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1 Samuel
In this second study in our series, we are moving on from the books of Moses to looking at the next set of books — Judges and Kings. These historical books tell us the history of Israel especially 40 years after they left Egypt. Israel’s history shows failure of leaders to rule as God intended, and also tracks Israel’s disobedience. Why is this important for us? The history in these books are our history!
For this Advent series, the names of Jesus are taken from the hymn “O come O come Emmanuel”. In this study, well look at Jesus, the “root of Jesse”. The significance of this might be lost on many of us, and 1 Sam 16:1-13 shows us the root of Jesse, whose name is David. This is kind of like the origin story of David, thus if we don’t understand David, we will not be amaze or impressed when Jesus is repeatedly called “Son of David”. Let's spend time looking at the Root of Jesse, David, and see the relationship between kings and Christmas.
The Old Testament is made up of different genres, but each of these books of the Old Testament work together to tell one narrative. It is not a collection of short stories, but is really one story.
Here's how each book fits into the larger storyline.
When we read any novel or book, where do we begin? Of course at the beginning, you'd say. It's a no brainer. And the Bible is no different really. I don't know about you, but sometimes I do struggle with reading the Bible. Certain chapters don't make sense. Narratives are easier, but when it comes to law and poetry, sometimes things seem complicated. Is it just for the intellectual few? No!
In this new series, we'll consider what the Bible's storyline is all about. Sometimes we think we know these things and assume that we've understood everything, but it really is worth pausing and reconsidering what the Bible says about itself, about God and about us. Ready? Let's begin right at the beginning, in Genesis to consider who God is and what is God's initial plan for you and me.
