Should a "Bible class" be offered as an elective in high school?

Question

Just came on the news here in San Antonio, Tx.
It is not a requirement, but an option that they are thinking of offering... what do you think?

Answer 1

Yes, if taught as a primarily philosophy of theism class with extensions to religious belief, covering the classic logical arguments defending and attacking religion, etc. A seminar of this type was offered at my high school.

No, if taught as it would be in church, unless I guess if the school is a private religious school.

Answer 2

I actually took a class like this while being a senior in high school. I was skeptical about how they were able to teach a bible course in a public high school. It was simply under the topic of viewing the Bible through a historical perspective. In my experience, it was nothing more than glorified Sunday School. As a Christian, it cheapens my faith in a way. I believe that faith-based teaching should be in churches only. However, with that said, if it was TRULY a Biblical History class then ANY person of ANY religion that is a religious scholar could test the class. In fact, I would rather someone that was NOT a Christian teach it so that faith wouldn't even be a topic in there. Many colleges have classes such as these. They are taught from an academic point of view. I am just perfectly fine with this. However, as stated before, faith shouldn't be taught in public schools, unless, there is a class from every faith that is represented in that school and a section made for those that do not have faith in any higher being, such as yourself. It should be fair.

Answer 3

I think they souldn't do it. If they do so, then they'll have to offer the same option for jews and muslims as well. If a person wants their kids to take Bible class, there are some religious schools that offer that class as part of the curriculum.

Answer 4

No.
I have nothing against religion-but in America we have what is called separation of church and state. Anytime you bring religion into a public school it is being funded by the government thus it would be a clear violation of this.
We can not have this.
Private schools-ok. If kids want to meet somewhere after school and have a class-thats great. But not on a public school grounds and not funded with our tax money.

Answer 5

Personally I do not feel it should be offered as an elective, isn't that what "Bible Study" is for? It sounds like an easy way for kids to get out of doing real work or being productive with their studies.

Answer 6

I'm also from SA and I found that article very interesting.If you don't know the Bible you'll learn taking that course.Not to be religious,but to have the knowledge when a conversation on religion comes up.I know for a fact that people out there would benefit from a religion course.Might make us more tolerant of people that are deeply rooted in their beliefs.It wouldn't change the way I feel,but it might help me be more open minded.My opinion.

Answer 7

Only if that religion class involved the study of ALL religions. And it was completly optional. But i think a class like that is better left to college. you can get deeper into the different religions, more time.

But bible study of a specific religion belongs either in private school or in church.

Answer 8

Yes, I definately think it should, where I am at the High School has a seminary class that is for the LDS religion, but won't offer a Bible Class because "seperation of church and state" then where the hell do they get off acoomodating to one religion but not others.

Answer 9

That depends.

Is it a class meant to evangalize the students or teach the bible as part of cultural literacy?

In the first case NO, that is not the job of public school.

In the second case... perhaps.

Answer 10

I think it's a great idea because so many people need to know good Christian values. In learning about the Bible, children would learn to love and treat others with respect hence eliminating lots of the horrible problems we have in the mean world.