Goal and Aims:
The goal of this course is to provide students with an overview of the Old Testament Books, focusing on Genesis to Esther. The course aims to introduce the historical, literary, and theological features of the Old Testament texts and their relevance to contemporary faith and life.
Lesson 1: Introduction
- Overview of Old Testament Survey Part I: Genesis-Esther
- Introduction to key concepts and themes
- Historical and Literary Context
Lesson 2: Genesis Part 1
- Creation Story and Theology
- The Patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob
- God’s Covenant with Abraham
Lesson 3: Genesis Part 2
- Joseph and his story
- Israelites in Egypt
- Exodus from Egypt
Lesson 4: Exodus Part 1
- Moses: Birth, Calling, and Commission
- The Ten Plagues
- Passover and Deliverance from Egypt
Lesson 5: Exodus Part 2
- The Decalogue: Ten Commandments
- The Tabernacle
- The Golden Calf
Lesson 6: Leviticus and Numbers
- Structure, Themes, and Content
- Sacrificial system and Holiness code
- The Wilderness wanderings
Lesson 7: Deuteronomy
- Structure, Themes, and Content
- Moses’ farewell address
- Theology of Covenant and Blessings
Lesson 8: Joshua and Judges
- Conquest of Canaan
- Settlement and Division of the land
- Judges: Leadership and Theology
Lesson 9: Ruth and 1 Samuel
- Ruth: Story and Theology
- Samuel: Birth and Calling
- Saul: King and Downfall
Lesson 10: 2 Samuel and 1 Kings
- David: King and Theology
- Solomon: Wisdom and Temple Building
- Kingdom Divided: Israel and Judah
Lesson 11: 2 Kings to Esther
- Prophets: Elijah, Elisha, and others
- Exile and Return
- Esther: Story and Theology
Lesson 12: Conclusion
- Recap of key themes and concepts
- Significance of Old Testament Survey Part I: Genesis-Esther
- Final Reflection and Application
Note: The 12 lessons can be split into 3 modules of 4 lessons each if desired.