” e r c n i e t s e T A L O e l l e Y n o h c u d Wateo oO wl 2Sl 3E SSICOY) S Na toil 20 E 9 S I L E / K E ) (p Qu tiny O H , ) H t y U , 6 2 , 3 3 p e S : e t gece da [& pays pase = = 1g .O| (syllabus Cechedu le) ) E N A C = S a C I O V = a: . pases ) Qmgs HL > 10 (fo Vets Coa rclatert) ¥ a # ce) CP) \ Peat Old e li YV o Y hon Nlatejulaks " WILTPO duc 5EDBCV) No west neice Q € S 7 r e r / K e ) (pei tis aeceron Cate: Sep HS AZ, 25, AC t2), . nae Af (syllabus AR (Go | = - ee | P Hs ) On pase 01 Cecheduke) ets) v Cole * je pases ~ 18 (proper cet) G9 5D Beoklels @ EII 2 cinlpeeeacenaney LMEA NEO once ATT IO -O6 = GMSe cost go, A B 50 (p >? Cp) New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar All classes are held at New Zion. Please see Sis. Dula Brock or Min. Stanley Ellington for more info. september 2008 Sunday Monday ] Tuesday 2 Labor Day “How the Bible Came Holiday | Wednesday 3 to Be” 7:00 p.m. Bible (1s! Evening) Study Time: (No Class) 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday 4 “How the Bible Came to Be" | (274 Evening) Time: Friday 2 “How the Bible Came 6 “How the Bible to Be” Came Time: Time: 10:00 a.m. (39 Evening) 6:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday 6:30-9:30 p.m. 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 2| 22 23 “Introduction | 24 25 “Introduction | 26 “Introduction | 27 to the Old Testament" (1s! Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. 28 29 30 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) to the Old Testament" (2"4 Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. to the Old Testament” (3'¢ Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. to Be” (Morning Session) “Introduction to the Old Testament” {Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. i if 23/2 f0K. NEW ZION BAPTIST CHURCH 2935 Lincoln Avenue Ogden, Utah 84401 Weekly Offering Sunday School N - Tithes Special a~ the first day s(Zo; Building Fund Offering 5, Opitean. Ladioky Shak the we fey, "wicteodat ANS, one of you layby him in store, as God hath prospered him.” I Cor. 16:2 2 Whe Old ag. og Testament : HE WOT, Date 4. 23% pooK NEW ZION BAPTIST CHURCH 2935 Lincoln Avenue Ogden, Utah 84401 Weekly Offering Sunday School Tithes $ Nam “Upow A the first day of the we Special $f i - ES a Building Fund S$ ‘5,.\ Opis. ‘c ot eysty one of you lay by him in store, as Offering $ oe ) ( @od hath prospered him.” I Cor. 16:2 CLASS SCHEDULE for New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership School “Introduction to the Old Testament” Course No. 1007 Tuesday, September 23, 2008 OLSU) PTs. 605 sSeeneicene tes cncelectinnchadnngeas Fapsptaihoaisibiininasiesetséssesaciedscinnnds Registration Or4S Pu. oo. cceeeeesesssssceeceeccccceeeecssuuaeeseeseeseeeeeseeeeeseeeeeees Opening Devotion Opening Session Remarks ...............cccceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees Sis. Dula Brock, Dean WelCOME 1.0.0... ceececsesssesesseeeeeseeeecececeeeceeeees Min. Lillie Holman, Secretary Introduction of Instructor ................. Min. Stanley Ellington, CE Director PEN O Py Mei sn nindedence desis even cesssogadtinens gal obacsecdliseevacdedadsergesdatecdvesys Class Session TAQ TOO PAM, 0.02 evs back cts cdeeeessecacvasdsssasbecciscanusvsgcapesdagesvendecesestees Break PDQ — 8:20 P.M. 0.0... cccccccceessesssceccccssssnscecsseccessseseseseccsssansess Class Session 8:30 — 8:40 Pim. .oecccccsssssseeseeceeeeeececeeeceeseccsessssssssueeeeesssseessess Break 8:40 — 9:20 Pim. ..ceceeccccccccccsesseecceceeueeseeececcessssueeeesseseessseeuens Class Session SLO PAM, 2 te laha dtvncealordahssalpsthe MondebinstSloandyiaiticantsdess hbaetely ous. Closing Prayer Thursday and Friday, September 25 & 26, 2008 O30) PIs 0... crececdececenincsdasossijevandcesdabecarslocensaue sowsdensnardeand Prayer & Devotion O:40 P.1iisis......cccesesscccscoeessscesecsessccssessssscsseenseess seeitnanasaeee Class Session TQ) Pi, .eceececcseeccccccceessseeececeecauseeecceeesuuuesccecceseessseuesesessessuueeeecesseeeens Break TBO PADS occcccecosseesccsnieceiaees secipsesiveascendocaafesassresetatbnaseedbenthevbys Class Session SILO P.M. -....ssesscseccccccnanssncsvecscceccecosessdesnstacecsstascossacbsnpessssecsgngassdonecessds Break S7 OU PAMi ssc saicdew dase cine Weesasseedsneossdaccathvdesiaasessachsryndlisasassotvey’ Class Session DZ) PM, ..cecssseessccisecosesdsccetucsesadscccnccensvsctsssacssscacsveadasseeten Closing Prayer Saturday, September 27, 2008 LO:00 A.M. oo. cece ccccccccccceecsseseeeececeeseasaaeeseeeceeseeeeeeeeeaes Prayer & Devotion 10:10 acm. — 10:50 a.m. ooo ceecccccccccceeeeeseeeceesesesseeeseeeees Class Session T1200 QM, oe ceccccccccceesseeeceeeeeesseeeeccesessseeneeeeeeceeseeaaaesees Closing Prayer Introduction to the Old Testament Phase I, Course #1007 Instructor: Dr. Bruce Davis, Sr. Purpose WV Objectives Introduction: The Importance of Studying the Old Testament V VV VV > WV Table of Contents The Dispensations Establishment of the Old Testament Description of the Old Testament Survey of the Old Testament Old Testament Periods Purpose To develop a student’s understanding and increase their knowledge about the central, unifying theme of the Old Testament Objectives Each student should be able to: e e See the pattern, progression, and unity of the Old Testament Scriptures Be able to think through the entire Old Testament Upon completion of this surveying study, relate the various parts to the big picture view Page 1 . : a . a . . . " " " s " " " 7 INTRODUCTION Excerpts from Survey of the Old Testament, Paul Benware The Importance of Studying the Old Testament A person will never properly understand the New Testament Scriptures if the Old Testament Scriptures remain a mystery to him. Yet for the average Christian the pattern, unity, and progression of the Old Testament remain vague or unknown. Although almost everyone knows about Noah and the ark, Moses and the Red Sea, and numerous other stories found in the books of the old Testament, the Old Testament itself often seems fragmented and is seen only as a loosely knit group of stories. But to understand God’s ways and His purposes in this age, as well as His plans for the future ages, requires a clear comprehension of the Old Testament. (Benware, page 11) Great doctrinal truths are developed in the Old Testament. For example, significant revelations concerning the attributes of God are recorded. The New Testament, of course, concerns itself with the Person of God, but it is the Old Testament that gives us our basic understanding of God’s majesty, power, holiness, and sovereignty. His love, goodness, and wisdom are the subjects of many psalms and numerous prophetic declarations. (Benware, pg 13) Having a lack of understanding of the Old Testament has brought about a basic deficiency in our knowledge of God and, as a result, our walk with Him. After serious study of the Old Testament, one is inclined to walk with more reverence before our majestic God. So much foundational truth is found in the Old Testament—truth that the New Testament writers assume we know and understand. An almost endless list of doctrinal truths and meaningfully facts could be given to validate the importance of the Old Testament to the New. Yet so often, students of the Scriptures wrestle with truth found in the books of the New Testament because they fail to recognize Old Testament background (Benware, pg 13). Page 2 THE DISPENSATIONS A dispensation is a plan or way by which God dispenses or gives out His revelation, His blessing and His punishment. There are three great dispensations: Patriarchal, Jewish or Mosaic, Christian. Patriarchal Dispensation | The patriarchal dispensation recorded that God revealed His will to some of the patriarchs. Some of the Patriarchs (chief fathers) e Adam: God gave a home, a task, and a prohibition, along with dominion over the rest of the earthly creation o e e | Genesis 1:28-29 o Genesis 2:15-17 Noah: God gave blessing and dominion and prohibitions and promise o Genesis 9:1-17 Abraham: God gave.a call, a home, and a promise o Genesis 12:1-3 _ Jewish or Mosaic Dispensation The patriarchal dispensation ended and a new dispensation began when God gave the law, with a promise that the people would be blessed when they obeyed and punished when they disobeyed. This is called the Jewish dispensation because the Jews were the people who received the law. It is called also the Mosaic dispensation because God gave the law through Moses. Christian Dispensation The earthly life and work of Jesus laid the foundation for a new dispensation. His death opened the way for the forgiveness of sins. This ended the dispensation of the Mosaic Law. (This survey continues in the study of the Introduction of the New Testament.) (Root, 1996) Page 3 , a 5 " 3 ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OLD TESTAMENT Old Testament: The biblical books considered by Christians to be canonical Scripture and the self-revelation of God and thus authoritative for Christian churches (McKim, 1996, pg 194). Old Testament theology: A term for the attempt to give historical descriptions and to synthesize the teachings of the Old Testament as a whole on various themes (1996, pg 194). In the following arrangement: (1) five books of law (Genesis to Deuteronomy); (2) 12 books of history (Joshua to Esther); (3) five books of poetry (Job to Song); (4) 17 books of prophecy (Isaiah to Malachi). The latter section is sometimes subdivided into five books of major prophets and 12 books of minor prophets (Pfeiffer, 1975). Therefore, the Old Testament consists by thirty-nine literatures of which are called books. These books contain history of the nation of Israel, the laws of God for Israel, insightful and inspiring poetry, and the messages of numerous prophets. (Benware, pg 14) . a 7 2 Page 4 3 3 3 Survey of the Old Testament Paul N. Benware Introduction A person will never properly understand the New Testament Scriptures if the Old Testament Scriptures remain a mystery to him. Yet for the average Christian the pattern, unity, and progression of the Old Testament remain vague or unknown. The Old Testament itself often seems fragmented and is seen only as loosely knit group of stories; but to understand God’s ways and His purposes in this age requires a clear comprehension of the Old Testament. Overview The Old Testament is the story of the nation of Israel, a nation unique and distinct from all nations of the earth because God Himself entered into a covenant relationship with them. It is the story of a nation designed by God to bring glory to Himself and salvation to mankind. It is a story of the great spiritual victories and defeats of men and the amazing faithfulness and grace of God. Foundational Books Genesis Genesis is the book of beginnings. It was written, first, to tell us clearly and definitely that God created all things directly. The entire organized universe was brought into existence by the powerful, all-knowing, creator God. Second, Genesis was written to record the beginning of many other elements that exist in our world today. The beginnings of such important matters as marriage, languages, nations, sin, and worship are recorded. A third purpose of the book is to relate how Israel, through Abraham, was selected from among the peoples of the world to become God’s chosen nation. Exodus Exodus continues the story of God’s dealings with the descendants of Abraham. It picks up the history of the people of Israel after a silent period of 275 years. During this lengthy period two significant things happened. First, Israel’s population, which was about seventy-five at the end of Genesis, grew to about 2.5 million. And second, the people of Israel became enslaved to the Egyptians. Exodus also records the giving of the law at Mount Sinai. The “constitution” given to Israel marks the second significant step in the process of becoming God’s great nation. Ea ENO DEL, OWNS ROME EGET OE OUT ET Tee eae ee ee eT ere ne eet tT Leviticus The purpose of Leviticus is twofold: (1) to teach the nation of Israel the way to God, and (2) to teach them how to walk with God. This book was given to direct Israel to live as a holy nation in fellowship with a holy God. It was part of a code of law for the total well-being of the nation. For believers today the book gives insight into approaching God in worship and the need for holy living. Number Numbers was written to record Israel’s history from their departure from Mount Sinai to their arrival in Moab on the east side of the Jordan River. Numbers continues the account of God’s faithfulness in making of Abraham a “great nation.” The land of Canaan would be Israel’s in spite of this record of unbelief and unfaithfulness on Israel’s part. Deuteronomy The main purpose of the book is to remind Israel of their special relationship to God. They were the covenant people and were to obey His laws. Israel was reminded in Deuteronomy of the privileged position that they had and the resulting responsibility to serve God faithfully and to be holy. In these messages Moses pled with the people to obey the commandments. His pleas to the nation were based on several facts: (1) God’s goodness to them in the past and (2) God’s goodness to them in the recent wilderness experience; (3) Israel’s responsibility to be a good testimony to the nations of the earth; (4) God’s love which had been poured out on them; (5) God’s sure promise of blessing; and (6) God’s warnings of certain judgment for disobedience. | ; | | | ; Joshua The purpose of Joshua is to record the conquest of the land of Canaan by Israel and therefore show the faithfulness of God in making of Abraham “a great nation.” | Judges 5 | Judges was written to record the experiences of Israel during the era of the theocracy. The book set forth great failures of Israel during this period. Ruth One purpose of the book is to reveal that there were godly people during the era of the theocracy. Even though the nation found itself in deep apostasy, there were people in Israel who loved and obeyed the Lord God of Israel. In the book of Judges Israel forsakes the Lord and turns to idols, whereas in the book of Ruth one Gentile woman turns from her idols to serve the living and true God. TN ee EB ee a ES RO Lee RENO ORAS RICE ENSUES ee tee eee ee meee ee ee eee eee Te | Page 6 Israel forsakes the Lord and turns to idols, whereas in the book of Ruth one Gentile woman turns from her idols to serve the living and true God. 1 Samuel First Samuel is given to record the great transition in the national life fo Israel, as Israel left the theocracy and went into the monarchy. Samuel was the key individual during this time, and 1 Samuel provides the account of his ministry. 2 Samuel The purpose of 2 Samuel is to continue the account of the development of the monarchy in Israel. Second Samuel is the record of the reign of David, Israel’s greatest king. The book also sets forth the elements of the Davidic Covenant. 1 Kings First Kings was written to continue the story of the united monarchy under David’s son Solomon. It was also written to record the division of the Kingdom into North and South. The book is not just a view of historical events but a commentary on the great spiritual issues that brought about those events. 2 Kings Second Kings was written to continue the story of the divided kingdom period and to record the taking captive of both the Northern and the Southern Kingdoms. The book was written to show that God is faithful to His word in judging His people for their disobedience and idolatry. 1 & 2 Chronicles These books are complementary to 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings. They were intended to strengthen the remnant of the nation who had made it through the period of the Babylonian Captivity. They needed to be reminded that the Lord was still with them and that they still had a glorious future because God was faithful to His covenants. The nation’s apostasy had brought it down, but the nation would rise again. Ezra The purpose of the book of Ezra is to record the faithfulness of God in the reestablishing of the Jews in their land. EEA GE BKB 8288 SSB Esther The book was written to show God’s providential care for His people even while they were in captivity and in a poor spiritual condition. Because of the Abrahamic Covenant, God would never allow these descendants of Abraham to be exterminated. He still blesses those who bless Israel and, as in this case, curses those who curse Israel. Nehemiah The book was written to show the work of God through a godly leader, Nehemiah. The book records the building, fortifying, and reestablishing of the city of Jerusalem. The book also reveals the beautiful balance in the life of Nehemiah between zealous human effort and planning, and divine empowering. Poetic Books Poetry is fund everywhere in the Old Testament Scriptures, but six entire books of poetry were written during the era of the monarchy. The time of the united monarchy would be considered Israel’s “golden age of literature.” The books do indeed speak to the issues and needs experienced by believers then and now. Job The book of Job addresses the issue of the suffering of people who are righteous. Whereas the suffering and distress of the wicked has not been as great a problem to most people, the suffering of people who love and serve the Lord God is another matter. If God is sovereign and loving, then why does He permit His own to experience terrible (and apparently needless) suffering? Although the book of Job might suggest some answers to this issue, and intellectual solution is not really _ given. A spiritual solution is given; namely, the absolute sovereignty of God. When Job met God, he did not demand answers but humbly submitted himself to his sovereign God, recognizing in a fresh way the Creator-creature relationship. Psalm The various psalms cover a wide range of subjects. But the single element found in just about every psalm is that of praise. The Psalms constituted the hymnal of Israel, and a key to worship is praise. God undoubtedly inspired and preserved the psalms because they accurately reflect the full range of human emotions. They help God’s people find their way through the varying experiences of life. This book not only constituted the hymnal of ancient Israel but also has served as the basis for may Christian hymns down to the present day. SRS ES PMN ALS ZEISS ER rc remeeen eee mre Proverbs Proverbs gives wisdom on all areas of human experience. Wisdom is not simply a matter of the intellect-it is viewing life and self from God’s perspective, which is the only true and valid perspective. A wise person is able to deal with life’s issues and problems with the advantage of God’s viewpoint. Ecclesiastes Ecclesiastes records man’s struggle to find meaning and fulfillment in life. The basic theme is that fife is empty and meaningless apart from a right relationship with God. Unless a man comes to know the Creator, nothing in the creation can bring him peace and satisfaction. Everything will be vain; all of man’s pursuits will eventually leave him discontent and empty. Song of Solomon This poem elevates human, sexual love to the place that God intended. Although the Bible often warns of the negative consequences of immorality, it also extols the blessings that come from moral behavior. This book records the reminiscences of a bridegroom and his bride. In so doing, this Scripture shows the joys of physical love within the boundaries of marital commitment. Lamentations The book is a lament over the destruction of Jerusalem at the hands of the Babylonian armies, following months of a devastating siege of the city. It displays enormous emotional and physical pain. This poem is a sequel to the book of Jeremiah. The Prophetic Books God’s Prophetic Messengers For a thousand years of Israel’s history there appeared men (and a few women) who received messages from God and delivered those messages to Israel. These prophets had a profound impact on the national life of Israel. Page 9 Obadiah The message of Obadiah was directed to Israel’s southern neighbors, the Edomites. The Edomites were the descendants of Esau and had a history of hostility toward Israel. God held them accountable for what they did to Israel. Joel Joel’s message is aimed at the Southern Kingdom of Judah. There is little doubt that he was living in the center of the public worship of God (Jerusalem). He speaks to the priests as though they were present. On several occasions he refers to Zion, Jerusalem, and Judah. When he does mention Israel on three occasions, it is a reference to the people of God generally and not to the Northern Kingdom. Jonah This book reveals that God desired the salvation of Gentiles and extended His grace toward them. Although God had established a covenant relationship with Israel] alone, He did not abandon the rest of mankind. Jonah’s message was directed to the powerful nation of Assyria, with its capital city at Nineveh. Amos In the days of Amos, the Northern Kingdom of Israel was still deeply involved in their worship of the golden calves. Although Amos was from a town in the Southern Kingdom of Judah, God chose him to go to the Northern Kingdom to deliver His message of coming judgment. Some of that message was delivered in the corrupt city of Bethel, which was one of the centers of calf worship. Hosea This prophecy was God’s last voice to the Northern Kingdom of Israel before its destruction. It was a gracious attempt to rescue individuals out of the doomed nation. This message of judgment was fulfilled within a few years. Isaiah Isaiah was raised up by God to speak of coming judgment on Judah because of her many sins and to reveal the coming of the servant of the Lord. Isaiah was one of the last prophets who offered the nation (as a nation) the opportunity to repent and avoid a national calamity. He also was among the greatest revealers of truth about the person, work, and kingdom of the coming Messiah. Micah Micah was sent by God to call Judah back to practical righteousness. He particularly denounced the leaders of Judah for oppressing the poor and for using their positions for their own personal gain. He brought a message of coming judgment on Judah. This foreboding message was coupled with a message of hope centered on the coming Messiah. Nahum Nahum was called to deliver a message of judgment on a nation that previously had been given revelation of the true God. The Assyrians, with their capital at Nineveh, were the ones addressed in this message. They had heard about the true God through the ministry of Jonah. Since then they were sinning in spite of the light of revealed knowledge. Zephaniah Zephaniah was raised up by God to assist the godly King Josiah in his attempt to bring Judah back to God. The message of Zephaniah revealed, however, that it was too late for the nation of Judah. Judgment was coming though some individuals could still be saved. Jeremiah Jeremiah’s messages were given to the kings, rulers, and the people of Judah. His message was heavy with irreversible judgment on Judah. This earned him the characterization of “weeping prophet.” Most of the people despised and rejected his message. Habakkuk Habakkuk’s message weighs the important question how God’s patience with sin can be related to His holiness. The dialogue between the prophet and God gives insight into this matter for all time. The sinful, law-breaking people of Judah were a concern to Habakkuk. His distress is registered in his conversation with the Lord. Daniel Since Daniel lived and ministered in the city of Babylon, it must be assumed that his primary audience was the Jews of the captivity. However, the contents of the book indicate that all of Israel needed to know and understand its prophecy. The book would have encouraged Israel by revealing that God was not through with them as a nation. God did have an order of events for the future, and Israel had a significant place in this program. Ezekiel Ezekiel was in Babylon when he began his prophetic ministry, it is clear that the captives of Judah residing in Babylon heard his messages. His messages informed his listeners about the impending and final judgment coming at the hands of the Babylonians. He also told of days of glory and hope in the future. Although Ezekiel settled with the group of captives who were located in one of the Jewish settlements near the river Chebar, his messages were not confined to these people. Many of his words were aimed at the Jews who still resided in Judah and remained in their hardened unbelief. Haggai Haggai was raised up by God to call the people of God back to divine priorities. Haggai spoke to the leaders and to the people who had returned from Babylon to begin a new life in Judah. The purposes of his ministry were to remind the people of their primary task of rebuilding the Temple and to warn them of the ongoing consequences of disobedience. Zechariah Zechariah’s prophecies were given to the people who had returned from Babylon. These people had already responded to Haggai’s message and had resumed the construction of the Temple. Now Zechariah ministered encouragement to them. The prophet told of God’s abundant future blessings on the nation. This filled the people with courage and hope. Malachi Malachi spoke to the priests, leaders, and people who lived in Jerusalem. Although they were his primary concern, there was probably a larger circle of people who were influenced by his message. A proper view of God was Malachi’s great burden. If the people took God seriously, then their sinful ways would be corrected. Page 12 OLD TESTAMENT PERIODS Old Testament history has six natural periods Preface: A dispensation is a plan or way by which God dispenses or gives out His revelation, His blessing, and His punishment. Period of Probation Probation means testing. In this period, God was testing man to see whether he would obey Him or not. Most of humankind failed the test. The period of probation extends from Adam to Noah, from the creation to the flood. Significant People Adam, associated with the creation, fall, and promise of redemption Noah, associated with the flood and the repopulating of the world. significant Events The fall, which brought sin into the world (Genesis 3:6) The promise of redemption, which brought hope (Genesis 3:15) The deluge, or flood, in which those who believed and obeyed God were saved (Genesis 7:11, 12) Period of Preparation As the world started to populate, sin started to rise again. However, God did not destroy the mankind, but began the preparation of a special nation that would be His own, separated from the rest of the world. This period extends from Noah to Moses, from the flood to the exodus from Egypt. (Genesis 10-50) significant People Abraham, who trusted God and became the forefather of the chosen people. Joseph, who was sold as a slave, became ruler of Egypt Page 13 3 Significant Events The dispersion: After trying to build the tower of Babel up to heaven, the people were dispersed or scattered becoming separated tribes with different languages (Genesis 11:1-9). Journey of the patriarchs: Abraham moved from Ur to Canaan (Genesis 11:31-12:5). Experiences in Egypt: At first the chosen people were honored guests in Egypt (Genesis 47:1-12), but after a change in the government, they became mistreated Slaves (Exodus 1). Period of Conquest The period of conquest extends from Moses to Samuel, from the exodus to the end of judges’ time. Significant People Moses led Israel from Egypt to the border of the Promise Land. Joshua led in driving out the heathen and taking their land. Gideon was one of the judges. Samuel was the last of the judges. Significant Events Experiences in the wilderness: After Pharaoh set the people of Israel free, they crossed the Red Sea into the wilderness. There they received the law from God, built the tabernacle as He commanded, and wandered for forty years before entering the Promised Land (Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy). Conquest of Canaan: The heathen of Canaan had now become so utterly wicked that they must be destroyed. God chose to use the people of Israel for this purpose. Rule of the judges: The law given at Mount Sinai was still the law of Israel, but after Joshua died there was no national government to enforce it. (Judges 17) Page 14 Period of Power Under the rule of its earthly kings, Saul, David, and Solomon, Israel developed a strong central government and became the most powerful nation of the time. The period of power started with Samuel and ended Solomon, from the crowning of Saul to the division of the nation after the death of Solomon. (1 & 2 Samuel) Significant People Saul, the first king of God’s chosen people. David, the warrior king who built an empire Solomon, the last king of the united kingdom Significant Events Saul’s defeat by the Philistines and his death. (1 Samuel 31:1-13) David's capital was established at Jerusalem. (2 Samuel 5:1-10; 6:12-19) Solomon’s temple at Jerusalem replaced the tabernacle as the home of the ark and the center of Israel’s worship. (1 Kings 6) Period of Decline In Solomon’s time, the empire of Israel was at the height of its glory. To maintain that glory Solomon taxed his people heavily and drafted workers as soldiers. After the death of Solomon, ten of the 12 tribes revolted and this resulted in the kingdom split. (1 Kings 12-2 Kings 25 and 2 Chronicles 10-36) significant People Elijah, who opposed the idolatry of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel Isaiah, the gospel prophet, who foretold the captivity and return, and told much about the Saviour who would come seven hundred years later Jeremiah, the weeping prophet, who mourned over the fall of Jerusalem but foretold restoration and a new covenant Significant Events Division of the kingdom came when ten of the 12 tribes rebelled against Solomon’s son. RB DO SES ZR SR SS ET a an ner En Tae ETE RETR Page 15 End of the northern kingdom came when Assyrians overran it and took its people captive. Fall of the southern kingdom came when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and took its people to Mesopotamia. Period of Servitude When Jerusalem was destroyed, most of the surviving Jews were taken to Babylon as captives. When the Persians conquered Babylon, they allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem. Significant People Daniel, one of the captives from the southern kingdom, became a great prophet and an advisor of Babylonian and Persian kings. Nehemiah, governor of Judea after the captivity was over, rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem. Ezra, scholar and teacher, helped the returned Jews to know and follow God’s ancient law. Malachi wrote the book of prophecy that closes the Old Testament. Significant Era Events Babylonian rule: The Babylonians (Chaldeans), held the Jews in the Babylonian captivity Persian rule: The Persians allowed the captive Jews to return to Jerusalem and govern themselves, but still kept them and their land as part of the Persian Empire. This Persian rule remained until the end of the Old Testament. Greek rule: As a part of the Greek Empire of Alexander, the Jews were treated with kindness and consideration until after his death. Egyptian rule: When Alexander died, his empire was divided among his generals, with frequent warfare. Rulers of Egypt and those of Syria fought bitterly for control of Canaan (Palestine) the home of the Jews. Syrian rule: The Syrians took Palestine from the Egyptians and remained in control. This was the darkest part of the Jew’s servitude. SRS SERRE SS ST MSN ISS TS SAS TES CR a Ep ere re mere EET Page 16 Roman rule: Successors of Judas Maccabeus lost their religious zeal and became selfish politicians, battling among themselves for the rule of Palestine. SS Bee BE RRB KB KR KR KR KR KBR KBE SE A Maccabean freedom: The Jews launched a desperate revolt. Led by Judas Maccabeus, they won their independence. Page 17 Works Cited Benware, Paul N., Survey of the Old Testament, page 11-14, copyright 2003. Pfeiffer, Charles F., Vos Howard F., & Rea, John. Wycliffe Bible Dictionary, page 1247, copyright 1975. Hayford, Jack W., Clemmons, Ithiel, & Middlebrook, Sam. Spirit Filled Life Bible, King James Version, copyright 1995. McKim, Donald K., Westminster Dictionary of Theological Terms, page copyright 1996. Root, Orrin. Training for Service, A Survey of the Bible, page36, copyright 1996. Page 18 Introduction to the Old Testament Phase I, Course #1007 Instructor: Dr. Bruce Davis, Sr. Purpose WV Objectives Introduction: The Importance of Studying the N14 T--*yment V VV VV > WV Table of Contents The Dispensatia | Establishment o 7 asta Description of th LA Survey of the Olc COP Old Testament Pi — Purpose To develop a student’s unc central, unifying theme of ) | | | | | bout the Objectives Each student should be able to: e e e See the pattern, progression, and unity of the Old Testament Scriptures Be able to think through the entire Old Testament Upon completion of this surveying study, relate the various parts to the big picture view Page 1 Introduction to the Old Testament Phase I, Course #1007 Instructor: Dr. Bruce Davis, Sr. Table of Contents Purpose > Objectives ~~ oy ew. CY > Introduction: The Importance of Studying the Old Testament The Dispensations Establishment of the Old Testament Description of the Old Testament Survey of the Old Testament Old Testament Periods Purpose To develop a student’s understanding and increase their knowledge about the central, unifying theme of the Old Testament Objectives Each student should be able to: See the pattern, progression, and unity of the Old Testament Scriptures Be able to think through the entire Old Testament Upon completion of this surveying study, relate the various parts to the big picture view Page 1 INTRODUCTION Excerpts from Survey of the Old Testament, Paul Benware The Importance of Studying the Old Testament A person will never properly understand the New Testament Scriptures if the Old Testament Scriptures remain a mystery to him. Yet for the average Christian the pattern, unity, and progression of the Old Testament remain vague or unknown. Although almost everyone knows about Noah and the ark, Moses and the Red Sea, and numerous other stories found in the books of the Old Testament, the Old Testament itself often seems fragmented and is seen only as a loosely knit group of stories. But to understand God’s ways and His purposes in this age, as well as His plans for the future ages, requires a clear comprehension of the Old Testament. (Benware, page 11) Great doctrinal truths are developed in the Old Testament. For example, significant revelations concerning the attributes of God are recorded. The New Testament, of course, concerns itself with the Person of God, but it is the Old Testament that gives us our basic understanding of God’s majesty, power, holiness, and sovereignty. His love, goodness, and wisdom are the subjects of many psalms and numerous prophetic declarations. (Benware, pg 13) Having a lack of understanding of the Old Testament has brought about a basic deficiency in our knowledge of God and, as a result, our walk with Him. After serious study of the Old Testament, one is inclined to walk with more reverence before our majestic God. So much foundational truth is found in the Old Testament—truth that the New Testament writers assume we know and understand. An almost endless list of doctrinal truths and meaningfully facts could be given to validate the importance of the Old Testament to the New. Yet so often, students of the Scriptures wrestle with truth found in the books of the New Testament because they fail to recognize Old Testament background (Benware, pg 13), Page 2 THE DISPENSATIONS A dispensation is a plan or way by which God dispenses or gives out His revelation, His blessing and His punishment. There are three great dispensations: Patriarchal, Jewish or Mosaic, Christian. Patriarchal Dispensation The patriarchal dispensation recorded that God revealed His will to some of the patriarchs. Some of the Patriarchs (chief fathers) e e e Adam: God gave a home, a task, and a prohibition, along with dominion over the rest of the earthly creation o Genesis 1:28-29 o Genesis 2:15-17 Noah: God gave blessing and dominion and prohibitions and promise o Genesis 9:1-17 Abraham: God gave a call, a home, and a promise o Genesis 12:1-3 Jewish or Mosaic Dispensation The patriarchal dispensation ended and a new dispensation began when God gave the law, with a promise that the people would be blessed when they obeyed and punished when they disobeyed. This is called the Jewish dispensation because the Jews were the people who received the law. It is called also the Mosaic dispensation because God gave the law through Moses. Christian Dispensation The earthly life and work of Jesus laid the foundation for a new dispensation. His death opened the way for the forgiveness of sins. This ended the dispensation of the Mosaic Law. (This survey continues in the study of the Introduction of the New Testament.) (Root, 1996) Page 3 ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OLD TESTAMENT Old Testament: The biblical books considered by Christians to be canonical Scripture and the self-revelation of God and thus authoritative for Christian churches (McKim, 1996, pg 194). Old Testament theology: A term for the attempt to give historical descriptions and to synthesize the teachings of the Old Testament as a whole on various themes (1996, pg 194). In the following arrangement: (1) five books of law (Genesis to Deuteronomy); (2) 12 books of history (Joshua to Esther); (3) five books of poetry (Job to Song); (4) 17 books of prophecy (Isaiah to Malachi). The latter section is sometimes subdivided into five books of major prophets and 12 books of minor prophets (Pfeiffer, 1975). Therefore, the Old Testament consists by thirty-nine literatures of which are called books. These books contain history of the nation of Israel, the laws of God for Israel, insightful and inspiring poetry, and the messages of numerous prophets. (Benware, pg 14) Page 4 Survey of the Old Testament Paul N. Benware Introduction A person will never properly understand the New Testament Scriptures if the Old Testament Scriptures remain a mystery to him. Yet for the average Christian the pattern, unity, and progression of the Old Testament remain vague or unknown. The Old Testament itself often seems fragmented and is seen only as loosely knit group of stories; but to understand God’s ways and His purposes in this age requires a clear comprehension of the Old Testament. Overview The Old Testament is the story of the nation of Israel, a nation unique and distinct from all nations of the earth because God Himself entered into a covenant relationship with them. It is the story of a nation designed by God to bring glory to Himself and salvation to mankind. It is a story of the great spiritual victories and defeats of men and the amazing faithfulness and grace of God. Foundational Books Genesis Genesis is the book of beginnings. It was written, first, to tell us clearly and definitely that God created all things directly. The entire organized universe was brought into existence by the powerful, all-knowing, creator God. Second, Genesis was written to record the beginning of many other elements that exist in our world today. The beginnings of such important matters as marriage, languages, nations, sin, and worship are recorded. A third purpose of the book is to relate how Israel, through Abraham, was selected from among the peoples of the world to become God’s chosen nation. Exodus Exodus continues the story of God’s dealings with the descendants of Abraham. It picks up the history of the people of Israel after a silent period of 275 years. During this lengthy period two significant things happened. First, Israel's population, which was about seventy-five at the end of Genesis, grew to about 2.5 million. And second, the people of Israel became enslaved to the Egyptians. Exodus also records the giving of the law at Mount Sinai. The “constitution” given to Israel marks the second significant step in the process of becoming God's great nation. a Page 5 Leviticus The purpose of Leviticus is twofold: (1) to teach the nation of Israel the way to God, and (2) to teach them how to walk with God. This book was given to direct Israel to live as a holy nation in fellowship with a holy God. It was part of a code of law for the total well-being of the nation. For believers today the book gives insight into approaching God in worship and the need for holy living. Number Numbers was written to record Israel’s history from their departure from Mount Sinai to their arrival in Moab on the east side of the Jordan River. Numbers continues the account of God’s faithfulness in making of Abraham a “great nation.” The land of Canaan would be Israel’s in spite of this record of unbelief and unfaithfulness on Israel’s part. Deuteronomy The main purpose of the book is to remind Israel of their special relationship to God. They were the covenant people and were to obey His laws. Israel was reminded in Deuteronomy of the privileged position that they had and the resulting responsibility to serve God faithfully and to be holy. In these messages Moses pled with the people to obey the commandments. His pleas to the nation were based on several facts: (1) God’s goodness to them in the past and (2) God’s goodness to them in the recent wilderness experience; (3) Israel’s responsibility to be a good testimony to the nations of the earth; (4) God’s love which had been poured out on them; (5) God’s sure promise of blessing; and (6) God’s warnings of certain judgment for disobedience. Joshua The purpose of Joshua is to record the conquest of the land of Canaan by Israel and therefore show the faithfulness of God in making of Abraham “a great nation.” Judges Judges was written to record the experiences of Israel during the era of the theocracy. The book set forth great failures of Israel during this period. Ruth One purpose of the book is to reveal that there were godly people during the era of the theocracy. Even though the nation found itself in deep apostasy, there were people in Israel who loved and obeyed the Lord God of Israel. In the book of Judges Israel forsakes the Lord and turns to idols, whereas in the book of Ruth one Gentile woman turns from her idols to serve the living and true God. Page 6 1 Samuel First Samuel is given to record the great transition in the national life of Israel, as Israel left the theocracy and went into the monarchy. Samuel was the key individual during this time, and 1 Samuel provides the account of his ministry. 2 Samuel The purpose of 2 Samuel is to continue the account of the development of the monarchy in Israel. Second Samuel is the record of the reign of David, Israel’s greatest king. The book also sets forth the elements of the Davidic Covenant. 1 Kings First Kings was written to continue the story of the united monarchy under David's son Solomon. It was also written to record the division of the Kingdom into North and South. The book is not just a view of historical events but a commentary on the great spiritual issues that brought about those events. 2 Kings Second Kings was written to continue the story of the divided kingdom period and to record the taking captive of both the Northern and the Southern Kingdoms. The book was written to show that God is faithful to His word in judging His people for their disobedience and idolatry. 1 & 2 Chronicles These books are complementary to 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings. They were intended to strengthen the remnant of the nation who had made it through the period of the Babylonian Captivity. They needed to be reminded that the Lord was still with them and that they still had a glorious future because God was faithful to His covenants. The nation’s apostasy had brought it down, but the nation would rise again. Ezra The purpose of the book of Ezra is to record the faithfulness of God in the reestablishing of the Jews in their land. Page 7 Esther The book was written to show God’s providential care for His people even while they were in captivity and in a poor spiritual condition. Because of the Abrahamic Covenant, God would never allow these descendants of Abraham to be exterminated. He still blesses those who bless Israel and, as in this case, curses those who curse Israel. Nehemiah The book was written to show the work of God through a godly leader, Nehemiah. The book records the building, fortifying, and reestablishing of the city of Jerusalem. The book also reveals the beautiful balance in the life of Nehemiah between zealous human effort and planning, and divine empowering. Poetic Books Poetry is fund everywhere in the Old Testament Scriptures, but six entire books of poetry were written during the era of the monarchy. The time of the united monarchy would be considered Israel’s “golden age of literature.” The books do indeed speak to the issues and needs experienced by believers then and now. Job The book of Job addresses the issue of the suffering of people who are righteous. Whereas the suffering and distress of the wicked has not been as great a problem to most people, the suffering of people who love and serve the Lord God is another matter. If God is sovereign and loving, then why does He permit His own to experience terrible (and apparently needless) suffering? Although the book of Job might suggest some answers to this issue, and intellectual solution is not really given. A spiritual solution is given; namely, the absolute sovereignty of God. When Job met God, he did not demand answers but humbly submitted himself to his sovereign God, recognizing in a fresh way the Creator-creature relationship. Psalm The various psalms cover a wide range of subjects. But the single element found in just about every psalm is that of praise. The Psalms constituted the hymnal of Israel, and a key to worship is praise. God undoubtedly inspired and preserved the psalms because they accurately reflect the full range of human emotions. They help God's people find their way through the varying experiences of life. This book not only constituted the hymnal of ancient Israel but also has served as the basis for may Christian hymns down to the present day. ONIN Re am eee Page 8 Proverbs Proverbs gives wisdom on all areas of human experience. Wisdom is not simply a matter of the intellect-it is viewing life and self from God’s perspective, which is the only true and valid perspective. A wise person is able to deal with life’s issues and problems with the advantage of God’s viewpoint. Ecclesiastes Ecclesiastes records man’s struggle to find meaning and fulfillment in life. The basic theme is that life is empty and meaningless apart from a right relationship with God. Unless a man comes to know the Creator, nothing in the creation can bring him peace and satisfaction. Everything will be vain; all of man’s pursuits will eventually leave him discontent and empty. Song of Solomon This poem elevates human, sexual love to the place that God intended. Although the Bible often warns of the negative consequences of immorality, it also extols the blessings that come from moral behavior. This book records the reminiscences of a bridegroom and his bride. In so doing, this Scripture shows the joys of physical love within the boundaries of marital commitment. Lamentations The book is a lament over the destruction of Jerusalem at the hands of the Babylonian armies, following months of a devastating siege of the city. It displays enormous emotional and physical pain. This poem is a sequel to the book of Jeremiah. The Prophetic Books God's Prophetic Messengers For a thousand years of Israel’s history there appeared men (and a few women) who received messages from God and delivered those messages to Israel. These prophets had a profound impact on the national life of Israel. Page 9 Obadiah The message of Obadiah was directed to Israel’s southern neighbors, the Edomites. The Edomites were the descendants of Esau and had a history of hostility toward Israel. God held them accountable for what they did to Israel. Joel Joel’s message is aimed at the Southern Kingdom of Judah. There is little doubt that he was living in the center of the public worship of God (Jerusalem). He speaks to the priests as though they were present. On several occasions he refers to Zion, Jerusalem, and Judah. When he does mention Israel on three occasions, it is a reference to the people of God generally and not to the Northern Kingdom. Jonah This book reveals that God desired the salvation of Gentiles and extended His grace toward them. Although God had established a covenant relationship with Israel alone, He did not abandon the rest of mankind. Jonah’s message was directed to the powerful nation of Assyria, with its capital city at Nineveh. Amos In the days of Amos, the Northern Kingdom of Israel was still deeply involved in their worship of the golden calves. Although Amos was from a town in the Southern Kingdom of Judah, God chose him to go to the Northern Kingdom to deliver His message of coming judgment. Some of that message was delivered in the corrupt city of Bethel, which was one of the centers of calf worship. Hosea This prophecy was God’s last voice to the Northern Kingdom of Israel before its destruction. It was a gracious attempt to rescue individuals out of the doomed nation. This message of judgment was fulfilled within a few years. Isaiah Isaiah was raised up by God to speak of coming judgment on Judah because of her many sins and to reveal the coming of the servant of the Lord. Isaiah was one of the last prophets who offered the nation (as a nation) the opportunity to repent and avoid a national calamity. He also was among the greatest revealers of truth about the person, work, and kingdom of the coming Messiah. Page 10 Micah Micah was sent by God to call Judah back to practical righteousness. He particularly denounced the leaders of Judah for oppressing the poor and for using their positions for their own personal gain. He brought a message of coming judgment on Judah. This foreboding message was coupled with a message of hope centered on the coming Messiah. Nahum Nahum was called to deliver a message of judgment on a nation that previously had been given revelation of the true God. The Assyrians, with their capital at Nineveh, were the ones addressed in this message. They had heard about the true God through the ministry of Jonah. Since then they were sinning in spite of the light of revealed knowledge. Zephaniah Zephaniah was raised up by God to assist the godly King Josiah in his attempt to bring Judah back to God. The message of Zephaniah revealed, however, that it was too late for the nation of Judah. Judgment was coming though some individuals could still be saved. Jeremiah Jeremiah’s messages were given to the kings, rulers, and the people of Judah. His message was heavy with irreversible judgment on Judah. This earned him the characterization of “weeping prophet.” Most of the people despised and rejected his message. Habakkuk Habakkuk’s message weighs the important question how God’s patience with sin can be related to His holiness. The dialogue between the prophet and God gives insight into this matter for all time. The sinful, law-breaking people of Judah were a concern to Habakkuk. His distress is registered in his conversation with the Lord. Daniel Since Daniel lived and ministered in the city of Babylon, it must be assumed that his primary audience was the Jews of the captivity. However, the contents of the book indicate that all of Israel needed to know and understand its prophecy. The book would have encouraged Israel by revealing that God was not through with them as a nation. God did have an order of events for the future, and Israel had a significant place in this program. RBS RR ea ES NEE I RS Page 11 Ezekiel Ezekiel was in Babylon when he began his prophetic ministry, it is clear that the captives of Judah residing in Babylon heard his messages. His messages informed his listeners about the impending and final judgment coming at the hands of the Babylonians. He also told of days of glory and hope in the future. Although Ezekiel settled with the group of captives who were located in one of the Jewish settlements near the river Chebar, his messages were not confined to these people. Many of his words were aimed at the Jews who still resided in Judah and remained in their hardened unbelief. Haggai Haggai was raised up by God to call the people of God back to divine priorities. Haggai spoke to the leaders and to the people who had returned from Babylon to begin a new life in Judah. The purposes of his ministry were to remind the people of their primary task of rebuilding the Temple and to warn them of the ongoing consequences of disobedience. Zechariah Zechariah’s prophecies were given to the people who had returned from Babylon. These people had already responded to Haggai’s message and had resumed the construction of the Temple. Now Zechariah ministered encouragement to them. The prophet told of God’s abundant future blessings on the nation. This filled the people with courage and hope. Malachi Malachi spoke to the priests, leaders, and people who lived in Jerusalem. Although they were his primary concern, there was probably a larger circle of people who were influenced by his message. A proper view of God was Malachi’s great burden. If the people took God seriously, then their sinful ways would be corrected. Page 12 OLD TESTAMENT PERIODS Old Testament history has six natural periods Preface: A dispensation is a plan or way by which God dispenses or gives out His revelation, His blessing, and His punishment. Period of Probation Probation means testing. In this period, God was testing man to see whether he would obey Him or not. Most of humankind failed the test. The period of probation extends from Adam to Noah, from the creation to the flood. Significant People Adam, associated with the creation, fall, and promise of redemption Noah, associated with the flood and the repopulating of the world. Significant Events The fall, which brought sin into the world (Genesis 3:6) The promise of redemption, which brought hope (Genesis 3:15) The deluge, or flood, in which those who believed and obeyed God were saved (Genesis 7:11, 12) Period of Preparation As the world started to populate, sin started to rise again. However, God did not destroy the mankind, but began the preparation of a special nation that would be His own, separated from the rest of the world. This period extends from Noah to Moses, from the flood to the exodus from Egypt. (Genesis 10-50) Significant People Abraham, who trusted God and became the forefather of the chosen people. Joseph, who was sold as a slave, became ruler of Egypt Page 13 Significant Events The dispersion: After trying to build the tower of Babel up to heaven, the people were dispersed or scattered becoming separated tribes with different languages (Genesis 11:1-9). Journey of the patriarchs: Abraham moved from Ur to Canaan (Genesis 11:31-12:5). Experiences in Egypt: At first the chosen people were honored guests in Egypt (Genesis 47:1-12), but after a change in the government, they became mistreated slaves (Exodus 1). Period of Conquest The period of conquest extends from Moses to Samuel, from the exodus to the end of judges’ time. Significant People Moses led Israel from Egypt to the border of the Promise Land. Joshua led in driving out the heathen and taking their land. Gideon was one of the judges. Samuel was the last of the judges. Significant Events Experiences in the wilderness: After Pharaoh set the people of Israel free, they crossed the Red Sea into the wilderness. There they received the law from God, built the tabernacle as He commanded, and wandered for forty years before entering the Promised Land (Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy). Conquest of Canaan: The heathen of Canaan had now become so utterly wicked that they must be destroyed. God chose to use the people of Israel for this purpose. Rule of the judges: The law given at Mount Sinai was still the law of Israel, but after Joshua died there was no national government to enforce it. (Judges 17) Page 14 Period of Power Under the rule of its earthly kings, Saul, David, and Solomon, Israel developed a strong central government and became the most powerful nation of the time. The period of power started with Samuel and ended Solomon, from the crowning of Saul to the division of the nation after the death of Solomon. (1 & 2 Samuel) Significant People Saul, the first king of God’s chosen people. David, the warrior king who built an empire Solomon, the last king of the united kingdom Significant Events Saul’s defeat by the Philistines and his death. (1 Samuel 31:1-13) David’s capital was established at Jerusalem. (2 Samuel 5:1-10; 6:12-19) Solomon’s temple at Jerusalem replaced the tabernacle as the home of the ark and the center of Israel’s worship. (1 Kings 6) Period of Decline In Solomon’s time, the empire of Israel was at the height of its glory. To maintain that glory Solomon taxed his people heavily and drafted workers as soldiers. After the death of Solomon, ten of the 12 tribes revolted and this resulted in the kingdom split. (1 Kings 12-2 Kings 25 and 2 Chronicles 10-36) Significant People Elijah, who opposed the idolatry of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel Isaiah, the gospel prophet, who foretold the captivity and return, and told much about the Saviour who would come seven hundred years later Jeremiah, the weeping prophet, who mourned over the fall of Jerusalem but foretold restoration and a new covenant Significant Events Division of the kingdom came when ten of the 12 tribes rebelled against Solomon's son. Re LT UNS TESTS TT AES SS AR SSS SSNS Page 15 End of the northern kingdom came when Assyrians overran it and took its people captive. Fall of the southern kingdom came when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and took its people to Mesopotamia. Period of Servitude When Jerusalem was destroyed, most of the surviving Jews were taken to Babylon as captives. When the Persians conquered Babylon, they allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem. Significant People Daniel, one of the captives from the southern kingdom, became a great prophet and an advisor of Babylonian and Persian kings. Nehemiah, governor of Judea after the captivity was over, rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem. Ezra, scholar and teacher, helped the returned Jews to know and follow God’s ancient law. Malachi wrote the book of prophecy that closes the Old Testament. Significant Era Events Babylonian rule: The Babylonians (Chaldeans), held the Jews in the Babylonian captivity Persian rule: The Persians allowed the captive Jews to return to Jerusalem and govern themselves, but still kept them and their land as part of the Persian Empire. This Persian rule remained until the end of the Old Testament. Greek rule: As a part of the Greek Empire of Alexander, the Jews were treated with kindness and consideration until after his death. Egyptian rule: When Alexander died, his empire was divided among his generals, with frequent warfare. Rulers of Egypt and those of Syria fought bitterly for control of Canaan (Palestine) the home of the Jews. Syrian rule: The Syrians took Palestine from the Egyptians and remained in control. This was the darkest part of the Jew’s servitude. SBR Sr ga RN AS SN OI ERS, Page 16 Maccabean freedom: The Jews launched a desperate revolt. Led by Judas Maccabeus, they won their independence. Roman rule: Successors of Judas Maccabeus lost their religious zeal and became selfish politicians, battling among themselves for the rule of Palestine. Page 17 Works Cited Benware, Paul N., Survey of the Old Testament, page 11-14, copyright 2003. Pfeiffer, Charles F., Vos Howard F., & Rea, John. Wycliffe Bible Dictionary, page 1247, copyright 1975. Hayford, Jack W., Clemmons, Ithiel, & Middlebrook, Sam. Spirit Filled Life Bible, King James Version, copyright 1995. McKim, Donald K., Westminster Dictionary of Theological Terms, page copyright 1996. Root, Orrin. Training for Service, A Survey of the Bible, page36, copyright 1996. Page 18 “Dow Yhe ible Came fo Be “ Course season Matbiial Cpe tny) EK pLists eeceion date; Sep 3,41, 5¥b, 0k - Ale 2H. peinted 30 Booklet _ | binda= IG page= - lpag= ~ Apays~ .06 .19 (syllabus) ©? 0] V/A ~ Xx Pass = ine - (5 pays = E (schedule) © ( toynns D (?) oe (c6t-) ible Came to Be ' ‘How Yhe bouse seasion Matyial (peuwirhny) Exptists — + S¥& J, : Sep SCHOOL Cla tu wb & a _ | bindn = .06 .1f (4yllabus) e) ~IG pays= 4 pag= - _ +0 ( schodicle ) (p) (eo) SD ( tows — HA Pays = X pases - 46 —3 (> pays (oandetock COE) 95 (paper 0OSt) 5 elo D (Cs a £0 | BCH leEf COS aS BOK ele =BE 2 ro ces 2.60Ln as — a " LXCIREES f e 7g 5p troll Oo - 777 tf Owe & | ! OO >” 30.00 | a VL SPE ce. CCU YUABS SALES) fd New Zion Baptist Church 2935 Lincoln Avenue * Ogden, Utah $4401 Finance Committee Tithes & Offerings Tally Sheet Sunday, Denomination | of Sun Dg SEPT Total Amount No. of Bills & Coins 1 3 100.00 $ $ 50.00 $ $ 20.00 | s 20. oo a $ 10.00 Z Se ‘a 5 5.00 s_ 10. gi 5.60 Quarters (25 cents) $ oe Dimes (10 cents) $ es Nickels (5 cents) $ ea Pennies (1 cents) $ CAINS Total Amount (Cash): $ 1.00 ) N a ee )O5. OD /), OU _W Total Amount (Checks): Y as 0 mount Collected: 4950 T Sheet Completed By: = / 7)\—— 013 plan nt io / 9 5,00 bye pen Syllabus f_ LQ 5a) J 4 bruct- stow of U774, i Y Alvi Clinghes - tll 7Ler a: Tore Ds Y Oo - Hy d) WU Bape Glee J WuneAmeliae' CLASS SCHEDULE for ‘“‘How the Bible Came to Be” Tuesday, September 02, 2008 easiest a Registration sid. ois Ss Opening Devotion (Jpenine SessiOn RCMOIKS 5...ni Sis. Dula Brock, Dean WEIOIIG ois iciiiiviisaniar Min. Lillie Holman, Secretary Introduction of Mistfuctor | 33.2.2... Min. Stanley Ellington, CE Director 0 ON Pe TOO BO oie iiss ee a FN. oi eieesicc ee i clo FS oe OO, .... hei cn a 0 Oe ioe ei ec ek ick ss Class Session ee Break Class Session i ee Break ss Class Session es Closing Prayer Thursday and Friday, September 4 & 5, 2008 8 is. FE FS BE I 0 i nie re ee Prayer & Devotion ii ir ei ie ae Class Session eo ikiiss hisses es Re Break i ec ee i es Class Session Asiscis sss cosas tvregn es OG i Break os. i soiscseitee se se ei ed oe ms Asis ee Class Session Closing Prayer Saturday, September 6, 2008 PIG AM: Siiecckiccescsevesteciesgct Prayer & Devotion 1070 aim. — 1030 2. oie oe ees Class Session PG ac cA a Closing Prayer SCHEDULE TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 2, 2008 6:30 p. m. 6:45 p.m. Open of Session Remarks Welcome Introduction of Instructor 7:10 p.m. 7:40 — 7:50 p.m. 7:50 — 8:20 p.m. 8:30 — 8:40 p.m. Registration Open Devotion Dula Brock, Dean Min. Lilly Holman, Secretary Min. Stanley Ellington, CE Director Class Session Break 8:40 — 9:20 p.m. 9:20 p.m. Class Session Break Class Session Closing Prayer THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4-5, 2008 6:30 p.m. 6:40 p.m. 7:20 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 8:20 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 9:20 p.m. Prayer & Devotion Class Session Break Class Session Break Class Session Closing Prayer SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2008 9:30 A.M. 9:40 a.m. — 10:20 a.m. 10:30 a.m. Prayer & Devotion Class Session Closing Prayer Department of Christian Education Accreditation and Credentials COPP SHEET 1 = Accepted credits from transcript C = Courses completed through CLS (Prepared for Bruce Davis, Sr. 4/3/2008) PHASE 1 “:T__ 1002 How the Bible Came to Be — @/ /~ G/0O8 pe? bes disak C — C ~ “7 1072 Intro to the New Testament — //4—-11/og-—— 08 Cc ge - € Co XT_ 1004 Effective Bible Reading WA Z/- 8/00 2 *T__ 1007 Intro to the Old Testament — 4a/ AA -A of oF— +71. 2007 Christian Stewardship — iif lV - 23/0 § _— YT 9001 Fundamentals of English Grammar ~— aa pB “AT 2011 Baptist Doctrine - /0/2/- as/os \1__3008 History of Christianity— //¢'-/0/, By we. ba/ D j / 27-3 i/q 6 TEACHER CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS ¢ - ‘T2023 Creative Ways of Teaching - 2/0 -/4/og — & g4 XT__ 9008 PHASE 2 Public Speaking - 3/24 - 28/09 — ¢ | T__ 1075 Synoptic Gospels DZ _T__ 3007 History of Baptists - ev D-- _T__ 3018 History of the NBC, USA, Inc. _T__ 4012 Doctrine of the Holy Spirif4 | _T__ 4013 Theology of the Early Church 2ov D. _T__ 6024 Organizing an Effective BTU - DB © _T___ 9002 Developing Literacy Skills _T__ 9004 Writing Techniques I —€« F< ,,, wil pl ni = PHASE 3 _T___ _1__ 1079 Gospel of John - 6104 . 1086 Church History in Acts Ae-4.. _T_ 1089 Romans -42—-4-. €E . eu D- _i__ 2071 Christian Character and How It Develops 42. 4 - _T__ 6013 Organizing the Church for Christian Education - #%- 6 . (6 — _T__7005 Christian Evangelism — (2ev. 9 - Sais -T__ 9005 Writing Techniques 11 — E 4 wt!” _T__ Elective ( ehuuch adwinistpaton ) (evd PHASE _T__ . 4 1112 Survey of Revelation ~ Zev 0 _T___2015 Foundation of Christian Ethics - 06 . _f___ 4022 History of World Religions — () B _T__ 6021 Spiritual Maturation— j<v D. _T__ 8036 Church and Society - E _T__ 7033 Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts — @ee- MINE. _T_ 9006 Advanced Writing Styles — & _T__ Elective C youth Dewelepmes + 3 Ad Attachment: Form 1-Accredition of Christian Leadership School Note: This document is provided to explanation the quarterly schedule for the New Zion Baptist Church, Christian Leadership School. New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership School Certificate of Progress Program Quarterly Schedule Dates* Course # Course Title instructor 9/1-6 1002 How the Bible Came to Be Dr. Bruce Davis 9 / 23-27 1007 Introduction to the Old Testament Dr. Bruce Davis 10/ 7-11 1072 Introduction to the New Testament | Dr-8ruece-Davis | 5 10 / 21-25 2011 Baptist Doctrine 11/4-8 1004 Dr-Bruce Davis |Aw Effective Bible Reading Dr-BroceBavis / 4/5 Byoc( 11 / 18-22 2007 Christian Stewardship Dr. Bruce Davis : 1/6-10 3008 History of Christianity Dr. Bruce Davis 1 / 27-31 9001 Fundamentals of English Grammar | Dr-Bruce-Davis 2/ 10-14 2023 Creative Ways of Teaching Or_-BruceDavis. /V/\( (F 2 /| 24-28 9008 Public Speaking Dr-Bruce-Bavis— ji{j/). i ATF¥2LE L [V1 teock ow. b pot (E “Each weekly class meeting is to be held as follows: Tuesdays, 3 hours; Thursdays, 3 hours; Fridays, 3 hours; & Saturdays, 1 hour; and this day will be as our contingency time when the need arises. ry a? otuit plase od 51aN1% Bd ha 04 FORM-20 Financial Worksheet As authorized by the Department of Christian Education Accreditation and Credentials of the Sunday School Publishing Board, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Submit form to: Christian Education Department, 330 Charlotte Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37201-1188 (Please submit this form with each school/each application packet) Prices are effective July 1, 2006) School: New Zion Baptist Church 1 |Form 2 |Form 3__|Form 4 {Form 5 {Form 6 |Form / {Form 8 9 10 11 12 13 Dean: Dula Brock Item Description Qty | (1-5 Classes) | (6-10 Classes) | (11-15 Classes) | (16-20 Classes) | (21-30 Classes) | (31-40 Classes) | (Over 40 Classes) 20 14 |Form 3 (2 or more) 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 {Form 25 (Re-certification) _|Form 25 (two or more re-certification) |Form 2 (New Dean) |Form 21 (Dean’s re-certification) |Dean’s Certificate |Form 29 (Specialization Application) {Form 34 (Specialization Enrollment) |Informer One Year 24 25 {Informer Three Years |I/nformer Five Years 26 |BTU Certificates 23 Informer Two Years cS) 9 |Total Total $2.00 $25.00 $80.00 $90.00 $35.00 ea $80.00 $35.00 $27.50 ea $247.50 $30.00 ea $25.00 ea $50.00 $35.00 $15.00 4 Y05.00 40. $25.00 $85.00 $25.00 $49.00 $98.00 $74.00 $122.00 oO - 14.00 Ws feck © LG 00 ~ are Wok, eli ny 7 4G. C0 ~ Wliv $1.00 2/_|CLS Forms on CD (Shipping & Handling fee) 28 = eo 9 2 Priority $0.10 1 x CLS Fee | $100.00 $125.00 $135.00 $155.00 | $135.00 $175.00 $250.00 $200.00 $300.00 $250.00 $375.00 $325.00 $450.00 $8.50 ea | $11.75 ea l |Course Cards {}COPP Admissions Application {COPP Application Phases I-III |COPP Phase IV / Diploma {Form 3 (New Instructor) Date: 7/28/08 $24.95 34 $597.50 NOTE: Priority fee is imposed for processing a school that does not meet the scheduled deadline. J oa0 -— 4G 760 — j 954,52 BOE? — 043.50 ROG.OC FORM-20 Financial Worksheet As authorized by the Department of Christian Education Accreditation and Credentials of the Sunday School Publishing Board, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Submit form to: Christian Education Department, 330 Charlotte Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37201-1188 (Please submit this form with each school/each application packet) Prices are effective July 1, 2006] School: New Zion Baptist Church Dean: Item Description 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 {Form |Form {Form |Form {Form |Form {Form | (1-5 Classes) | (6-10 Classes) | (11-15 Classes) | (16-20 Classes) | (21-30 Classes) | (31-40 Classes) | (Over 40 Classes) 9 10 11. 12 {Course Cards |COPP Admissions Application |COPP Application Phases I-III |COPP Phase IV / Diploma Date: 7/28/08 Dula Brock Qty l 20 I 1 9 CLS Fee | $0.10 $25.00 $80.00 $90.00 {Form 3 (New Instructor) |Form 3 (2 or more) 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 {Form 25 (Re-certification) |Form 25 (two or more re-certification) |Form 2 (New Dean) |Form 21 (Dean’s re-certification) |Dean’s Certificate |Form 29 (Specialization Application) {Form 34 (Specialization Enrollment) |Informer One Year |Informer Two Years \|Informer Three Years |Jnformer Five Years 26 |BTU Certificates $1.00 2/ {CLS Forms on CD (Shipping & Handling fee) $24.95 28 Total 34 Total $100.00 $125.00 $135.00 $155.00 | $135.00 $175.00 $250.00 $200.00 $300.00 $250.00 $375.00 $325.00 $450.00 $8.50 ea | $11.75 ea 13 14 2 Priority $35.00 ea $27.50 ea $30.00 ea $25.00 ea $50.00 $35.00 $15.00 $25.00 $85.00 $25.00 $49.00 $74.00 $122.00 $2.00 $80.00 $35.00 $247.50 $98.00 $597.50 NOTE: Priority fee is imposed for processing a school that does not meet the scheduled deadline. New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar All classes are held at New Zion. Please see Sis. Dula Brock or Min. Stanley Ellington for more info. September 2008 . 4 | | | 2 Labor Day Holiday | “How the Bible Came to Be" (1st Evening) Time: | 6:30-9:30 p.m. 3 4 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) “How the Bible | Came to Be" (24 Evening) Time: Saturday Friday Thursday Wednesday Tuesday Monday | 5 “How the Bible Came to Be” (3°49 Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. é “How the Bible Came to Be” (Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. 7 8 9 10 1 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 2) 22 23 “Introduction to the Old | | 24 7:00 p.m. Bible Testament” | 25 “Introduction to the Old Study (No Class) (1st Evening) Time: Testament” (2°46 Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. 28 29 | 26 “Introduction | 27 “Introduction to to the Old Testament” (39 Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. the Old Testament” (Morning Session) 6:30-9:30 p.m. Time: 10:00 a.m. 30 New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar All classes are held at New Zion. Please see Sis. Dula Brock or Min. Stanley Ellington for more info. september 2008 Sunday Monday l | Labor Day . Holiday Tuesday 2 a “How the Bible Came to Be (1st Evening) Time: Wednesday 2 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday 4 “How the Bible Came to Be” (294 Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday Saturday 5 “How the Bible Came to Be” (3°49 Evening) Time: 6 “How the Bible Came to Be” (Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 7 8 7 10 1] 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 | 2) 22 23 | 24 25 | 26 “Introduction | 27 | | | | | ee | 28 | “Introduction to the Old . Testament (1st Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 29 30 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) “Introduction to the Old Testament” (2.4 Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. to the Old Testament” (3'4 Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. “Introduction to the Old Testament” (Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. & New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar All classes are held at New Zion. Please see Sis. Dula Brock or Min. Stanley Ellington for more info. september 2008 Sunday Monday Tuesday l 2 “How the Bible Came to Be” {1st Evening) Time: Labor Day Holiday | Wednesday 3 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday Friday Saturday 4 “How the Bible Came to Be” (294 Evening) Time: 5 “How the Bible Came to Be” (3°¢ Evening) Time: 6 “How the Bible Came to Be” (Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 ie 23 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (1st Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. 28 29 | 24 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) 25 “Introduction | 26 “Introduction | 27 to the Old to the Old “Introduction to Testament” Testament” the Old (24 Evening) (3°¢ Evening) Testament” Time: Time: (Morning Session) 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Time: 10:00 a.m. 30 & New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar All classes are held at New Zion. Please see Sis. Dula Brock or Min. Stanley Ellington for more info. september 2008 Monday Sunday l Tuesday 2 Labor Day Holiday “How the Bible Came to Be" (1st Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday 2 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) Thursday Friday Saturday 4 “How the Bible Came to Be” (2° Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. _ “How the Bible Came to Be" (3° Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6 “How the Bible Came to Be” (Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 2) 22 23 “Introduction | 24 to the Old Testament" 7:00 p.m. Bible (1s! Evening) Study Time: (No Class) 6:30-9:30 p.m. 28 29 30 25 “Introduction | 26 “Introduction | 27 to the Old to the Old “Introduction to Testament” Testament” the Old (2°4 Evening) (3'¢ Evening) Testament” Time: Time: (Morning Session) 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Time: 10:00 a.m. New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar All classes are held at New Zion. Please see Sis. Dula Brock or Min. Stanley Ellington for more info. september 2008 Sunday Monday 2 a | | a Tuesday Labor Day “How the Bible Came Holiday to Be” 7:00 p.m. Bible Study 14 1G 16 baa | ee 23 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (1st Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. 30 (No Class) 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday Friday 5 4 |3 Time: 9 29 Wednesday (1s! Evening) ; 28 | “How the Bible = “Howthe Bible — (2"4 Evening) | (3'4 Evening) Came to Be” Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. | Saturday |6 “How the Bible | Came to Be” | Came | Time: _ Time: 10:00 a.m. | 6:30-9:30 p.m. 10 I | 12 13 17 18 19 20 | 24 25 | | 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) “Introduction to the Old Testament” (2"¢ Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. | 26 “Introduction _to the Old _ Testament” _ (34 Evening) | Time: | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | to Be” _ (Morning Session) | ay “Introduction to the Old | Testament” _ (Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. Datereceived: —~- // | APPROVED (Representative) Date ——— / / Department of Christian Education Accreditation and Credentials of the Sunday Schoo! Publishing Board, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. 33 | 201-1188 OPI GINA (This form m Student’s Name ite of progress students.) Do Not Leg Address sip Code E-mail Course title counes ignore 4/3/08 Name of School Name of instructor Dean EVALUATION Courses taken over five years but less than fifteen years prior to entering COPP do not require copies of cards. 1. Were you instructed to purchase a textbook? 2. Did the instructor prepare a syllabus? 3. Did the syllabus complement the textbook? 4. Did the instructor require the purchase of a syllabus? 5. 6. Yes{ Yes[ Yes[ Yes[ |] ] ] ] Nof[ No[ Nof[ Nof[ ] ] ] ] Please list the objectives of the course. Summarize the point(s) of view of the course by referring to lecture notes, course outline, syllabus, textbook and other materials. DCEAC/FORM 22/Rev Dec 05 Complete reverse side. Datereceived: // | APPROVED (Representative) Date / / Department of Christian Education Accreditation and Credentials of the Sunday School Publishing Board, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. 330 Charlotte Avenue Nashville, TN 37201-1188 FORM 22-Course Evaluation (This form must be completed at the end of each course by certificate of progress students.) Please type Student’s Name Student # Address City State Zip Code E-mail Course title Course # Length of Course (# of hours) Name of School Name of instructor Dean EVALUATION Courses taken over five years but less than fifteen years prior to entering COPP do not require copies of cards. 1. Were you instructed to purchase a textbook? 2. Did the instructor prepare a syllabus? 3. Did the syllabus complement the textbook? 4. Did the instructor require the purchase of a syllabus? Yes{ Yes[ Yes[ Yes[ ] ] ] |] Nof[ No[ Nof[ Nof[ ] ] ] ] >. Please list the objectives of the course. 6. Summarize the point(s) of view of the course by referring to lecture notes, course outline, syllabus, textbook and other materials. DCEAC/FORM 22/Rev Dec 05 Complete reverse side. 7. What knowledge did you gain from taking this course? 8. In what way(s) will the knowledge obtained benefit you in the work of the church? 9. In what way(s) will this course empower you to do your specific (main) role in the church? 10. What were the strengths of the course? 11. What were the weaknesses of the course? How will this course enhance your Christian education endeavors? Candidate’s Signature Instructor’s Signature SCHEDULE TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 2, 2008 6:30 p. m. 6:45 p.m. Open of Session Remarks Welcome Introduction of Instructor 7:10 p.m. 7:40 — 7:50 p.m. 7:50 — 8:20 p.m. Registration Open Devotion Dula Brock, Dean Min. Lilly Holman, Secretary Min. Stanley Ellington, CE Director Class Session Break 8:30 — 8:40 p.m. 8:40 — 9:20 p.m. 9:20 p.m. Class Session Break Class Session Closing Prayer THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4-5, 2008 6:30 p.m. 6:40 p.m. 7:20 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Prayer & Devotion Class Session Break Class Session 8:30 p.m. 9:20 p.m. Class Session Closing Prayer 8:20 p.m. Break SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2008 9:30 A.M. Prayer & Devotion 10:30 a.m. Closing Prayer 9:40 a.m. — 10:20 a.m. Class Session cll ee aN so ( as 3 2 2 New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar september 2008 Sunday Monday | Tuesday Z Labor Day Holiday “How the Bible Came to Be” (1st Evening) Time: Wednesday o 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) Thursday Friday 4 “How the Bible Came to Be” (2-4 Evening) Time: 5 “How the Bible Came to Be” (3'¢ Evening) Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday 6 “How the Bible Came to Be” (Morning Session) Time: 10:00 a.m. 7 8 Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH , Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 10 Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 1] Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 12 Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (1st Evening) Time: 24 25 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (2-¢ Evening) Time: 26 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (34 Evening) Time: 27 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (Morning Session) 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6:30-9:30 p.m. 28 29 30 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) Time: 10:00 a.m. New Zion Baptist Church 2935 Lincoln Avenue, Ogden UT 84401 Christian Leadership School Certificate of Progress Program (COPP) September 2-6, 2008 Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday, 6:30-9:30 pm S47 C /b'00Ru/ Phase 1: How the Bible Came to Be (1002) Reference Material: How We Got Our Bible (Ralph Earle) September 23-27, 2008 Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday, 6:30-9:30 pm sat (2 10°00 Ay Phase 1: Introduction to the Old Testament (1007) Reference Material: Your Own Bible lf there are any questions about the NZBC COPP, please contact Minister Stanley Ellington at (801) 779-1242 / (801) 690-1528 ls opl al MB Wt st-eg Mua ALL oMKoRs ae DIC a on OU? x oo (Pe 4 poss 4 New Zion Baptist Church 2935 Lincoln Avenue, Ogden UT 84401 Christian Leadership School Certificate of Progress Program (COPP) September 2-6, 2008 Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday, 6:30-9:30 pm 547C /bD°00Ruw Phase 1: How the Bible Came to Be (1002) Reference Material: How We Got Our Bible (Ralph Earle) September 23-27, 2008 Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday, 6:30-9:30 pm sat (2 10'00 Any Phase 1: Introduction to the Old Testament (1007) Reference Material: Your Own Bible lf there are any questions about the NZBC COPP, please contact Minister Stanley Ellington at (801) 779-1242 / (801) 690-1528 New Zion Baptist Church 2935 Lincoln Avenue, Ogden UT 84401 Christian Leadership School Certificate of Progress Program (COPP) September 2-6, 2008 Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday, 6:30-9:30 pm Phase 1: How the Bible Came to Be (1002) Reference Material: How We Got Our Bible (Ralph Earle) September 23-27, 2008 Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday, 6:30-9:30 pm Phase 1: Introduction to the Old Testament (1007) Reference Material: Your Own Bible lf there are any questions about the NZBC COPP, please contact Minister Stanley Ellington at (801) 779-1242 / (801) 690-1528 NEW ZION BAPTIST CHURCH 2935 Lincoln Avenue Ogden, Utah 84401 Ofe: (801) 392-2211 & Fax: (801) 392-3433 E-Mail: newzionut@aol.com. & Website: newzionut.com IMPORTANT January DATES - JANUARY - 1: New Years Day January 21: Martin Luther King Jr. Day February May 18: Presidents Day 26: Memorial Day July 4: Independence Day September October November 14 15 21 22 28 29 - W TH F S 2 9 16 23 30 3 10 17 24 31 4 11 18 25 5 T 12 13 19 26 _ 20 11 12 a7 18 19 25 26 - FEBRUARY W TH F Ww TH F 5 12 29 26 6 13 20 27 7 14 «21 28 - JUNE Ww TH F - JULY Ww TH F 4 11 18 25 2 9 16 23 30 4 11 18 «25 6 13. 20 27 7 14 21 28 8 «15 22 «29 10 ir 10 24 17 18 24 25 15 14 15 22 21 22 29 28 29 9 10 11 #12 = «13 6 17 #1 9 2 23 30 24 «25 26 27 F S S 1 = 3 8 9 10 31 1: Labor Day 13: Columbus Day 11: Veterans Day November 27: Thanksgiving Day December 25: Christmas Day 12 13 19 20 26 27 - MAY - W TH F 7 14 21 28 1 8 15 22 29 2 9 16 23 30 10 17 18 24 25 31 10 16 17 23 24 5 12 19 26 6 «13 20 27 14 5 14 Bs 21 22 21 22 28 29 28 29 3 10 17 24 31 AUGUSTW 12 13 y 20 26 ar 6 TH 7 12 3 4 #15 6 If 18 19 20 21 22 23 «24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 30 - SEPTEMBER T Ww TH F 15 NZBC CHRISTIAN 22 23 29 30 LEADERSHIP SCHOOL 3.4 #5 10 11 #12 17 18 19 24 25 26 COURSE NOVEMBER Ww TH F OCTOBER W TH F 13 14 20 21 13 14 27 28 20 21 27 28 DATES FOR 2008 1 8 15 22 29 @ 9 16 23 30 & 10 17 24 31 12 18 19 10 11 25 26 17 18 24 aan 5 12 19 26 6 13 20 27 7 14 21 28 - DECEMBER - - T S W TH F S S ] 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 TH 4 15 15 16 WwW 186 WY 2 21 22 a2 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 2? 30 31 3 National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc Congress of Christian Education Department of Biblical Studies Course No. 1002 The Bible a te Departunent of Christian Education Accreditanion and Credentials COPP SHEET f = Accepted credits from transcript C = Courses completed through CLS PHASE 1} (Prepared for Bruce Davis, Sr. 4/3/2008) BS. _T__ 1002 How the Bible Came to Be Bs, _T__ 1004 Effective Bible Reading &s._T__ 1007 Intro to the Old Testament Q&S. T__ 1072 Intro to the New Testament CE _}¥_ 2007 Christian Stewardship cE. _T__ 2011 Baptist Doctrine b.4 _*__ 3688 History of Christianity Fak F__ 2001 Fundamentals of English Grammar TEACHER CERTIFICATION REOULIREMENTS CE. ¥_ 2023 Creative Ways of Teaching Fa,t-_T__ 9008 Public Speaking PHASE 2 Ss. V¥__ 1075 Syneptic Gospels p.# _f__ 3007 History of Baptists S.4 1 3018 History of the NBC, USA, Ine. D.7 _1__ 4012 Doctrine of the Holy Spirit p.T _f__40i3 Theoiogy of the Early Church Cpuch Oden!__ 6024 Organizing an Effective BTL FA.«t-_T__ 9002 Developing Literacy Skills I FA,~L:_T_ 9004 Writing Techniques | PHASE 3 AS. BS, _ C& _T__ 2071 Christian Character and How Bs, Chuch ___ 1079 Gospel of John 1086 Church History in Acts a 1089 Romans it Dev elops Cch al T_ 6013 Organizing the Church for Christian Education FAL: _T__7005 Christian Evangelism T_ 9005 Writing Techniques II TT. Elective dpuch y outh ond Dtacplot ~ PHASE 4 _T__ 1112 Survey of Revelation _T__ 2015 Foundation of Christian Ethics _T__ 4022 History of World Religions _T__ 6021 Spiritual Maturation _T__ 7033 Discovering Your Spiritual! Gifts _T___ 8036 Church and Society _T__ 9006 Advanced Writing Styles _T__ Elective National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Congress of Christian Education Department of Biblical Studies ourse No. 1002 \ i BoM Be ce. DepT oF 6, one ‘ts — Course fO0R My ~ OR | sll 75 wre YY t& a, or 3 ° : a es ™ --| I | Movieter A BolD Yo a spystree fy ree %, 0 New Website 2 hoa | DRU's (3 = =mai'l c sy. sp New Zion Baptist Church Christian Leadership (CLS) Course Calendar September 2008 Sunday Monday l Tuesday 2 Wednesday Thursday 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) 4 “How the Bible Came to Be” (2"4 Evening) Time: 6-9:00 p.m. 2 Friday 2 “How the Bible Came to Be” (34 Evening) — Time: 6-9:00 p.m. Saturday 6 “How the Bible Came to Be” (Morning Session) Time: 9:00 a.m. Labor Day Holiday “How the Bible Came to Be” (1st Evening) Time: 6-9:00 p.m. 7 8 Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 9 Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 10 Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 1] Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH 12 Rev. Davis NBC Annual Session Cincinnati, OH b> 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (1st Evening) Time: 6-9:00 p.m. 24 25 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (2nd Evening) Time: 6-9:00 p.m. 28 29 30 7:00 p.m. Bible Study (No Class) 26 “Introduction to the Old Testament” (34 Evening) — Time: 6-9:00 p.m. af “Introduction to the Old Testament” (Morning Session) Time: 9:00 a.m. I be eye Ty atid «oS ae ee Stas National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Congress of Christian Education Department of Biblical Studies ourse No. 1002 COURSE OUTLINE lts Origin Its Inspiration A Divine-Human Book The Pages appear Its Preservation The Old Testament Canon The New Testament Canon lts Transmission The Old Testament Text The New Testament Text Its Translation Aramaic Targums Greek Versions Latin Versions oyriac Versions English Versions Its Propagation Europe Asia Africa South America The Pacific Islands Its Communication Private Translations Committee Translations Its Origin Its Inspiration There are two definitive passages in the New Testament on the subject of inspiration. One is 2 Timothy 3:16 — “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (KJV). The phrase, “given by inspiration of God’ is all one word in Greek, theopneustos - literally, God-breathed. Sacred Scripture was breathed out by God and into men’s minds by the Holy Spirit. Clement of Alexandria (second century) and Origen (third century) use this term to describe the Scriptures. The second passage is 2 Peter 1:21 - “For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” Literally the second half of this verse reads: “But being borne along by the Holy Spirit, men spoke from God.” The human writers of the Bible were lifted by the Holy Spirit to a higher level of spiritual understanding. From this level they could receive divine truth and communicate it to believers. A Divine-Human Book The Bible is a divine-human Book, as Christ is the divine-human Person. unlocks the door to understanding the true nature of the Scriptures. God could have sent His Son in adult human form without a human birth. have been simply a shell in which the divine nature was encased. This is the key that Jesus’ body would God in His wisdom did not choose to do it this way. He caused His Son to be born of a woman. Jesus shared the personality characteristics of His mother — psychologically as well as physically. He not only bore physical resemblance to her but also was influenced by all the environmental factors of His home. He was the son of Mary as well as the Son of God. So it is with the Bible. God could have sent down the Book all inscribed with the complete revelation. He could have bound it in black leather, with gold edges, silk-sewn on India paper. But He did not choose to do so. Instead the light of divine revelation broke in on the soul of Moses, David, Paul, John, and many others. The result is a divinely inspired, humanly written Revelation of God’s truth for humankind. scripture writers wrote on sheepskin, goatskin, papyrus, and parchment. thoughts of God as they understood them with the help of the Holy Spirit. They wrote the The Pages Appear Morning dawned over the camp of Israel. shattered. Rumbling thunder roared overhead. Suddenly the silence of the disappearing night was Nervously the people pulled aside their tent flaps and looked out just in time to see another blinding light streak across the sky. Now the lightning was flashing, and the thunder crashing. Out of the thick cloud that covered the top of Mount Sinai a trumpet blast came, loud and long. All the people stood in their tent openings, trembling wit fear. As they looked up at the sacred mountain, smoke billowed from its peak as if from a giant smokestack, “because the Lord descended on it in fire” (Exodus 19:18). It seemed now the hill was one big, smoldering furnace. To add to the people's terror, the whole mountain shook with a violent earthquake. One man was unafraid. He had met God at the burning bush, right in this same place (3.2). So he called out, and God answered him (19:19). Moses was called to the top of Mount Sinai. That day the Then Commandments were given (chapter 20). Israel was to be the people of the covenant, the people of the Book. Moses was God's scribe, to give them the Book of the Law. Its Preservation The Old Testament Canon By “canon” we mean an officially accepted list of books. The Protestant canon of the Old Testament is the same as the Hebrew canon accepted by the Jews as constituting “the Holy Scriptures.” This is the complete Jewish Bible. The Roman Catholic canon of the Old Testament is longer, including 14 books, or parts of books, that are missing in the Old Testament with which we are familiar. Why this difference? a. The Hebrew Canon. The basic nucleus of the Hebrew canon is the Torah, or Law of Moses. It consists of the first five books of our Old Testament. The Sadducees of Jesus’ day placed primary emphasis on this part of their sacred Scriptures. The Pharisees also assigned it great importance. In our Bibles the names of the first five books are taken largely from the Greek Septuagint (to be discussed later). Genesis is simply the Greek word for “beginning.” Exodus is from the Greek exodus, meaning “a going out.” The main event in this book is the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. Leviticus is so named because it refers largely to the work of the priests, who were Levites. Numbers is the English equivalent of the Greek arithmoi, its name in the Septuagint. The book records two numberings of the people of Israel, one made at Sinai soon after they left Egypt (chapter 1) and the other in the plains of Moab just before they crossed into Canaan (chapter 26). Deuteronomy is composed of two Greek words, deuteros, and “second,” and nomos, “law”. It describes the second giving of the Law of Moses. The first was to the generation of Israelites that came out of Egypt, and it occurred at Sinai. The second was to the next generation before it entered the Promised Land. The Hebrew canon contained three divisions: (1) the Law; (2) the Prophets; (3) the Writings. The Law consisted of the five books of Moses. The Prophets were divided into the Former Prophets and the Latter Prophets, each containing four books. The Former Prophets included Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings (considered as one book each). The Latter Prophets consisted of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the Twelve. In the Hebrew canon the 12 minor prophets were placed together and referred to as “The Book of the Twelve.” Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings are usually listed by us among the historical books of the Old Testaments. The Jews thought of their history as prophetic history and so classified these books under the Prophets. The third division, the Writings, included the rest of the books of our Old Testament. These were further divided into the three Poetical Books (Psalms, Proverbs, Job), the Five Rolls (Song of Songs, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, Esther), and the three Historical Books (Daniel, Ezra-Nehemiah, Chronicles). The New Testament Canon At about A.D. 140 in Rome, a heretic named Marcion adopted his own New Testament canon. It contained 10 Epistles of Paul (excluding the Pastorals) and a mutilated Gospel of Luke (first two chapters missing). He rejected the entire Old Testament. To counteract his influence, it was necessary for the orthodox Christian Church to fix the limits of its canon. Most scholars believe the only genuine Christian writing we have from the first century, outside the New Testament, is Clement of Rome’s First Epistle, written about A.D. 95. It contains references to Matthew, Romans, and 1 Corinthians, along with allusions of Hebrews. The earliest church fathers of the second century, such a Ignatius and Polycarp, show a wide acquaintance with Paul's Epistles, some of the Gospels, and 1 Peter and 1 John. This use of our New Testament books increased steadily down through the middle of that century. For instance, Justin Martyr (A.D. 150) shows knowledge of the four Gospels, Acts, several of Paul’s Epistles, Hebrews, 1 Peter, and Revelation. By the end of the second century it is clear Irenaeus in Gaul (France), Clement of Alexandria (Egypt), and Tertullian of Carthage (North Africa) all had essentially the same New Testament as we have today. During the third century there was considerable dispute about the canonicity of seven of our New Testament books. These were Hebrews, James, 2 Peter, 2 and 3 John, Jude, and Revelation. This uncertainty continued on into the fourth century. The first exact list of our 27 books is found the Easter letter of Athanasius, in A.D. Finally, near the close of the fourth century, A.D. 397, the Council of Carthage decreed that only “canonical” books should be read in the churches. It then proceeded to list exactly the 27 books of our New Testament. From that day to this the canon of the New Testament has remained the same for the Roman Catholic Church and has been the Protestant canon since the Reformation. We believe the Holy Spirit led in the selections made. Its Transmission We do not have the original copy of a single book of the Bible. This fact alone demands careful investigation of the text of both Old and New Testaments. Are we justified in believing that we have a reliably authentic copy of each of the 66 books of the sacred canon? The Old Testament Text We are fortunate to live in the age of archaeological discoveries. Time was when some scholars asserted Moses could not have written the Pentateuch because the art of writing was unknown at that early date (about 1400 B.C.). As in many other cases, archaeology has silenced this argument forever. At Ur and Nippur, in Mesopotamia, thousands of clay tablets have been dug up, going back as far as 2100 B.C. We have tablets form Abraham’s hometown inscribed at the very time he lived there — half a millennium before Moses. From the other great center of earliest civilization, the Nile valley, we have papyrus manuscripts from 2000 B.C. Some contain texts that claim to have been written originally before 3000 B.C. It is evident writing is an ancient art. In 1929 a startling discovery was made at the site of the ancient city of Ugarit, on the northwest coast of Syria. Archaeological excavations revealed a large building that housed a library, a scribes’ school, and the home of the chief priests of the local cult. In the library were found hundreds of tablets written in strange scribe. Later excavations (1952-53) unearthed the ancient Ugaritic alphabet, composed of 30 letters. The tablet on which it is written is thought to come from the 14" century B.C., near the time of Moses. The Ugaritic language is Semitic, a sister language to Hebrew. In the twovolume commentary on the Psalms in “The Anchor Bible,” Dahood makes use of parallels in Ugaritic literature as a help in understanding the meaning of Hebrew terms. The New Testament Text In 1853 two Cambridge scholars, B. F. Westcott and F. J. A. Hort, set out to construct an accurate text of the New Testament based on the best Greek manuscripts. After 20 years of devoted work, they published 7he New Testament in the Original Greek (1881) -— a standard work used by generations of students of the Greek New Testament. Not so well known is Volume Il, “Introduction and Appendix,” actually written by Hort. a. Kinds of Errors. No two manuscripts of the Greek New Testament are exactly alike. Humanly speaking, this is unavoidable. It would be nearly impossible for two people to copy by hand the entire Greek text of the New Testament without making mistakes. The books of the New Testament were all copied by hand for over 1,000 years before the age of printing began in the middle of the 15" century. There are two main classes of unintentional mistakes made by copyists. These are errors of the eye and errors of the ear. (1) Errors of the eye. Such mistakes will almost inevitably be made by anyone who copies a long document. The problem is compounded in the case of the Greek New Testament by several factors. 4 In the older Greek manuscripts there are not only chapter and verse divisions and no separation into sentences but also no separation between words. It is as if we should write the first verse of Luke’s Gospel as follows: FORASMUCHASMANYHAVETAKENINHANDTOSETFORTHINORDERADECLARATIONOF THOSETINGSWHICHAREMOSTSURELYBELIEVEDAMONGUS And so it goes on, line after line, column after column, through a whole book of the New Testament. When a person was copying one manuscript from another, he might make a wrong division between words. Of course, he would usually be aware of this and correct the mistake. ISAWABUNDANCEONTHETABLE could be taken as “! saw a bund dance on the table” or “| saw abundance on the table.” Mistakes of this type are found in later Green manuscripts (e.g., 15'" century), when separation between words was introduced. In the second place, the oldest Green manuscripts commonly use abbreviations for such words as God, Christ, Jesus, and Son, with an overhead line connecting the first and last letters. Christ appears as XC, Jesus as IC, Son as YC, each with a line overhead. It is obvious it would be easier to confuse these abbreviations than it would be if the words were written out in full. A third type of error is still very common today — the omission of a line when two consecutives lines begin or end with the same word. One who frequently prepares copy for word processing soon learns to watch for this. A similar situation is the omission or addition of similar clauses, or even sentences. (2) Errors of the ear. As we have seen, errors of the eye would be made by a scribe copying one manuscript from another. Sometimes a man would sit at a table, slowly reading aloud a manuscript to a group of scribes seared in front of him. This was the only kind of publishing house in those days. Usually not more than 40 scribes would be involved at atime. This is quite different from modern printing plan, which can turn out thousands of identical copies of a book. In the United States, the oldest Greek manuscript of the four Gospels is Washingtoniensis (W), so called because it is in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington. It comes from the late fourth or early fifth century. There are several other important uncials form the fifth century (A, C, D), but most of the uncials come from later centuries. (3) Minuscules. From the 9'" century to the 15" century — when printing began — we have over 2,/50 minuscule or cursive manuscripts. These are written in a small, running script. They contain the medieval Greek text of the New Testament, which is late and inferior. With such an abundance of manuscript materials at our disposal, we can rest assured we have ample means for arriving at a close approximation of the original Greek text of the New Testament. Its Translation Aramaic Targums Greek Versions Latin Versions Syriac Versions English Versions a. Early Beginnings. \|n his Ecclesiastical History the Venerable Bede tells how Caedmon (died 680) was cowherd at the monastery of Whitby. One night in a dream he saw man who told him to sing a song of the creation. In the morning he astonished everyone with his poetic gift. Brought into the monastery, Caedmon was told stories from the Bible and proceeded to turn them into Anglo-Saxon verse. He is said to have sung all the history of Genesis, the story of the Exodus, as well as the great truths of the New Testament. Some think only his original hymn of creation survives with certainty today. Before the death of Bede in 735, the four Gospels all appeared in the Anglo-Saxon. Bede himself is credited with having translated the Gospel of John. King Alfred (848 to 901) was interested in the Bible and saw to it that a new translation of Psalms was made. Several other versions of parts of the Bible appeared in the following centuries. b. Wycliffe’s Bible (1382). This was the first complete Bible in English. It was made form the Latin Vulgate, not the Greek. Wycliffe’s concern was to give the laity of his day a Bible they could read, as part of the effort to reform the Church. In fact, he is called the “morning start of the Reformation.” His English Bible did much to prepare the way for the movement in Britain. To get the Bible to the common people, Wycliffe organized the “Poor Priests,” or Lollards, who went everywhere teaching the Bible and delivering it to the laymen. Nearly 200 copies of Wycliffe’s Bible, or revisions of it, are still found in various libraries and museums. And this in spite of the fact that they were very expensive, being copied by hand, and that the authorities had passed a ruling that anyone who read the Scriptures in English “should forfeit land, catel, life, and goods form their heyres forever.” John Wycliffe, a graduate of Oxford, became master of Balliol College. He was considered the most able theologian on the faculty. In 1411, Archbishop Arundel wrote to the pope: “This pestilent and wretched John Wycliffe, of cursed memory, that son of the old serpent...endeavoured by every means to attack the very faith and sacred doctrine of Holy Church, devising — to fill up the measure of his malice — the expedient of a new translation of the Scriptures into the mother tongue.” Cc. Zyndale’s New Testament (1526). movable type came off the press. Around 1456 the first book ever printed in Europe on It was the famous Gutenberg Bible, named after its printer, and was a copy of the Latin Vulgate. It was not until 70 years later that the first printed English New Testament appeared, translated by Tyndale. d. Coverdale’s Bible (1535). The first complete printed English Bible was issued by Myles Coverdale in 1535. Educated at Cambridge, he had to live on the Continent while he worked on his translation from 1528 to 1534. He was not an original scholar like Tyndale. Fortunately, his New Testament is only a revision of Tyndale’s. He leaned heavily on the latter's translation of the Pentateuch. Coverdale must be given credit for his efforts to make the whole Bible available in English. To this task he devoted much of his adult life. e. The Matthew Bible (1537). This Bible, which was printed on the Continent under the pen name of Thomas Matthew, was largely a revision of Tyndale’s material. It was actually the work of John Rogers, to whom Tyndale turned over his translations when he imprisoned. Rogers himself was later burned at the stake. f. The Great Bible (1539). Thomas Cromwell asked Coverdale to prepare another version, based on the Matthew Bible. The measure of Coverdale’s devotion to the Word of God is shown by the fact he was willing to see his own bible set aside in order to gain wider circulation for a new version. It was called the Great Bible because of its size. The pages measured 16% by 11 inches. This Bible became the first authorized English version. The 1540 edition had on the title page: “This is the Byble apoynted to the use of the churches.” The next year the king issued a proclamation “for the Byble of the largest and greatest volume to had in every church.” In the same year (1539) the Taverner Bible appeared. Taverner was a layman, a graduate of Oxford with an excellent knowledge of Greek. While he reprinted the Old Testament of the Matthew Bible with little change, he made many revisions in the New Testament. g. The Geneva Bible (1560). The period between 1539 and 1560 was hectic for the new English Bibles and their promoters. Under heavy Roman Catholic pressure King Henry VIII reversed his tolerant attitude. In 1543 an act of Parliament forbade using all translations bearing the name of Tyndale. No working man or woman was to read the Bible, on pain of imprisonment. The next king, Edward VI, was a strong Protestant and sought to restore the Bible to the common people. In this Archbishop Cranmer supported him. Unfortunately, Edwards’ reign was short (1547 to 1553). He was succeeded by Queen Mary, a fanatical Roman Catholic. During her violent reign of five years no less than 300 Protestant reformers were put to death, including Cranmer and Rogers. h. The Bishops’ Bible (1568). |. The Douay-Rheims Version (1609-10), |. The King James Version (1611). When James V1 of Scotland became James | of England (following the death of Queen Elizabeth | in 1603), he called the churchmen together for a conference at Hampton Court (1604). There Dr. John Reynolds, a prominent Puritan leader and president of Corpus Christi College, Oxford, proposed this resolution: “that a translation be made of the whole Bible, as a consonant as can be to the original Hebrew and Greek; and this to be set out and printed, without any marginal notes, and only to be use din all Churches of England in time of divine service.” The bishop of London (later Archbishop of Canterbury) objected, saying, “If every man’s humour were followed, there would be no end of translating.” Undaunted, King James heartily approved the resolution and actively promoted the work. By July 1604 he had “appointed certain learned men to the number of four and fifty for the translating of the Bible.” Only 47 names are on the list of those who actually worked on the translation. They were divided into six panels, with three panels for the Old Testament, two for the New Testament, and one for the Apocrypha. Two groups met at Oxford, two at Cambridge, and two at Westminster. It is often assumed that the Kind James Version, as it is called, has come down to us exactly in its original form. This is not true. The fact is the original edition of the King James Version would make difficult reading for the average reader. In 1613, only two years after it was first published, over 300 variations were introduced. Another revision came out in 1629 and still another in 1638. It was the revision made at Oxford in 1769 that modernized its spelling so it can be read with some east today. This is essentially the version we now have. There was one rule given the original translators they failed to follow, their mistake was never corrected. They were told to use the commonly known form of proper names. The King James Version has “Isaiah” in the Old Testament and “Esaias” in the New; “Jeremiah” and Jeremias,” “Elijah” and Elias,” “Elisha” and “Eliseus,” “Hosea” and “Osee,” “Jonah” and “Jonas.” Whenever one reads the King James New Testament in public, these odd forms may be changed to the familiar names of the Old Testament. The strength of the King James Version was its beautiful Elizabethan English prose. For this reason it became the most widely used English Bible for three centuries. William Lyons Phelps, famous teacher of literature at Yale University, once said Shakespeare and the King James Version standardized the English language. Of the King James Version is referred to as “the Authorized Version” (AV). This is incorrect. The Great Bible of 1539 and the Bishops’ Bible of 1560 were both authorized versions. The King James Version of 1611 carries on the title page. “Appointed to be read in the churches.” There is no record of any Official action ever taken to authorize this. The Pilgrims who came to the New World in 1620 refused to have anything to do with the King James Version. They preferred to the Geneva Bible and continued to use it. In fact, it was not until 1777 that the New Testament of the King James Version was published in America. The complete Bible finally came out in 1782. Gradually the King James Version supplanted the Geneva Bible in the new nation of the United States. After some years it became the dominant Bible, as it was in England. In many ways the King James translators did a magnificent job. They gave the Bible a poetic prose that has sung its way across three and a half centuries. There is a rhythmic beauty in the language of the King James Version that will always afford pleasure to many readers. This should not blind us to an important fact underscored by C. S. Lewis in his little book The Literary Impact of the Authorized Version. He says, “Those who read the Bible as literature do not read the Bible.” He declares the Bible is “not merely a sacred book but a book so remorselessly and continuously sacred that it does not invite, it excludes or repels the merely aesthetic approach.” To appreciate these statements one must remember that C. S. Lewis was not a preacher or a theologian but a famous teacher of English literature at Oxford and Cambridge universities. The Bible was not written to entertain but to redeem. Consequently, we should seek to have the scriptures in a translation that conveys exactly and accurately as possible what the original language says. Its Propagation O for a thousand tongues to sing My great Redeemer’s praise, The glories of my god and King, The triumphs of His grace! My gracious Master and my God, Assist me to proclaim, To spread thro’ all the earth abroad, The honors of Thy name. So wrote Charles Wesley over two centuries ago. Little did he dream within that period of time the Bible would be translated into over a thousand tongues, spreading throughout the world. Charles Wesley died in 1788, and his more famous brother, John, in 1791. The next year, 1792, marks the beginning of the great modern era of world missions. More was done to evangelize the world in next 150 years than had been done in the previous 1,500 years. William Carey was a Baptist preacher in England. So poor was his congregation that he had to support his family by making shoes. His heart was burdened for the millions of people in Asia and Africa who never heard the gospel. Above his cobbler’s bench he hung a map of the world. With John Wesley he could say, “The world is my parish.” In spite of the pressure of pastoral duties and working for a living, Carey mastered Latin, Greek, and Hebrew. One day he preached a sermon on “Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God.” As a result, the first Baptist missionary society was founded in 1792. The next year William Carey and his family sailed for India, accompanied by John Thomas, who had lived in Bengal. soon after they arrived, all their property was lost in the Hooghly River. Only his rugged faith in God kept William Carey going. He took a job in an indigo factory because funds form the home society failed to come. This new employment gave him close contact with the nationals. It was invaluable in helping him learn their language. For five years he studied the Bengali and Sanskrit languages. Finally, at Serampore, he translated the New Testament into Bengali and published it in 1801. For 30 years Carey taught Bengali, Marathi, and Sanskrit. This brought him into contact with leading Indian intellectuals. With their help he was able to translate the Scriptures into all the principal languages of northern Hindustan. He used his salary to establish a press on which these were printed. The total production of William Carey and his helpers is staggering. His is credited with the translation of the whole Bible into 9 languages, the New Testament into 27 more, and smaller portions of Scripture in several others. “The whole number of languages is stated at forty, and we are probably below the truth when we state that the Serampore press, under the auspices chiefly of Dr. Carey, was honored to be the instrument, in about thirty years, of rendering the Word of God accessible to three hundred millions of human beings, or nearly one third of the population of the world.” A few statistics help put in bold relief what we have said thus far. Eric N. North, in his introductory essay, “And Now — in a Thousand Tongues,” says “It is estimated on the eve of the invention of printing only 33 languages — 22 European, 7 Asian, 4 African — had any part of the Bible translated.” More surprising is the statement: “But even by 1800 only 71 languages and dialects had seen some printed portion of the Bible - 50 in Europe, 13 in Asia, 4 in Africa, 3 in the Americas (Massachusetts, Mohawk, and Arawak), and 1 in Oceania.” Then the picture changed radically. At last the Spirit found a few through whom He could work. North says: The next thirty years saw an amazing expansion, Eighty-six languages received some part of the Bible —- more than in all the 1800 years before! And sixty-six of These were languages outside of Europe! The missionary movement, with its roots Watered and fertilized by the Evangelical Revival of the 18" century, bore this sudden burst of bloom. One result was the British and Foreign Bible Society, founded in 1804 and the American Bible Society in 1816. In 1970 the New York Bible Society (founded in 1809) added the word “International” to its name, joining the forces seeking to spread the Bible around the world in as many languages as possible. By 1938 the translations of Scripture passed the 1,000 mark. Of these 173 were in Europe, 212 in Asia, 345 in Africa, 89 in the Americas, and 189 in Oceania. The total figure presently is over 1,200 languages into which the Bible, in whole or part, has been translated. The Wycliffe Bible Translators have been most active in this. 10 We shall take a glimpse at the spread of Bible translations in different world areas. Europe Asia Africa South America The Pacific Islands Its Communication It took 80 years for the King James Version (1611) to win complete acceptance in the Englishspeaking world. Luther A. Weigle writes: “It was denounced as theologically unsound and ecclesiastically biased, as truckling to the king and unduly deferring to his belief in witchcraft, as untrue to the Hebrew text and relying too much on the Septuagint.” The translators themselves recognize in their Preface that every new translation is apt to be “glouted upon by every evil eye” and “gored by every sharp tongue.” The Puritans in the British Iles and the Pilgrims in America clung tenaciously to their beloved Geneva Bible and did not wish to give it up for this “newfangled” version. Finally the King James Version became the dominant English Bible and held this position for over two hundred centuries. This was largely because of its superior literary style and its Elizabethan prose. The English of the KJV is not the spoken or written language of our day. century has produced an abundant crop of new English translations. As a result the 20% Private Translations These began much earlier, even in the 17" century. In 1645 the Hebrew scholar John Lightfoot urged the House of Commons “to think of a review and survey the translation of the Bible,” that “the three nations {England, Ireland, Scotland} might come to understand the proper and genuine study of the Scriptures by an exact, vigorous, and lively translation.” Several paraphrases of the New Testament appeared soon after this. 11 a. John Wesley’s New Testament (1755). b. Twentieth Century New Testament (1904). Cc. Weymouth’s New Testament (1903). d. Moffatt’s Bible (1926). e. An American Translation (1939). f. Phillips’ Translation (1958). g. Berkeley Version (1959). h. Beck’s New Testament (1963). |. The Living New Testament (1967). j. T oday’s English Version (1968). Committee Translations Today we have over 5,000 Greek manuscripts in whole or part of the New Testament. These reach back to the ninth, eighth, seventh, sixth, fifth, and fourth centuries. In the case of the papyri, they go back to the beginning of the third century (about the year A.D. 200). a. Revised Version (1885). b. American Standard Version (1901). Cc. Revised Standard Version (1952). d. New English Bible (1970). @. New American Standard Bible (1971). f. New American Bible (1970). g. New International Version (1978). 12 Questions Why is it important to believe in the divine inspiration of the Bible? In what ways is the Bible a divine-human Book? Why was the Bible written as a Book of life rather than a Book of theology? What is the advantage of having the Bible written by many different men rather than by one man (cf. Enhesians 3:18)? In what ways is the Bible a library of books? In what way is it “the Book”? What were the three divisions of the Hebrew canon, and which books were included in each division? What is the reason there are variant readings in Greek manuscripts of the New Testament? What is the difference between errors of the eye and errors of the ear? Why may we feel confident that we have a reliable Greek text of the New Testament? 10. What is the first English Bible, and from what was it translated? 11. Who made the first printed English New Testament, and how did his work influence the King James Version? 72, When was the King James Version made, and what was the secret of its final popularity? 13. What man is considered the father of modern missions, and what contribution did he make to the Bible translations? 14. What was the importance of Luther’s translation of the Bible? 13 Notes 14