Poll: Students' biblical knowledge lacking

Poll: Students' biblical knowledge lacking

Q:

The Bible Literacy Project published results last week of a national Gallup survey that found American high school students are deficient in their academic knowledge of the Bible. Why is biblical knowledge important, if at all? Are children better off with such knowledge? Do you agree with the survey's results?

A:

Ever wonder why “Lord of the Rings” was so popular? Or “Star Wars”? Next week its last episode will be released – bringing together three decades of viewers who applaud the victory of good over evil. Well, the Bible has a powerful punch line too. Unfortunately, it gets some bad press because readers choose different scenes to accent, or leave at intermission rather than follow the entire story.

Knowledge of the Bible is necessary to consider any education rounded. A general knowledge of all books that bring people to faith is a must for students, especially to live and function in this global village.

The Bible is the sacred scripture of an institution – the Church – which during the early Christian centuries, compiled many books into the form we have today. The Bible did not fall from heaven all leather bound with red-colored type. In the Armenian Church it is referred to as the “Breath of God.” It is understood in its entirety (not segmented) as a book that offers a glimpse of God’s love for humanity. In other words, it is tied to the institution, which is contrary to popular understanding.

I'm not really sure the Bible can be taught devoid of faith expressions. But that hasn’t stopped us from teaching other literature. After all, students read Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables" and a healthy discussion of the virtues of kindness, tolerance and suffering ensues. Orwell's "1984" or Huxley's "Brave New World" expand the mind of young people to discuss the possibilities of conformity and control. The Bible in its complete form can give students an opportunity to understand concepts of care and hope, of faith and courage, of justice and freedom. Most importantly, it can and should reflect the strength of love in the face of evil and all adversity.

Father Vazken Movsesian

In His Shoes Mission

Armenian Church Youth Ministries