About SBL
The SBL Greek New Testament is jointly published by both the Society of Biblical Literature and Logos Bible Software.
The Society of Biblical Literature is the oldest and largest international scholarly membership organization in the field of biblical studies. Founded in 1880, the Society has grown to over 8,500 international members including teachers, students, religious leaders and individuals from all walks of life who share a mutual interest in the critical investigation of the Bible.
The Society’s mission to foster biblical scholarship is a simple, comprehensive statement that encompasses the Society’s aspirations. Our vision is to offer members opportunities for mutual support, intellectual growth, and professional development.
Mission, Visions, and Values
The following Mission Statement and Strategic Vision Statements were adopted by the SBL Council May 16, 2004.
Mission Statement
To foster biblical scholarship.
Strategic Vision Statements
- Advance the academic study of biblical literature and its cultural contexts
- Collaborate with educational institutions and other appropriate organizations to support biblical scholarship and teaching
- Develop resources for diverse audiences, including students, religious communities and the general public
- Facilitate broad and open discussion from a variety of perspectives
- Offer members opportunities for mutual support, intellectual growth, and professional development as teachers and scholars
- Organize congresses for scholarly exchange
- Publish biblical scholarship
Core Values
- Accountability
- Collaboration
- Collegiality
- Commitment
- Communication
- Efficiency
- Inclusiveness
- Leadership in biblical scholarship
- Productivity
- Responsiveness to change
- Scholarly integrity
- Tolerance
SBL History
The eight founders of The Society of Biblical Literature and Exegesis first met to discuss their new society in Philip Schaff's study in New York City in January of 1880. In June the group had their first Annual Meeting with eighteen people in attendance. The new society drew up a constitution and by-laws and discussed several papers. Membership dues were set at three dollars. By the end of the year, membership had grown to fourty-five and publication of the meeting proceedings were in the planning stages. The Journal was launched the following year.