This study approaches the study of Hebrew Scriptures by inviting
participants to hear the story of God and God's calling of the people
of Israel through the many "voices" of the biblical text. Narrative,
poem, history, and prophetic utterance all have their own distinctive
characteristics and purpose, arising out of a particular historical,
social, and cultural setting. To understand fully the story of God's
covenantal relationship with Israel calls for listening to these
various ways the story is told throughout the Old Testament.
What does it mean to be God's chosen people? And how does the story of
Israel's covenant with God inform our own identity as heirs of that
covenant? Through this study, participants will be invited to listen
afresh to the witness of the Old Testament to hear God's call and
purpose for their own lives and respond to that call.
Study Contents
1. The Making of the Hebrew Bible 2. The Creation Story of Israel
3. Out of Bondage 4. Promise and Problem in the Land
5. Israel Has a King 6. Division and the Rise of Prophecy
7. Exile and Response 8. Restoration and Renewal
Weekly group meetings are designed to last 60-90 minutes with a
two-part video segment to guide each session with interpretive
presentations from biblical scholars; contextual presentations and
roundtable discussions; and opportunities for reflection,
contemplation, or inspiration on some aspect of the Scripture studied.
Weekly Group Session and Format
Gathering Around God’s Word
*Video Presentation and Discussion
Encountering God’s Word in the Text
*Discuss Daily Reading Assignments
*Interpretive exercise concentrating on one focal passage.
Examining God’s Word in Context
*Video Presentation and Discussion
Going Forth with God’s Word
*Discuss of Marks of Discipleship
*Closing Prayers