Introduction to the Bible Week 2
Old Testament Historical Books


Looking back on last week:








Key Ideas:

Memorization

Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my instruction. For it is good to keep these sayings deep within yourself, always ready on your lips. I am teaching you today—yes, you—so you will trust in the LORD.” – Prov. 22:17-19

Meditation (Psalms 1)

Definition: Deep thinking on the truths and spiritual realities revealed in scripture for the purposes of understanding, application, and prayer.


Introduction to Old Testament Historical Books

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16,17

“…everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” – Romans 15:4

Bible books:

Timeline:


Why OT history is important:

Psalm 77:3-9

Psalm 77:11-14

Psalm 78:2b-8

All these events happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us, who live at the time when this age is drawing to a close.” – 1 Corinthians 10:11






What kind of history do these books record?

1. God’s Promise to ______________nation, land, blessing to the world.

2. God’s Promise to ______________one of his descendants will sit on his throne and rule the world forever.

Biblical history shows God’s faithfulness ______________________________ __________________.


Enjoying Narratives

When you read a narrative, look for:


Examples of Tension:

Genesis 12,13



Exodus 1,2



Sidebar: principles of walking by faith




Reading OT History: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30

ANALYSIS

Read the whole passage

Outline the passage


List and describe the main characters:








Look for repeated words or concepts:




Is this story related to God’s promise to Abraham or David? If so, how?




APPLICATION:

Prayerfully consider questions like:

Are there principles about the way God operates in this passage that have relevance for my life today? Where are those principles reiterated in the New Testament?

WARNING:

Principle:



How has my faith in God been affected by the way he deals with the people in this story? What have I learned and how can I put it into practice this week?

Identify some “threats” you feel and identify & reflect on promises in the Word

Fear or threat

Why are you afraid?

Promise

Steps of Faith

















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Assignment: Bible Reading Assignment #2 due next week. Read “Why Believe the Bible,” section III on Historical Evidence part 2

Xenos Christian Fellowship 2008