The AIM Old Testament Module prepares students to understand and interpret the Old Testament and to teach, preach, and study the Old Testament accurately and confidently with others.
The Old Testament Module includes a detailed overview of the Old Testament, including how it came to be in its current form, an introduction to the authors and books of the Old Testament, the types of writing contained in the Old Testament, an introduction to the geography of the Old Testament world, the Ancient Near Eastern background of the Old Testament, how to properly read and understand the Old Testament writings including the first part of Genesis, the Law, the Prophets, and Old Testament Wisdom and Apocalyptic literature, how to teach or preach from the Old Testament, and an advanced, in-depth study of the Book of Amos as an example of applying what you've learned to a specific book of the Old Testament.
This module is suitable for anyone interested in learning how to read, understand, and teach the Old Testament to others, including those who wish a more profound knowledge of the Old Testament, Bible Study leaders, small group leaders, ministers desiring a refresher, or anyone who wants more up-to-date knowledge of Old Testament studies.
Fewer than 10% of Christians have read the entire Old Testament. This is due largely to unfamiliarity with the O.T. world and lack of much-needed training. This survey course introduces the student to the world of the Old Testament, from the historical and geographical background to the formation of the Old Testament itself. Units: Law, Prophets, Wisdom Literature, Psalms, Historical Books, Chronology, the Apocrypha, and more. We will study ancient Hebrew and Aramaic manuscripts in a special workshop, diving into the complex world of manuscript copying. A powerpoint presentation will colorfully illustrate the amazing history of the transmission of the O.T. through the ages. Learn the story of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Learn also about an upcoming opportunity to visit Israel with your congregation. In addition to studying a conservative O.T. textbook, the student will have read the entire O.T. by the time he or she graduates from AIM--as well as the location of 100 useful passages. Field trip: synagogue visit / lecture by Rabbi.
Exegesis and hermeneutics of the Old Testament. Units on interpretation of: Narratives, Law, Psalms, Prophets, Wisdom Literature, and more. Text: Douglas Stuart's How to Read the Bible For All Its Worth. Learn to preach or teach confidently from the Old Testament. This course has the potential to radically change how you read and interact with God's word.
An exegetically sound exposition of the Old Testament book of Amos. Amos is the first of the great writing prophets. From his early days as a humble shepherd in the southern Judah, Amos is called by God to be a prophet to the neighboring northern (and enemy) nation of Israel. Writing during the years immediately preceding the fall of the Israel (722 BC), Amos prophesied impending judgment upon both Israel and Judah-- as well as on the surrounding nations-- for their egregious sins against human rights and oppression of the poor and helpless.
Join Tom Jones, Joey Harris, and Douglas Jacoby for an in-depth look at the meaning of Amos. Learning the lessons of Amos will strengthen our faith in God, provide encouragement in the face of injustice, and equip believers with a solid knowledge of Old Testament prophecy. Amos gives us a glimpse of the heart of God towards all who are oppressed.
Preaching is far, far more than constructing a three-point message, and a sermon is so much more than anecdotes, stories, and personal sharing. Expository sermons have punch and the full authority of the word of God. Without careful exposition, sermons are easily forgotten by the congregation; the preacher does not cause the word of Christ to dwell richly in the congregation (Colossians 3:16). Robinson, Stott, Goldsworthy, and Edwards (through their books) will be some of our instructors. Indeed, biblical preaching has a powerful impact (Matthew 7:28-29)! This course will help anyone (not just ministers!) to think through how to best communicate the Old Testament through public speaking, teaching, and studies, with large groups, small groups, and individuals.