Can a teacher of a Bible course in the public schools also be an ordained clergy member?
Yes, if he or she meets all of the standards and qualifications of any other teaching position and state certification, if applicable. In other words, the fact of ordination must not be held as a prejudice against the person. While ordination does not disqualify a potential teacher, a clergy member should take extra care not to use his or her position to influence students’ religious beliefs. Separate issues may also arise around whether a public school teacher can wear religious garb in schools and classrooms, or whether members of that person’s congregation can be students in the class. Teaching the Bible What is the main difference between academic study of the Bible and devotional Bible study? Scholars try to understand the Bible through comparative literature, archaeology, and historical study to determine what the text may have meant in its original context. They look at evidence for authorship, audience, and the ways in which that audience may have understood their meaning. Reli
