Books of the Bible, Old Testament (Nov. 10th)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time “Great Green Growing” Season (Liturgical Color: Green)

Story in Scripture: Colossians 1:17, Psalm 23 (as an OT/ NT connecting text) 

This week, we began a new body of learning centered on the Books of the Bible. Although it’s clearly impossible to learn everything there is to know about the Old Testament in a single week, we spent considerable time unpacking the basics. We divided up the Old Testament books into Law, History, Poetry, and Prophecy. We also thought through some of the events in the Old Testament and did our best to find common themes, similarities in the way God’s people responded to events, and to discern the heart of God in how he guided and helped his people throughout. Although we had good discussion and were able to address some questions, we reminded them that scholars will spend a life-time delving into the Old Testament… so they have plenty of time to learn and grow in their knowledge. These lessons are really just meant to be an overview- a jumping off point. 

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder why we read the Bible? 

I wonder how God helped the people of God get ready for Jesus?  

I wonder how God showed his people that he loves them, as told in the Old Testament? 

I wonder how the Old Testament helps us to better understand Jesus? 

Prayer:

“Dear God, thank you for your story. Thank you for the ways that you have walked with us… taught us… guided us throughout history. Thank you for the prophets and for their promise of the good to come. Thank you for the poems of the Old Testament and for the way they illustrate our sadness, frustration, and joy. Also, thank you for the Law. Help us to understand how we should live and work with one another to bring Glory to you. Amen.”