Studied by 43 peopleSaul
son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, was the first king of Israel. He was appointed by the prophet Samuel. Prior to his appointment, judges served as the leaders of the Israelites. him and Jonathan, his son, led the Israelite armies to defeat the Philistines, a Hellenistic people.
Hannah
the mother of the prophet Samuel. Childless as one of the two wives of Elkanah, she prayed for a son, promising to dedicate him to God. Her prayers were answered, and she brought forth Samuel and took the child to Shiloh for religious training.
Judah vs. Israel
After the death of Solomon, a schism over taxation divided the nation into two kingdoms. Rehoboam, Solomon's son and anointed successor, ruled over the Southern Kingdom, which was composed of the territory belonging to the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.
…The great Battle of Mount Zemaraim was reported in the Bible to have been fought in Mount Zemaraim, when the army of the Kingdom of Israel led by the king Jeroboam I encountered the army of the Kingdom of Judah led by the king Abijah I.
Baal
the name given to several different deities who are designated as false gods or idols. However, it is most often used to describe the specific Canaanite-Phoenician god of fertility and rain.
Job
a prosperous man of outstanding piety. Satan acts as an agent provocateur to test whether or not his faith is rooted merely in his prosperity. But faced with the appalling loss of his possessions, his children, and finally his own health, he still refuses to curse God.
Gospel
The Good News, found in New Testament, written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Kingdom of God/Heavens
the spiritual realm over which God reigns as king, or the fulfillment on Earth of God's will.a process, a course of events, whereby God begins to govern or to act as king or Lord, an action, therefore, by which God manifests his being-God in the world of men."
Elijah
a mighty prophet during a turbulent time in Israel's history. The nation had turned away from the Lord to worship Baal, and King Ahab had formed an alliance with Sidon by marrying their princess, Jezebel. He was sent to show Israel the evil of their ways and encourage them to return to the Lord.
The holy Spirit (Ruah)
the Hebrew word translated as God's Spirit. However, the word is also translated as breath, air, and wind in the Scriptures, reminding each of us of the physicalness of God's presence in the world.
The Book of Acts
a continuation of the Gospel of Luke, following Jesus' followers as they are given the power of God's Spirit and tasked with spreading the good news of God's Kingdom to the ancient world. This is the beginning of the international, multiethnic Church
David
the youngest of eight sons of Jesse, a farmer and sheep breeder of the Israelite tribe of Judah. He likely spent much of his boyhood tending his family's flock. One day he was summoned from the fields by the prophet Samuel, who anointed him king of Israel while Saul was still king. becomes a hero by killing Goliath, He conquered Jerusalem, which he made Israel's political and religious centre. He defeated the Philistines so thoroughly that they never seriously threatened the Israelites' security again, and he annexed the coastal region.
Monarchy
United Kingdom of Israel existed under the reigns of Saul, Eshbaal, David, and Solomon, encompassing the territories of both the later kingdoms of Judah and Israel.
Hosea
a prophet whom God uses to portray a message of repentance to God's people. Through his marriage to Gomer, God shows his great love for his great people, comparing himself to a husband whose wife has committed adultery, using this image as a metaphor for the covenant between God and Israel.
Isaiah
one of the most well-known prophets in the Bible for his prediction of the coming of the Messiah, who would redeem His people from their sins. A book of stark contrasts, he juxtaposes terrifying warnings of judgement and destruction with uplifting promises of hope and prosperity.
The satan
the prince of evil spirits and adversary of God in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam and is traditionally understood as an angel who rebelled against God and was cast out of heaven with other “fallen” angels before the creation of humankind
Jesus
the Christ, the long-awaited Messiah, as well as the one and only Son of God, is the one who receives the kingdom from the Father, is the Suffering Servant.
Zachariah
the father of John the Baptist, a priest of the sons of Aaron in the Gospel of Luke (1:67–79), and the husband of Elizabeth who is a relative of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:36).
Parables
Throughout his ministry on earth, Jesus shared a vision of life lived as God intended, of embracing the Kingdom of God now. One of the primary ways Jesus taught was in the form of a story about a simple subject, used to illustrate a deeper message.
Saul/Paul
was a Messianic Jewish-Roman writer and rabbi. He was a convert to Christianity. a member of the party of the Pharisees, who experienced a revelation of the resurrected Jesus. After this experience, he traveled widely throughout the eastern Roman Empire, spreading the “good news” that Jesus would soon return from heaven and usher in the reign of God
Paul’s letter to the Romans
contains his most complete explanation of the doctrine of justification by faith in Jesus Christ rather than by the performances of the law of Moses. urges the Romans to live not “according to the flesh” but rather by the Spirit ( 8:4 ). Through the Spirit, all believers become spiritual children of God, called by God to glory. This potential is a source of strength for the Christian: “If God is for us, who is against us?” ( 8:31 ).
Solomon
king of Israel who built the first Temple in Jerusalem. He was also the second (after his father, David) and last king of a unified Israel, which was at the height of its power during his reign. He is known for stories told in the Bible about his wisdom.
Temple
the house of the Lord. Some gospel ordinances and covenants are so sacred that God permits us to receive them only in special places, is literally a house of the Lord—a holy place set apart from the rest of the world.
Amos
the first Hebrew prophet to have a biblical book named for him. He accurately foretold the destruction of the northern kingdom of Israel (although he did not specify Assyria as the cause) and, as a prophet of doom, anticipated later Old Testament prophets, holds God's people accountable for their ill-treatment of others. It repeatedly points out the failure of the people to fully embrace God's idea of justice.
Prophet
teaches truth and interprets the word of God. He calls the unrighteous to repentance. He receives revelations and directions from the Lord for our benefit. He may see into the future and foretell coming events so that the world may be warned.
Chokmah
is the Biblical Hebrew word rendered as "wisdom"
Mary, the Mother of Jesus
a first-century Jewish woman of Nazareth, the wife of Joseph and the mother of Jesus. She is a central figure of Christianity, venerated under various titles such as virgin or queen, many of them mentioned in the Litany of Loreto.
The Word
a divine entity, which is Jesus Christ, who existed in the beginning with God ,
The Transfiguration
an event described in the New Testament, where Jesus is transfigured and becomes radiant in glory upon a mountain,a preview of the future, when the Son of Man will come in glory to consummate his kingdom. But this future kingdom can only come through his death and resurrection, which is why Jesus warns the three disciples to “tell no one the vision, until the Son of Man is raised from the dead”
New Adam/New Humanity
old humanity has been declared dead in Christ and believers are now declared new, complete human beings in Him. Being a Christian means living as new human beings in Jesus, putting on love, holiness, meekness, patience, and all the other characteristics that make believers into true people (3:1–17), is a title given to Jesus in the New Testament
The First Letter of John
addressed to a group of churches where “false prophets,” denounced as Antichrist, denied the Incarnation of Jesus and caused a secession so substantial that the orthodox remnant was sadly The focus is “fellowship,” which stands against false teachings and stands firm in the faith.
Sodom
city mentioned in the Book of Genesis, were destroyed by fire from God because of their sexual wickednesses including rape, child sexual abuse,and indecent assault, as well as homosexuality.
Messiah
the promised “anointed one” or Christ ; the Savior
“The Day of the LORD”
refer to predicted events in a later age of earth's history including the final judgment and the World to Come.
Jeremiah
prophecies of impending divine judgment, forewarning of the nation's idolatry, social injustices, and moral decay. According to the Bible, he prophesied the siege of Jerusalem and Babylonian exile as consequences for disobedience.
Sophia
the female personification of wisdom, though her roles and popularity in Judeo-Christian traditions have changed throughout time. She is also celebrated in Kabbalah, a form of Jewish mysticism, as the female expression of God.
Joseph
the bridegroom/husband of Mary, mother of Jesus.
Pharisee
members of a party that believed in resurrection and in following legal traditions that were ascribed not to the Bible but to “the traditions of the fathers.” Like the scribes, they were also well-known legal experts: hence the partial overlap of membership of the two groups.
Pentecost/Shavuot
the holiday that marks God's giving of the Torah to Moses on Mount Sinai
New Creation
living as a new inclusive community of God ; living in the freedom of the Spirit rather than entrapped by legalism; being recreated and transformed into the image of Christ.
Paul’s letter to the Corinthians
covered a number of different issues related to both life and doctrine: divisions and quarrels, sexual immorality, lawsuits among believers, marriage and singleness, freedom in Christ, order in worship, the significance of the Lord’s Supper, and the right use of spiritual gifts; he also included a profound teaching on the resurrection.
Goliath
is the most well known giant in the Bible. He is described as 'a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, whose height was six cubits and a span'
Bathsheba
wife of Uriah the Hittite; she later became one of the wives of King David and the mother of King Solomon, King David committed adultery with her who consequently became pregnant. Upon learning of her condition, David tried to cover his sin and eventually arranged for her husband, Uriah, to be killed in battle.
Assyrian Conquest
swept out of the north, captured the Northern Kingdom of Israel, and took the ten tribes into captivity. From there they became lost to history.
Ecclesiastes
provides instruction on how to live meaningfully, purposefully and joyfully within the theocratic arrangement -- primarily by placing God at the center of one's life, work and activities, by contentedly accepting one's divinely appointed lot in life, and by reverently trusting in and obeying the commandments
Behemoth
a beast from the biblical Book of Job, and is a form of the primeval chaos-monster created by God at the beginning of creation; powerful, grass-eating animal whose “bones are tubes of bronze, his limbs like bars of iron”
Metanoia
used to refer to the change of mind which is brought about in repentance.
Sadducee
a member of a Jewish party of the intertestamental period consisting of a traditional ruling class of priests and rejecting doctrines not in the Law (such as resurrection, retribution in a future life, and the existence of angels)
Sukkot
Jewish autumn festival of double thanksgiving that begins on the 15th day of Tishri (in September or October), five days after Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. It is one of the three Pilgrim Festivals of the Hebrew Bible
Agape
the fatherly love of God for humans, as well as the human reciprocal love for God. In Scripture, the transcendent love is the highest form of love and is contrasted with eros, or erotic love, and philia, or brotherly love.
Judges
individuals who served as military leaders in Israel in times of crisis, in the period before the monarchy was established, but NOT kings
Samuel
served as a priest and became the first prophet and last judge in Israel, He was Israel's last judge (1 Sam 7:6, 15‑17) and first prophet (3:20; Acts 3:24; 13:20). He functioned as a priest (1 Sam 2:18) and was a great man of faith (Heb 11:32), was born in response to his mother Hannah's prayers
Babylonian Exile
occurred when the Jewish people faced exile from Israel. Being forced to leave Judah, they lived in Babylon between 597 BCE and 538 BCE. This captivity lasted until they were freed by Persian leader Cyrus the Great.
Hevel
The word translated as meaningless is the Hebrew word, It literally translates into “vapor” or “breath”—which, in the context of the book, indicates the idea of something “fleeting.
Proverbs
a book in the third section of the Hebrew Bible traditionally ascribed to King Solomon and his students later appearing in the Christian Old Testament, an example of the biblical wisdom literature, and raises questions of values, moral behaviour, the meaning of human life, and right conduct, and its theological foundation is that "the fear of God (meaning submission to the will of God) is the beginning of wisdom".
Peter and the Apostles
one of Jesus' Twelve Apostles. He and his brother, Andrew, joined Jesus early in his ministry and were with him until Jesus' death. The bible presents him as compassionate and loyal to Jesus, but he also shows doubt, even denying Jesus three times, were the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus to be his closest followers and to spread his message after his death and resurrection.
John the Baptist
an ascetic Jewish prophet known in Christianity as the forerunner of Jesus, he preached about God's Final Judgment and baptized repentant followers in preparation for it. Jesus was among the recipients of his rite of baptism.
Guide to Become Blissful
Normally you suffer pain, misery and agony, but spiritual bliss is a state of eternal joy, love and peace. But when you reach a state of Divine bliss, then you are united with the Divine. It is God-realization. You realize that you are none other than the Divine spirit. You are an immortal Soul.
Pilgrimage
a multi-faceted concept which includes ideas of journey, experiencing exile, living as a pilgrim or sojourner, and the quest for a homeland.
How is the figure of Samuel a bridge figure for the tribes of Israel, from being a scattered people to a unified people?
Samuel served as a unifying figure for the tribes of Israel by anointing their first kings, Saul and David, establishing a centralized authority. As a prophet and judge, he provided spiritual and moral guidance, fostering a sense of national identity and cohesion. His leadership facilitated the transition from a scattered confederation to a unified monarchy, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's history.
How is monarchy as a new political structure both an advance and a disappointment from the LORD’s point of view in the life of Israel and their covenanted relationship?
The establishment of monarchy in Israel provided centralized leadership and stability but deviated from the ideal governance outlined in the covenant, potentially leading to abuses of power and idolatry. While it offered continuity, it also introduced the risk of kings prioritizing their own interests over God's commands, disappointing the covenantal relationship between Israel and God.
In what ways does the story of Hannah anticipate the story of Mary?
The stories of Hannah and Mary both involve miraculous conceptions and births. They both express deep faith and devotion to God, and their sons, Samuel and Jesus, play pivotal roles in God's plan for salvation. Additionally, both women offer songs of praise and thanksgiving upon learning of their pregnancies, highlighting God's faithfulness and power.
What is the role of the ark in the life of the community of Israel?
The Ark of the Covenant symbolized God's presence among the Israelites, serving as the center of worship and divine revelation. It represented Israel's national identity and unity, often carried into battle as a symbol of divine assistance. Treated with utmost reverence, it guarded the holiness of God and was handled only by designated priests, reflecting the sanctity of their relationship with Him.
Compare the ways that Saul is King of Israel with David and Solomon.
Saul's kingship marked Israel's transition to monarchy but ended in tragedy due to his disobedience. David, renowned for his military successes and faith, established Jerusalem as the capital and laid the foundation for a prosperous Israel. Solomon, known for his wisdom and grand building projects, oversaw the construction of the First Temple but faced challenges like heavy taxation and division after his death. David is remembered as a model king, while Solomon's reign represents a period of splendor followed by decline, and Saul's reign is seen as a cautionary tale of disobedience and downfall.
David wants to build a Temple for the LORD. The LORD wants to build a Temple out of the people Israel. Discuss how this anticipates what Jesus wants and does in his actions in the New Testament.
David's aspiration to build a physical Temple for the LORD reflects his reverence, but God redirects this ambition, emphasizing that He will establish His dwelling among His people, Israel. Similarly, Jesus's teachings and actions emphasize the spiritual nature of God's kingdom, focusing on building a community of believers where God's presence resides within their hearts. Jesus refers to Himself as the true Temple, symbolizing the shift from a physical structure to a spiritual reality. This parallels the LORD's desire to build a Temple out of the people Israel, highlighting the importance of a living, spiritual relationship with God over mere adherence to religious rituals or physical structures.
How does the aspiration for a King and a Temple for the early Israelites relate to the aspiration of a Messiah?
The aspiration for a king and a temple among the early Israelites reflects their desire for leadership, stability, and a tangible representation of God's presence among them. Similarly, the aspiration for a Messiah stems from the longing for a divine leader who will bring salvation, deliverance, and establish God's kingdom on earth. Both aspirations are rooted in the Israelites' covenantal relationship with God and their hope for redemption and fulfillment of God's promises. While a king and a temple provided tangible symbols of authority and worship in the Old Testament, the Messiah represents the ultimate fulfillment of these aspirations, embodying the perfect king and serving as the mediator between God and humanity. The Messiah's arrival signifies the culmination of God's plan for salvation and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, fulfilling the deepest longings of the Israelites and all humanity.
How is the story of David’s rise to power, fall from grace, and then mixed ending relate to the idea of “repentance”?
David's journey from rise to power, fall from grace, and mixed ending embodies the concept of repentance. Despite his initial righteousness, David's adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah lead to his downfall. However, his sincere repentance, as evidenced in Psalm 51, showcases the transformative power of acknowledging one's wrongdoing and seeking reconciliation with God. Though David still faces consequences, his story highlights the possibility of redemption through genuine repentance.
The book of Kings is what kind of story? A tragedy? Comedy? Drama? How so? What is the outcome in terms of the nation’s integrity and unity? How does this book depict the state of the covenant between the LORD and Israel at the end?
The book of Kings can be seen as a tragic narrative, portraying the rise and fall of Israel's monarchy and the consequences of the nation's disobedience to God. It is a drama filled with political intrigue, religious conflict, and moral dilemmas. The outcome in terms of the nation's integrity and unity is bleak, as the kingdom becomes divided and eventually falls to foreign powers.
The book depicts the state of the covenant between the LORD and Israel as strained and ultimately broken due to Israel's persistent idolatry and disobedience. Despite God's faithfulness in sending prophets to warn and call the people back to Him, Israel continues to stray, leading to the eventual destruction of the kingdom and the exile of its people. The book serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of forsaking the covenant and the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.
Hosea and Amos are considered to be part of the 12 “Minor Prophets. What kinds of themes do they address in these books that make them book of prophecy? Name at least two.
Hosea and Amos, part of the 12 Minor Prophets, address themes of social justice and morality, condemning oppression, exploitation, and moral corruption within Israelite society. They also emphasize covenantal faithfulness and denounce spiritual adultery, using vivid imagery to illustrate Israel's unfaithfulness to God and urging repentance and renewal of their relationship with Him.
Amos anticipates the Apostle Paul in telling the Israelites that the Exodus and receiving the Torah is not a privilege but a responsibility. Why is this important? How might it impact a Christian’s sense of responsibility?
Amos's prophetic message confronts the Israelites with the idea that the Exodus from Egypt and the receipt of the Torah were not merely privileges bestowed upon them but rather significant responsibilities. It emphasizes that being chosen by God comes with moral obligations to uphold justice, righteousness, and compassion in their interactions with one another and the world. This shift in perspective challenges the Israelites to move beyond a sense of entitlement and recognize the active role they must play in living out the covenantal relationship with God.
For Christians, this message resonates in their understanding of faith as more than just a personal blessing but also a call to transformative action. Just as the Israelites were called to embody the values of the Torah, Christians are called to emulate the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and prophets through love (Matthew 5:17). This means actively engaging in acts of love, mercy, and justice, seeking to bring about God's kingdom on earth. Recognizing the Exodus and Torah as responsibilities challenges Christians to live with a sense of purpose and accountability, striving to make a positive impact in the world by reflecting God's character and values in their lives.
One of the themes of the book of Isaiah is Jerusalem, the Garden/City of God. Explain why this is important for Isaiah as the goal for the people of Israel.
For Isaiah, Jerusalem as the Garden/City of God signifies the ultimate goal and destiny for the people of Israel. It serves as the spiritual center, symbolizing divine presence and restoration. Isaiah envisions Jerusalem's renewal from desolation to prosperity, reflecting God's faithfulness and power to redeem His people. Jerusalem also embodies the vision of peace, justice, and reconciliation, pointing towards a future where God's kingdom reigns on earth. In essence, Jerusalem represents the hope of fulfillment for Israel's covenant relationship with God and the realization of His purposes for His people and the world.
The book of Jeremiah begins with the origin story of how Jeremiah becomes a prophet. What is this origin story and how is it indicative of pretty much all prophets?
The origin story of Jeremiah as a prophet, recounted in Jeremiah 1:4-10, reflects common elements found in the experiences of many prophets throughout the Bible. Like Jeremiah, prophets often experience a divine calling from God, despite initial hesitations and feelings of inadequacy. They are commissioned and empowered by God to proclaim His message faithfully, often extending their mission beyond Israel to address broader moral and geopolitical concerns. This origin story underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing His messengers and the challenging nature of the prophetic task.
What is the significance of Jeremiah going from anger to tears in the passages we read?
The significance of Jeremiah transitioning from anger to tears in the passages reflects the complexity of his prophetic calling and the emotional depth of his message. Initially, Jeremiah expresses anger and frustration towards the people of Judah for their disobedience and rebellion against God. He denounces their sins and warns of impending judgment and destruction.
However, as Jeremiah continues to deliver his message, he is overcome with deep sorrow and compassion for his people. He sees the devastation and suffering that will result from their disobedience, and his heart breaks for them. His anger gives way to tears as he mourns the impending destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of his fellow Israelites.
This transition from anger to tears underscores Jeremiah's humanity and empathy as a prophet. It highlights the emotional toll of delivering a message of judgment and impending doom, especially to a people he loves deeply. Jeremiah's tears reveal his genuine concern for the welfare of his people and his desire for their repentance and reconciliation with God, even in the face of imminent judgment.
The book of Job recounts the story of a privileged man who loses all his privileges yet remains faithful to the LORD. How would you say he manifests the Lady of holy Wisdom in this story?
In the story of Job, Job manifests the qualities of Lady Wisdom by demonstrating wisdom in suffering, discernment, humility, and advocacy for justice. Despite his immense loss and pain, Job remains faithful to God, refusing to curse Him and instead seeking to understand the mysteries of divine providence. Through his introspection and dialogue with his friends, Job grapples with the complexities of human suffering and the limitations of human understanding. His encounter with God in the whirlwind humbles him and deepens his reverence for the divine. Ultimately, Job's journey through suffering leads to a deeper wisdom and recognition of the profound mysteries of God's wisdom.
How is the kind of wisdom that the book of Proverbs advocates different from the theoretical, cognitive notion of wisdom that say the ancient Greeks valued?
The wisdom advocated in the book of Proverbs differs from the theoretical, cognitive notion of wisdom valued by the ancient Greeks. Proverbs emphasizes practical wisdom rooted in reverence for God, focusing on moral decision-making and everyday living rather than abstract philosophical speculation. It emphasizes ethical virtues and personal integrity, acquired through a relationship with God and communal learning. In contrast, ancient Greek wisdom often prioritized intellectual pursuits and rational inquiry, with less emphasis on ethical considerations or communal values.
The Gospel narratives about Jesus’ childhood repeat many of the stages of growth of the Israelites in the Hebrew scriptures. Explain providing at three examples.
Infancy and Exile: Just as the infant Moses was placed in a basket and sent down the Nile to escape Pharaoh's decree to kill all Hebrew baby boys, Jesus and his family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod's slaughter of the infants in Bethlehem. This parallels the Israelites' experience of exile in Egypt before their eventual liberation.
Return from Exile: When Jesus' family returns from Egypt to settle in Nazareth, it mirrors the Israelites' return from exile in Egypt to the Promised Land. Both narratives signify a return to the homeland and the fulfillment of divine promises.
Time in the Wilderness: Before beginning his public ministry, Jesus spends forty days in the wilderness, fasting and facing temptation. This parallels the Israelites' forty years of wandering in the wilderness before entering the Promised Land. Both experiences involve testing, preparation, and dependence on God's provision.
These parallels between the Gospel narratives about Jesus' childhood and the experiences of the Israelites in the Hebrew scriptures serve to highlight Jesus' role as the fulfillment of Israel's story. Just as the Israelites went through stages of growth, struggle, and redemption, Jesus experiences similar stages in his own life, ultimately embodying Israel's story and bringing it to its ultimate fulfillment.
Why are Mark, Matthew, and Luke called the “synoptic” gospels and how is the Gospel of John different in its opening chapter compared to the opening chapters of the other three?
The Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke are called the "synoptic" Gospels because they share a similar structure, content, and chronology in narrating the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus. They offer parallel accounts of many of the same events, teachings, and miracles, often using similar language and arrangements. The term "synoptic" comes from the Greek words "syn," meaning "together," and "opsis," meaning "view," emphasizing the shared perspective of these three Gospels.
In contrast, the Gospel of John is distinct in both its style and content. While the synoptic Gospels focus more on Jesus' teachings and actions during his ministry, John emphasizes theological themes and spiritual truths. One notable difference in the opening chapter of John compared to the other three Gospels is the absence of a narrative birth story or genealogy. Instead, John begins with a poetic prologue (John 1:1-18) that introduces Jesus as the divine Word (Logos) who existed from the beginning, emphasizing his preexistence, role in creation, and incarnation. This theological emphasis sets the tone for the rest of the Gospel of John, which presents Jesus as the Son of God and emphasizes the significance of faith in him for salvation.
What is the “good tidings” of the gospel message found in all four gospels? In other words, according to what Jesus preached (not what current Christians might preach), what is this message?
The "good tidings" or "good news" of the gospel message found in all four Gospels revolves around the kingdom of God. Jesus preached about the imminent arrival of God's kingdom and invited people to repent, believe in the gospel, and enter into this kingdom. This message encompasses several key elements:
The Kingdom of God is Near: Jesus announced that the kingdom of God was at hand, breaking into human history and offering salvation, healing, and restoration to all who would receive it. This kingdom represents God's reign and rule, characterized by righteousness, peace, and the restoration of all things.
Repentance and Faith: Jesus called people to repentance, urging them to turn away from sin and self-centeredness and to turn towards God. He emphasized the need for a change of heart and mind, a willingness to acknowledge one's need for forgiveness, and a readiness to embrace God's will and ways.
Forgiveness of Sins: Central to the gospel message is the offer of forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ. Jesus proclaimed the forgiveness of sins to those who believed in him, emphasizing the importance of faith and trust in God's mercy and grace.
New Life in Christ: Jesus offered new life and abundant blessings to those who entered into relationship with him. He promised the gift of the Holy Spirit, who would empower believers to live transformed lives and bear witness to the reality of God's kingdom.
How does the gospel of Matthew expand the notion of “messiah”?
In the Gospel of Matthew, the notion of "messiah" is expanded in several ways. Matthew emphasizes Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, presenting him as the universal messiah who brings salvation to all people. Jesus is depicted as the authoritative teacher who inaugurates God's kingdom on earth and as the suffering servant who fulfills the prophecies of Isaiah. Through these portrayals, Matthew presents a multifaceted understanding of Jesus' identity as the long-awaited messianic figure who embodies both triumph and sacrificial love.
What does metanoia mean as we have discussed in class?
In the context of our discussions, "metanoia" refers to a transformative change of heart and mind, often translated as "repentance." It involves a profound shift in perspective, leading to a reorientation of one's life towards God and His will. Metanoia entails recognizing and turning away from sinful attitudes and behaviors, and instead embracing God's forgiveness, grace, and righteousness. It involves a deep inward change that results in outward transformation and a commitment to living in accordance with God's purposes.
I have argued that what are commonly called the “Beatitudes” are better translated as The Guide for becoming blissful.” Explain.
Translating the "Beatitudes" as "The Guide for becoming blissful" emphasizes the dynamic process of attaining true happiness and blessedness rather than a static state of being. This framing underscores the active and transformative nature of Jesus' teachings, highlighting the journey of internal growth and alignment with God's kingdom values. By using the term "blissful," the translation conveys a sense of deep joy, fulfillment, and harmony with God, resonating more deeply with contemporary readers and emphasizing the ultimate goal of the Beatitudes: the attainment of lasting spiritual well-being through relationship with God.
While Jesus proclaims the good tidings, he mainly demonstrates the minhisactions. How does he train his disciples to do the same? What advice does he give?
Jesus trained his disciples to demonstrate the good tidings not only through his words but also through his actions. He modeled compassion, humility, and selflessness in his interactions, teaching through parables and hands-on involvement in ministry. Jesus gave specific instructions and guidance, emphasizing the importance of love, forgiveness, and service. He promised the Holy Spirit to empower his disciples for ministry, enabling them to continue his work of proclaiming the kingdom of God and demonstrating God's love in practical ways.
Why does Jesus’ mission hinge on suffering and dying? You might explain in your own words, things we have discussed in class, and/or using one of the parables that Jesus uses.
Jesus' mission centers on suffering and dying due to its fundamental importance in Christian belief. His sacrificial death is seen as the means by which humanity is redeemed and reconciled with God, offering forgiveness and salvation to believers. Additionally, his suffering fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the messiah, validating his identity and role. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus triumphs over sin and death, providing hope for eternal life. Moreover, his willingness to endure suffering exemplifies obedience and humility, serving as a model for his followers. Overall, Jesus' mission hinges on suffering and dying as essential components of God's plan for humanity's redemption and salvation.
When Jesus was on the cross, he cried out the beginning of a Psalm. What do you think this means in terms of his relationship to his “Abba”?
When Jesus cried out the beginning of Psalm 22, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46), it reveals the depth of his human experience and his intimate relationship with his "Abba," or Father. While on the cross, Jesus experiences the full weight of human suffering and abandonment, yet he addresses God with a term of familiarity and intimacy, "my God." This demonstrates Jesus' unwavering trust and dependence on his Father even in the midst of profound agony and apparent abandonment. By quoting Psalm 22, Jesus also connects his suffering with the broader narrative of redemption found in the Psalms, affirming his role as the suffering servant whose death ultimately brings about salvation for humanity. Overall, Jesus' cry from the cross reflects his profound relationship with his "Abba," revealing both his humanity and his unwavering faith in God's ultimate purposes.
Describe in your own words the story arc of the Bible that we have studied together in terms of the principle of growth through opposition that we have discussed in class. Provide specific examples from the texts we have read.
The story arc of the Bible we've studied together follows a principle of growth through opposition, where characters and communities face challenges and adversity that ultimately lead to spiritual growth, redemption, and transformation. This theme is evident throughout the biblical narrative, from the Old Testament to the New Testament.In the Old Testament, we see examples of growth through opposition in the stories of figures like Joseph, who faces betrayal by his brothers, slavery in Egypt, and imprisonment, but ultimately rises to prominence and forgives his brothers (Genesis 37-50). Similarly, Moses encounters opposition from Pharaoh and the hardships of leading the Israelites through the wilderness, yet he grows in faith and obedience to God's call, ultimately leading the people to the promised land (Exodus 1-40). In the books of Samuel, we witness the rise of David from a shepherd boy to a king, overcoming opposition from Saul and his enemies through faith and reliance on God (1 Samuel 16-2 Samuel 24). Despite facing challenges and setbacks, David's character develops, and he learns important lessons about humility, repentance, and dependence on God . In the New Testament, the principle of growth through opposition is exemplified in the life of Jesus himself. He faces opposition from religious leaders, rejection by his own people, and ultimately, crucifixion on the cross. However, through his death and resurrection, Jesus brings about redemption and salvation for humanity, demonstrating the ultimate victory over sin and death (Matthew 26-28, Mark 14-16, Luke 22-24, John 18-21). Furthermore, the early Christian community in the book of Acts experiences opposition from religious authorities, persecution, and internal conflicts, yet they grow in faith, unity, and boldness through the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1-28). Overall, the story arc of the Bible we've studied together reflects the principle of growth through opposition, where characters and communities face challenges and adversity but ultimately experience spiritual growth, redemption, and transformation through their faith and reliance on God.
How does the story of the New Testament remain both continuous and discontinuous from the story of the Hebrew scriptures? Provide specific examples from the texts we have read.
The story of the New Testament remains both continuous and discontinuous from the story of the Hebrew Scriptures in several ways, reflecting a complex interplay between continuity and discontinuity.
Continuity:
Messianic Expectation: The New Testament continues the theme of messianic expectation from the Hebrew Scriptures. For example, in Matthew's Gospel, Jesus is presented as the fulfillment of numerous Old Testament prophecies, such as being born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14) and being descended from David (Matthew 1:1-17).
Covenantal Fulfillment: The New Testament portrays Jesus as the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Israel. In Luke's Gospel, Jesus inaugurates a new covenant at the Last Supper (Luke 22:20), fulfilling the promises of a new covenant found in Jeremiah 31:31-34.
Discontinuity:
Shift in Focus: While the Hebrew Scriptures primarily focus on the history and covenantal relationship between God and Israel, the New Testament shifts its focus to the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This represents a discontinuity in narrative focus between the two sections of the Bible.
Expansion of Audience: The New Testament expands the audience of God's message beyond the people of Israel to include Gentiles. This represents a significant discontinuity from the Hebrew Scriptures, where God's covenantal relationship was primarily with the people of Israel. For example, in Acts, the gospel spreads to Gentile communities, leading to the formation of diverse Christian communities (Acts 10-11, 13-14, 15).
How does the image of God both change and remain the same as the LORD journeys in time with creation, with humanity, with the first patriarchs and matriarchs, with the tribes of Israel, with their exile, with their exodus from Egypt, with their new home in Canaan, with their struggle to live up to the covenant under kings and prophets, and then with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and finally with Jesus’ followers as they try to embody his message in the scattered parts of the world?
Throughout the journey of time with creation and humanity, the image of God both changes and remains the same. In the Hebrew Scriptures, God is portrayed as the creator, covenant-maker, and guide for His people. As the narrative unfolds, God's interactions with humanity adapt to the changing circumstances, yet His character remains consistent in attributes such as love, justice, and faithfulness. From the patriarchs and matriarchs to the tribes of Israel, God's presence and guidance evolve, leading to the exodus from Egypt and settlement in Canaan. Despite the challenges faced under kings and prophets, God's commitment to His covenant endures. With the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, God's image is revealed in a new light, emphasizing love, mercy, and redemption. Finally, as Jesus' followers spread His message, God's image is manifested through their efforts to embody His teachings and share His love with the world. Throughout these transitions, God's essence remains constant, providing guidance and hope to His people in every age.
What question would you create and choose to answer that might be a comprehensive description and interpretation of the biblical story, demonstrating what you have learned in this course about this sacred narrative?
"How does the Bible tell the story of humanity's relationship with God, from creation to redemption, highlighting key figures and events that shape this sacred narrative?"
Answer: The Bible tells the story of humanity's relationship with God through a narrative that spans from creation to redemption, showcasing key figures and events that shape this sacred story. It begins with the account of God creating the world and humanity in His image, establishing a harmonious relationship with His creation. However, humanity's disobedience and fall into sin disrupt this relationship, leading to separation from God and the introduction of suffering and death into the world. Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, God initiates covenants with figures like Abraham, Moses, and David, promising to bless and redeem His people despite their failures. These covenants lay the groundwork for the eventual coming of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection bring about redemption and reconciliation between God and humanity. Through Jesus, God offers forgiveness, salvation, and the hope of new life to all who believe in Him. The narrative concludes with the promise of future restoration and renewal, where God will dwell with His people in perfect harmony for eternity. Throughout this narrative, key figures like Abraham, Moses, David, and Jesus play pivotal roles in illustrating humanity's ongoing journey of faith, obedience, and redemption in relationship with God.
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