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Survey of the Bible

Overview of Genesis to Revelation

Compiled and Written

By

Jeannie K. Barge

Summer 2007

May God bless our study of His Word!

Survey of the Bible Lesson 1 Introduction

Share today part of my ongoing Bible study project – Excel Bible Study.

We will use this printout of the Overview of the Bible to do overall glimpse of the Bible in this lesson, then continue in the various sections in the weeks to come.

For many years I read randomly in the bible, or did study of one particular book, such as Genesis. The first time I remember studying that book was by a Mrs. Bowen at Forest Hills Baptist Church in Decatur, where I went weekly for a ladies’ Bible study. That study got me hooked in the Word – and I found there were depths/layers that I’d never imagined – gold just waiting to be mined!

It wasn’t until about 1992 that I had a real desire to see the Bible as a whole – from ‘kiver to kiver’ as they say! Having purchased a recommended Believer’s Study Bible, edited by Dr. Criswell of Dallas Theological Seminary, I began a yearly reading of the Word – not always Genesis to Revelation – but sometimes a book in the Old Testament, then the New, then Psalm. But almost every year since I’ve read it thru kiver to kiver! It’s given me a different understanding of it all – I now see it as a whole puzzle put together rather than 66 separate pieces.

Two to three years ago I read it thru with the New Inductive Study Bible, edited by Kay Arthur. It was a totally new exciting experience – as the only words of ‘commentary’ is the single page of historical setting she gives before each book. The commentary, or summaries of each book, are written by you. What I’ve given you today in the printed Overview is the chapter summaries from Genesis to Revelation. This is a beginning point in seeing the Bible as a whole message.

First, open your Bible to the front listing of books: Dating references in the Bible and in history itself show that Adam was created about (c.)

4000 B.C. (I’ll use c. to represent ‘about’ in the following dating.) When you add 2000 years since the birth of Christ (B.C.), you have about 6000 years. (In the modern world, that avoids any mention of Christ, the common replacement of B.C. is B.C.E., for ‘before common era’ – and instead of A.D., they use C.E. for ‘common era’.)

God, thru the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, spoke to many men to write the history, prophecy, poetry, and letters that make up our Bible.

Look at the listing in the front of your Bible – the Old Testament is made up of 39 books, the New Testament made up of 27 books, a total of 66 books.

Now look at your printout and let’s take a quick ‘tour’ of the Bible – 6000 years in perhaps 20 minutes!

You have the initial five books, the Pentateuch, written by Moses, which begins the historical section, going through Esther. Then you have the writings or poetry – Job through Song of Solomon. Then there’s the prophets – Isaiah through Malachi. In the New Testament you begin with the historical books, beginning with the life of Christ – Matthew through Acts, then the letters of Paul, Romans through Philemon – then the other letters, Hebrews through Jude. The final book is one of prophecy – Revelation, written by John the disciple. Does it whet your appetite to read certain portions of the Scripture? I hope so! I want you to get an overall picture of God’s Word – of His plan for mankind – His plan for you and me. We cannot dig a hole into one part of the Bible and think we know Him. We must look at all He’s told us – from ‘kiver to kiver’!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 2 O.T. History – The Pentateuch

Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!

Are you ready to take a trip?! I just recently returned from Israel – and I wish you could have gone with me – but since that wasn’t possible THIS time (!) – we’re going to take that trip with our Bibles over the next three months – and it won’t cost you a dime! What a deal!

First of all, have your Bible, the Books of the Bible summary of each Chapter (thick printout), and the Overview of the Bible printout ready. For each book we survey, read that section in the Summary of Chapters, THEN fill in the single line for that book in the Overview of the Bible. It will only take you only a few minutes to do this for each book and you will have the whole ‘survey’ of that book in your mind. Could you also pick out just one chapter to read?!

1 -- Genesis: Read Genesis 1:1. The beginning of what? God?

Genesis (which means ‘beginnings’) is a book that we could study for years – for it contains not only the beginning of mankind, but the beginnings – or firsts – of many aspects of our life. Can you name a few ‘firsts’ we find in Genesis?

How much time elapses in the book of Genesis? (this is approximate – figure the years B.C. or Adam+ column from the beginning of Genesis to the beginning of the next book – Exodus).

2 – Exodus: Exodus begins with the birth of a baby boy, whom God uses to deliver Israel from Pharaoh’s wrath, then actually brings into the household of Pharaoh to grow up. Who is he?

How old was he when God called him to lead Israel out of Egypt?Does this encourage you – or scare you (!) – in God calling you to His service at your age?

Was there anything that surprised you or that you never knew before reading the Summary of Chapters?

3 – Leviticus: How much time elapsed from the time God told Moses to return to Egypt and lead Israel out (Exodus 3) to the beginning of Leviticus?

What do you think was the purpose in God giving so much attention to the specific offerings or sacrifices?

What would all these offerings/sacrifices point to in the future?

4 – Numbers: How much time elapsed from Aaron’s first offering (Lev. 1-9) to the time God first moved Israel (Numbers 9-10)?

God told Moses to number the Israelites by their tribes. What was the number of men over 20 years of age? So how many people in all do you think there were? What city is about that size you’re familiar with? Imagine leading on foot that many people!

5 – Deuteronomy: How much time elapses from God leading Israel from Egypt (Exod 3) to the beginning of Deuteronomy ? So how old was Moses at this time?

Read Deuteronomy 34:7 and write down his condition at this point.

Who did God choose as Moses’ successor to lead Israel? (Deut 34:9)

In your lifetime you’ve seen God pass the baton from pastor to pastor – from Sunday School teacher to the next teacher. In your family you’ve seen Him pass the baton from generation to the next generation. All in all, we can trust God to be faithful – to find hearts that will follow Him and then teach their generation of the same love and faith we’ve known all our lives.

Glance over the Summary of Chapters and list the major characters in order that they appeared in today’s lesson.

As you’ve studied these first five books, what attributes of God do you see in these stories?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 2 O.T. History – The Pentateuch

Are you ready to take a trip?! I just recently returned from Israel – and I’d have loved for you to have gone with me – but since that wasn’t possible THIS time (!) – we’re going to take that trip with our Bibles over the next three months – and it won’t cost you a dime! What a deal!

But you do need a map – and I’ve provided that to you earlier – your Overview of the Bible will be your map guide alongside your Bible in this series. And since all trips have a starting point and designation point – guess what ours is! Right – Genesis to Revelation! Of the 66 books in the Bible, the first and last books cover an incredible time period. So, open your Bible to Genesis 1 and let’s begin our trip! We’ll cover the first five books today – the Pentateuch, which is Law and History.

1 -- Genesis: “In the beginning……” The beginning of what? God? No – God is infinite – there is no time when God was not – and our minds can’t grasp that fact. This verse says, “In the beginning God….” He was there – in the beginning of creation of the world and mankind. He was the Creator. And if you don’t believe that fact, you might as well close the Book. But if you have doubts, I’d say, “Keep reading!” The Word of God explains God in a way we can comprehend Him – though there is much more we’ll never understand about Him than we do understand. Genesis begins to tell us His incredible plan to share His power of creation – to create man and woman and a human race with individual, unique characteristics – that have capability of learning, building, reproducing, loving, forgiving – and most of all, to communicate with and worship God. Genesis is a book that we could study for years – for it contains not only the beginning of mankind, but the beginnings – or first – of many aspects of our life.

Can you name a few firsts we find in Genesis? Family – sin – rebellion against God – redemption of sin – nations – God’s chosen people Israel. God, through the Holy Spirit’s inspiration to Moses, recorded it all – the mountain tops: such as creation of our universe, creation of family, Enoch’s non-death rapture, Abraham’s obedience to God – to the valleys of failure: such as Adam and Eve’s sin, the murder of Abel by his brother Cain, the wickedness of mankind that brought God’s judgment through the world-wide flood, the trickery and deception of Jacob against his brother Esau, the hatred of Joseph’s brothers that sold him into slavery in Egypt. Yet at the end of Genesis (50:20), Joseph gives us a great caption for Genesis: Read that verse – “As for you (the brothers), you meant evil against me (Joseph), but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.” Paul gave us a very similar verse in Romans 8:28 – read it: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Do you believe that? It should be the underlying strength that keeps you going!

Genesis Author: Moses Summary: Creation to end of Joseph’s life Approximate (c.) Years involved (beginning Genesis to beginning of Exodus): c. 2700 yrsI’d love for us to do a study in Genesis! It was where I first fell in love with the Bible!

2 – Exodus: Exodus begins with the birth of a baby boy, whom God uses to deliver Israel from Pharaoh’s wrath, then actually brings into the household of Pharaoh to grow up. Who was this? Moses was the man God chose to bring the family of Abraham out of slavery from Egypt. They had gone there to find food from Joseph during the famine and then stayed for 430 years, being the brutal workforce to build the many building programs of the Pharaohs. How many years did God prepared Moses before calling him? 80 years. Moses led Israel out of Egypt thru the miracles of

God, such as crossing the Red Sea. Again, as in Genesis, we also see man’s weaknesses – such as the lack of faith to enter the land God promised, and the consequences of their sin of doubt in having to wander for 40 years in the barren wilderness of Sinai, which is present day Saudi Arabia. But even during this, God was preparing His people, giving them the laws to live by – the 10 Commandments and others that dealt with family and community life. God also used this time to teach them how to worship Him – setting up priests, teachers, and the Tabernacle where God’s Presence dwelt among them.Exodus: Author: Moses Summary: Israel’s bondage and deliverance Years involved (beginning of Exodus to beginning of Leviticus): c. 81 yrs

3 – Leviticus: As the Israelites continued their journey in the wilderness, in the second year God gave them specific instructions for sacrifices, knowing they would sin and need cleansing. What do you think was the purpose in God giving so much attention to the specific offerings or sacrifices? What did these sacrifices point to in the future? The ultimate sacrifice of God’s Son, who would be the once and for all sacrifice for mankind’s sin. In Leviticus God also instructed His people Israel on the seven feasts they were to observe each year, such as the Passover.Leviticus: Author: Moses Summary: Laws for Israel Time elapsed: 2 weeks

4 – Numbers: God told Moses to number the Israelites by their tribes. What was the number of men over 20 years of age? 603,500. So how many people in all do you think there were? Probably at least 2 to 3 million – like what city you know? Atlanta! Imagine that many people walking for 40 years – following a cloud of fire by night or a cloud by day – God’s Presence as He moved them as just the right time in the right direction. In Numbers we see the various trials they went through as God tested them to see if they obeyed Him and trusted Him.Numbers: Author: Moses Summary: Numbering of tribes; spies to Canaan Time elapsed: 39 years

5 – Deuteronomy: At the end of their 40 year journey (40 is the number used throughout the Bible to refer to God’s testings), So how old was Moses at this time? 120 According to Deuteronomy 34:7, what was his condition at this point? His eyes were not dim and he energy hadn’t lessened! Though he was used mightily of God, Moses didn’t fully obey God and wasn’t allowed to enter the Promised Land. But his heart loved the Israelites, and his last days were in reviewing God’s message and telling the people once gain how God wanted them to live. The five books Moses wrote, the Pentateuch, closes with his death – and God buried him atop Mount Nebo overlooking the land to be called Israel. I stood at this place and wept, as I know Moses did – imagining his feelings – his questions of God – “Why?”Numbers: Author: Moses Summary: Moses reviews laws to IsraelTime elapsed: short amount of time – probably weeks

Yet God used Moses for a special time and place, and the baton was passed on to whom? Joshua. In your lifetime you’ve seen God pass the baton from pastor to pastor – from Sunday School teacher to the next teacher. In your family you’ve seen Him pass the baton from generation to the next generation. All in all, we can trust God to be faithful – to find hearts that will follow Him and then teach their generation of the same love and faith we’ve known all our lives. Glance over the Summary of Chapters and list several major characters in order they appeared. Adam & Eve, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, PharaohAs you’ve studied these first five books, what attributes of God do you see in these stories?Creator, forgiving, merciful, patient, holy, specific in plans – we see God alone is God!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 3 O.T. History – The Promised Land Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!

For each book we survey, read that section in the Summary of Chapters, THEN fill in the single line for that book in the Overview of the Bible. Could you pick out just one or more chapters to read?!

Have you ever tried to write your family history? Or did someone in your family do that for you? If not, don’t you wish they had? So, imagine the first section of the Bible as the history of God’s people – those He adopted into His family. We quickly looked at the first 2700 years of mankind in Genesis through Deuteronomy last week, so today we will pick up with God’s people Israel finally coming home – to the Promised Land!

6 – Joshua: Do you remember the day Larry Wynn told us he was leaving Hebron – how we felt stranded on an island – how we just knew no one could take his place? Do you remember the relief and great joy we felt when he said God told him to stay?! Well, Israel experienced the first – but not the second – as God did end Moses’ ministry at the banks of the Jordan River going into the Promised Land. What would your feelings have been if you had been Joshua, who was called to take Moses’ place? Read how God assured Joshua in 1:1-9.

Read the story of Rahab in Joshua 2: Who was she – her occupation?

What did you read that would tell you why God sent the men to her door to find refuge?

7 – Judges: Read Judges 2:10-23: These verses give an overview of this book. After reading this, write down 6-8 words that describe the steps of the cycle of sin and repentance that Israel experienced during the time of the judges.

8 – Ruth: During the end of the time of judges, we find a precious story of a woman – a Gentile who married into a Jewish family. If you’ve lost your husband, through death or divorce, you can relate to Ruth and Naomi. Ruth is such a short book – if you can, please read through it – and then put down 3-4 words that describe the characters in this story.

Ruth:

Naomi:

Boaz:

9 – I Samuel: Have you ever prayed desperately that God would give you a child – or known someone who so much desired a child? If so, you can relate to Hannah. Read her brief story in the first chapter of I Samuel, then in a few words describe the characteristics of this woman.

What did she desire most for her son? Is this what you desire most for your son or daughter?

When Samuel grew old, Israel asked him to appoint a king over them, “like all the nations.” According to I Samuel 8:7, whose authority was it Israel was really trying to replace?

What does it take to follow the leadership and direction of One you cannot see versus one you can?

Who was the first king over Israel? (I Samuel 9)

Read I Samuel 15:28 – 16:14. Who was the ‘neighbor’ God chose to replace Saul?

What did God look on to choose this man – and what is your guess at his age?

How did God bring this young man into ‘training’ from being a shepherd boy to a king? (I Samuel 16:14-23).

Glance over the Summary of Chapters and list several major characters in order they appeared.

As you’ve studied these four books, what attributes of God do you see in these stories?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 3 O.T. History – The Promised Land

Have you ever tried to write your family history? Or did someone in your family do that for you? If not, don’t you wish they had? So, imagine the first section of the Bible as the history of God’s people – those He adopted into His family. We quickly looked at the first 2700 years of mankind in Genesis through Deuteronomy last week, so today we will pick up with Israel finally coming home.

6 – Joshua: Do you remember the day Larry Wynn told us he was leaving Hebron – how we felt stranded on an island – how we just knew no one could take his place? Do you remember the relief and great joy we felt when he said God told him to stay?! Well, Israel experienced the first – but not the second – as God did end Moses’ ministry at the banks of the Jordan River going into the Promised Land. But God never leaves us without a teacher or a leader, and for 40 years He had been training Joshua under Moses’ daily leadership. Imagine how Joseph felt when he realized Moses was handing him the baton – to lead two to three million people. What would your feelings have been if you had been Joshua, who was called to take Moses’ place? Read how God assured Joshua in 1:1-9. When God commissions us and promises His direction and His Presence, we cannot fail. Joshua wrote of the 25-year period when Israel marched through the Promised Land, beginning at the falling of the walls of Jericho to the conquering of all the land, which was then divided between the twelve tribes as their homeland.

In chapter 2 we read the story of how the walls of Jericho fell. God singled out one woman in Jericho to be an important part of that story. Who was she – and what was her occupation? Rahab – a harlot. Imagine God choosing such a woman. Why do you think God sent the men to her door to find refuge? Let’s read Joshua 2:9-11. Although Rahab lived among idolaters and lived in sin, she had heard of Israel’s God and believed He was the God in heaven and earth.

7 – Judges: Although Israel had conquered the land, they had not completely obeyed God to finish the job, for many of the godless people still lived in the land and were a continual snare to Israel. We cannot hold to God with one hand and the ways of the world with the other hand. It didn’t work then and won’t today, almost 3500 years later.

Read Judges 2:10-23: These verses give an overview of this book. What do you see as being the steps of the cycle of sin and repentance that Israel experienced during the time of the judges? When Israel held hands with idolatrous people, they were then enslaved by them – and sooner or later cried out to God, who never failed to send them a deliverer each time to lead them back to Himself and into a period of peace. Seven times this cycle took place, over a period of 250 years, and each time God extended His mercy and restored Israel to their relationship with Him.

8 – Ruth: During the end of the time of judges, we find a precious story of a woman – a Gentile who married into a Jewish family. If you’ve lost your husband, through death or divorce, you can relate to Ruth and Naomi – and be encouraged that God includes women as well as men into His plan. The plan of redemption is seen in the relationship of Boaz with Ruth, as he redeems her and marries her. Ruth – a Gentile woman – loyal to her mother-in-law and her God – becomes the great grandmother to a lad named David, who leads to the birth line of Jesus Christ. How would you describe the characters – Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz?

9 – I Samuel: Have you ever prayed desperately that God would give you a child – or known someone who so much desired a child? If so, you can relate to Hannah – another woman God included in His plan. If you read her story in the first chapter, how would you describe the characteristics of this woman? Mistreated – so anxious for a child – praying – believing – thankful – giving back to God of what was most important to her.

After God gave Israel the initial leadership of Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, the judges – He now sends a baby to Hannah – a baby boy who would become God’s first prophet – Samuel. What did she desire most for her son? That he be given back to God for use in His service. As Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord, she left him as a young child in the care of Eli, the priest, in the town of Shiloh, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept in the house of the Lord. Hannah gave up her first son to God – but how did God repay her? (I Samuel 2:20-21) She then had three sons and two daughters – as well as the joy of seeing Samuel grow up as God’s chosen leader. What more could we hope for than our children would be used in God’s hands! What do you desire most for your son or daughter? This is a hard thing for us to do – but if we truly believe God does what’s best in our lives, can we not believe that for our children as well?

When Samuel grew old, Israel asked him to appoint a king over them, “like all the nations.” According to I Samuel 8:7, whose authority was it Israel was really trying to replace? “They have not rejected you, but Me (God) from being king over them.” What does it take to follow the leadership and direction of One you cannot see versus one you can? Belief and faith! But God would not then – nor now – force Himself on the people. It is obedience from the heart of love and trust that He desires. So God gave them the desires of their heart, and gave them their first king – who was he? Saul -- and at 30 years of age, he was anointed by Samuel as king, reigning 40 years.

But at one point in Saul’s reign, he failed to listen to Samuel or wait on the Lord . Samuel then faced Saul with his sin of rebellion and said, “The Lord has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and given it to your neighbor who is better than you.” (I Samuel 15:28) And who was the ‘neighbor’ God chose? David! How did God choose this man – what is your guess at his age? (verses 5-13): “Not by outer appearance or might or knowledge….but God looks at the heart.”

How did God bring David into ‘training’ from being a shepherd boy to a king? (I Samuel 16:14-23). Isn’t God amazing! Through the depression that God sent on Saul, God also sent David to be Saul’s companion to soothe his nerves with his harp and voice. Early on in life, David used the gift of music God put in his heart and mind.

But the relationship between Saul and David went from there to growing jealousy on Saul’s part – to treachery in trying to kill David many times. Yet David never forgot that Saul was God’s anointed king, and he never took advantage to kill Saul. He would not rush God’s clock – for he knew all along that the anointing by Samuel meant that one day he would be king – in God’s time – not by David’s hand. I Samuel ends with Saul and his sons slain by the Philistines and their bodies hanging on the wall of a Philistine city near Galilee.

Glance over the Summary of Chapters and list several major characters in the order they appeared. Joshua, Deborah, Gideon, Samson, Ruth, Naomi, Boaz, Hannah, Samuel, Saul, David


Survey of the Bible Worksheet 4 O.T. History – Succession of Kings Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!


When you were in school, was history one of your favorite subjects? I imagine it was for Jerri Stanley! It wasn’t for me – I loved math! But today I enjoy reading history in several ways – historical novels being one – where you learn about what went on in the past as it’s played out in an interesting story. The history section of the Bible is much the same – except it’s not fiction – it’s all true! I hope and pray that you will be drawn into these stories so much that you’ll read through some of these books for yourself!

10 – II Samuel: and13 – I Chronicles – (three books over) give us parallel accounts. After reading the chapter summaries, jot down some of the highlights of David’s life.

What did you learn from the life of David that touches your own heart?

11 – I Kings: and14 – II Chronicles: cover the same time period, continuing the story of the time of the kings. II Chronicles will continue to cover the time of II Kings as well.

Who were the parents of Solomon? Does that surprise you? Does it tell you something about God?!

What was Solomon’s request of God? Did he receive it?

The Temple was completed under Solomon’s reign according to the plans God had given to David and also according to the original internal plan for the Tabernacle that God gave to Moses. Please read I Kings 8 where he dedicated this magnificent Temple – it’s a beautiful reading. Do you know if there is any remaining part of this magnificent Temple left today?

After Solomon reigned 40 years and died, his son Rehoboam became king, and what significant thing happened during his reign?

One of the more exciting stories that happened during this time was about Elijah, a powerful, prophetic instrument of God to the Northern Kingdom, Israel. Please read I Kings 18 then write down your thoughts or reaction to what God did there.

12 – II Kings: You’d think that would have settled it – Israel would have forsaken their idols – did they? What happened to the Northern Kingdom of Israel – and when?

What happened to the Southern Kingdom of Judah – and when?

Do you wonder why these things happened to God’s chosen people? Were their enemies just stronger and overtook them? What caused this to happen to them?

Read Galatians 6:7 --- “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”

Glance over the Summary of Chapters and list several major characters in the order they appeared.


Survey of the Bible Lesson 4 O.T. History – Succession of Kings

When you were in school, was history one of your favorite subjects? I imagine it was for Jerri Stanley! It wasn’t for me – I loved math! But today I enjoy reading history in several ways – historical novels being one – where you learn about what went on in the past as it’s played out in an interesting story. The history section of the Bible is much the same – except it’s not fiction – it’s all true! I hope and pray that you will be drawn into these stories so much that you’ll read through some of these books for yourself!

10 – II Samuel: Last week we ended with the climax of Saul’s reign as the first king of Israel in the first book of Samuel. The following book, II Samuel, continues the line of kings with the reign of David – no doubt Israel’s most famous and beloved king. I like David because he’s so real – and maybe that’s why God loved him too! There was no pretense with him – he began early in life loving God, singing to Him, depending on Him, obeying Him.

13 – I Chronicles – (three books over) gives us a parallel account of II Samuel. If you read the chapter summaries, would you share with us some of the highlights of David’s life? David anointed king – taking the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem Conquering of the surrounding nations Becoming complacent –– lured into sin with Bathsheba – conviction – repentance – forgiven Consequences of his sin – four fold: daughter Tamar raped by son Annon, Annon killed by

son Absalom, who sleeps with David’s wife, then killed in act of rebellion against David. Plans the Temple in Jerusalem, but God tells him it will be his son Solomon who builds it. David dies after reigning as king for 40 years. David was a great musician and song writer – we’ll read some of his songs in Psalms later.

What did you learn from the life of David that touches your own heart? God loves us – and sees our heart – and continues to forgive us when we return to Him in true repentance. God doesn’t look for the one with greatest ability, but the one with availability to Him. God’s power is shown when we place ourselves in His hand.

11 – I Kings: This book picks up where II Samuel ends – originally I and II Samuel were combined, as well as I and II Kings, as well as I and II Chronicles.

14 – II Chronicles: We will read the summaries of these two books together, as they each cover the same time period. II Chronicles will continue to cover the time of II Kings as well.

Who were the parents of Solomon? Does that surprise you? Does it tell you something about God?! Before David died, his wife Bathsheba came to him and asked that their son Solomon be named king. He was their second son – the first son, born from David taking her in adultery, died as a baby. Yet in God’s mercy and plan, Solomon was then born. When he became king, what was his request of God? wisdom to rule in a Godly way. This request was answered and all marveled at his wisdom. The Temple was completed under Solomon’s reign according to the plans God had given to David and also according to the original internal plan for the Tabernacle that God gave to Moses. Let’s read I Kings 8: 1-30, where he dedicated this magnificent Temple.

That prayer was about 3000 years ago. Are there any remains of that first Temple? Only one wall remains – the western wall of the Temple Mount – and today Jews and Gentiles alike go there and pray – putting little notes of prayer between the huge stones. We were there just weeks ago –

and I purchased a beautiful lithograph of this wall – and above the wall is the visionary image of the coming Temple where Jesus will reign! I told the painter’s brother, “When I look at this I see HOPE! I know it’s coming – I just don’t know when!” He said, “We pray for this every day.” I said, “I do too.” It’s one common bond between Jews and Gentiles – waiting for the Messiah’s coming kingdom in Jerusalem!

After Solomon reigned 40 years and died, his son Rehoboam became king, and what significant thing happened during his reign? A rebellion took place and the kingdom was divided after 112 years of a united kingdom under Saul, David and Solomon. The kingdom in the South around Jerusalem was called Judah (David’s line of heirs). The split of that kingdom was in the North and called Israel, consisting of nine of the tribes.

We will not look at each of the 19 kings of the North and the 19 kings of the South that followed – but in general, the Northern Kingdom, Israel, fell into idol worship – their kings were evil, and each king that succeeded was more evil than the one before. One of the more well-known wicked kings of the North was Ahab – you’ll remember his even MORE wicked wife, Jezebel. There had been a great famine, and God had sent his prophet Elijah to Ahab and told him to send all the 450 false prophets of Baal to meet him on Mount Carmel – along with the people of Israel, the Northern Kingdom. When they met on Carmel, Elijah said, “How long will you hesitate between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.” But the people did not answer him. And Elijah prepared a sacrificial altar of two oxen, with no fire under it – then challenged the 450 false prophets to pray to their god to light the fire. (Read verses 27-39). After hours of praying and leaping about and no results, Elijah mocked them and said, “Call out with a loud voice, for he is a god; either he is occupied or gone aside, or on a journal, or is asleep.” So they cried louder, cutting themselves – but there was no answer. So Elijah filled the trenches with 12 stones, representing the 12 tribes – poured four pitchers of water in the trenches three times – and then prayed: “O LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, today let it be known that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant and I have done all these things at Your word.” And the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the offering, the wood, the stones and all the water! And the people saw it, fell on their faces and said, “The LORD, He is God; the LORD, He is God!”

12 – II Kings: You’d think that would have settled it – Israel would have forsaken their idols – but they didn’t. Other prophets were sent to them – but they refused to hear God’s warnings. What happened to the Northern Kingdom of Israel – and when? Finally in 722 B.C., about 200 years after the kingdom was split into North and South, God sent Assyria (just northeast of there) to overtake the Northern Kingdom of Israel – and took most of the survivors into captivity. The few Jews that remained in Samaria, capital of the Northern Kingdom, intermarried with the Assyrians and their blood lines were never pure again. This is the reason that the other Jews (of Judah and Jerusalem) so despised the Samaritans in the centuries to come.

After capturing the Northern Kingdom, Assyria then came to Jerusalem and threatened King Hezekiah of the Southern Kingdom of Judah, surrounding the city, saying, “God can’t save you from us.” But Hezekiah prayed, and God miraculously slew the 185,000 Assyrians overnight outside the Jerusalem walls – without human hands to help Him! Is God sufficient? Yes – He’s simply waiting for us to pray in faith and give the results over to Him.

The kings that followed Hezekiah alternated between being evil and between following God. What happened to the Southern Kingdom of Israel – and when? In 586 B.C., under the reign of King Zedekiah, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon conquered Jerusalem, tearing down and burning the Temple, tearing down much of the walls of the city – burning the city – and either killing or taking captive the residents. II Kings 25 tells the sad, sad story.

Do you wonder why these things happened to God’s chosen people? Were their enemies just stronger and overtook them? What caused this to happen to them? We know that God was more powerful – He proved that again and again. But God will not be mocked. Galatians 6:7 says, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” The people of Israel had over and over and over and over again mocked God – by playing with the gods of the world – by turning their back on God and His Word. God is merciful – much more than we will ever comprehend. BUT – God is also righteous, and He will not allow His own children to sin without realizing the penalty and consequences of sin.

When your children were young – and you were disciplining them – what was your response the first time they stepped out of bounds? The second? The fifth? You loved them, but you could not allow them to continue in the wrong direction. So it is with God – as we see it in history – as we see it today in our own lives.

Does history repeat itself? Is America following in the same tracks? How long before God’s mercy and patience turn to discipline and consequences? We think that America is too great and powerful to be brought to its knees – that’s what Israel thought – that’s what Rome thought.

If we learn anything from these lessons, I pray it will be to see that God loves us – but will not allow us to continue in our sins. You may say, “But I’m just one – I can’t make a difference.” Hannah was just one – and raised a Godly son. Rahab was a prostitute and yet through her faith and commitment to God, she was the grandmother of David. Elijah was just one – and yet he yielded himself to God and delivered God’s word to thousands. You and I are just one – but in God’s hands, we will accomplish what God wants us to do – each of us has a part in God’s awesome plan!

Are you available to God? That’s all it takes! Pray today – and say, “Lord, here I am – take me – use me – speak to me – I’m ready!”

Glance over the Summary of Chapters and list several major characters in order they appeared. David, Solomon, Rehoboam, Ahab, Elijah, Elisha, Hezekiah, Nebuchadnezzar

As you’ve studied these four books, what attributes of God do you see in these stories?Merciful, longsuffering, powerful, righteous yet loving.

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 5 O.T. History – Captives Return Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!


Seventy years – it seems like a lifetime – it is a lifetime for most. And yet this was the period of time that God set aside for Israel to be in captivity – coming to the place of repentance for their sin of idolatry – as He waited for them to return their heart to Him. For about 500 years He allowed them what they asked for – to have a king like all the other nations – that would stand before them at home and on the battlefield before their enemies. We cannot even imagine the deterioration that came about within Israel – from the time of God’s prophet Samuel, who anointed Saul as the first king – to Zedekiah, who was captured by Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon – when Israel was in ashes and its people starved, killed or taken into captivity.

And yet – God always has a remnant that holds to His truths – that pray to Him – that wait on His purpose. Men like Jeremiah, a prophet in Jerusalem during the time of siege in 586 B.C. Read Jeremiah 25:7-12 – what did God reveal to him about this captivity?

Today we will look at two men, Ezra and Nehemiah, who were taken to Babylon and then used by God to begin bringing home the captives back to Jerusalem.

15 – Ezra: Did you notice in the Scripture we read in Jeremiah that God called Nebuchadnezzar “My Servant?” Do you think he was a believer in God?

Read Ezra 1 – What had God done in the heart of King Cyrus’ who was the next king?

How many Israelites and slaves returned?

The Temple was completed in 516 B.C., the 6th year of King Darius (who succeeded Cyrus) – so if you look back at the year it was destroyed and burned, how many years was that?

Does that ring a bell? What did Jeremiah say?

When the Temple was completed, then God sent Ezra to lead the second group of exiles back to Jerusalem. God used him to renew worship and be the spiritual leader and restore them to a clean relationship with God.

16 – Nehemiah: Have you ever had God to place a great burden on your heart – and all you could do was pray about it? Read Nehemiah 1:3-4. What burdened Nehemiah’s heart?

Who was the king God used to supply Nehemiah’s provisions for the work? (Neh 2)

What was the work and how long did it take to be accomplished? (Neh 6:15)

Did Nehemiah work alone? If he had, how long do you think it would have taken?

Has God given you one or more to work alongside you in the work He’s called you to do? Who?

17 – Esther: About 40 years before this time of Nehemiah, during the reign of King Ahaseurus of Persia, God called out a most unlikely servant to bring about His work – a woman who was young, beautiful, Jewish, an orphan being raised by her older cousin Mordecai. This story is only a few chapters long – I hope you will find time this week to read it – Hollywood could never have created such a plot and outcome as God did! Who were these people – and how were they used of God?

King Ahaseurus:

Queen Vashti:

Mordecai:

Esther:

Haman:

Read Esther 4:14. Look at your own life – what has God brought you to “for such a time as this” that seems to be exactly what He has cut out just for you?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 5 O.T. History – Captives Return

Seventy years – it seems like a lifetime – it is a lifetime for most. And yet this was the period of time that God set aside for Israel to be in captivity – coming to the place of repentance for their sin of idolatry – as He waited for them to return their heart to Him. For about 500 years He allowed them what they asked for – to have a king like all the other nations – that would stand before them at home and on the battlefield before their enemies. We cannot even imagine the deterioration that came about within Israel – from the time of God’s prophet Samuel, who anointed Saul as the first king – to Zedekiah, who was captured by Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon – when Israel was in ashes and its people starved, killed or taken into captivity.

But then, maybe we can somehow imagine it – when we consider that less than 250 years ago, our own nation was founded upon the desire of people who began this country as a free place to worship God – to raise their families in the ways of God – to establish their laws in a way that would reflect their Biblical convictions. And today, look at America. It breaks your heart. We too have desired to have our own way – we’ve long ago given up being led by God Almighty. And our nation is crumbling from within. What will it take for God to bring our heart back to Him – as He did with Israel?

The kingdom age was ended for Israel – their land and beautiful city of Jerusalem lay in ruins – most of their people served in slavery hundreds of miles east in Babylon. And yet – God always has a remnant that holds to His truths – that pray to Him – that wait on His purpose. Men like Jeremiah, a prophet in Jerusalem during the time of siege in 586 B.C., who wrote God’s message to Israel. Read Jeremiah 25:7-12 – what did God reveal to him about this captivity? “Yet you have not listened to Me, in order that you might provoke Me to anger with the work of your hands to your own harm…I will send…Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, My servant, and will bring them against this land and its inhabitants…this whole land will be a desolation and a horror, and these nations will serve the king of Babylon 70 years. Then when 70 years are completed I will punish the king of Babylon and that nation.”

During this time God raised up a young man, a teenager when taken to Babylon, made him counsel in the king’s court and a strong voice for God in his words and actions – that was Daniel – who will also study later, as well as Ezekiel and other prophets who God used during these years.

But today we will look at two men, Ezra and Nehemiah, who were taken to Babylon and then used by God to begin bringing home the captives back to Jerusalem.

15 – Ezra: Did you notice in the Scripture we read in Jeremiah that God called Nebuchadnezzar “My Servant?” Do you think he was a believer in God? Obviously not – at least not when he came and destroyed Jerusalem. And yet God used him to accomplish His Godly purposes for Israel. About 50 years after Babylon conquered Israel and took them captive, another world power overtook Babylon – the Mede/Persian empire – in about 539 B.C. Again God used the leaders of this new government, such as Cyrus and Darius, to be instrumental in sending the Israelites home. Read Ezra 1 – What had God done in King Cyrus’ heart? Cyrus recognized God as sovereign God and the Israelites as His chosen people, and showed his belief in God by making provisions for them to return with the Temple articles of gold and silver that Nebuchadnezzar had carried away nearly 50 years before. How many Israelites and slaves returned? About 50,000. Zerubbabel was named as governor, and even in the midst of adversity, he organized the rebuilding of the Temple and the cost and materials was provided by King Cyrus. The Temple was completed in 516 B.C., the 6th year of King Darius (who succeeded Cyrus) – so if

you look back at the year it was destroyed and burned, how many years was that? 70! Exactly! God knows exactly what He’s doing – prepares the right people to accomplish the job – and is never late!

When the Temple was completed, then God sent another Israelite in Babylon to Jerusalem to restore the worship and ordinances He had set for Israel – and that man was Ezra, a scribe skilled in the law of Moses, and the hand of the LORD was upon him. (Ezra 7:6) Ezra led the second group of exiles back to Jerusalem when King Artaxerxes of Persia said, “I have issued a decree that any of Israel and their priests who are willing to go to Jerusalem may go with you.” When Ezra came to Jerusalem, he led a very large assembly in prayer and reading of the Scripture, as they cried and repented of their unfaithfulness to God and renewed their covenant with Him.

16 – Nehemiah: Have you ever had God to place a great burden on your heart – and all you could do was pray about it? Read Nehemiah 1:3-4. What burdened Nehemiah’s heart? This took place just a few years after Ezra had taken the second group back to Jerusalem. Ezra had been the spiritual leader – but Nehemiah was concerned for the physical protection since the walls around the city were still broken down. Who was the king God used to supply Nehemiah’s provisions for the work? (Neh 2) ArtaxerxesWhat was the work and how long did it take to be accomplished? (Neh 6:15) Just a few weeks ago I sat across from Jerusalem and considered the wall – it’s a beautiful thing! And this is where Nehemiah’s work was focused – as he enlisted the help of those who lived near each section of the wall, they worked on the wall and gate near them. Everyone had their place of service. And the walls were completed in 52 days! Did Nehemiah work alone? Again, as always, God prepared the hearts of many to return with Nehemiah. If he had, how long do you think it would have taken? Has God given you one or more to work alongside you in the work He’s called you to do? Who?

Read Nehemiah 2:31 – where did the choirs sing in this great celebration? Atop the walls of Jerusalem! I also have walked these walls – the ramparts – and I imagined these singers walking around it – up and down the many steps – and singing praises to God! It’s a beautiful view from there and a great place to praise God for what He’s done!

17 – Esther: About 40 years before this time of Nehemiah, during the reign of King Ahaseurus of Persia, God called out a most unlikely servant to bring about His work – a woman who was young, beautiful, Jewish, an orphan being raised by her older cousin Mordecai. This story is only a few chapters long – I hope you will found time this week to read it – Hollywood could never have created such a plot and outcome as God did! Who will volunteer to tell us this story today?! You see in the evil Haman a man that Satan was using – trying to annihilate the Jews – as he’s tried many times to do. Hitler was certainly not the first to try this. And yet God caused it all to fall on his own head – or rather, to take off his head! Surely Esther must have thought, “Who am I to be in the middle of such a national decision?” And yet Mordecai’s words are still true for me and you today (Esther 4:14). “For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Look at your own life – what has God brought you to “for such a time as this” that seems to be exactly what He has cut out just for you? Do you feel overwhelmed – unqualified? If God has called you, He also will equip you and show you what to do and empower you to do it!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 6 O.T. Writings/Poetry Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!


One thing about the Bible that’s unique is that it has something for everyone! It has history, law, philosophy, theology, poetry, prophecy, training for child rearing, instruction for relationships – any aspect of living you might imagine is probably covered somewhere in the Bible. Someone has said the Bible stands for “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” So today we are stepping into a new section of the Bible –moving into the writings and poetry section of Job and Psalms.

18 – Job: Read Job 1 and describe Job.

What does Satan accuse Job of?

What did God allow Satan to do?

What did Satan take from Job?

How long did it take for Satan to take all this?

And yet, what did Job say in response?

So in chapter 2, what did God allow Satan to do to Job?

And what was Job’s response?

Chapters 38-41 contain some of the most priceless statements God makes in the bible – don’t miss them – read every word of them if you don’t read anything else this week! List a few of them!

What was Job’s response?

Who did Job pray for -- And what was God’s response to Job?

The questions is – why do you serve and love God?

19 – Psalms: What does the word Psalms mean?

Do you know how these were used in worship?

Who is your favorite author in Psalms? Why?

As you look thru this book, jot down several that are special to you.

I hope you’ll make the Psalms part of your daily reading. Five chapters a day will take you through it in a month! Try it! You’ll like it!

Survey of the Bible Lesson 6 O.T. Writings/Poetry

One thing about the Bible that’s unique is that it has something for everyone! It has history, law, philosophy, theology, poetry, prophecy, training for child rearing, instruction for relationships – any aspect of living you might imagine is probably covered somewhere in the Bible. Someone has said the Bible stands for “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” So today we are stepping into a new section of the Bible – leaving the history for the time being – and moving into the writings and poetry section of Job and Psalms.

18 – Job: There may be many people who never heard of Enoch – or Aaron – or Jeremiah – or even Paul – but almost anyone you talk to if you ask, “Who is Job?” will say, “Oh, he’s the one with patience…you know…the patience of Job!” So exactly what did Job need to be patient about? And was he always patient?

Read Job 1 and describe Job. He lived in Uz (Edom, east of Israel), was a blameless man, upright, feared God, prayed and made sacrifices for the sins of his family, was rich with thousands of cattle, and was highly respected. It sounds like Job had it all together – was truly blessed of God. And yet we learn from this book that even those who live righteously are not immune from grief and physical suffering. In chapter 1, what does Satan accuse Job of? That he worships and serves God for his own personal benefit and protection. What did God allow Satan to do? To attack all that he had – but not Job himself. What did Satan take from Job? His oxen, donkeys, sheep, camels, servants, and sons and daughters. How long did it take for Satan to take all this? One day! And yet, what did Job say in response? “Naked came from my mother’s womb...naked I shall return there. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.” Through all this Job did not sin nor blame God. Amazing! Can you even imagine this happening to you – and what your response would have been?! Yet Satan wasn’t content – he’s never content – he always wants to destroy us more. So in chapter 2, what did God allow Satan to do to Job? Afflict him physically – but not take his life – and Job was covered with boils. Again, I cannot imagine! I am flustered if I get one bad zit on my face! Even his wife said, “Just curse God and go on and die!” And what was Job’s response? “Shall we accept good from God and not accept adversity?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.

Then entered his friends – at least they called themselves that. The next 36 chapters are filled with their pride and judgment and unbased theology they ‘counsel’ Job with – and it seems they just would not go home. I think their counsel was worse than the boils for Job – surely it injured him greatly from within. Finally God had enough of these religious braggarts! And some of the greatest words from God are found in chapters 38-41 – don’t miss them – read every word of them if you don’t read anything else this week! After you’ve read them, what are some of the priceless statements God makes? Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth – its cornerstone? Who enclosed the sea with doors and said, ‘Thus far you shall come, but no farther’? Have you ever commanded the morning and caused the dawn to know its place? Where is the way to the dwelling of light – and darkness? Who has cleft a channel for the flood…the thunderbolt…to make rain for seeds to sprout? Can you bind the chains of Pleiades…or Orion…the Bear with her satellites? Will you annul My judgment…condemn Me that you may be justified?

What was Job’s response? ‘I know that You can do all things…no purpose of Yours can be thwarted…I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees You…and I repent in dust and ashes.’ And Job humbled himself and prayed. Who did Job pray for? These same

friends who had torn him apart. That’s when you know God is truly in your heart – when you can pray for those who have hurt you so badly – when your prayers and heart reflect your forgiveness. And what was God’s response to Job? He doubled all Job had and gave him 10 more children! The questions is – why do you serve and love God? Is it because of who He is – what He has done in giving His Son to forgive you? Or is it so that you will have a blessed life? God permitted Job’s suffering because He already knew Job would endure – for God does not put on us more than we can bear. And yet Job’s grief and suffering refined him like pure gold and drew him even closer to God.

19 – Psalms: After reading of the pain of Job, turning the page to Psalms is like a balm to the soul! I think if I could have only one book of the Bible, I would have to choose Psalms. And within the Psalms, I would have to choose the 73 that David wrote! Who is your favorite author in Psalms? Other writers include Moses, Solomon, Heman, Ethan, Asaph, and sons of Korah. There are psalms of repentance, praise, pleading for justice and revenge on enemies, of pilgrimage toward Jerusalem, and of messianic prophecy.

Do you know how the Psalms were used in worship? The poetry of Psalms is unsurpassed – forming the actual songs sung by Israel. Psalms means ‘praises’ – and truly that’s what it is. I cannot tell you how many times I have found myself in an emotional, physical, or spiritual hole – and I could not pray – I could not pull myself out. And I went to the ever-faithful medicine of the Word – the book of Psalms. It has never failed to bring me out of that hole – for it always gets my eyes off self and turns them to the God that I know has me in the palm of His hand.

I don’t know about you, but I mark my Bible – I add notes as they come to my mind – and I highlight special verses and chapters that really speak to me. One of my Bibles has all my favorite Psalms highlighted – it’s like a jump-start in my downward cycles!

In reading the Psalms of David, I feel I’ve come to hear his heart – his own downward cycles – his pleas to God when his child died – when his sons turned against one another and against him – when enemies seemed to be on every side – when no one was there except for God. And through it all, the heart that God first saw when Samuel anointed David – that heart reached again and again for God’s strength and direction and justice. Throughout the Psalms you will see God in a way you’ve never seen Him before. As you look thru this book, jot down several that are special to you.

Psalm 1: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly…his delight is in the law of the LORD...and in His law he meditates day and night…like a tree planted by rivers of water…whatever he does shall prosper…the LORD knows the way of the righteous.”

Psalm 37: “Trust in the LORD and do good; delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart…commit your way to the LORD...trust also in Him, and He will do it.”

Psalm 139: “O LORD, You have searched me and known me...when I sit down…rise up…you understand my thought from afar… You formed my inward parts…in Your book were all the days written ordained for me…search me, o God...know my heart…try me and know my anxious thoughts…lead me in the everlasting way.”

I hope you’ll make the Psalms part of your daily reading. Five chapters a day will take you through it in a month! Try it! You’ll like it!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 7 O.T. Writings/Poetry of Solomon Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!


Do you have a child that has your genes for things you love? Neat, isn’t it, how God keeps those things going! That’s the way it was for David and Solomon. If you love the psalms of David, you’ll love the writings of Solomon – different – and yet you hear much of the same heart in both.

One thing I’ve noticed in my own writings is how my thoughts change or mature and grow stronger as I get older. I see this in Solomon’s writings as well – as it seems Song of Solomon was written in his younger years – Proverbs in the middle years – and Ecclesiastes in his later years, after he’d tried it all!

20 – Proverbs: What was Solomon most known for?

What was the purpose of Solomon writing these sayings? (Prov 1:2-7)

Since the bottom line in Proverbs is the difference between the actions of wise and foolish people, it would be interesting to simply glance through some of this book and make a brief list of these contrasts, such as in chapter 10:

21 – Ecclesiastes: Life seems inconsistent, unpredictable and unfair at times. Life goes by fast – and you often think, “What’s its purpose? Have I sought the right things?” These are the issues Solomon pondered in his heart – after he’d done it all! Solomon had tried it all – scan through chapter 2 and list some of the ways he’d tried to find satisfaction – and have you tried these?

If you doubt that Solomon wrote this book, look at chapter 3 – what are the times of life you find there?

Now read 3:11-13. Have you experienced most of these contrasts in life? If so, you’re right on target! You’re probably about in the same time period that Solomon was when he wrote this book and looked back on his life.

Much like Proverbs, there is much wisdom to be found in Ecclesiastes. Read these and see if any surprise you – or confirm what you’ve already figured out for yourself!

7:16

7:20

9:10

11:1

What did Solomon conclude in the last few verses of this book?

22 – Song of Solomon: Jewish tradition considers this book a product of Solomon’s early years before his excessive multiplying of wives and concubines due to political purposes and sensual pleasures. How many women did it take to ‘please’ Solomon? (I Kings 11:1-8)

Do you find it ironic then that Solomon is considered the wisest man who lived?!

Does it tell you something about how merciful God is with us?!

Find and write down these couple verses – they will ‘please’ your heart toward the relationships in your life and the relationship with your God. Song 2:4

Song 8:7

Survey of the Bible Lesson 7 O.T. Writings/Poetry of Solomon

Do you have a child that has your genes for things you love? For genealogy…craft work….writing ….talking?!!!! My grandmother and her sister loved to do quilting….I loved it….now my daughter Donna has made I don’t know how many! I love to write….and now Donna is also is the writer! And yet all my children have certain aspects of their Mom and Dad that none of the others have. Neat, isn’t it, how God keeps those things going! That’s the way it was for David and Solomon. If you love the psalms of David, you’ll love the writings of Solomon – different – and yet you hear much of the same heart in both.

Another thing I’ve noticed in my own writings is how my thoughts change or mature and grow stronger as I get older. I see this in Solomon’s writings as well – as it seems Song of Solomon was written in his younger years – Proverbs in the middle years – and Ecclesiastes in his later years, after he’d tried it all!

20 – Proverbs: What was Solomon most known for? His wisdom. And Proverbs is a collection of some 900 wise things he and other wise men said that deal with contrasting issues, such as wisdom and foolishness…pride and humility….justice and vengeance…laziness and work… poverty and wealth…friends and neighbors…love and lust…anger and strife…masters and servants…life and death. Much like the book of James, Proverbs is a book of practical information. Where Psalms is a vertical book – our relationship with the Heavenly Father – Proverbs is a horizontal book – our relationship with those here on earth. Just as you can read five chapters a day of Psalms and read it in a month, so you can take just one chapter of Proverbs and read it through in a month! It gives good balance to your Bible readings.

What was the purpose of Solomon writing these sayings? (Prov 1:2-7) First of all, it was to give us moral discernment – wisdom and understanding and clarity of mind. But the basis for it all was our relationship with God – found in verse 7. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge. But fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This word ‘fear’ would better be interpreted as our submissive reverence of God – our growing relationship with Him.

Since the bottom line in Proverbs is the difference between the actions of wise and foolish people, it would be interesting to simply glance through some of this book and make a brief list of these contrasts, such as in chapter 10: glad/grief; life/no profit; satisfy/hunger; diligent/negligent; gather/sleeps; blessings/deception; good report/rots; listens/babbles; integrity/perverts; words of life/lies; love/hatred; discerning/lacks understanding; knowledge/foolishness; receives life/punishment; obeys/ignores; weighs words/speaks many words; valuable/worthless; encourages/no heart; understands/wickedness; everlasting life/perishing; prolonged life/shortened life. There are many dozen such contrasts found in Proverbs. It makes us stop and look at our own life and realize how we often fall into foolish actions, contrary to the ways of God.

21 – Ecclesiastes: Life seems inconsistent, unpredictable and unfair at times. No matter the generation or time in history, the righteous and wicked have the same experiences, face the same trials, struggle with the same problems…and all end up in the grave! Life goes by fast – and you often think, “What’s its purpose? Have I sought the right things? Have I lived as I should have?” These are the issues Solomon pondered in his heart – after he’d done it all! This is the bottom line in chapter one – “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” In other words, “Life goes in circles – what’s the use?!”

Solomon tried it all – scan through chapter 2 and list some of ways he’d tried to find satisfaction – have you tried these? pleasure, wine, building, planting, servants, cattle, jewels, treasure, entertainment, sex, power, materialism, gathering of wisdom, work, legacy to children.

If you doubt that Solomon wrote this book, look at chapter 3 – what are the times of life you find there? Birth/death; plant/uproot; kill/heal; tear down/build up; weep/laugh; mourn/dance; throw stones/gather stones; embrace/shun embracing; search/give up; keep/throw away; tear apart/sew together; silence/speaking; love/hate; war/peace. Now read 3:11-13. “He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart…there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and to do good in one’s lifetime…it is the gift of God.” Have you experienced most of these contrasts in life? If so, you’re right on target! You’re probably about in the same time period that Solomon was when he wrote this book and looked back on his life.

Much like Proverbs, there is much wisdom to be found in Ecclesiastes. Read these and see if any surprise you: 7:16 (Do not be excessively righteous and do not be overly wise…why ruin yourself?) 7:20 (There isn’t a righteous man on earth who continually goes good and never sins.) 9:10 (Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.) 11:1 (Cast your bread on the waters, for you will find it after many days.) 11:2 (Divide your portion (moneys) to 7 or 8, for you do not know what misfortune may occur on the earth. – don’t keep all your eggs in one basket!)

What did Solomon conclude in the last few verses of this book? “Wise words are like goads – well-driven nails – given by one Shepherd. Fear God and keep His commands…for He will bring every act to judgment…that which is hidden, whether good or evil.”

22 – Song of Solomon: This book is the love song of the Bible – the love of a young man and woman. At our age it’s sometimes hard to remember that far back! Yet I think we do! It was another lifetime, but it was a very special time! Jewish tradition considers this book a product of Solomon’s early years before his excessive multiplying of wives and concubines due to political purposes and sensual pleasures. How many women did it take to ‘please’ Solomon? (I Kings 11:1-8) Would you say 1000 women might have been the downfall of a great man? We all have our weaknesses, and it’s easy to say what Solomon’s was! It’s ironic to me that Solomon is named as the man with the most wisdom! Maybe it goes to show us that God loves us regardless.

There are a few verses in this book I’d like you to find and write down – they will ‘please’ your heart toward the relationships in your life and the relationship with your God. Song 2:4 “He has brought me to his banquet hall…his banner over me is love.”Song 8:7 “Many waters cannot quench love, nor will rivers overflow it.”

If you are blessed to have your husband still with you, please cherish that man! With all his faults, cherish him and love him as if this could be the last day with him. If for whatever reason you are no longer with your husband or haven’t had a husband, realize that you DO have a husband – for the Lord Himself is your husband – and He will overwhelm you with His boundless love. Cherish Him – listen to Him – obey Him – and rest in His love and care for you.

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 8 O.T. Prophecy – Part 1 Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!


When you come to see the Bible as a whole, you are in such awe of how God has provided all we need to know! He gave us the account of how it all began – His plan of redemption – the writings and philosophies that were written by people very much like you and I – but that wasn’t enough – God needed to warn mankind of the dangers and consequences of their actions – what would happen in the near future if they failed to listen to Him – and what would happen in the distant future if they failed to or did listen to Him. The next several books we will review are such books – books of Prophecy.

From your past readings of various prophecy books in the Old Testament, what are two or three main themes of these prophecies?

23 – Isaiah: Isaiah preached to the Southern Kingdom (Judah) from about 739 – 681 B.C., or almost 60 years. Find and write down the main emphasis for these prophecies:

7:14

9:1-3:

9:6-7:

11:6-9:

24:1-6

53:1-12:

24 – Jeremiah: Jeremiah preached to the Southern Kingdom (Judah) just before, during, and after the siege on Jerusalem by Babylon, about 627 – 574 B.C., or about 50 years. So why do think Jeremiah is called the weeping prophet?

Before we look at his prophecies, read 1:4-9. How long had God known Jeremiah? What does this tell you about life in the womb – and before?

Read 4:1-4. What does that mean to you – and how can we apply it to our own life? What covers the secrets of your heart?

Read Jeremiah 29:10-14. How long do you think it took for the Jews to realize and absorb what this meant – and to actually do what it said?

Read Jeremiah 39:1-9, 14. Describe the judgment of God on the land and the city of Jerusalem.

25 – Lamentations: What are lamentations?

One of the greatest statements about God that we still sing today is found in 3:21-23. What is that promise for Israel as well as for us today?

26 – Ezekiel: God doesn’t leave us without hope – even in the midst of our suffering and consequences of sin. And so it was for Israel – for God put Ezekiel among the Jewish exiles in Babylon to warm their hearts with hope of reconstruction and return. Jeremiah was a man of tears – Ezekiel was a man of visions. Through it all, God desired for them to know one key truth. Read Ezekiel 6:7, 10, 13, 14 – what is the recurring statement?

But perhaps the most thrilling aspect of Ezekiel’s writings is the prophecy of the coming Temple and Jerusalem – chapters 40-48 tell the glory of this time. Read 44:1-2, 47:12, 48:31-35. Now turn to Revelation 21 – 22. Describe it. Who will live in that place and time?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 8 O.T. Major Prophecy

When you come to see the Bible as a whole, you are in such awe of how God has provided all we need to know! He gave us the account of how it all began – creation – and then of how He chose certain people in the beginning to speak to and give mankind His plan of redemption. We’ve seen through these last 7 lessons the history of early man – and last week we looked at the writings and philosophies that were written by people very much like you and I, who heard God speak in their life and responded with a pen. But that wasn’t enough – God needed to warn mankind of the dangers and consequences of their actions – what would happen in the near future if they failed to listen to Him – and what would happen in the distant future if they failed to or did listen to Him.

The next several books we will review are such books – books of Prophecy. The first five, Isaiah through Daniel, are called the Major Prophets – simply because of the length of the books these four men wrote (as Jeremiah wrote two). The next 12 books, Hosea through Malachi, are called the Minor Prophets – for the opposing reason – the brevity of their writings. The important thing to remember is that it’s not the importance of the writing that it’s called major or minor – for all that God says to us through His Word is important!

The time frame for these writings covers the years of the Northern and Southern Kingdoms of Israel – from about 840 B.C. to 420 B.C. What are three main themes of Old Testament prophecy? The coming fall of either the Northern Kingdom (Israel) or Southern Kingdom (Judah)

because of their idolatry and sins Foretelling of the coming Messiah – his birth, death, resurrection, and future kingdom The Day of the Lord – which is a term for the latter days – the Tribulation years (7 years),

and the very end of that time when there is Great Tribulation.

23 – Isaiah: Isaiah preached to the Southern Kingdom (Judah) from about 739 – 681 B.C., or almost 60 years. You can easily remember how his book is divided: the Bible has 39 books in the Old and 27 books in the New Testament, equaling 66 in all. Isaiah’s chapters 1-39 reveal God’s character and judgment for Judah, prophesying their coming defeat and capture, which took place in 586 B.C. when Babylon destroyed the land and Jerusalem. Chapters 40 – 66 show God’s comfort and redemption – giving the Jews hope in the midst of their coming captivity and suffering – telling them how God will restore the land and people and the Messiah will have an early reign in Jerusalem for 1000 years. No other prophet wrote more prophecies regarding the coming Messiah than Isaiah – showing Christ as the Suffering Servant (especially chapter 53) and the Conquering King.

Find and write down the main emphasis for these prophecies: 7:14 (virgin will give birth to a son and call Him Immanuel – God with us); 9:1-3: (ministry of the Messiah in Galilee); 9:6-7: (the Messiah – Almighty God, Wonderful Counselor, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace, no end to His government); 11:6-9: (the blessed peace and prosperity of the millennial kingdom of the Messiah); 24:1-6 (the Day of the Lord – great tribulation); 53:1-12: (great suffering and death of Messiah).

24 – Jeremiah: Jeremiah preached to the Southern Kingdom (Judah) just before, during, and after the siege on Jerusalem by Babylon, about 627 – 574 B.C., or about 50 years. So why do think Jeremiah is called the weeping prophet? Because of all he saw about him during those 50 years – the starvation, the killing, the majority of people taken into captivity to Babylon. But most of all, it must have broken his heart that God’s people had continued to deny and disobey their God.

Before we look at his prophecies, read 1:4-9. How long had God known Jeremiah? What does this tell you about life in the womb? God said, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…and consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations…I have put my words in your mouth.” That is a very humbling statement, isn’t it – and very powerful.

Jeremiah’s plea to the Jews was for repentance – knowing that would be the only thing that would keep back the judgment of God on their sins. Read 4:1-4. The trademark and covenant sign of the Jews with God was circumcision – they were adamant to do that. And yet God said to them, “Circumcise yourselves to the LORD…remove the foreskins of your heart.” What does that mean to you – and how can we apply it to our own life? What covers the secrets of your heart? Your pride – your secret sin – your unforgiveness of another – your desire to pursue your own dreams rather than yielding to God? We must bear our heart open and available to God or else He cannot empower us and fill us with His Spirit to do His work through us.

Read Jeremiah 29:10-14. How long do you think it took for the Jews to realize and absorb what this meant – and to actually do what it said? They refused to hear it until they were taken to Babylon – and they had 70 years to consider the gravity of God’s words. But perhaps they heard so little of what Jeremiah had preached in Jerusalem that they had not even heard the words at all.

Read Jeremiah 39:1-9, 14. Describe the judgment of God on the land and the city of Jerusalem. For two years the city was under siege – no one able to enter or leave – surrounded by Babylon’s armies. Many died of starvation – and then many died when the city was captured. King Zedekiah, king of Judah, fled through the tunnels under the city and out the northern wall. His sons were killed before his eyes – and then his eyes were blinded – and he was taken to Babylon. And yet God made provision for Jeremiah to stay there – and he wept – and prayed.

25 – Lamentations: What are lamentations? Lamentations is a book of wailing and mourning for the events that took place in the above time period of Jerusalem’s destruction. Jeremiah wrote it – and his tears and grief could not be contained – but had to be written down. One of the greatest statements about God that we still sing today is found in 3:21-23. What is that promise for Israel as well as for us today? “The LORD’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”

26 – Ezekiel: God doesn’t leave us without hope – even in the midst of our suffering and consequences of sin. And so it was for Israel – for God put Ezekiel among the Jewish exiles in Babylon to warm their hearts with hope of reconstruction and return. Jeremiah was a man of tears – Ezekiel was a man of visions. Through it all, God desired for them to know one key truth. Read Ezekiel 6:7, 10, 13, 14 – what is the recurring statement? Then they will know I am the LORD their God. God repeated this 62 times through Ezekiel – it was the one thing they needed to know – that He was – is – shall forever be God! Through struggling and victory, He is God! And God uses each of us such different ways! He used Ezekiel as a one-man drama again and again, to illustrate the prophecy God had given him – such cutting his hair – burning 1/3, chopping 1/3 with a sword, and scattering 1/3 of it – all to represent the fate of Israel when captured by Babylon.

But perhaps the most thrilling aspect of Ezekiel’s writings is the prophecy of the coming Temple and Jerusalem – chapters 40-48 tell the glory of this time. Read 44:1-2, 47:12, 48:31-35. Now turn to Revelation 21 – 22. Describe it. John was given this same beautiful prophecy 500 years after Ezekiel! Who will live in that place and time? Me and you! What a day that will be!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 9 O.T. Prophecy – Part 2 Student worksheet to be prepared before Sunday – You will get out what you put in!


Today we will study a young man, taken as a teenager to Babylon with thousands of other Jews, who God chose and filled with His Spirit, and throughout his life was a powerful witness and encouragement and deliverer of God’s prophetic message – can you guess his name! Yes, Daniel! What the skeleton is to the body, Daniel is to prophecy – the others simply add flesh to his bones.

27 – Daniel: Read Daniel 1. Choose at least 3-4 verses to explain why Daniel stood out among the others.

Chapters 2 and 7 are critical chapters and major cornerstones in history and prophecy – read them one after another. Notice verses 2:20-23 – what great truth does this reveal?

God revealed through Daniel the five major world powers –Can you name them?!

Whose kingdom will be set up that will put an end to all kingdoms and will never be destroyed (2:44-45, 7:9-14)?

28 – Hosea: God had entered into a covenant relationship with Israel. Yet from the time of Jeroboam’s reign, when the kingdom split into Northern and Southern Kingdoms, the northern kingdom of Israel continued to play the harlot, going after other gods – the idols of the surrounding peoples. God begged her to return to Him, but she wouldn’t listen. What did God tell Hosea to do to illustrate how He loved Israel?

Do you think you could have obeyed God if He had called you to do this as He did Hosea?

One very interesting prophecy is given in 6:1-2. To me, this is a little gold nugget hidden in the cave of prophecy – and if I told you that to God, 1000 years is as one day, could you mine this treasure and guess at what it might mean?!!!

29 – Joel: Joel, a prophet to the Southern Kingdom of Judah about 835 BC, preached God’s message of repentance during a time of a judgmental plague of locusts, comparing it to the Day of the Lord, a time of God’s wrath on sin in the end times. Read chapter 2 and describe the terrors to come.

What does Joel plead with the people to do?

As you hear the threats of Islam, have you ever wondered what will happen to the people of Israel and Jerusalem? Read 3:20-21 and then give your answer.

30 – Amos: About 767 BC, the Northern Kingdom of Israel was in its heyday – prosperous and politically secure. They rationalized that God must then be pleased with them – or that is what they supposed until a shepherd from a little town named Tekoa appeared on the scene – a man named Amos. In chapter 4, what forms of discipline had God used on Israel?

In all this, what did God say they had refused to do?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 9 O.T. Prophecy – Part 2

A few weeks ago we studied the captivity in Babylon that the Israelites endured – when the vast majority of the people were carried over 500 miles eastward to a strange and hostile country. We too often overlook the young people of our congregation – considering them not yet part of God’s plan and ministry of our church. And yet today we will study a young man, taken as a teenager to Babylon with thousands of other Jews, who God chose and filled with His Spirit, and throughout his life was a powerful witness and encouragement and deliverer of God’s prophetic message – and his name was Daniel! What the skeleton is to the body, Daniel is to prophecy – the others simply add flesh to his bones.

27 – Daniel: Read Daniel 1. Choose at least 3-4 verses to explain why Daniel stood out among the others. Vs. 4 – Daniel was a youth of noble blood, intelligent, attractive, discerning, well educated.Vs. 8 – Daniel had convictions even as a teenager, and would not defile himself with unkosher food.Vs. 9 – God granted Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the commander of officials.Vs. 17 – God granted him knowledge and intelligence and understanding of visions and dreams.Vs. 20 – King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon found him 10 times better than all his magicians.

As we said several times before, God does not use us all in the same way – He chooses us for particular purposes – for special times and abilities and connections with others. And again it’s amazing how God used a pagan Gentile king to reveal His foreknowledge and plan of the world governments. Chapters 2 and 7 are critical chapters and major cornerstones in history and prophecy – read them one after another. Notice verses 2:20-23 – what great truth does this reveal? God knows and appoints or permits the rule of all kingdoms – and though we do not understand, they all are for a purpose. God gave Daniel the interpretation, and Daniel gave God the credit! Through Nebuchadnezzar’s dream about 603 B.C. and king Belshazzar’s dream about 50 years later, God revealed through Daniel the five major world powers – can you name them?!

1) Babylon (the gold, the lion – 605-539) BC; 2) Mede/Persia (the silver, the bear – 539-331 BC); 3) Greece (the bronze, the leopard – 331-63 BC); 4) Rome (the iron, the beast – 63 BC–c.350AD); and 5) The Revived Roman Empire of the Antichrist (the iron & clay, the little horn – presently setting up as the European Union – thru the seven years of Tribulation).

Whose kingdom will be set up that will put an end to all kingdoms and will never be destroyed (2:44-45, 7:9-14)? The kingdom of Jesus Christ, when God establishes His people forever! Those verses in chapter 7 are very exciting to hear – knowing we will be coming in the clouds with Him when He returns to set up that kingdom that will never end! We’ve barely scratched the surface – hopefully we’ll study this book in detail before too long!

28 – Hosea: God had entered into a covenant relationship with Israel. Yet from the time of Jeroboam’s reign, when the kingdom split into Northern and Southern Kingdoms, the northern kingdom of Israel continued to play the harlot, going after other gods – the idols of the surrounding peoples. God begged her to return to Him, but she wouldn’t listen. God’s heart was grieved. If only she could see what she was doing to the One who had betrothed her to Himself – God Almighty, who had taken her as his beloved wife. If only she could see what her infidelity was doing to her children! What did God tell Hosea to do to illustrate how He loved Israel? “Go, take to yourself a wife of harlotry and have children.”

To those watching Hosea – and to Hosea himself – God illustrated the spiritual adultery of Israel and His everlasting love and mercy and forgiveness. Do you think you could have obeyed God if He had called you to do this as He did Hosea?

One very interesting prophecy is given in 6:1-2. To me, this is a little gold nugget hidden in the cave of prophecy – and if I told you that to God, 1000 years is as one day, could you mine this treasure and guess at what it might mean?!!! Hosea surely didn’t mean literal days in saying, “God will revive us after two days and raise us up on the third day,” because within a few years of Hosea’s prophecy, Assyria captured the Northern Kingdom. Remember that most prophecy concerns the ‘latter days’ – and that to God, 1000 years is as one day. Consider this then – how many ‘days’ (or 1000 years) in God’s timing has there been since Christ died for the sins of man and Israel ceased to be a nation? Two! Two thousand years! Then – IF you think along that line, when will God raise Israel – from the dead and from the bottom of the heap in this political, Jew-hating world? ON the third day – at the beginning of the 3000 years – at the beginning of the 1000 year Millenial reign that begins at the end of the 7-year Tribulation – at the end of the ‘latter days!’ That’s exciting because even though we know our dating isn’t exact and in line with the Jewish calendar, we are now living in 2007! The Lord could rapture the Church at any time – and could within 7 years of that time return to begin that third day – the beginning of the 3000 years!

29 – Joel: Joel, a prophet to the Southern Kingdom of Judah about 835 BC, preached God’s message of repentance during a time of a judgmental plague of locusts, comparing it to the Day of the Lord, a time of God’s wrath on sin in the end times. Although he focused on that present-day situation, he also turned their eyes to the future. Read chapter 2 and describe the terrors to come. A day of darkness and gloom – a mighty army burns through the land – earthquakes, the heavens trembling, the sun and moon grow dark – the LORD utters His voice before His army. What does Joel plead with the people to do? Repent – accept God’s grace and forgiveness.

As you hear the threats of Islam, have you ever wondered what will happen to the people of Israel and Jerusalem? Read 3:20-21 and then give your answer. “Judah will be inhabited forever and Jerusalem for ALL generations….for the LORD dwells in Zion – in Jerusalem!” When you go to Jerusalem, you FEEL this Presence of God – you just KNOW that their future – our future – is going to be in that very place!

30 – Amos: About 767 BC, the Northern Kingdom of Israel was in its heyday – prosperous and politically secure. They rationalized that God must then be pleased with them – or that is what they supposed until a shepherd from a little town named Tekoa appeared on the scene – a man named Amos. His message sure wasn’t to make them feel good – as so many preachers do today. Instead, he listed their many sins – sins God hated. He began with all the surrounding areas, such as Damascas, Gaza, Ammon, Moab – then finally lit into Israel! In chapter 4, what forms of discipline had God used on Israel? 1) Famine because of drought 2) Scorching wind, mildew and caterpillars 3) Plague that killed the young men 4) Defeat of their cities. In all this, what did God say they had refused to do? They refused to return to Him. The heart is an unpredictable thing – for some, such judgment from God would melt their heart and make it better. For others, such judgment from God would harden them and make their heart bitter, instead of better. Has God’s work in your life made you bitter….or better? We cannot criticize and belittle Israel’s actions if we have treated God in the same way – just in a ‘modern’ same way! Yet even in Amos’ stern preaching, he left them with hope, that God will restore His people and bring an age of peace. God will discipline us – in love – but He will also leave us with hope!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 10 O.T. Prophecy – Part 3

Have you ever heard that big gifts come in small packages? Maybe that’s the way it is with these small books of prophecy! We must not overlook or discount their value because they come in small packages! Today we will find at least one gold nugget in each of these small books of prophecy.

31 – Obadiah: Glance through the whole book of Obadiah – and guess what this book holds the record for!

Obadiah wrote this short vision from God concerning Edom – does your Bible map show where that is today?

32 – Jonah: When God told Jonah, “Go!” – what did Jonah say?

And when Jonah came to the end of his cruise in the opposite direction, where did he have a serious prayer meeting?

Do you remember a stinking hole of your own making – where you then reached out for God? Was He waiting?

Read chapters 3 and 4 – they’re short! In your opinion, what did Jonah lack?

33 – Micah: Read chapter 4 and give a few descriptions of that glorious Millennial Kingdom ahead:

What great prophecy is found in Micah 5:2-5?

34 – Nahum: Read Nahum 1 and list as many attributes of God as you find there.

35 – Habakkuk: One of the great statements of belief is found in Habakkuk 2:4 – write it down:

I can only imagine the burden that would cover a man of God who is given God’s message of destruction to relay to the people – it’s no wonder then that Habakkuk prays as he does in chapter 3 – read it – what are some of the main things he says to God?

36 – Zephaniah: To understand time in relation to prophecy, consider this: suppose you were standing atop a very tall mountain, overlooking four or five other tall mountains – how would you determine the distance between them if they are all in a row – how would you determine the depth of the valleys and the length of them in between? All you see are the mountaintops – and yet they are enormous points in the distant horizon. Such is prophecy. God gave visions and dreams and insight through His Spirit to the prophets – they saw the mountaintops ahead – such as the coming judgment through the hand of Assyria and Babylon, yet they didn’t know how far away it was. They saw the mountaintops of the birth of the Messiah – His ministry – His death – His return to earth – His Millennial Kingdom – the future eternal age of peace – all these lay in the distant view – but they didn’t know the distance in between – they only saw the mountaintops.

So it is especially with Zephaniah – who saw the coming destruction of Jerusalem – who also saw the great day of the LORD, near and coming very quickly – a day of wrath, trouble and distress. Read Zephaniah 3 – describe what God says He is going to do:

37 – Haggai: Read Haggai 1:13-14. What happened that caused the leaders and people to begin doing God’s work again?

38 – Zechariah: Zechariah also prophesies of the future Temple and glory of the Messiah’s return. Read it in 14:1-16, and describe His return.

39 – Malachi: Read the most well-known Scripture in Malachi is 3:7-10. What is the essence of these verses?

Have you tried God on this? What did you find?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 10 O.T. Prophecy – Part 3

Have you ever heard that big gifts come in small packages? Maybe that’s the way it is with these small books of prophecy! We must not overlook or discount their value because they come in small packages! Today we will find at least one gold nugget in each of these small books of prophecy.

31 – Obadiah: Glance through the whole book of Obadiah – and guess what this book holds the record for! It’s the shortest book in the Old Testament – only 21 verses – you could read it in about 10 minutes or less! Obadiah wrote this short vision from God concerning Edom, which is another name for Esau, for when he left his father Jacob’s home, he went eastward and settled southeast of the Dead Sea. Later, Edom refused to allow Israel to cross their land when they marched from the Sinai at the end of 40 years and neared the Promise Land. That area today is called Petra, and many Bible scholars believe that Petra will be ‘the place’ the Jews will flee to for refuge during the last half of the Tribulation (Rev. 12:14). It’s a beautiful and unique place – where an ancient city was carved out of the red limestone cliffs and mountain sides that create a natural fortress. I saw it for myself in 1999, and my daughter Jerri and I had rare occasion to get a taxi from the back side of Petra back to the entrance – a camel taxis, that is! You should have heard that girl scream when the rear end of the camel went up and she held on for dear life to keep from going over its nose!

32 – Jonah: Just before God commissioned Amos and Hosea as prophets to the northern kingdom to warn Israel of the coming invasion by the Assyrians, He appointed the prophet Jonah (about 775 BC) to go to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. We all learned the story of Jonah when we were children. When God told Jonah, “Go!” – what did Jonah say? “No!” And when Jonah came to the end of his cruise in the opposite direction, where did he have a serious prayer meeting? In the fish’s belly! Have you ever wound up in a stinking hole of your own making – and then reached out for God? Was He waiting? God is always waiting for us to call on Him – and James 1:5 says He answers without reproach. Jonah went to Nineveh and preached God’s judgment because of their sin – and God sent great revival. Read chapters 3 and 4 – they’re short! In your opinion, what did Jonah lack? Jonah had told them God would destroy the city in 40 days – and the people repented – and God relented and did not destroy the city. So he sat down and had a pity party. Jonah’s biggest problem was that he was finally obedient to go, but lacked the heart of compassion for the people. It makes me ask myself, in all my working for God, is it to simply obey God – or is it because of love and compassion for people who need Him?

33 – Micah: Micah, God’s messenger just before the defeat of the Northern Kingdom by Assyria about 733 BC, preached to Samaria, in the North, and Jerusalem, in the South, prophesying that Samaria would become a heap of ruins – their evil, coveting, robbing, scheming, injustice, idolatry, bribery of priests would result in great judgment from God. And yet, as with the other prophets, Micah would not leave them hopeless. Read chapter 4 and give a few descriptions of that glorious Millennial Kingdom ahead: Jerusalem would be raised above the other hills – there the Messiah would teach of His ways – from there the law would go forth – He would be the judge between peoples and nations – swords would be hammered into plows for they would not need to train for war any more – no one would make them afraid – the lame and outcasts would become a strong nation. What great prophecy is found in Micah 5:2-5? The Messiah would be born in Bethlehem from the tribe of Judah.

34 – Nahum: One hundred years had passed since Jonah went to Nineveh to proclaim its destruction – but they had repented and God had relented at that time. But Assyria went back to their old ways – to their pride and desire to overtake Israel – and about 650BC God sent another prophet to Nineveh – Nahum – who again preached God’s judgment if they didn’t repent. Read Nahum 1 and list as many attributes of God as you find there. Good, compassionate, slow to anger, waits to give man every possibility to repent, powerful with His creation, controls all things, sends message of warning before judgment, will not let sin and go without payment, uses nature as His instrument against evil, knows those who trust in Him, makes complete end of enemies in His judgment, always remembers His covenant with Israel.

35 – Habakkuk: One of the great statements of belief is found in Habakkuk 2:4 – write it down: “The righteous will live by his faith.” This verse pierced Martin Luther’s heart and brought about a reformation. Paul echoed it in Romans and Galatians, but its roots are here in the Old Testament, where God affirms that salvation has always been by faith, and faith alone. I can only imagine the burden that would cover a man of God who is given God’s message of destruction to relay to the people – it’s no wonder then that Habakkuk prays as he does in chapter 3 – read it – what are some of the main things he says to God? “Revive Your work…make it known…in wrath remember mercy. His ways are everlasting….I must wait quietly for the day of distress, for the people to arise who will invade us…yet I will exult in the Lord…He is my strength.”

36 – Zephaniah: To understand time in relation to prophecy, consider this: suppose you were standing atop a very tall mountain, overlooking four or five other tall mountains – how would you determine the distance between them if they are all in a row – how would you determine the depth of the valleys and the length of them in between? All you see are the mountaintops – and yet they are enormous points in the distant horizon. Such is prophecy. God gave visions and dreams and insight through His Spirit to the prophets – they saw the mountaintops ahead – such as the coming judgment through the hand of Assyria and Babylon, yet they didn’t know how far away it was. They saw the mountaintops of the birth of the Messiah – His ministry – His death – His return to earth – His Millennial Kingdom – the future eternal age of peace – all these lay in the distant view – but they didn’t know the distance in between – they only saw the mountaintops.

So it is especially with Zephaniah – who saw the coming destruction of Jerusalem – who also saw the great day of the LORD, near and coming very quickly – a day of wrath, trouble and distress. Read Zephaniah 3 – describe what God says He is going to do: Gather the nations, pour out His indignation on them, the earth will be devoured by his fire, Israel will feel no shame, the proud will be removed and the lowly and humble will remain, He will exult over Jerusalem and love her, He will save the lame and outcast and turn their shame into praise. These prophecies cover several mountaintops. Just imagine all this being revealed to you as it was to several of these prophets!

37 – Haggai: How often we settle into what has become ‘normal’ around us – and we forget and give up on what was right for us and where we truly belong. Such was the case for the Jews who had been in captivity in Babylon for 70 years. They had settled in – been allowed to build homes and establish businesses, and their children, while born in captivity, were secure – so, why should they leave? Itt was a small remnant that returned to rebuild the Temple – which soon became a very discouraging task. For about 16 years the Temple stood unfinished and ignored – then about 520 BC, the word of the Lord came to Haggai. Read Haggai 1:13-14. What happened that caused the leaders and people to begin doing God’s work again? The Lord stirred up their spirits – their heart – and revival came – and they listened to God and desired to do His work!

Haggai gave them hope as he prophesied of a future Temple – read it in 2:6-9. He speaks not of the Temple they were presently building – for it was much inferior to the first Temple of Solomon. But the Lord is speaking of the Millennial Temple of Christ’s reign, when all the nations will focus on Jerusalem and Christ will bring peace and great glory into that coming Temple. This is the same Temple Ezekiel spoke of earlier.

38 – Zechariah: Do you ever have ‘far out’ dreams and wonder where they came from?! Everyone does! The people who supposedly know these things say that it’s our mind resolving unsettled threads of life! But God has used visions to reveal important events to His prophets – and such was the case for Zechariah. He has been born in Babylon as a captive, but returned to Israel in 536 BC with Zerubbabel when God called him as His spokesman, along with Haggai. Zechariah also prophesies of the future Temple and glory of the Messiah’s return. Read it in 14:1-16, and describe His return. All the nations will be gathered against Jerusalem – the city captured. Then the Lord will descend with his holy ones (you and me!) and when His foot touches the Mount of Olives, it will split from east to west and create a valley. There will be no light – and the Lord will destroy the nations who have come in battle against Jerusalem, destroying them with a plague that will cause their eyes to rot in their sockets. The Lord will be king over all the earth – the only Lord. Jerusalem will live in security. The wealth of all the nations will be gathered in great abundance there. All the inhabitants of the earth that are left will come each year to worship the King in Jerusalem! What a day that will be! And we’ll be there with front row seats!

39 – Malachi: Just as the prophesies God revealed said, after 70 years of captivity, the people were allowed to return to Israel – and in 516 BC the Temple was rebuilt, and about 445 BC Nehemiah returned to repair the walls of Jerusalem. Over and over, Israel saw that God stood by His word. Why, then, did the remnant that returned think that they could live and worship any way they wanted? Had they grown tired of waiting for the final fulfillment of the prophecies – waiting for the promised Messiah and the future kingdom of peace? Or were they believing Satan’s lie that God really didn’t love them and would not keep His promises? Whatever it was, they became apathetic in their relationship with God – and He spoke one more time about 433 BC through a man named Malachi.

God spoke through Malachi to ask the people heart-searching questions. Malachi 1:6-8 Where is My honor – when you offer me the leftovers and not the best?Malachi 2:7-8 Why have you priests been a stumbling block to the people, by corrupting My

word?Malachi 2:11 Why have you left the love of the true God and followed a foreign god?Malachi 2:13-14 Why have you cried and prayed to Me, and yet were unfaithful to your wife?Malachi 2:17 Why have you wearied Me with your words when your life is full of evil?

Read the most well-known Scripture in Malachi is 3:7-10. What is the essence of these verses? “Will a man rob God? And yet you rob Me in tithes and offerings…..Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse…test Me now in this…if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows.” Have you tried God on this? What did you find?

God was silent for 400 years after He spoke through Malachi – a silence that was finally broken when an angel appeared to Zacharias about 6 BC with the news that he and Elizabeth would give birth to a son and call him John – later known as John the Baptist.

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 11 N.T. History – The Gospels – Part 1

Do you realize that in the past ten weeks you have studied about 4000 years of time in the Bible?! You’ve seen the story develop from the first day of Creation in Genesis to the last prophet of the Old Testament – Malachi! You’ve had quite a trip already – and it’s only cost you a little time!

1 – Matthew: Each of the four Gospels presents Jesus from a different viewpoint. Matthew, one of the twelve disciples, sees Jesus as the perfect fulfillment of the many Old Testament prophesies – the coming King of the Jews. From these Scriptures, list a few of these prophecy fulfillments:

* Gen 12:3/Matt 1:1-17* Ps 2:7/Matt 3:17* Isa 9:1-2/Matt 4:13-16* Ps 78:2-4/Matt 13:34-35* Zech 11:12/Matt 26:14-15* Ps 22:17-18/Matt 27:35-36* Ps 22:1/Matt 27:46* Ps 16:10/Matt 27:57-60

The unique portion of Matthew that speaks volumes is called the Beatitudes. Read thru Matt 5-7 and list some of these traits of a Christian that is filled and led by the Holy Spirit:

Matt 5:

Matt 6:

Matt 7:

2 – Mark: Mark presents Jesus as the Servant, who is constantly on the move preaching, healing, teaching, and finally giving his life for sinful man. Read Mark 8:34-37 and 10:43-45. As we follow in Jesus’ steps of service, ministering physically and spiritually to others, what are ways you see that you have ministered to others in the past couple weeks or month? And what was your goal or reason for doing this?!

3 – Luke: The third gospel is the longest and most comprehensive of the four Gospels, presenting Jesus as the perfect Son of Man whose purpose and mission was “to seek and to save that which was lost.” When you think of Luke, what is the first Scripture you remember that comes from Luke?

One of the great features of Luke is the narration of many parables spoken by Jesus. Scan through chapters 12-21 and read the parables you find there, tell in 3 or four words the ‘title’ of the parable, and then one verse or conclusion from each that gives ‘the moral of the story.’

Chapter/Verse Title Moral of the story

Why do you think Jesus told these stories rather than giving the facts?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 11 N.T. – Historical – Part 1

Do you realize that in the past ten weeks you have studied about 4000 years of time in the Bible?! You’ve seen the story develop from the first day of Creation in Genesis to the last prophet of the Old Testament – Malachi! You’ve had quite a trip already – and it’s only cost you a little time!

And before we begin the Gospels of the New Testament, let me briefly tell you of the time between Malachi and Matthew – often called the Intertestament Period, or 400 Silent Years, because there was no prophet’s voice giving God’s message during that time. That doesn’t mean that God wasn’t there – He’s always here – His Spirit is always working in the hearts of those seeking Him. But there is a divine timetable that will not be rushed – and will never be late! No matter what individuals or nations do, God’s plan will always be exactly on time!

After the Babylonian Empire, the Mede/Persian Empire came into power – followed by the government of Greece about 331 BC. Their lifestyle greatly influenced the Jews, and there were several times the Greek deities were forced into the Jewish Temple. It was during that time that a rebellion of the Jews took place, throwing out these false idols from their Temple and restoring the Temple to true worship of Jehovah God. About 64 BC Rome conquered the land, completing Daniel’s prophecy of Babylon, Mede/Persia, Greece and Rome. A few years later, Rome appointed Herod the Great as governor of Judea. He began refurbishing and enlarging the Temple of Jerusalem, trying to gain favor with the Jews and keep peace. But he was a violent man – known to have killed one of his wives and a couple sons because they angered him, or he saw them as a threat. It is in this setting that the book of Matthew begins.

1 – Matthew: Good news! That’s what ‘Gospel’ means – and Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are the four Gospels – telling the good news of the Messiah that had been prophesied for thousands of years – since Genesis 3:15, when mankind first sinned and God said that One would come to redeem man from sin. Each of the four Gospels tells the life of Christ, but each Gospel contains special stories of greater detail than the others. It’s these unique differences we will look at today.

Each of the four Gospels presents Jesus the Messiah from a different standpoint. Matthew, one of the twelve disciples, sees Him as the perfect fulfillment of the many Old Testament prophesies – the coming King of the Jews. From these Scriptures, list a few of these prophecy fulfillments:* his birth lineage, showing He was the son of Abraham and David (Gen 12:3/Matt 1:1-17)* that He is the Son of God (Ps 2:7/Matt 3:17)* the Galilean ministry (Isa 9:1-2/Matt 4:13-16)* speaking in parables (Ps 78:2-4/Matt 13:34-35)* betrayed for 30 pieces of silver (Zech 11:12/Matt 26:14-15)* how soldiers would gamble for His clothing (Ps 22:17-18/Matt 27:35-36)* how He would be forsaken by God (Ps 22:1/Matt 27:46)* how He would be buried with the rich (Ps 16:10/Matt 27:57-60).

The unique portion of Matthew that speaks volumes – that we could study for months – is called the Beatitudes, found in chapters 5-7, when Jesus taught the disciples atop a Galilean mountain, and gave them the foundational principles of living a Godly life. Read thru Matt 5-7 and list some of these traits of a Christian that is filled and led by the Holy Spirit:

Matt 5: Mourning for their sin, meek, hungering for a Godly life, merciful, true in heart, peacemakers, persecuted for their testimony and way of life, salt that preserves and cleanses, light that shines the love and truth of Christ, free from anger that fuels destructive actions, free from

lustful thoughts that lead to adultery, going the second mile when asked to go one, loving enemies enough to pray for them.

Matt 6: Giving unto God and not for men to see, praying unto God and not for men’s applause, fasting unto God and not for man to recognize, storing up treasure in heaven through obedience and giving of ourselves to God now in this life, realizing we cannot serve God and the world, giving our worries over to Him to resolve.

Matt 7: Not judging others but leaving the judging to God, continuing to keep on asking in prayer – and receiving, continuing to keep on seeking and knowing and finding, realizing that the true Christian is seen and known by the fruit that he bears that is not of his own doing, but of the Holy Spirit working through him.

If we ‘try’ to live this life, we know it’s not possible in the flesh! And yet, when we give way to the Holy Spirit within us, and yield to His voice in us that continually will guide us in these directions, then we find that He is changing us and making us to be as these Beatitudes say we should be.

2 – Mark: The second and shortest Gospel was written by Mark, who accompanied Barnabas and Silas on a missionary journey and who probably gained much of his information from Peter when believer’s met at Mark’s mother’s house in Jerusalem to worship. Mark presents Jesus as the Servant, who is constantly on the move preaching, healing, teaching, and finally giving his life for sinful man. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve others – being an example of selfless service to us who follow in His steps. In the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, He served the multitudes, but as His departure grew near, He concentrated on teaching and ministering to His disciples. A full 37% of this gospel is devoted to the events of His last and most important week.

Read Mark 8:34-37 and 10:43-45. As we follow in Jesus’ steps of service, ministering physically and spiritually to others, what are ways you see that you have ministered to others in the past couple weeks or month? And what was your goal or reason for doing this?

3 – Luke: The third gospel was written by Luke, who traveled extensively with Paul on his missionary journeys and was known as “the beloved physician” (Col 4:14). Several references seem to indicate he was Gentile, not Jewish. This book was the first of two letters Luke wrote to Theophilus, with Acts picking up where the book of Luke ends. Luke writes this book in a chronological order of Jesus’ life – and it’s the longest and most comprehensive of the four Gospels, presenting Jesus as the perfect Son of Man whose purpose and mission was “to seek and to save that which was lost.” This gospel focuses on Jesus’ birth, his activities in ministry, his admonitions in teaching through parables, his sufferings, as proof of His perfect character as a man, and yet also His work of redemption, through His divine nature.

When you think of Luke, what is the first Scripture you remember that comes from Luke? Most likely, it’s the story of Jesus’ birth, which Luke writes in such detail in chapters 1 and 2. Another unique aspect of Luke is the genealogy given of Jesus from Mary’s family – whereas Matthew gave it from Joseph’s side – but both stem from David’s lineage.

If you have a red-line Bible, the words of Jesus are printed in red – and a great portion of Luke is therefore in red – the very words of Jesus – through inspiration of the Holy Spirit – preserved for us 2000 years later!

One of the great features of Luke is the narration of many parables spoken by Jesus. Scan through chapters 12-21 and read the parables you find there, tell in 3 or four words the ‘title’ of the parable, and then one verse or conclusion from each that gives ‘the moral of the story.’

Luke 12:13-21 Parable of the rich fool: “So is he who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” (vs 21)

Luke 13:6-9 Parable of the barren fig tree: “..dig around it...fertilize it…wait to see if it bears fruit before cutting it down.” (vs 8-9)

Luke 13:18-19 Parable of mustard seek: “like the kingdom of God…begins as a tiny seed and grows to become large tree.”

Luke 13:20-21 Parable of leaven: “like the kingdom of God…which expands”Luke 14:15-24 Parable of the great supper: “like kingdom of God…prepared, and

invitations sent…but many refuse with excuses…but the lowliest of men invited and came.”

Luke 15:1-7 Parable of lost sheep: “there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 just persons who need no repentance.” (vs 7)

Luke 15:8-10 Parable of lost coin: “joy in presence of angels of God over one sinner who repents” (vs 10)

Luke 15:11-32 Parable of lost son: “your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.” (vs 32)

Luke 16:1-13 Parable of the unjust steward: “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much…no servant can serve two masters, for he will either hate the one and love the other, or loyal to one and despise the other…you cannot serve God and money.” (vs 10-13)

Luke 18:1-8 Parable of the persistent widow: …persistence in prayerLuke 18:9-14 Parable of Pharisee and tax collector: …prayer from humble, repentant heartLuke 19:11-27 Parable of the minas: “”Well done, good servant…because you were faithful

in a very little have authority over 10 cities.” (vs 17)Luke 20:9-19 Parable of the wicked vinedressers: picture of religious men, sent by owner,

God, to tend the vines, but kill God’s servants.Luke 21:29-33 Parable of the fig tree: when you see the signs given, as the budding of the

fig tree is sign that fruit is near, you know also that coming of Jesus is near.

Why do you think Jesus told these stories rather than giving the facts? Was it because we remember a story easier than remembering facts – or perhaps because they would be realized by those who hearts were open to hear the Spirit’s interpretation of the story?!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 12 N.T. History – Gospels/Church – Part 2

4 – John: The fourth gospel is best known for its famous verse of John 3:16, often called the gospel in a nutshell – telling us in a few words all we need to know to be saved. Can you say this verse from memory? If so, write it here now. If not, look it up and write it here!

John presents Jesus as the Son of God. Read John 1:1-14. What facts about Jesus does John establish to prove He is the Son of God?

Read John 1:29 and 3:16. What is Jesus called by John the Baptist? How do these two verses fit together?

Read John 14-17. These chapters are the heart of John – and I think the very heart of who Jesus is. After reading this Scripture, list several key things Jesus tells us:

5 – Acts: This book of Acts, written by the Gentile physician Luke, as the second letter to Theophilus, tells of the beginning of the Church – its early leaders – its birth on the day of Pentecost, its persecution which led to the scattering of Christians, which then led to the rapid spreading of the gospel – and the calling of Paul by Jesus Himself on the road to Damascas.

Read Acts 2 and write down several things that happened that were humanly impossible – and which evidenced the Presence of God’s Spirit.

Are there places God has called you to – or taken you – that you never would have guessed 30 years ago? What area of service – or people – that is beyond your former comfort zone has God led you to today?

There is no place of greater joy and contentment than to be in the place God has called you to! Don’t hesitate to say YES to the Holy Spirit! You’ll never regret it!

Survey of the Bible Lesson 12 N.T. History – Gospels/The Church – Part 2

4 – John: The fourth gospel, written by the disciple John, the “one whom Jesus loved,” presents Jesus as the eternal Son of God who offered eternal life to all who would believe in Him. The famous verse of John 3:16 is often called the gospel in a nutshell – telling us in a few words all we need to know to be saved. Can you say this verse from memory? John uses a chosen series of seven signs, or miracles, to show that Jesus is the Christ, for no one could have done all these things if He had not been God in the flesh. Unique to this Gospel is the five-chapter message Jesus gave to His disciples the night of the Passover Supper, just hours before His death. Perhaps because love was a major part of who John was, we see the heart of Jesus revealed more in John’s writings. About 92% of this book is unique – not seen in any other Gospel.

Read John 1:1-14. What facts about Jesus does John establish to prove He is the Son of God? He was in the beginning with God – He is called the Word – and He is God – He made all things (Creator) – in Him was life and light that overcomes darkness – He became flesh (man) and dwelt on earth among us – He was seen and displayed the glory, grace and truth of God – He is the only begotten Son of God the Father.

Read John 1:29 and 3:16. What is Jesus called by John the Baptist? How do these two verses fit together? John presents Jesus as God’s Son, who out of love gave His life as a sacrifice – God’s sacrifice – God’s Lamb – a sinless, innocent sacrifice to remove the sin of mankind. God had given the Jews the principle of sacrificing a lamb each Passover, that pointed to the last, once-and-for-all sacrifice of God’s Lamb, Jesus, His Son. No more do we nor the Jews have to sacrifice a lamb for our sins – it’s already been done by the only One that could have done it.

Throughout John, Jesus tells us who He is – I AM the Bread of life (6:35); I AM the Light of the world (8:12); I AM the Door of the sheep (10:7); I AM the Good Shepherd (10:11); I AM the Resurrection and the Life (11:25); I AM the Way, the Truth, the Life (14:6); I AM the true Vine (15:1-5). “I AM” is the very meaning for the title Jehovah – which is what the Jews called God. When Jesus said, “I AM”, he was saying, “I AM God!” Every event John gives us proves that statement.

Read John 14-17. These chapters are the heart of John – and I think the very heart of who Jesus is. Only here is this recorded. After reading this Scripture, list several key things Jesus tells us: 1) He was leaving to return to heaven to prepare a place for us – so we could be with Him forever.2) To know Jesus is to know God – His words are the words of God.3) He promised to send the Holy Spirit in His place – Comforter, Teacher, Guide – to live in us.4) Jesus is the main vine, we are the branches from Him, the Father prunes the vine for good fruit.5) We are to love others as Jesus loved us, giving His life for us.6) Don’t expect the world to love or understand you – they didn’t understand or love Jesus either.7) Jesus prays for Himself, for the disciples, for future believers – that they be one in Him.

It’s so important to read the Word for yourselves. It’s great you come to Bible study each Sunday – but only when you get in the Word – read it – think on it – and come to know Jesus through it – and come to know God through it – will you find the peace and strength and growth He intended you to have.

5 – Acts: There are four gospel accounts of the life of Christ’s birth, ministry, death and resurrection – but only one book provides the historical story of the time following Jesus’ ascension and then through the missionary trips and trials of Paul. This book of Acts, written by the Gentile physician Luke, as the second letter to Theophilus, tells of the beginning of the Church – its early leaders – its birth on the day of Pentecost, its persecution which led to the scattering of Christians, which then led to the rapid spreading of the gospel – and the calling of Paul by Jesus Himself on the road to Damascas.

As we closed the book of John, Jesus was promising the disciples Someone that would come and stay with them when He returned to heaven – the Holy Spirit. Acts 1 tells the story of how Jesus ascended from the Mount of Olives facing Jerusalem, and how the disciples then returned to wait in Jerusalem for the Promise to be fulfilled. They were praying in the same Upper Room where Passover was observed when this Promise took place. Their number had grown to 120, and they devoted themselves to prayer in that place. Read Acts 2 and write down several things that happened that were humanly impossible – and which evidenced the Presence of God’s Spirit. A violent wind from heaven filled the whole house Tongues of fire rested on each one of them They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages The pilgrims from every area who had come to Jerusalem heard them and believed, because

they heard the message in their own language 3000 believed and were baptized – and the Church was begun on that day of Pentecost. Their lives changed and they willingly shared all they had with one another.

The original disciples had believed – waited in prayer – and witnessed a supernatural outpouring of God’s power through the Holy Spirit. Remember what Jesus said in John 14 – “I will not leave you orphans – I will come to You.” And He did – through the Presence of the Holy Spirit. This is the same promise we have today. The Spirit’s power and Presence is not diminished in any way – we too must believe – pray – wait for the Spirit’s voice and direction in us – and we will see things happen as we obey Him that we could not have possibly done ourselves!

The remainder of Acts is the account of the Holy Spirit’s moving through the apostles Jesus called – but also through another apostle Jesus called after His ascension – Paul – who had been a major force in the persecution of Christian believers. He had been raised in an orthodox Jewish home, taught by Jewish scholars and priests – and he felt he was serving God by getting rid of these heretics known as Christians. Imagine the surprise of the Christians who heard Paul was now preaching the Gospel! They must have wondered, “Is this a trick to get into our church and find out who is a believer? Surely we cannot trust and believe a man who murdered many of our friends.” But Paul’s life is great evidence that when God moves into a heart, He completely changes it and turns it to a different direction.

One of the most well-known stories of Paul concerns his missionary journeys to Asia – Galatia, Ephesus, Rome, Corinth – and we will learn more of Paul in the next couple weeks as we study his letters he wrote to these churches. Whereas Peter was called to preach and minister to the Jews, Paul was called to preach and minister to the Gentiles. It certainly was not what Paul had in mind in his younger days – and yet it was God’s plan – and Paul submitted himself to God’s plan for his life. Are there places God has called you to – or taken you – that you never would have guessed 30 years ago? What area of service – or people – that is beyond your former comfort zone has God led you to today? There is no place of greater joy and contentment than to be in the place God has called you to! Don’t hesitate to say YES to the Holy Spirit! You’ll never regret it!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 13 N.T. Paul’s Letters – Part 1

Are you a letter writer? Few people are these days – with the introduction of emails, it’s too easy to jot a few lines on the computer and hit Send and it’s gone – no stamps – no stationery – not even a walk to the mailbox. And in 5 seconds the recipient receives your note! But obviously this wasn’t so 2000 years ago – or even a few years ago. Today we will begin studying the 13 letters the apostle and missionary Paul wrote to the churches he had helped to establish or ministered to.

6 – Romans: The book of Romans is without a doubt Paul’s most well-known epistle. Placed first in the order of 13 letters he wrote, Romans presents the importance of Jesus’ sacrificial death – giving us many reasons for the theology we believe.

There is an easy way for you to share with someone the need and way to be saved – it’s called the Romans Road – Write these Scriptures in your lesson, but keep them for later use. 1) Romans 3:23

2) Romans 6:23

3) Romans 5:8

4) Romans 8:1

5) Romans 10:9-10, 13

6) Romans 12:1

7 – I Corinthians: Corinth was a large metropolitan Greek city where sin ran rampant – where at least 12 heathen temples had been built to pagan gods. Paul established the church in Corinth, and wrote this letter because they needed help and correction. The most well-known Scripture of I Corinthians is chapter 13 – the chapter of love. If we would focus on this chapter, all the other chapters would not be necessary! Read it today and let it sink into your heart again – then write briefly what that chapter meant to you!

8 – II Corinthians: About 18 months after writing the first epistle to the Corinth believers, Paul wrote this letter – focusing on new philosophies invading the church. Paul was also writing them to prepare them for his visit to them to take up an offering for the poverty-stricken church at Jerusalem. Read these verses and give the reasons for grace giving: 1) 8:1-4

2) 8:5

3) 8:8-9

4) 8:12

5) 9:5-7

6) 9:15

9 – Galatians: The gospel of Jesus introduced the Jews to a new way of life – that of grace rather than the law of Moses, the old covenant with its many regulations. Recently we studied Galatians and the amazing grace that God has showered us with as believers. Read Galatians 5:17-25 and list what traits the Holy Spirit will develop in you when you yield your life and will to Him:

10 – Ephesians: Like Corinth, the city of Ephesus was corrupted with idol worship – the home of the temple of Artemis, also known as Diana – and thousands came to worship there. Carol just finished our study of this letter – which focuses on the doctrine of unity between Jewsish and Gentile believers, and God’s purpose for the world through His church. From chapter 1, list who you are in Christ – it will bless your heart!

Survey of the Bible Lesson 13 N.T. Paul’s Letters – Part 1

Are you a letter writer? Few people are these days – with the introduction of emails, it’s too easy to jot a few lines on the computer and hit Send and it’s gone – no stamps – no stationery – not even a walk to the mailbox. And in 5 seconds the recipient receives your note! But obviously this wasn’t so 2000 years ago – or even a few years ago. Today we will begin studying the 13 letters the apostle and missionary Paul wrote to the churches he had helped to establish or ministered to.

6 – Romans: The book of Romans is without a doubt Paul’s most well-known epistle. Placed first in the order of 13 letters he wrote, Romans presents the importance of Jesus’ sacrificial death – giving us many reasons for the theology we believe. But it’s also a book of practical words. The good news of Jesus Christ is more than just a theology to believe – it’s a life to be lived – a life of righteousness fitting for the person “justified freely by God’s grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 3:24)

The church in Rome was established by Peter. Many Jews were in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost and returned to Rome as new Christians – leading many Gentiles to Christ also. It’s hard to break a lifetime of living by ‘works’ – such as the Jews had done – and many Jews, having accepted Christ through faith by grace, now were insisting the believer needed to be ‘kept’ by the law – that circumcision was necessary for salvation. On the other extreme, some taught that you could be saved by grace and still live any way you wanted – even to continue in sin. Paul sent this letter about A.D. 57 to call the gospel of Jesus to the witness stand, and he examines it from every angle. The result is the book of Romans, a theological masterpiece – the constitution of the Christian faith. If you understand Romans, you will have a plumb line for correctly interpreting any teaching on the gospel of salvation.

There is an easy way for you to share with someone the need and way to be saved – it’s called the Romans Road – Write these Scriptures in your lesson, but keep them for later use. 1) Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” 2) Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” 3) Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” 4) Romans 8:1 – “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” 5) Romans 10:9-10, 13 – “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation…for whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” 6) Romans 12:1 “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.”

7 – I Corinthians: Corinth was a large metropolitan Greek city where sin ran rampant – where at least 12 heathen temples had been built to pagan gods – where worship ceremonies carried out by 1000 temple prostitutes in the temple of Aphrodite (goddess of love) bred public and brazen immorality throughout the city – so much that the term “Corinthianize” means to practice sexual immorality. Paul established the church in Corinth, and then while he was in Ephesus about A.D. 54, he sent this first epistle to those believers in Corinth, who needed help and correction. Some of these problems included:

1) Looking to men, such as Paul, Apollos, Cephas (Peter) for leadership, rather than to Jesus, who is head of the church (1:9-13)

2) Some were proud in their knowledge – lacking love in teaching and edifying the Church (8)3) The attitude that the human body was inferior or evil led to sexual immorality (5:1, 6:15-18)4) Taking another church member to court (6:1)5) Wrong attitudes concerning spiritual gifts (12:1 – 14:40)

The most well-known Scripture of I Corinthians is chapter 13 – the chapter of love. If we would focus on this chapter, all the other chapters would not be necessary! Read it today and let it sink into your heart again – then write briefly what that chapter meant to you!

8 – II Corinthians: About 18 months after writing the first epistle to the Corinth believers, Paul wrote this letter – focusing on new philosophies invading the church that emphasized ritualistic legalism (instead of grace), special knowledge (Gnosticism), and spectacular spiritual experiences. Paul was also writing them to prepare them for his visit to them to take up an offering for the poverty-stricken church at Jerusalem. Read these verses and give the basis for grace giving: 1) Outward circumstances (whether we are rich or poor) shouldn’t dictate our generosity.

Rather we give not because we have to, but because we want to – it’s a privilege to give to the Lord’s work. (8:1-4)

2) All monetary giving should come only after giving of ourselves to the Lord. (8:5)3) Generous and true giving is evidence of the sincerity of our love to Christ for His gift (8:8-9)4) A willingness to give is more important than the amount given (8:12)5) Giving in an attitude of gladness and willingness is of greatest importance to God (9:5-7)6) Generous giving is the natural response to God’s indescribable gift. (9:15)

9 – Galatians: The gospel of Jesus introduced the Jews to a new way of life – that of grace rather than the law of Moses, the old covenant with its many regulations. The new covenant of Christ was based on grace alone – not ‘and circumcision’ – not ‘and keeping the Sabbath’ – or any other laws. Recently we studied Galatians and the amazing grace that God has showered us with as believers. Jesus Christ is mentioned 36 times in this letter – there’s much to be learned about Him here. We also learn much about the Holy Spirit in this letter. Read Galatians 5:17-25 and list what traits the Holy Spirit will develop in you when you yield your life and will to Him: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Verse 25 says, “If we live by the Spirit (if our spiritual life and eternal security comes through the Holy Spirit within us), let us also walk by the Spirit (live daily by the leading and strength of the Holy Spirit within us).”

10 – Ephesians: Like Corinth, the city of Ephesus was corrupted with idol worship – the home of the temple of Artemis, also known as Diana – and thousands came to worship there. God sent Paul there about to establish a church, and he wrote this letter to them about A.D. 60, while a prisoner in Rome. Carol just finished our study of this letter – which focuses on the doctrine of unity between Jewish and Gentile believers, and God’s purpose for the world through His church. From chapter 1, list who you are in Christ – it will bless your heart! Chosen before foundations of earth, holy and blameless before Him, predestined to adoption into His family, redemption thru blood of Jesus, an inheritance as God’s child, sealed by the Holy Spirit for security! We are blessed! We are God’s child! We have a purpose and a future than will far exceed our limited dreams!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 14 N.T. Paul’s Letters – Part 2

11 – Philippians: Did you happen to receive a letter or email or call from a friend this week – one that encouraged you – that brought a smile or even a tear to your face, just remembering the kindness and love of that dear friend? Such is the case in Paul’s letter to the Philippians about A.D. 61. Read these verses, jot down the main thought, and decide what Paul’s key word is in this letter:

1:4

1:25

2:2

2:29

4:1

Now read 4:8. – what should we keep our mind on?

Do you have another favorite verse from Philippians?

Do you have a friend that needs your encouragement this week?

12 – Colossians: How do you battle lies?

Read these verses and record how Christ is all we need and how this refutes Gnosticism, the lie that says 1) salvation is by mystic, exclusive knowledge, and 2) all matter is evil: 1) 1:15-18

2) 1:19-23

3) 2:1-4

4) 3:8-11

Examine your life – what are you pursuing? Does it have eternal value? Does it draw you closer to God or keep you from time alone with Him in prayer and studying the Word? Are you seeking things above or things here on earth?

13 – I Thessalonians: Have you ever kept a picture of yourself – 20 or more pounds lighter – on the fridge to remind yourself of ‘the goal’?! I have – and I’m here to tell you – it didn’t work! But in the letter to the believers at Thessalonica about A.D. 51, Paul puts a picture in front of them that works – then and now! Whenever I’m getting weary in this life – whenever I begin to think back to those I love that have already gone home to be with the Lord – whenever I wonder if there will ever be a day of great excitement ahead – then I look at this picture. Read 4:13-18 – did you see the picture? If so, encourage yourself by writing down what’s ahead for you!

II Thessalonians: But what about the people left alive on earth who have not believed in Christ – who are not taken up in the air to meet Him? What will happen to them?

Read chapter 2 and write down what will happen – and who the key figure on earth will be – and what will happen to him.

So tell me – which of these two stories will you be part of?

Survey of the Bible Lesson 14 N.T. Paul’s Letters – Part 2

11 – Philippians: Did you happen to receive a letter or email or call from a friend this week – one that encouraged you – that brought a smile or even a tear to your face, just remembering the kindness and love of that dear friend? Such is the case in Paul’s letter to the Philippians about A.D. 61. Read these verses and decide what Paul’s key word is in this letter: 1:4, 1:25, 2:2, 2:29, 4:1. It’s joy! First, Paul says I pray for you with joy! Then your progress and joy of faith! Fulfill my joy in being of one mind! Receive our brother with all gladness and respect! You are my joy and my crown! How wonderful it is to have someone that encourages you – that is thrilled for you – that sees you are working hard and faithfully and prays for you often!

In a world that easily gets us down, verse 4:8 should always be kept in mind – I’ve kept it on my bathroom mirror! Read it – what should we keep our mind on? Whatever is true – noble – just – pure – lovely – of good report – of virtue – that is praiseworthy – yes, meditate on these things! Did your Mama ever tell you, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all! Maybe this is where she got it! Do you have another favorite verse from Philippians? Maybe…1:21 – “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Or 3:13 – “…one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead.” Or 4:13 – “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Again, we see evidence of how Paul encouraged his friends through this letter. Do you have a friend that needs your encouragement this week?

12 – Colossians: How do you battle lies? With truth! That’s what Paul was doing in his letter to the believers at Colossae, who were being taken in by the heresy of Gnosticism, which says 1) salvation is by mystic, exclusive knowledge, and 2) all matter is evil. So Paul sends them the truth – sharing with them that Christ is all and everything they need.

Read these verses and record how Christ is all we need and how this refutes Gnosticism: 1) 1:15-18 He is the supreme Lord, the firstborn over all creation, the Creator Himself,

of everything visible and invisible – then, how could all matter be evil, if it’s created by Christ?

2) 1:19-23 He is the Reconciler, having made peace thru the blood of His cross, and has made us holy and blameless before God – therefore our ‘matter’ of body is not evil.

3) 2:1-4 He is the treasure house for wisdom and knowledge – and we attain this through His Spirit within us – after salvation – not the knowledge to attain salvation.

4) 3:8-11 He is all in all – therefore we must leave aside anger, malice, blasphemy, filthy language, lies – and put on the new spiritual man and be like Christ.

Examine your life – what are you pursuing? Does it have eternal value? Does it draw you closer to God or keep you from time alone with Him in prayer and studying the Word? Are you seeking things above or things here on earth?

13 – I Thessalonians: Have you ever kept a picture of yourself – 30 or more pounds lighter – on the fridge to remind yourself of ‘the goal’?! I have – and I’m here to tell you – it didn’t work! But in the letter to the believers at Thessalonica about A.D. 51, Paul puts a picture in front of them that works – then and now! Whenever I’m getting weary in this life – whenever I begin to think back to those I love that have already gone home to be with the Lord – whenever I wonder if there will ever be a day of great excitement ahead – then I look at this picture. Read 4:13-18 – did you see the picture? If so, encourage yourself by writing down what’s ahead for you!

1) Don’t grieve for those who have gone on ahead of us like those who have no hope of seeing them again – we will see them again!

2) Just as we believe Jesus died and rose again, so God will bring with Him – with Christ – those we love who have died and whose belief was in Christ.

3) Jesus Christ, the Lord Himself, will descend from heaven with a shout and a trumpet sound, and the bodies of those dead loved ones will rise from their graves to meet their spiritual body that returns with Him from heaven!

4) Then we who are alive here on earth and believe in Him will also be caught up with them – a grand and glorious reunion in the air – to meet Jesus, our Lord and Savior, in the clouds!

5) And so shall we always be with the Lord – and with them!

Does that make you shout?! It should! When you need a battery charge, read these verses again!

14 – II Thessalonians: But what about the people left alive on earth who have not believed in Christ – who are not taken up in the air to meet Him? What will happen to them?

Read chapter 2 and write down what will happen – and who the key figure on earth will be – and what will happen to him. 1) Apostasy will take place – when people will totally forsake any religion and have no moral

convictions.2) The man of lawlessness is revealed – the Antichrist – who opposes God and anything man

may worship and places himself as a god to be worshiped – even putting himself in the Jewish Temple of Jerusalem to be worshiped, displaying himself as being the true God.

3) Now the restraint of the Holy Spirit within the Christian holds this back – but when the Christians are taken in the Rapture, this restraint is taken away and the forces of the Antichrist and Satan will overtake the earth and those left here.

4) This man will have the power of Satan – showing signs and wonders – adding to his claim of being God – deceiving those who are left here without any convictions – who rejected Christ and refused to accept Him as their Savior.

5) But when Jesus Christ the Lord returns with all his saints in a great, glorious appearing to all the world, He will destroy this Antichrist and those who rebel against God with His very voice – the very Word of God!

So tell me – which of these two stories will you be part of? The first – where Christ will return and take His own to heaven – joined together with the loved ones gone before us? Or will you be part of the second story – those left on earth because you rejected the love of Christ and were left to be taken in and mistreated by the evil Antichrist of Satan? Today it’s still not too late – you can still make sure of this decision today! Don’t put it off – this first story of Christ’s return for His saints could happen at any moment!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 15 N.T. Paul’s Letters – Part 3 & Hebrews

15 – I Timothy: Have you ever had a child live far from you – and didn’t the desire to be with them and talk with them and know what they were struggling with each day pull your heart closer and closer to them? Such was the case of Paul with his son Timothy – his son in the faith, as he had not married nor had children of his own. Read these Scriptures and write down Paul’s fatherly instructions to Timothy:1) 1:3-7

2) 2:9-12

3) 3:1-12

4) 4:12-14

5) 5:1-4

6) 6:20

Don’t you imagine that Paul prayed daily for Timothy? How often do you pray for your pastors? Can you imagine how much difference it would make in their life and ministry if you prayed at least once during the week for each of them? It is one way you can see great blessings in their ministry.

16 – II Timothy: Paul had to write one last letter to his son in the faith, reminding Timothy of critical issues that lay ahead and asking him to please come to him before winter. Read Timothy 1:1-14 – What did you learn about Timothy, and what was Paul’s word of encouragement?

Read 3:1-5 and write down the ones you see prevalent today: Have you seen this get worse in the past 30 years? In the past 10 years?!

17 – Titus: Another of Paul’s sons in the faith was Titus, a convert from Greece. One key area Paul covered was that of salvation – read it in 3:4-7 – and write down the reason or the basis on which God saved us:

18 – Philemon: As Paul waited in a Roman prison about A.D. 62, somehow, through the divine will of God, he met Onesimus, a run-away slave – one that had belonged to Paul’s friend Philemon at Colossae. Read 1:10-17 – How did this act of Onesimus toward Philemon prove out Romans 8:28?

19 – Hebrews: Truly this book, perhaps more than any other, proclaims the superiority of Christ as our High Priest, in His atonement for sins, is superior to anything else within Judaism. But one chapter shouts out to Jew and Gentile alike – read chapter 11 – it will renew your faith and hope every time you read it! What is faith?

What is the only way we can please God?

Can you give the name and action of your favorite two – or more?!

My favorite part of Hebrews is 11:39 – 12:2. Please read it slowly – and tell me what it means to you.

Survey of the Bible Lesson 15 N.T. Paul’s Letters – Part 3 & Hebrews

15 – I Timothy: Have you ever had a child live far from you – and didn’t the desire to be with them and talk with them and know what they were struggling with each day pull your heart closer and closer to them? Such was the case of Paul with his son Timothy – his son in the faith, as he had not married nor had children of his own. And yet he had children in all these churches – those he had seen come to know Christ – and those like Timothy, who had accepted God’s call to minister at the church in Ephesus. Imagine your son pastoring a church – how you’d want him to have every bit of wisdom he could have. And so as Paul endured as a prisoner in Rome, he wrote to this dear son about A.D. 62.Read these Scriptures and write down Paul’s fatherly instructions to Timothy:7) 1:3-7 – Beware of those wanting to teach and talk of myths and traditions, rather than the

Word of God – teach from a heart of love and pure heart and sincere faith.8) 2:9-12 – Teach the women to dress modestly and not for show – respective of husbands and

leaders.9) 3:1-12 – As pastor or a deacon, be above reproach, husband of one wife, temperate,

hospitable, teaching others, not addicted to wine, gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money, managing your house and children well, a believer with maturity, of good reputation in the community, and whose wives are Godly and not gossips.

10) 4:12-14 – Don’t let others put you down because you are young, but let your talk, conduct, love, faith and purity show you as an example to other believers – and don’t neglect the spiritual gift in you – let your progress be evident.

11) 5:1-4 – Respect and honor older men and women, especially widows; treat the younger women as sisters in purity.

12) 6:20 – Guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty talking and arguments of those who think they have knowledge and yet are not grounded in the Word.

Don’t you imagine that Paul prayed daily for Timothy? How often do you pray for your pastors? Can you imagine how much difference it would make in their life and ministry if you prayed at least once during the week for each of them? It is one way you can see great blessings in their ministry.

16 – II Timothy: Probably three or four years passed after Paul wrote Timothy at first – and yet Paul was still in prison in Rome – his hope to return and visit the churches had not happened. Paul had to write one last letter to his son in the faith, reminding Timothy of critical issues that lay ahead and asking him to please come to him before winter. Read Timothy 1:1-14 – What did you learn about Timothy, and what was Paul’s word of encouragement? He was prayed for by Paul night and day – he was full of faith, which began in his mother and grandmother – he was anointed and ordained to the ministry by the laying on of hands – Paul reminded him this was a holy calling from God and he must keep his standard of sound words and guard the gift within him to preach the Word.

Paul also had an urgent message – a description of the ‘last days’ which he saw evidence of even then. Read 3:1-5 and write down the ones you see prevalent today: lovers of self and money, proud and boastful, ridiculing those who believe, disobedient to parents, ungrateful for what they have, ungodly, unloving, cannot be reasoned with, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of what is good, treacherous – causing terror in people, reckless – careless, conceited – thinking only of themselves, lovers of pleasure and fun rather than loving God and things of God, pretending to be religious and yet now having a relationship with God that is evidenced in God’s power through them. Have you seen this get worse in the past 30 years? In the past 10 years?!

17 – Titus: Another of Paul’s sons in the faith was Titus, a convert from Greece who Paul left to be the leader and pastor of the believers on the island south of Greece called Crete – a place full of pagan philosophies – the mythical place of the pagan god Zeus. It was about A.D. 62, about the same time Paul wrote his first letter to Timothy. Again, as with Timothy, Paul gives instructions for the qualifications of a pastor, as well as other leaders and women in the church. One key area Paul covered was that of salvation – read it in 3:4-7 – and write down the reason or the basis on which God saved us: “not on the basis of deeds we’ve done in righteousness – but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ…being justified by His grace…heirs to eternal life.” Amen!

18 – Philemon: As Paul waited in a Roman prison about A.D. 62, somehow, through the divine will of God, he met a run-away slave – one that had belonged to Paul’s friend Philemon at Colossae. The slave, Onesimus, had stolen from Philemon and ran to Rome to get lost in the crowd. Read 1:10-17 – How did this act of Onesimus toward Philemon prove out Romans 8:28? After coming to talk with Paul, he not only gained a new friend in Paul, but had also become a new slave – to Christ! And because of that, his heart was changed – and he knew that he must return to Philemon to clear things with him and ask if he could stay in Rome to minister to Paul. Paul wrote to Philemon to be the mediator/friend, telling him that formerly Onesimus had been unprofitable – costing him – but now, he would be profitable – in work and in brotherhood in Christ. You must remember that slavery was a way of life then – perhaps as it was here 150 years ago. Philemon’s actions will be determined by his Christian heart to forgive and accept.

19 – Hebrews: Who the author of Hebrews is, God knows – but we do not! Some say it was Paul, but it doesn’t sound like Paul to me. But evidently it was written to Jews – also known as Hebrews – from another Jew to illustrate how Jesus is the fulfillment of the role of High Priest. Truly this book, perhaps more than any other, proclaims the superiority of Christ as our High Priest, in His atonement for sins, is superior to anything else within Judaism – superior over the prophets, angels, Moses, Aaron, Joshua, the Levitical priests, and the old covenant which has been replaced by the new covenant of love presented by Christ. It may be hard for us to totally understand the High Priest concept – since we’ve always known Christ alone. But one chapter shouts out to Jew and Gentile alike – read chapter 11 – it will renew your faith and hope every time you read it! What is faith? Faith is total belief in God’s grace – to the point of stepping out in actions – it is the very evidence of our belief that he has forgiven us and has adopted us into His family and will one day take us home to be with Him! What is the only way we can please God? By believing Him and responding in obedience through our faith actions. This chapter gives a list of well-known characters in the Bible who believed and responded in obedience through their faith – knowing that God would do what He said He would do. Can you give the name and action of your favorite two – or more?! Enoch – walked so closely with God that God took him home one day and he did not die! Noah – who heard God’s message and believed and took action for the next 100 years to build an ark when it had never rained! Abraham – who took his wife and followed God to a place he didn’t know and lived in a tent the rest of his life – waiting to see the city of God – and did not see it until he died!

My favorite part of Hebrews is 11:39 – 12:2. Please read it slowly – and tell me what it means to you. All these faithful believers lived their life in obedience –but they did not see God’s promise in their lifetime. We may die and not see what God has promised He will do – but He will do it! And therefore we must realize these faithful ones and those we have known who have gone before us are waiting and watching for us to finish the race! We must not get bogged down with earth’s ‘treasures’ and lose sight of the final finish line! We must keep Jesus as our example and goal!

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 16 N.T. Other Letters – Part 1

20 – James: Who was James, and how long had he known Jesus?

Read James 1:2-8. What should our attitude be about problems and hard times?

And yet, what do they do for us – and how do we find help in dealing with them?

Read 2:14-26 – what is the example James gives for the concept he introduces in verse 14?

21 – I Peter: Who was Peter – and what do you remember most about him?

Read 3:18, 4:1-2, 7-19. What does Peter encourage them to do in view of the persecution ahead?

22 – II Peter: Much in the same way Peter warned the scattered believers of the persecution to come, he also warned them in his second letter of another great danger – that of watering down and altering the preaching of the gospel through false teaching. What is the greatest danger – hearing an out-and-out, bold-faced lie – or hearing what sounds like the truth, with a little bit of lie thrown in? Which are you most likely to believe?

Read 2:1-3, 12-22. Give as many descriptions as you can of these false teachers – these that counterfeit the truth.

How do federal agents recognize counterfeit money – by studying the counterfeit – or studying the real thing? How does this apply to God’s Word?!

Read 3:17-18. Let these last words of Peter encourage your heart and spur you on to be in the Word daily.

Survey of the Bible Lesson 16 N.T. Other Letters – Part 1

20 – James: Years ago I began a tradition that I read the book of James first when I bought a new Bible – and I’ve bought several! Perhaps that’s because at one time – about 15 years ago – I actually memorized James – and it’s been a friend and constant guide ever since! James is a book of realistic, practical Christian living – living what we say we believe. It’s where the rubber meets the road! It’s where the world sees the difference! Who was James, and how long had he known Jesus? He was the half-brother of Jesus, the son of Mary and Joseph – so he was younger than Jesus – we just don’t know by how much. We read that the brothers of Jesus did not believe Him during his ministry (John 7:5) – they had known Him as a brother – surely not one that came from heaven! But after Jesus’ death and resurrection, they believed that He was who He said He was (I Cor 15:7)! And James became one of the great leaders of the church in Jerusalem (Acts 12:17; 15:13-29; Gal 1:19, 2:9, 12), later writing this letter to the scattered Jews about A.D. 50, and then was martyred about A.D. 62.

There are so many great words of wisdom in James, you hardly know where to start – but let’s look at a few. Read James 1:2-8. What should our attitude be about problems and hard times? “Count it all joy!” Impossible, you say! And yet, what do they do for us – and how do we find help in dealing with them? The testing of our faith brings about patience – waiting to see God work – giving us knowledge and understanding that we’d never have otherwise – leading us to seek for and find true wisdom from God – leading us to develop stronger faith with each trial we face. Is the joy in the beginning or ending of the trial? Either you’ve just come out of a trial – are in the middle of one – or are about to head into one! And yes, it’s usually at the end of one – when we realize that truly “all things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.” You come to realize that through each pressure point, God is stretching you just a bit more – widening your view – growing your heart – deepening your compassion.

Chapter two reminds us that God is not partial – His love is open to any who would accept it. As we allow the Holy Spirit to teach us and grow us to be more like God, we will realize that if God is not partial to different kinds of people, then we cannot be either. We do not consider that a sin, but James 2:9 says it is. In our changing society, it’s a Biblical precept we need to pray about daily. And is this not one way we can be a witness for Christ – by showing His love to those who need it most?

Another important aspect of James is realizing that our faith – when genuine faith in Christ – will not be simply hearing and believing – it will bring us to the point of acting on our faith. Read 2:14-26 – what is the example James gives for this? When someone says, “I am hungry – I have no clothes,” do we say, “Well, I’ll be praying for you!” Or do we take food from our pantry to them – or take them to get a meal – or take a few of our many clothes and give to them? Do we believe that if we share with others, then God will more than supply our needs? Has He not already? So you see just a couple examples of the practical, everyday need for this book – I challenge you to read it all this week!

21 – I Peter: Who was Peter – and what do you remember most about him? Do you remember the night Jesus shared the Passover with His disciples in the Upper Room – and how Peter said, “Lord, I’ll die for you” – and yet within hours he denied he knew Jesus three times? And yet, Peter was right in what he said, for when the emperor Nero of Rome burned that city, he threw the blame on Christians, which began a major persecution and death of Christians – and Peter was one of them about A.D. 64 when he was crucified upside down. Remember, Jesus called Peter

to take the Gospel to the Jews, while Paul was sent to the Gentiles. So Peter’s letter to the scattered, persecuted Jews soon before his death warms them of the trials ahead of them. Read 3:18, 4:1-2, 7-19. What does Peter encourage them to do in view of the persecution ahead?

1) Remember that Christ suffered by being put to death because of His great love for us.2) Therefore, we need to be of the same mind – willing to suffer and even die for the cause of

Christ and die daily to self that we might love and serve others.3) We have spent enough time on our selfish interests in the past – we need to give our time

and energies to the spreading of the gospel for the rest of our days.4) Be hospitable – without grumbling – offering whatever gifts of service or material needs

others might need.5) Be honored that God counts you worthy to suffer for His name’s sake – in this way we are

sharing in the sufferings of Christ.

22 – II Peter: Much in the same way Peter warned the scattered believers of the persecution to come, he also warned them in his second letter of another great danger – that of watering down and altering the preaching of the gospel through false teaching. What is the greatest danger – hearing an out-and-out, bold-faced lie – or hearing what sounds like the truth, with a little bit of lie thrown in? Which are you most likely to believe? Remember that Satan is sly – as a serpent – although at times he can also be like a roaring lion. But most often the sly serpent is most unnoticed and strikes before you realize it.

Read 2:1-3, 12-22. Give as many descriptions as you can of these false teachers – these that counterfeit the truth. 1) Secretly introduce destructive teachings, denying Christ as their Master2) They have a sensual nature – appealing to the flesh in those who hear them3) They are greedy – for power and having their hearers follow and listen and believe them4) Reviling against the truth when they have no real knowledge of the truth5) Lustful – enticing others into sin – unstable 6) Forsaking the truth of God – they are like springs without water – speaking arrogant words

of vanity – promising their hearers freedom and prosperity while they themselves are enslaved by sin.

How do federal agents recognize counterfeit money – by studying the counterfeit – or studying the real thing? How does this apply to God’s Word?! They know the real thing so well, that anything that is counterfeit stands out immediately! This too is how you will know what is counterfeit in the world of Bible teaching and those who profess to be Christians – know the Word of God so well – know Christ so well – that anything else will be obviously untrue. Reading and studying God’s Word isn’t something I encourage you to do just because you are Christians – but because I know it will sharpen your ears and eyes and heart to recognize what is not the truth. It’s everywhere – in the media – on the television – in religious seminars – in books – in thousands of liberal pulpits across America.

Read 3:17-18. Let these last words of Peter encourage your heart and spur you on to be in the Word daily. “You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”

Survey of the Bible Worksheet 17 N.T. Other Letters – Part 2 & Rev.

23 – I John: When we studied the book of John recently, it became obvious that the man that called himself ‘the one Jesus loved’ had surely come to love Jesus as well. As we come today to John’s last words on Jesus’ behalf, we will begin with I John – and although John’s name isn’t there, you only have to read the first few verses to know who wrote it!

Read I John 1 – then read John 1:1-5. What same words or phrases did you find in how John described his best friend Jesus?

John’s great desire is that believers KNOW the truth – that we be grounded in the Word – that we have the assurance of our salvation and the assurance of His Presence within us. From these Scriptures, what are things we can know for sure?

24 – II John: Read the key verse in 1:9-11 – what does John say about these false teachers and what our response should be to them?

25 – III John: Maybe John’s pen was running low -- but II and III John are very short – yet they are great words of encouragement! Maybe this thought alone is enough to encourage us to at least write a few lines of encouragement to a friend today – it doesn’t have to be long to let them know we are thinking of them and give them at least one good thought. Read verses 3-8 – What good things did John say about these believers and what did he encourage them with?

26 – Jude: I realized something today – that the last few books of the Bible are written by those who perhaps knew Jesus best! His two closest friends – Peter and John – and two of his half-brothers – James and Jude! Jude, like Paul, Peter, and John, warns the believers of false teachers – of the judgment that they will receive for their evil teachings – how they slyly creep into the midst of the Church and begin unnoticed and undermine the doctrine of Christ. What ways do you see around us today of those undermining our faith in our own country?

27 – Revelation: Read 1:1-20 – On what day did John see this vision – Who was speaking to John – and what did He tell John to do?

Read 4:1-3 – After John writes about the Church Age in chapters 2 and 3, where is John taken? Now go back to a verse we read a few weeks ago in I Thessalonians 4:16-17.Who shouts – With what sound – And what happens? Do you see the connection?!

Chapters 6 through 18 reveal the indescribable terrors of those seven years, when Satan unleashes his wrath through the deception of the Antichrist – the bondage of earth’s inhabitants to him – famine, disease, wars, and chaos fill the earth. Will we be here during that time? Did the previous question answer this question?!

Chapter 19 tells of Christ returning with the saints to defeat the armies of the world and Satan. That will be a glorious day. But let’s end our journey by reading Revelation 21 and 22 – Write down just a few of the thrilling truths that describe your future in eternity!

Are you ready? Are your bags packed? Is your heart ready? Have you left things undone that need to be done? Jesus could return today! What a glorious thought! Amen and Amen!

Survey of the Bible Lesson 17 N.T. Other Letters – Part 2 & Rev.

23 – I John: When we studied the book of John recently, it became obvious that the man that called himself ‘the one Jesus loved’ had surely come to love Jesus as well. As we come today to John’s last words on Jesus’ behalf, we will begin with I John – and although John’s name isn’t there, you only have to read the first few verses to know who wrote it!

Read I John 1 – then read John 1:1-5. What same words or phrases did you find in how John described his best friend Jesus? From the beginning…..the Word….in Him was Life…which was with the Father….and was manifested to us…God is Light and in Him there is no darkness. So, John’s same words identified him as the author. He had gone to Ephesus when the Jews were dispersed from Jerusalem through persecution, and there he had been pastor and leader for many years. Since it’s felt this was written about A.D. 85, John was evidently getting very old – and his fatherly instinct to guard and protect and warn his children in the faith was his burning desire before he died. After the Gospel had been proclaimed in all these areas, many heresies developed – such as Gnosticism – which Satan was using to rekindle the old desire in mankind to be his own god – to rely on his own knowledge – anything that would keep mankind from reaching out to God as Lord and Master.

John’s great desire is that believers KNOW the truth – that we be grounded in the Word – that we have the assurance of our salvation and the assurance of His Presence within us. From these Scriptures, what are things we can know for sure?* 2:3-5 That we truly know Jesus and are in Him if we keep His commands* 2:23 That whoever confesses the Son has the Father also* 2:25 That God has promised us eternal life* 2:27 That we are anointed by the Holy Spirit and He teaches us about all things* 3:2 That when Jesus appears, we will be like Him and see Him as He is* 3:14 That we have life/salvation within us because we have love for other believers* 3:24 That He abides in us by the Spirit whom He has given us* 4:12 That if we love one another, God abides in us and His love is perfected in us* 5:14-15 That if we ask anything according to His will, He hear and answers our prayer* 5:20 That the Son of God has come and given us understanding to know Him

24 – II John: John’s second letter to the ‘elect lady and her children’ – most likely referring to the Church, the Bride of Christ, and new believers – again is to give another warning against false teachers – those that have tried to deceive and are antichrist, or against Christ. Read the key verse in 1:9-11 – what does John say about these false teachers and what our response should be to them?* Those who sin by not abiding in, or staying true to, the doctrine of Christ do not have God* He who abides – stays, lives in, practices the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and Son* If someone comes to you that doesn’t teach the doctrine of Christ, we should not welcome

them into our home or help him in any way.

Have you ever give a Jehovah Witness money for the little tracts that want to give you? You need to rethink that generosity – they are teaching a false doctrine, and we should pray for them, but not allow them into our home or give them any money.

25 – III John: Maybe John’s pen was running low -- but II and III John are very short – yet they are great words of encouragement! Maybe this thought alone is enough to encourage us to at least write a few lines of encouragement to a friend today – it doesn’t have to be long to let them know we are thinking of them and give them at least one good thought. Read verses 3-8 – What good things did John say about these believers and what did he encourage them with?* They walked, lived their daily lives, in the truth of Christ – their actions affirmed their belief* They were faithful to be hospitable to strangers, sharing the love of Christ, helping them as

they traveled further because they had come, perhaps as missionaries or workers of the faith.* In doing so, these faithful believers at home became partners with those working for Christ

further away.

You may see yourself as a down-home Dacula girl – or Lawrenceville – that has little opportunity to share Christ and advance His cause around the world. In what way are you or can you do that? Through our faithful tithing we help minister to those here at home as well as thousands of missionaries through the Cooperative Program of the Southern Baptist Convention. But often we have opportunities to help individuals – as you have helped me in the ministry in Argentina – and in so doing, you have had a personal part in the work that has been done there. The Holy Spirit speaks to us when we should be part of such a ministry – and He will never let you go without your own needs when you give to help the needs of others.

26 – Jude: I realized something today – that the last few books of the Bible are written by those who perhaps knew Jesus best! His two closest friends – Peter and John – and two of his half-brothers – James and Jude! Jude, like Paul, Peter, and John, warns the believers of false teachers – of the judgment that they will receive for their evil teachings – how they slyly creep into the midst of the Church and begin unnoticed and undermine the doctrine of Christ. For this reason, Jude says we must be diligent – on guard – contend sincerely for our faith.

What ways do you see around us today of those undermining our faith in our own country? Taking ‘under God’ out of the pledge to allegiance – taking prayer out of schools – taking the right to have a nativity displayed at Christmas – trying to make Christians look like ignorant when we say that Christ is the only way to God. It’s everywhere around us. But Jude tells us to persevere – built up our faith – pray in the Holy Spirit – keep ourselves in God’s love – have compassion – reach out to those who are without Christ – but hate and resist their lifestyle.

27 – Revelation: For the past four months we have taken a journey – a 6000 year journey in four months! And today we come down to the finish line – we’re about to reach our destination! And perhaps that was John’s feelings as he penned the words the Holy Spirit put within him as he sat exiled on the little Greek isle of Patmos – cast away to die for his faith and preaching. John was an old man – it was about A.D. 95 – perhaps he was about 85 or more. Surely he thought there was nothing more for him to do – he was a prisoner on an island – he was probably suffering physically.

And yet – as Psalm 139 says, “Where can I go from Your Spirit…Your Presence?” Even there on Patmos, God was there. Read 1:1-20 – On what day did John see this vision – Who was speaking to John – and what did He tell John to do? It was on the Lord’s Day, Sunday – and it was Jesus speaking to John, saying, “I AM the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last. What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia – to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea…what you’ve seen, the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.”

If you looked on a map and drew a line from Patmos eastward to Asia Minor, you would go through these seven churches one after another – beginning with Ephesus and ending with Laodicea. And yet they are also in another order – and that being the description of the Church as it developed over the past 2000 years, as well as the description of typical members of churches today – beginning as Ephesus did – aflame for Jesus, full of good works – and through the suffering of persecution such as Smyrna, and the martyrdom of Pergamos, the growth of Thyatira, then having a reputation of being a church but actually dead as Sardis – then the missionary church of Philadelphia – and finally the lukewarm church of Laodicea – where we are today. If you look back through history at the church ages, they would parallel the characteristics of these seven churches of John’s day.

After addressing the churches in chapters 2 and 3, the scene and location changes. Read 4:1-3 – Where is John taken? He was taken up to heaven when Jesus spoke with the sound of a trumpet, saying, “Come up here.” Now go back to a verse we read a few weeks ago in I Thessalonians 4:16-17 – Who shouts – With what sound – And what happens? Jesus shouts with the voice of the trumpet and the believers are taken up to heaven – just as you see in Revelation 4:1-3. After Revelation 3, the Church is not mentioned again on earth until Jesus returns with the saints at the end of the seven-year Tribulation in chapter 19. Chapter 4 and 5 give the picture in heaven where the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ Himself, opens the scrolls to reveal the seven years ahead – the Tribulation.

Chapters 6 through 19 reveal the indescribable terrors of those seven years, when Satan unleashes his wrath through the deception of the Antichrist – the bondage of earth’s inhabitants to him – famine, disease, wars, and chaos fill the earth. Will we be here during that time? No – just as Noah was saved from the destruction of the flood’s judgment on man’s sin, so the Church will be taken out in the Rapture before the judgment of the Tribulation begins.

We could easily spend several months on this book alone – and perhaps we will at some point – but today as we close our Survey of the Bible, we will simply say that Revelation is God’s final word to us through His holy Scriptures – it is the last page of human history – it is where Satan and all his evil schemes finally meet the end of the road in a burning lake of fire forever. And most of all, it is where we have final peace and victory and a home with Christ forever!

Chapter 19 tells of Christ returning with the saints to defeat the armies of the world and Satan. That will be a glorious day. But let’s end our journey by reading Revelation 21 and 22 – Write down just a few of the thrilling truths that describe your future in eternity! God will create a new heaven and earth He will bring a New Jerusalem down to earth and live here with us forever God will wipe away every tear – there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain All things will be made new – everything from the past will be gone – all sin will be gone Heaven itself, in the City of New Jerusalem will be spectacular – 1500 miles up, down and

across – with 12 layers that size – each layer adorned with a special gem! There will be no church building – but God and Jesus will be there and They are the Temple The glory of God will shine – and there will be no need for the sun! A river will flow through the City – and the tree of life will be there along the river There will be no more night We will reign forever and ever with the Lord!

Are you ready? Are your bags packed? Is your heart ready? Have you left things undone that need to be done? Jesus could return today! What a glorious thought! Amen and Amen!

References:

1. The Believer’s Study Bible , edited by W.A. Criswell, published by Nelson2. The New Inductive Study Bible , compiled by Kay Arthur and Precepts Ministry staff, published by

Harvest House3. Thompson Chain-Reference Bible , edited by Frank Charles Thompson, published by Kirkbride4. Talk Thru the Old Testament , by Bruce Wilkinson and Kenneth Boa5. Talk thru the New Testament , by Bruce Wilkinson and Kenneth Boa6. A Complete Concordance to the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament , by Alexander

Cruden, M.A.7. Excel Bible Study , by Jeannie Barge

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