Exploring the Old Testament Through a Lutheran Lens

This course introduces the Old Testament as the foundational story of God's work to create, redeem, and sustain His people.  We will explore the Scriptures in their ancient historical and literary contexts.  Our study is grounded in the Lutheran conviction that the Old Testament is God's inspired Word pointing us to Christ.

Each session helps participants understand the world of ancient Israel - Its stories, poetry, prophets, and wisdom traditions-while examining what these texts mean for the Church today.  We will address difficult passages, themes of justice and mercy, and the struggles of God's people, returning to the central Lutheran insight that Scripture reveals both Law and Gospel.

Objectives

-Understand how the Old Testament was formed and how its books fit together.

-Explore how archaeology, history, and ancient Near Eastern culture illuminate the biblical story.

-Examine how the prophets, psalms, and narratives proclaim God's faithfulness.

-Identify how the Old Testament prepares the way for and is fulfilled in Christ

-Learn to read challenging passages with theological depth and pastoral sensitivity

-Discover how the Old Testament shapes Christian worship, prayer, and daily life.

Explore how archaeology, history, and ancient Near Eastern culture illuminate the biblical story.