Session 8: Deuteronomistic History Part 3
Aims
By the end of this session you should be able to:
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intelligently discuss a range of texts presenting different views of Ancient Israelite kingship
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demonstrate a clear knowledge of different biblical understandings of monarchy and how they relate to wider themes and traditions within the Bible and to different periods of Israelite history
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demonstrate an understanding of the main themes of the books of 1 & 2 Samuel
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Zoom Link, Programme & Preparation
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82517285345?pwd=T2JYdFNiSU5Ud2QvNm51OHJoT2NiUT09
Meeting ID: 825 1728 5345
Passcode: 953661
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The programme for the day can be found here
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Please prepare for the day by watching the videos below and noting down your thoughts on the questions in the exercise, the Spotlights sections and the Reflection section ready for disucssion on the day. The videos from the sessions can be found in the Resources section.
Introduction
In this session we will explore the books of 1 & 2 Samuel. It takes us to around 931BCE on the timeline and the end of that part of Israel's history where they were a united people under one King. Watch the video overviews of 1 & 2 Sameul and note down in your learning journal anything that strikes you.
You can find the Bibledex overviews of both books in the Resources section if you would like to watch them but this optional.
1 Samuel & 2 Samuel
The two books of 1 and 2 Samuel cover a lot of history and introduce some more of the main characters of the Old Testament: Samuel the prophet, and kings Saul and David. The characters of Samuel and David are portrayed in an interesting way by the Deuteronomist and deserve attention. Download a short summary in the Resources section.
Exercise
1 Samuel contains a story of the anointing of David that is not found anywhere else. Compare this story in 1 Samuel 16: 1-13 to the one found in the book of 1 Chronicles 11:1-3. What do you make of the differences between these two stories? There will be some explanation of this in a later session but for now take some time to reflect on what you think about it.
Make notes of your thoughts for discussion on the Study Day.
Spotlight on Doctrine
Nathan's parable of the Ewe Lamb is a powerful example of helping someone to see what they've done wrong. David repents but his punishment is still harsh. How does this fit with the doctrine of forgiveness? Make notes of your thoughts for discussion on the Study Day
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Spotlight on Spirituality
The story of David and Goliath is one of the most well known in the bible. It speaks of the power of God overcoming wekaness. When has this happened in your own life in some way - perhaps even a small way? And what about other times in history when this happened - can you think of any? Make notes of your thoughts for discussion on the Study Day
Reflect
Spend some time prayerfully thinking about what you have discovered in this session. What are the most significant things for you? How might you use what you have learned in your own faith journey? Write this down in your learning journal.
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Prayer
Blessed are you, Lord our God, all things come from you:
from you come our life, this world and all that we have and are.
Teach us to love and respect your creation and give glory to you.
Blessed are you, Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer. Amen
Resources
Session 1 - Passcode 22SCM@#2
Session 2 - Passcode 22SCM@#2
Session 3 - Passcode 22SCM@#2
