Lesson 1

Question 1

Explain the focus of the following types of biblical inquiry:

a) Devotional reading:

Answer 1

a) Hearing from God

Question 2

b) Academic study:

Answer 2

b) Understanding the text in relation to its historical context.

Question 3

The New Testament does not supersede the Old Testament; rather, it is . . . ?

Answer 3

The continuation, climax, and fulfilment of the Old Testament.

Question 4

Explain the following metaphors:

a) The text as a window:

Answer 4

We look through the text to see the ancient world come alive.

Question 5

b) The text as a stained glass window:

Answer 5

b) We look at the text to see the picture it paints to appreciate the artistry with which they were designed by the Lord.

Question 6

c) The text as a mirror:

Answer 6

When we look at the text, the text reveals who we really are.

Question 7

List five (5) tools that can help students understand or interpret a biblical text:

Answer 7

a) Historical background
b) Narrative criticism
c) Rhetoric
d) Ancient media culture
e) Intertextuality

Question 8

Rhetorical texts were designed for what two (2) purposes?

Answer 8

a) To be read aloud

b) To persuade the hearers

Question 9

List three (3) aspects of ancient media culture:

Answer 9

a) Orality/aurality
b) Performance
c) Memory

Question 10

What is intertextuality in relation to the Bible?

Answer 10

The use of the Old Testament in the New Testament.