Definition: Grades, in the Bible, refer to points or levels within a system; they were used as an indicator of a student's progress or ability. The term originally referred to scores from exams or tests administered by teachers; it later became more inclusive, meaning grades could also be earned through personal effort and knowledge. The specific grade system varied across different cultures and time periods, but in the New Testament, Peter describes the hierarchy of grades that would apply to all who were instructed by Jesus: A-C being first, then B, C, D, etc., with a final score indicating their understanding of God's law or faith.