By Dr. Kristin Bird
3 Keys for Biblical
Integration in Teaching
T
OO OFTEN TEACHERS rely on curriculum guides to
tell them how to integrate biblical principles into the
concepts they are teaching their students. However, there
are times when the curriculum guide may not adequately
prepare the teacher for the moments when the student can
learn the most. In those teachable moments, a student may
ask a question that leads to a conversation that cannot be
dictated by the curriculum. It is especially in those moments
that teachers need to be ready to incorporate biblical
concepts and principles into what they teach.
As Christian teachers, not only do we want to honor God
in our teaching, but we want to clearly point students to
Christ and help them think from a biblical worldview. The
goal of biblical integration is to help students think critically
through a biblical worldview.
To incorporate biblical principles into teaching,
keep the following keys in mind:
Key 1: Biblical integration needs to be natural.
One thing teachers need to remember about biblical integra-
tion is that it cannot be forced. Biblical integration is more
than the addition of some Bible verses and lessons about
character education, or a simple application at the end of the
44
lesson. Biblical integration, when presented in an unnatural
manner, is not effective and can even turn students away
from biblical truth.
Instead, teachers need to draw lessons from stories and
illustrations as Jesus did in His teaching (parables). Bibli-
cal integration takes place throughout the lesson, and all
content is presented from a biblical perspective.
Key 2: Biblical integration needs to have practical
life application.
Teachers who want to integrate biblical principles into
their teaching effectively need to go beyond just mention-
ing Christian values. They need to have the students use
and practice them and be provided with opportunities to
demonstrate Christian actions and attitudes.
Teachers should integrate into lessons how various expe-
riences (stories, etc.) can help develop Christian values and
attitudes, especially so they align with your school/church
mission. Also, weave ways throughout the curriculum and
class discussions on how students can be involved in Chris-
tian service. As a teacher who knows the lives of the students,
offer suggestions or create assignments that are appropriate
for the age group and culture of the community.