New Testament Epistles and the Book of Revelation, examining their historical, theological, and literary significance within the context of early Christianity. The
Epistles, written by apostolic figures such as Paul, Peter, James, John, and Jude, address theological doctrines, ethical teachings, and practical issues facing the early Christian communities. Revelation, attributed to John the Apostle, presents apocalyptic visions that convey profound theological truths about God’s sovereignty, the ultimate victory of Christ, and the culmination of history.
BS 301 PENTATEUCH, LEGAL AND NARRATIVE LITERATURE
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Fall
This course provides a comprehensive study of the Pentateuch, focusing on its legal and narrative literature,
foundational to the rest of the biblical canon. The Pentateuch, comprising Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, forms the core of the Torah and serves as the foundational narrative and legal framework for ancient Israelite society. The course will explore the historical, cultural, and theological contexts in which these books were composed, examining their literary forms, narrative structures, and legal codes. Students will engage with the intricate interplay between historical narratives—such as the creation account, the patriarchal narratives, the Exodus account, and the wilderness wanderings—and legal materials—such as the Covenant Code, the Holiness Code, and the Deuteronomic laws.
BS 202 HISTORICAL BOOKS AND NARRATIVE LITERATURE
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Fall
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the Old Testament Historical Books and Narrative Literature, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the historical, theological, and literary dimensions of
these foundational texts. Through close examination of selected books such as Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles, students will gain insight into the ancient Israelite understanding of God, the nation of Israel, and its covenant relationship.
BS 136 BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT I
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Fall
This Equip Conference course is part 1 of a 3-part series to survey the New Testament. This course, combined with BS 137 and BS 138, is equivalent to BS 102 New Testament Survey. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive. Fall.
BS 133 BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF THE TORAH
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Spring
This Equip Conference course is part 1 of a 3-part series to survey the Old Testament. This course, combined with BS 134 and BS 135, is equivalent to BS 101 Old Testament Survey. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive.
BS 106 BIBLE STUDY LAB
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Spring
This course is a workshop format lab which is designed to provide a hands-on experience for focused Bible study. Emphasis will be given to inductive Bible study methods as well as instruction for using online biblical resources. Students will learn to use these resources as a tool for Bible study throughout their studies at Montana Bible College. This course has a required lab fee for Bible Study subscription if not previously acquired with enrollment in BS 105. Recommended Pre-requisite course: BS 105.
BS 101 OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Fall
Students are guided through a survey of Old Testament law, history, poetry, and prophecy. The course is designed to acquaint the student with the progressive unfolding of divine revelation and its historical development as a basis for New Testament revelation. Introductory material to each book is given and the content of each book is highlighted.
BS 401 GOSPELS AND ACTS
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Fall
This course provides a comprehensive study of the four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and the Book of Acts—within the context of biblical studies. These foundational texts of the New Testament offer distinct theological perspectives on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, shaping Christian faith and practice through their narrative accounts and theological reflections. The course will explore the historical backgrounds, literary features, and theological themes of each Gospel. Students will examine the unique portrait of Jesus presented in each Gospel, considering the cultural, social, and religious contexts of first-century Judaism and the Greco-Roman world. Key topics include the birth narratives, ministry of Jesus, teachings (such as the Sermon on the Mount), miracles, passion narratives, resurrection accounts, and the theological implications of these events for early Christian communities and contemporary believers.
BS 210 -BS 220 BIBLE EXPOSITION SPECIFIC BOOK OR TOPIC
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Fall or Spring
Students will examine a specific book or topic through exposition, examining the author(s), audience(s), purpose(s) and content of the book being studied.
BS 138 BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT III
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Fall
This Equip Conference course is part 3 of a 3-part series to survey the New Testament. This course, combined with BS 136 and BS 137, is equivalent to BS 102 New Testament Survey. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive. Fall.
BS 135 BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF HEBREW WRITINGS
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Spring
This Equip Conference course is part 3 of a 3-part series to survey the Old Testament. This course, combined with BS 133 and BS 134, is equivalent to BS 101 Old Testament Survey. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive
BS 131 BIBLICAL PATTERNS
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Fall
This Equip Conference course is part 2 of a 3-part series to learn how to study the Bible. This course, combined with BS 130 and BS 132, is equivalent to BS 105 Bible Study Methods. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive.
BS 105: BIBLE STUDY METHODS
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Fall
Students are introduced to systematic, personal Bible study, gaining the foundation for a lifetime of profitable Bible study. The steps of observation, interpretation, and application are examined and related to methods for studying a Bible verse, chapter book, topic, and character. A significant feature of the class will be group study and discussion. Bible study as a means of grace towards sanctification is stressed. This course has a required lab fee for Bible Study subscription if not previously acquired with enrollment in BS 106.
BS 302 PROPHETIC BOOKS AND LITERATURE
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Spring
The course will examine major and minor prophetic books, including Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the Twelve Minor Prophets (Hosea to Malachi). Students will study the historical contexts in which these prophets lived and prophesied, analyzing their oracles, visions, and symbolic actions as expressions of divine revelation and moral critique. The literary styles and rhetorical techniques used by the prophets to convey their messages will also be explored. Key themes include the prophets’ calls to repentance and social justice, critiques of idolatry and injustice, visions of future restoration and renewal, and their theological reflections on the nature of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness.
BS 203 HYMNIC AND WISDOM BOOKS AND LITERATURE
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Spring
This course offers a focused study on the Hymnic and Wisdom Books and Literature found in the Bible, examining their distinct literary genres, theological themes, and cultural contexts. Through an exploration of texts such as Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon, students will gain a deep
appreciation for the diverse forms of expression and wisdom traditions within ancient Israelite and early Jewish literature.
BS 137 BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT II
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Fall
This Equip Conference course is part 2 of a 3-part series to survey the New Testament. This course, combined with BS 136 and BS 138, is equivalent to BS 102 New Testament Survey. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive.
BS 134 BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF THE PROPHETS
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Spring
This Equip Conference course is part 2 of a 3-part series to survey the Old Testament. This course, combined with BS 133 and BS 134, is equivalent to BS 101 Old Testament Survey. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive
BS 130 BIBLICAL GENRES
CREDITS:
1
SEMESTER:
Fall
This Equip Conference course is part 1 of a 3-part series to learn how to study the Bible. This course, combined with BS 131 and BS 132, is equivalent to BS 105 Bible Study Methods. The course is part of the course of study for the Diploma in Disciple Making. It is offered as a weekend conference intensive.
BS 102 NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY
CREDITS:
3
SEMESTER:
Spring
Students study the continuity of revelation in its fulfillment of Old Testament expectation. The Inter-Testamental period is covered, and the advent and life of Christ are considered as they pertain to Israel, the Church, and future things. Consideration is given to the founding of the Church, its personnel, doctrinal endowments, and its consummation. A brief exposition of each New Testament book is presented with a focus on themes, key texts, and background.
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