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The Legacy: Biblical & Theological Studies at Wheaton College

As of August 2024, the School of Biblical and Theological Studies merged into the Litfin Divinity School at Wheaton College. From the College’s inception, scripture and theology have been central, with early instruction provided by pastor-presidents in the 19th century. Formal faculty development began in the early 20th century, with Edith Torrey joining as the first Bible instructor in 1919.

During the mid-20th century, the department set itself apart by assembling a faculty committed to academic scholarship—a rarity among conservative Christian colleges at the time. It quickly became a center for evangelical scholarship in biblical studies, theology, and archaeology, producing influential works still in use today.

By the latter half of the 20th century, evangelical students increasingly sought graduate education at leading universities in the U.S. and Europe. This post-war period also saw the founding of new seminaries and the revitalization of existing ones, contributing to evangelicals' growing influence in national academic circles. Wheaton College’s theology curriculum evolved as part of this broader trend.

Now integrated into the Litfin Divinity School, the faculty has expanded to nearly 30 full-time members, supported by additional faculty in practical theology and ancient languages. The school offers comprehensive B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. programs, with resources including an archaeology museum housing a significant collection of ancient artifacts. A summer program, Wheaton in the Holy Lands, takes over 40 students on a six-week tour of the Holy Land, Turkey, Greece, and Italy. Regular lectures and conferences further enrich the academic environment.

The legacy of the former School of Biblical and Theological Studies lives on through the contributions of its faculty, who have made significant impacts across generations. Scholars in Old and New Testament studies, theology, and archaeology have produced widely respected works and led important excavations in Israel and Egypt. Their engagement with key issues—including the defense of historic orthodoxy, the role of women in church leadership, justice in various forms, and the revival of ancient worship practices—continues to influence the direction of the evangelical church today.

The following faculty members served the School of Biblical & Theological Studies for ten years or more. Our efforts today are built on their contributions. We are grateful for their excellence in service and scholarship.