Old Testament Survey I

Learning Objectives

• Identify the major historical periods and figures in Genesis through 2 Samuel and understand their chronological sequence
• Trace the development and confirmation of God's covenant promises from Abraham through David
• Analyze the purposes and functions of Israel's religious institutions (tabernacle, priesthood, feasts) as revealed in Exodus and Leviticus
• Examine the theological significance of Israel's wilderness period and entry into Canaan as patterns of faith and obedience
• Recognize themes of God's faithfulness, human unfaithfulness, and redemptive purpose that recur throughout the Old Testament
• Demonstrate comprehension of how early Old Testament narratives anticipate and lay groundwork for themes developed later in Scripture
• Evaluate the role of individual leaders (Moses, Joshua, judges, Saul, David) in advancing God's purposes for His people

Syllabus

Overview

Old Testament Survey I introduces students to the historical and theological foundations of the Old Testament narrative. Beginning with creation and the patriarchs, the course traces God's covenant with Abraham and its development through the exodus, wilderness wandering, conquest, and tribal period, concluding with the establishment of the monarchy under David. Rather than attempting encyclopedic coverage, this course emphasizes direct engagement with the biblical text, helping students understand how God progressively revealed His character and purposes to His people. The course assumes no prior biblical knowledge and is designed to build the student's confidence in reading and interpreting Old Testament narratives, recognizing their unity, and understanding their significance for the whole of Scripture.

Reading Plan

Week 1–2: Genesis 1–11 (creation, fall, flood, tower of Babel) and Genesis 12–25 (Abraham's life and covenant). Week 3–4: Genesis 25–50 (Isaac, Jacob, Joseph) and Exodus 1–18 (plagues and exodus from Egypt). Week 5–6: Exodus 19–40 (law, tabernacle, covenant renewal) and Leviticus (holiness code and sacrificial system). Week 7–8: Numbers (wilderness wandering and census) and Deuteronomy (Moses' final addresses and covenant renewal). Week 9–10: Joshua (conquest and distribution of the land). Week 11–12: Judges (tribal period and cycle of apostasy and deliverance). Week 13–14: 1 Samuel (transition to monarchy, Saul, rise of David). Week 15–16: 2 Samuel (David's reign, covenant with David, consolidation of kingdom).

Required Materials

A personal Bible in one of the following standard translations: ESV, NIV, NASB, CSB, LSB, or NLT; a notebook or journal for reading notes and reflection; access to a basic Bible map (found in most study Bible introductions or freely available online).

Grading & Completion

Assessment focuses on engagement with Scripture and demonstration of comprehension rather than memorization. Students complete weekly reading assignments and submit brief reflection responses (one to two paragraphs) connecting the week's passage to the course themes. A midterm quiz tests knowledge of chronology and major events. A final paper (4–6 pages) asks students to trace a specific theological theme (such as covenant, faithfulness, or God's presence) through the course material and explain its significance. Class participation, including discussions of assigned passages, contributes to the final grade. All grades are weighted: weekly reflections (40%), midterm quiz (20%), final paper (30%), participation (10%).

Course Outcomes

• Upon completion, students will be able to explain the chronology and major events of Israel's history from the patriarchs through the establishment of the Davidic dynasty
• Upon completion, students will be able to identify and articulate key covenant passages (Genesis 12, 17; Exodus 19-20; 2 Samuel 7) and their theological implications
• Upon completion, students will be able to describe the structure and significance of Israel's religious practices and how they reflect God's character and demands
• Upon completion, students will be able to recognize recurring biblical themes and patterns and trace how they connect Old Testament narratives to the New Testament
• Upon completion, students will be able to read Old Testament narrative with critical attention to historical context, literary structure, and theological purpose