Page 80 - Advanced OT Survey Revised

Chapter 7: Pre-Exilic Historical (Time of Kings)

Connect…

We have a problem! When Jesus saved us, He made us a new creation in Christ. He gave us the Holy
Spirit, and now wants to walk with us daily, just as Adam and Eve walked with God in the Garden of
Eden. God seeks fellowship with those whom He loves. Our problem is a struggle for authority. God
wants to be King of our lives. We don’t want to give up to God that rulership. We somethings think we
can rule our own lives better than God can. So, we take control. Who sits on the thrown of our hearts is
a continual struggle.

It’s not a new problem. We have just studied the book of Judges where Israel would at times call on the
Lord, but then would forget His faithfulness and walk away from Him. As we begin the book of I Samuel,
we will see that Israel desires a KING, not YHWH, but an earthly king. Let’s continue with our survey….

Objectives…

1. The student should be able to discuss what the historical books in the time of the kings are all about.

2. The student should be able to discuss the important questions such as: what, when, where, how.

3. The student should be able to discuss the main message and main divisions of each individual
historical book in the time of the kings.

4. The student should be able to discuss the applications from the 6 historical books.

The Lesson ...

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1 Samuel

1 Samuel introduces us to the Last Judge of Israel, Samuel. It also introduces us to the beginning of
Israel’s monarchy. (cf. Samuel’s farewell, 12:1f, divided monarchy, 27:7) The theme(s) of 1 Samuel
include: Prelude to Kingship (1-7), Selection and Rejection of 1st King (8-15), Rise of a New King (16-31)
The main message of 1 Samuel is: The ministry of Samuel unifies and prepares Israel for kingship, the
reign of Saul highlights the folly of appearance over obedience, and the rise of David illustrates the
providence and protection of God’s righteous leader. Prelude to Kingship (1-7) Selection and Rejection
of 1st Kings (8-15) Rise of New King, Demise of Old (16-31).

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