How we, as teachers, view the Bible matters because it impacts our teaching from lesson preparation on to how we present truth. Do we have a view worthy of the time and effort to get it right?
Not only will our view of the Bible impact what and how we teach it but also how students may perceive the God of the Bible.
Some Obvious, Foundational Beliefs about the Bible
Lets first consider where we fall on obvious distinctions about the Word.
1) Truth versus Fiction
If we see the Bible as mere symbolic or allegorical, then our teaching will tend to be more theoretical or “fluff”. We will tend to present an anemic God. This is a God who doesn’t have power to literally create the heavens and earth or part the Red Sea, etc. — If this is the case, how can students expect Him to make a real difference in their lives? Why should they follow such a God?
2) Absolute versus Relative
When we view the Bible as relative, we get to pick and choose what to believe. We adhere to what fits our situations. This not only makes our lessons somewhat meaningless but also presents an aimless God who isn’t really sovereign. — If this is the case, how can we expect students to trust Him to direct their paths?
Other Views of the Bible That Affect Teaching
We may view God’s Word as absolute truth. Within that framework, however, we can still hold to views of the Bible that affect how we teach as well as students’ perceptions. Click on the links for more.
We might view Scripture primarily as a book of God’s rules and regulations. That could negatively impact motivations.
Maybe we see the Bible strictly as an historical account of God’s work in the world. That could negatively affect how we perceive its relevancy for today.
Or, we could view the Word as a love story depicting God’s quest for relationship with the people He created. That could positively affect our heart’s pursuit of a relationship with God.
For More about Our View of the Bible, Also Read: