This foundational course explores the first five books of the Bible—Genesis through Deuteronomy, collectively known as the Pentateuch or the Torah. These five books form the theological, moral, and covenantal groundwork for the entire Bible. In them, we witness God’s creative authority, His covenantal dealings with mankind, the formation of Israel as a nation, the giving of the Law, and the foreshadowing of redemption.
The course follows a book-by-book survey approach. Each unit will explore the major themes, key events, spiritual principles, theological insights, and pastoral applications relevant to the life of a believer and minister of the Gospel.
The Pentateuch is more than history—it reveals the origin of sin, the promise of salvation, and the character of God. This course is designed to equip students to see how God’s eternal plan of redemption begins in Genesis and prepares the way for Christ.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Understand the structure and major themes of each of the five books of the Pentateuch.
- Recognize God’s covenantal dealings with individuals and the nation of Israel.
- Identify theological truths about sin, redemption, obedience, sacrifice, and holiness.
- Trace the unfolding revelation of God’s plan of salvation beginning in Genesis.
- Apply spiritual lessons from Israel’s formation, journey, and failures to present-day personal and pastoral ministry.
- See the shadows and types of Christ within the Law and Israel's journey.
The Historical Books (Joshua through Esther) reveal the national story of Israel—from the victorious entry into the Promised Land to the painful realities of exile and the hopeful beginnings of return. This course traces the rise of the nation under Joshua, the chaotic cycle of the Judges, the glory and decline of the monarchy, the division and downfall of the kingdoms, and finally, the restoration of a remnant in Jerusalem.
Through conquest, covenant failure, kings, prophets, and exile, we see God’s unwavering commitment to His people. Though they stumble, rebel, and suffer judgment, the Lord continually intervenes, disciplines, and restores—always preserving a remnant and pointing toward a greater King to come.
This course will equip students with a clear chronological understanding of Israel’s history and will emphasize the spiritual lessons embedded in each phase of the nation’s development.
Key Themes
- God’s faithfulness through national failure
- The consequences of disobedience and the power of repentance
- God’s use of leaders—both strong and flawed
- The role of covenant in the rise and fall of the nation
- The sovereignty of God in history and human affairs
- Restoration and hope after judgment
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Trace the historical and theological flow of Israel’s national journey
- Understand the spiritual significance of conquest, kingship, and exile
- Identify the key leaders, prophets, and turning points in Israel’s history
- Recognize the patterns of rebellion and restoration in God's dealings with His people
- Apply timeless principles of leadership, obedience, judgment, and hope to the Church and personal life
- See Christ foreshadowed in the leaders, events, and deliverance stories throughout Israel’s history
