Page images
PDF
EPUB
[graphic][subsumed][subsumed][subsumed][subsumed][subsumed]
[graphic][subsumed][subsumed][subsumed]

OF THE COMMITTEE

ON THE

PROPRIETY OF STUDYING THE BIBLE

IN THE

INSTITUTIONS OF A CHRISTIAN COUNTRY,

PRESENTED TO THE

LITERARY CONVENTION AT NEW YORK,

OCTOBER, 1831.

BOSTON:

PUBLISHED BY ALLEN AND TICK NOR.

NEW YORK:

JOSHUA LEAVITT.

1832./

Extracts from the Proceedings of the Literary Convention at
New York, Oct. 1831.

STUDY O F THE BIBLE.

'A report was subsequently read by W. C. Woodbridge, on behalf of the
Committee, on the propriety of studying the Bible as a classic, in the insti-
tutions of a Christian country, which was assigned for discussion for the last
year. The claims of the Bible as a literary work, to the attention usually
paid to a classic, were to be superior to any other work of antiquity, on the
grounds usually referred to in deciding such a question, whether we con-
sider its subject-its genuineness and authenticity the reputation of
the work and its authors—its universal and permanent character
influence on the intellect, the taste, and the moral character — its applica-
tion to our circumstances as a free people or its practical value in life.
The report was referred to a Committee, consisting of Dr Fisk, Dr Mac-
lay, and Prof. Vethake. They recommended the following resolutions,
which were adopted by the Convention.

[ocr errors]

-

- its

Resolved, That in the opinion of the Convention, the Bible has the strongest
claims, founded on its literary merits, to be received as a classic; and that the
study of its contents ought to form a part of common education.

Resolved, That the literature and antiquities of the Bible ought to form a part
of every course of liberal education.

*

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to prepare and report a plan, for a
course of biblical instruction, especially in reference to the academical and col-
legiate course.

Resolved, That in the opinion of the Convention, the Report on The propriety
of studying the Bible as a classic in the institutions of a Christian country, is a
document which deserves the attention of the public, as well on account of its
copious information, as for the candor with which it states and examines objections
to the proposed plan of biblical instruction.

'Dr Milnor, Dr Maclay, Professor Vethake, W. C. Woodbridge, and
Professor Woolsey, were appointed a committee under the third resolu-
tion.'

The Committee will be grateful for information concerning any
peculiar method which may have been adopted in the pursuit of this
study, addressed to either of its members.

Printed by Isaac R. Butts, School Street, Boston

« PreviousContinue »