The Bible is the cornerstone of Christian faith, offering spiritual wisdom, guidance, and historical insights. Whether you are a new believer, a long-time Christian, or a scholar seeking deeper biblical understanding, online Bible study courses provide a flexible and accessible way to engage with Scripture.
Online Bible courses range from free self-paced programs to in-depth theological courses from prestigious universities and seminaries. With the rise of digital learning, anyone can study the Bible from home at their own pace, with access to expert teachings, video lectures, interactive discussions, and guided reading plans.
Best Online Bible Study Courses
This guide explores the 20 best online Bible study courses, highlighting their unique features, course structure, and benefits. Whether you’re looking for a free introductory course or an advanced theological study, there’s something for everyone.
Criteria for Selection
With the abundance of online Bible study courses available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. To ensure that our list includes only the best and most valuable courses, we used the following five key criteria:
1. Credibility – Courses Offered by Trusted Sources
Not all Bible study courses are created equal. To ensure quality, we prioritized courses offered by:
- Accredited seminaries and theological institutions (e.g., Dallas Theological Seminary, Harvard, Moody Bible Institute).
- Renowned biblical scholars and theologians (e.g., N.T. Wright, Bart Ehrman, R.C. Sproul).
- Established Christian ministries and organizations (e.g., BibleProject, Ligonier Ministries, Logos Bible Software).
A credible Bible study course should provide accurate, well-researched, and theologically sound teachings, rather than mere personal opinions or unverified interpretations.
2. Course Depth – Suitable for All Learning Levels
Bible study courses cater to various levels of understanding, from beginners to advanced scholars. We selected courses that:
- Provide introductory content for those new to Bible study.
- Offer intermediate courses that explore historical, literary, and theological themes.
- Include advanced courses for deep theological discussions, biblical exegesis, and ministry preparation.
Some courses focus on a specific book of the Bible, while others cover broad theological themes or biblical history. This variety ensures that students at any stage of their faith journey can find a suitable course.
3. Format – Engaging and Interactive Learning Experience
The best online Bible study courses use engaging and diverse teaching methods to enhance learning. We considered courses that include:
- Video lectures by scholars, theologians, or pastors.
- Downloadable reading materials (PDFs, eBooks, or study guides).
- Interactive quizzes and assignments to test comprehension.
- Discussion forums or study groups for community-based learning.
- Self-paced or scheduled lessons to accommodate different schedules.
A well-structured format helps students retain information better and apply biblical principles to their daily lives.
4. Cost – Affordable and Accessible Options
Bible study should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Our list includes:
- Completely free courses (e.g., BibleProject Classroom, CLI Bible Courses).
- Free-to-audit university courses (e.g., Harvard’s “The Hebrew Bible” on edX, Yale’s “Introduction to the New Testament” on Coursera).
- Affordable one-time payment courses (e.g., Udemy’s “Bible Study Methods”).
- Premium, in-depth courses with paid certifications (e.g., Logos Bible Software courses, The Great Courses).
This ensures that both casual learners and those pursuing serious theological studies can find a course that fits their budget.
5. Denominational Perspective – Diverse Theological Viewpoints
Christian theology varies across denominations, so we included courses from different theological perspectives, such as:
- Non-denominational courses that focus purely on biblical studies without promoting specific doctrines.
- Evangelical courses from seminaries like Dallas Theological Seminary and Moody Bible Institute.
- Reformed theology courses from Ligonier Ministries and Reformed Theological Seminary.
- Historical-critical courses from universities like Harvard and Yale, which approach the Bible from an academic, literary, and historical viewpoint.
By offering a wide range of perspectives, learners can choose a course that aligns with their beliefs or explore alternative theological viewpoints for a broader understanding.
1. BibleProject Classroom
Why Choose It?
BibleProject Classroom offers visually engaging, free online courses designed to help learners understand the Bible in its historical and literary context. Led by Dr. Tim Mackie and other Bible scholars, these courses explore biblical themes, books, and ancient literary techniques.
Key Features:
- Completely free and self-paced.
- Visually engaging animated videos that simplify complex theological topics.
- Covers biblical themes like covenants, exile, and the character of God.
- Encourages deep reading and discussion.
📌 Best for: Beginners and intermediate learners who enjoy a visual and thematic approach to Bible study.
🔗 Visit: BibleProject Classroom
2. Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) Free Online Courses
Why Choose It?
Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) offers high-quality, seminary-level courses for free. These courses, taught by renowned theologians and professors, provide a structured and academic approach to Bible study.
Key Features:
- Free courses covering Biblical interpretation, theology, and Christian living.
- Taught by DTS professors, ensuring theological depth.
- Includes video lectures, study notes, and quizzes.
📌 Best for: Those seeking a structured, seminary-level learning experience.
🔗 Visit: DTS Free Courses
3. Harvard’s Online Course: “The Hebrew Bible” (via edX)
Why Choose It?
Harvard University offers this academic study of the Old Testament, focusing on historical, literary, and theological perspectives. If you’re interested in historical context and biblical scholarship, this course is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- Taught by Harvard professors through edX.
- Covers ancient cultures, literature, and history surrounding the Bible.
- Free to audit (paid option for certification).
📌 Best for: Those who want a scholarly, historical approach to Bible study.
🔗 Visit: Harvard edX Course
4. Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) Bible Courses
Why Choose It?
CLI offers free Bible and ministry courses for individuals seeking personal growth or ministry training. You can also earn certificates, diplomas, or even degree programs.
Key Features:
- Completely free (certification requires a small fee).
- Includes interactive lessons, quizzes, and group discussions.
- Courses in Biblical interpretation, leadership, and theology.
📌 Best for: Those seeking free structured courses with an option for certification.
🔗 Visit: Christian Leaders Institute
5. The Great Courses: “The History of the Bible”
Why Choose It?
Taught by Professor Bart Ehrman, this course explores how the Bible was written, compiled, and translated throughout history. It’s available on The Great Courses or Wondrium.
Key Features:
- A paid course with a one-time purchase.
- Covers historical origins, authorship, and translations.
- Taught by a leading biblical scholar.
📌 Best for: Those interested in biblical history and textual criticism.
🔗 Visit: The Great Courses
6. BiblicalTraining.org Courses
Why Choose It?
This platform provides free and paid courses on theology, biblical studies, and church history, taught by seminary professors.
📌 Best for: Those wanting comprehensive theological training.
🔗 Visit: BiblicalTraining.org
7. Logos Bible Software Courses
Why Choose It?
Perfect for pastors and serious students, Logos offers advanced courses integrated with their powerful Bible study software.
📌 Best for: Advanced learners looking for deep theological study.
🔗 Visit: Logos Courses
8. Ligonier Connect (R.C. Sproul’s Ministry)
Why Choose It?
Subscription-based courses focused on Reformed theology, church history, and biblical studies.
📌 Best for: Those interested in Reformed theology and systematic study.
🔗 Visit: Ligonier Connect
9. Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) Free Online Courses (Free)
- Offers seminary-level courses in Biblical interpretation, theology, and spiritual growth.
- Taught by renowned DTS professors.
- Best for: Those looking for structured, academic-level Bible study.
10. Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) Bible Courses (Free)
- Ministry training and Bible study programs, with certificates and diplomas available.
- Best for: Those seeking free, structured Bible education.
11. N.T. Wright Online Courses (Paid)
- Courses by renowned New Testament scholar N.T. Wright.
- Best for: Those interested in Pauline theology and New Testament studies.
12. Regent College Online Courses (Paid, Academic-Level)
- Deep theological and biblical studies from a well-respected seminary.
- Best for: Those looking for academic-level theology courses.
13. Moody Bible Institute Online Courses (Paid & Degree Options)
- Accredited Bible courses for in-depth biblical education.
- Best for: Those pursuing formal theological education.
14. Theology Courses from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (Free & Paid)
- Offers free and premium theology courses.
- Best for: Those wanting Baptist theological perspectives.
15. Biblical eLearning Free Bible Courses (Free)
- University-level courses by top biblical scholars.
- Best for: Those looking for comprehensive biblical education.
16. Veritas International University Online Bible Courses (Paid, Accredited)
- Christian apologetics and theology courses.
- Best for: Those interested in apologetics and theology.
17. The Bible Institute Online (Word of Life) (Paid & Free Options)
- Comprehensive Bible study programs.
- Best for: Those wanting structured, Bible-centered learning.
18. Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS) Online Courses (Free & Paid)
- Theology and biblical studies from a Reformed perspective.
- Best for: Those seeking Reformed theological training.
19. Hillsdale College’s “The Genesis Story” (Free)
- Explores the book of Genesis and its theological significance.
- Best for: Those interested in Genesis and biblical themes.
20. Master’s Seminary Online Courses (Free & Paid)
- Bible and ministry courses from a conservative evangelical perspective.
- Best for: Those seeking pastoral training and deep biblical studies.
Conclusion
With these top 20 online Bible study courses, you can deepen your understanding of Scripture, theology, and biblical history—all from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re looking for a free self-paced course or a university-level study, there’s something for everyone.
Finding the right online Bible study course depends on your learning style, theological background, and goals. Whether you want a free introductory course, a structured seminary-level program, or an academic exploration of biblical history, this list will guide you to the best options available. Start today and grow in your faith through these powerful Bible study programs!
