1. How to read the Bible for all its worth

2. God is a speaking God
We can know the Bible truly, but not absolutely

3. Understanding the Bible
So what?
What does it mean?
What does it say?

4. Studying the Bible
The way I live

5. Doctrine of Scripture
Doctrine of God

6. Genre
Example
Distinctive
History
Kings
Facts without comment

7. Genre Example Distinctive History Kings Facts without comment
Apocalyptic
Law
Prophecy
Epistle
Narrative
Prayer
Poetry/Song
Gospel
Parable
Sermon
Wisdom

8. Genre Example Distinctive History Kings Facts without comment
Apocalyptic
Rev, Daniel
Imagery – God, judgement, hope; future focus
Law
Leviticus
Requirements of how to live
Prophecy
Isaiah
What God intends to do + why
Epistle
Romans
Letter; argument + relationship; tightly written
Narrative
Ruth
Plot + characterisation
Prayer
Psalms, Daniel 9
God’s people communicating with him
Poetry/Song
Psalms
Emotional response + object that caused emotion
Gospel
Luke
Identity + purpose of Jesus; history + interpretation
Parable
Jesus, 2 Sam 12
Metaphor + simile; usually one point
Sermon
Hebrews
Proving, explaining, exhorting
Wisdom
Eccl, Proverbs
How to live well in God’s world

9. NEW CREATION CREATION EPISTLES SECOND COMING GOSPELS
PROPHETS
PENTECOST + EARLY CHURCH
END OF THE OT
JESUS BORN
EXODUS / LAW / DAVID+SOLOMON
ISRAEL FAILS