Term 1 – Beginnings
Introduction
We start at the beginning of the Bible, journeying through the first six books of the Bible. We follow the lives of Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and Joshua in their journeys as they and their people discover more and more about God’s holiness, greatness, and love. This is not just ancient history: as we will discover, the events and promises of the Old Testament introduce key Biblical themes such as sin, redemption, holiness, and salvation which lead us to a deeper understanding of the awe-inspiring teaching that the New Testament contains.
Summary of Sessions
- Origins. The beginnings of everything in nature and theology.
- Seeing God Through Abraham’s Eyes. Abraham’s life and its significance in God’s plan.
- Founding Fathers of the Chosen People. God’s promises are worked out through (and sometimes despite!) Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph.
- Meeting God Face to Face. Moses, and the birth of the Israelite nation as God’s people. What it means to have a holy God in the midst of sinful people.
- Living With God in the Midst. Grumblings and rebellions in the desert.
- On the Brink. Arriving at the borders of the promised land – and Moses’ instructions for living in it.
- Joshua – Claiming the Promise. Joshua’s life story, and the possession of God’s promised land.
- God’s Big Picture. Looking back at all that we have studied to discern key patterns and themes.
