The Bible
It's the best-selling, most widely read book in the entire world, but do we really understand the Bible and embrace it as the very Word of God? Our Big Picture series kicks off with an intro to the Bible and why it's worth our time to study it.
The Beginning
All great stories begin with a memorable opening line. God's story opens with "In the beginning…" We'll start with creation and explore the major events and key figures that shaped the beginning of God's plan for humanity.
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Exodus
God delivers His chosen people from slavery, works miracles to protect and provide for them, and gives laws for them to live by. Yet they choose to rebel, resulting in 40 years of wandering in the desert.
Conquest & Judges
Due to God's faithfulness, the Israelites finally enter the Promised Land, but their pattern of sin and rebellion prevents them from experiencing His blessings.
Kingdom
After David's reign ends, Israel's pattern of rebellion against God continues under a succession of mostly unrighteous kings. Their sin results in a divided kingdom and ultimately, exile.
Poetical
The poetical books use vivid imagery and figurative language to communicate the sorrow of suffering, the glory of worship, the value of wisdom, the search for meaning, and the beauty of marriage.
Exile & Return
The Israelites spend 70 years in exile, but God's continues to work through faithful men like Daniel to encourage and preserve His people until they return to rebuild Jerusalem.
Prophetical
The Old Testament prophets played a key role in God's story, both foretelling (predicting the future) and forth-telling (proclaiming the teachings of God). What spiritual principles can we learn from these prophets?
Silence
During the four hundred years of "silence" between the Old and New Testaments, the nation of Israel was politically and spiritually oppressed. Despite the prophecies concerning the Messiah, they were unprepared when He came.
Gospel
The Old Testament revealed to us that no prophet, priest or king could save the nation of Israel, much less the world. Jesus' birth marked the turning point of all of history, and His gift of salvation changed eternity.
The Church
The book of Acts describes the establishment of the church and it's mission to the world. As "the people of God", our membership in the church is based solely on our union with Christ. This is an incredible gift and wonderful responsibility.
Mission
The Church of Jesus Christ expands throughout the Roman Empire, and Paul's letters, or "Epistles," to the churches provide instruction and encouragement. How do they instruct and encourage us today?
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