As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Texas is placing renewed emphasis on the Bible’s influence on the nation’s history and literature. The State Board of Education recently approved a revised reading curriculum that incorporates biblical passages and stories throughout K-12 instruction, prompting both praise and criticism.

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From CBN:

The Texas State Board of Education has approved a Bible-infused public-school reading list. The revised literature curriculum, which was approved June 26th in a 9-5 vote, will apply to grades K-12 starting in 2030.

The list integrates multiple Bible stories and direct scriptural passages across grade levels. Elementary students will read picture book stories like David and Goliath. In middle-school they’ll be introduced to Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount.” High school students will read certain Bible verses alongside literary classics like “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen.

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Many Americans support this incorporation that highlights the Bible’s influence on America’s founding and civic life.

The new curriculum introduces students to biblical accounts and passages at age-appropriate grade levels, including Noah’s Ark, David and Goliath, Daniel in the lions’ den, the Exodus, the Beatitudes, and portions of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Rather than serving as religious instruction, supporters argue the readings provide important historical and literary context for understanding Western civilization, American history, and many of the nation’s founding ideals.

Supporters also point out that the Bible has long been recognized as one of the most influential works in English literature and has shaped countless speeches, writings, works of art, and historical documents. At the same time, Texas law preserves parental rights by allowing families to remove their children from classroom activities they believe conflict with their religious or moral convictions.

Critics contend that including biblical passages in public-school curriculum raises concerns about the separation of church and state. Supporters counter that teaching the Bible for its historical and literary significance is constitutionally permissible and helps students better understand the cultural foundations of the United States. They also see the curriculum as especially fitting as the nation commemorates its 250th year of independence.

We know Scripture is far more than great literature—it is the living Word of God. Even so, exposing students to the Bible’s historical and literary influence can help them better understand the foundations of Western civilization and America’s heritage. Let’s pray that God’s truth continues to shine in our schools and that young people will not only learn about the Bible but come to know its Author personally.

Share your prayers for America’s students, teachers, and schools in the comments below.

(Excerpt from CBN. Photo Credit: Samantha Sophia on Unsplash)