Biblical Languages
Biblical Languages
The Biblical Languages concentration focuses on both Old Testament Hebrew and New Testament Greek, and attempts to give you a solid base of knowledge and competence in these areas. It is particularly suitable for those who intend to pursue doctoral studies in the Bible, or who desire to teach biblical languages.
In this concentration, two years of both languages are required, and language study at the advanced level or within the context of advanced exegetical courses is recommended. Although a firm grasp of both Hebrew and Greek is required, you will choose one language to be your major focus and the other language to be your minor focus. You will take an Advanced Reading course in your major language (which will substitute for a seminar in this concentration) and will have additional readings in your major language in preparation for the comprehensive exam.
Concentration Coordinator: Brittany N. Melton
Note:
- The Biblical Languages concentration does not offer a thesis option. Students wishing to write a thesis should concentrate in either Old Testament or New Testament.
MATS Requirements
For a Biblical Languages concentration in the Master of Arts in Theological Studies program, you will need to complete the following Concentration Requirements in addition to the Foundational Core Courses listed on the MATS program page.
| Concentration Requirements | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Old Testament Hebrew I & II (LANG 510 & 511) | 6 |
| Intermediate Old Testament Hebrew I & II (LANG 610 & 611) | 6 |
| Introduction to New Testament Greek I & II (LANG 550 & 551) | 6 |
| Intermediate New Testament Greek (LANG 650 & 651) | 6 |
|
One of the following: |
3 |
| Comprehensive Examination | 3 |
| General Electives | 9 |
The 3 credits of Biblical Languages listed in the Foundational courses are incorporated in this list so that the total credits required for the program is 60.
Advanced Hebrew and/or Greek Reading courses may not be offered every year. Biblical Languages students may take one of the Advanced Exegesis courses without having previously taken Biblical Hermeneutics & Criticism (BIBL 600).
Worksheet
Download the Biblical Languages Worksheet (PDF) to keep track of your program and concentration requirements.
MDiv Requirements
For a Biblical Languages concentration in the Master of Divinity program, you will need to complete the following courses as part of the Additional Requirements listed on the MDiv program page.
| Concentration Requirements | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Old Testament Hebrew I & II (LANG 510 & 511) | 6 |
| Intermediate Old Testament Hebrew I & II (LANG 610 & 611) | 6 |
| Introduction to New Testament Greek I & II (LANG 550 & 551) | 6 |
| Intermediate New Testament Greek (LANG 650 & 651) | 6 |
| Advanced Hebrew or Greek Readings (LANG 721/LANG 722) | 3 |
Featured Faculty
Drew Lewis
Sessional Lecturer
Andrew Zack “Drew” Lewis has taught Hebrew, biblical studies, and theology in four different countries. He currently teaches biblical languages and Old Testament at Regent College. His most recent book is Approaching Job (Cascade, 2017). His current research interests include the book of Job and the function and meaning of trees in the Old Testament.
Matthew Lynch
Bruce K. Waltke Associate Professor of Old Testament
Matthew Lynch holds MATS and ThM degrees from Regent College and a PhD from Emory University. He joined the Regent College faculty in summer 2020. Matthew is the author of several books, including Flood and Fury: Old Testament Violence and the Shalom of God (IVP Academic, 2023). He is also a founder and co-host of the OnScript podcast, where he frequently interviews biblical scholars about their work.
Brittany N. Melton
Associate Professor of Old Testament
Brittany N. Melton received her PhD in Old Testament from the University of Cambridge in 2017, an MA in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a BA in biblical languages from Oklahoma Baptist University. She has known a calling to ministry since her teenage years, working in various church and parachurch contexts. Her love of the Old Testament is rooted in a passion for the church to rediscover the riches of Old Testament theology for the life of faith. Before coming to Regent in 2023, she taught in Cambridge, for Ridley College (Melbourne), and at Palm Beach Atlantic University in South Florida.
