Old Testament Bible Study Assignment Instructions
Overview
Students will complete a Bible study assignment in three parts. They will demonstrate
the correct use of the hermeneutical method in order to properly study, understand,
and teach a passage from the Old Testament using the technique of observation,
interpretation, correlation, and application. Additionally, students will connect the
Bible passage to the redemptive narrative of Scripture and create an opportunity to
teach the passage in a Bible-study setting of their choosing. Examples could include
a church setting, a family Bible study, or discussing the passage with a friend or
roommate. Rather than using the typical research paper format, this Bible study
assignment will be completed by using the Old Testament Bible Study
Template that addresses each component of the hermeneutical method. This
template can be found in the Old Testament Bible Study Assignment page, which
also has a sample paper and rubric.
TEXTBOOK LINK: Everyday Bible Study: Growing in the Christian Faith - Logos
Bible Study
Instructions
First, read the grading rubric and look over the sample document in order to
understand the expectations for this assignment. Then, open the template and begin
to complete the assignment.
Old Testament Bible Study: Observation and Interpretation Assignment
Follow the instructions in the template as you complete the Observation and
Interpretation sections. Refer to the Everyday Bible Study textbook chapters listed in
each section.
Old Testament Bible Study: Correlation and Application Assignment
Read over the instructor feedback for the Observation and Interpretation sections.
Use the principle from the Interpretation section to complete the Correlation and
Application sections.
Old Testament Bible Study: Teaching Assignment
Create a teaching opportunity to go through the interpretive process of Observation,
Interpretation, Correlation, Application. Write a brief report about the teaching
opportunity.
The length requirements are specified in each section of the template. The only
required formatting is to complete the assignment in the template. No citations are
required. The only sources needed are the Bible and the Everyday Bible
Study textbook. You will save the template and submit when completed.
BIBL 105
Page 1 of 6
OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE STUDY SAMPLE
INSTRUCTIONS
For this assignment in three parts, you will be studying the Old Testament story of “Naboth’s
Vineyard” found in 1 Kings 21. You will use the template below in order to complete a study of
this passage. In your study, you will use the skills of Observation, Interpretation, Correlation,
and Application that you have learned through your reading in Everyday Bible Study (EBS). You
will complete this template in three parts and submit the same document each time, incorporating
feedback from the instructor for each submission.
I. Observation
A. I have read 1 Kings 21 in both a formal translation (KJV, NKJV, NASB, ESV, or CSB)
and a functional translation (NIV, NLT, or NCV). Highlight the correct answer. You can
find various Bible translations by searching for them online (EBS ch. 16).
o Yes
o No
B. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying (EBS ch. 15).
1. Main characters: (List them)
Naboth, Ahab, Jezebel, and Elijah
2. Plot: (50–100 words)
Naboth has a vineyard that Ahab, the King of Israel, wants to have for his own. He asks
about acquiring it, but his offer is turned down. Ahab dejectedly returns to the palace. His
wife, Queen Jezebel, devises a scheme to have Naboth murdered, so that Ahab can claim
the vineyard. Elijah the prophet pronounces God’s judgment on both of them for their
evil actions.
3. Story structure: (50–100 words)
Introduction: Description of Naboth’s vineyard and its proximity to the place of the king.
Inciting incident: Naboth’s refusal to sell or trade his vineyard to King Ahab because God
forbids it.
Rising action: Queen Jezebel devices a plan to kill Naboth and the plan is carried out to
completion.
Climax: The prophet Elijah confronts King Ahab in Naboth’s vineyard.
Resolution: God extends mercy to Ahab due to his humble repentance.
C. List basic observations about this passage using the Key Questions from EBS ch. 17.
BIBL 105
Page 2 of 6
1. Who:
Naboth
King Ahab
Queen Jezebel
Elijah
the Lord (speaking to Elijah)
two worthless men
2. What:
Naboth had a vineyard that Ahab wanted to acquire for himself through either a
purchase or trade. Naboth refused to sell or trade his land and told Ahab, “the
Lord forbid me…”
Naboth’s vineyard was his inheritance. The inheritance Naboth is referencing
refers to the way that the Israelites inherited the land through the allocation of
land by God in the book of Joshua. It was to remain with the family and tribe in
perpetuity. Therefore, Naboth was forbidden by God to sell his land.
Naboth’s vineyard was also agriculture property. According to Old Testament
law, farmland could only exchange hands through a limited-lease situation. Land
could be leased until the year of Jubilee. Therefore, Naboth was forbidden by God
to sell or trade it because of Old Testament law.
Ahab sulks because he cannot get what he wants.
Jezebel schemes to have Naboth killed so that Ahab can claim the land that he
would not sell or trade. Her plan works and Naboth is murdered.
Ahab goes to Naboth’s vineyard to seize it, but is met by Elijah who delivers
God’s message of judgment on both Ahab and Jezebel.
3. Where:
Naboth’s Vineyard
Israel (Northern Kingdom)
city of Jezreel
the palace of
Ahab
Samaria (location given to King Ahab)
4. When:
During the reign of King Ahab
During the ministry of Elijah, the prophet
“After these things…” (1 Kings 21:1) - An Aramean war and the failure of Ahab
to follow God’s command (1 Kings 20:26-43)
BIBL 105
Page 3 of 6
5. Why:
Why is Naboth forbidden (The Lord forbid…) to sell his vineyard?
It is the inheritance of his ancestors.
Why did Queen Jezebel device a scheme to have Naboth murdered?
The scheme would give her husband, King Ahab, Naboth’s vineyard.
Why did God not immediately punish Ahab?
Ahab humbled himself before God, and so God relented on the immediate nature
of His punishment.
6. How:
How did Queen Jezebel’s plan unfold?
She had two scoundrels (worthless men) lie about Naboth’s actions of cursing
both God and king.
How did God confront the evil actions of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel?
God sent Elijah to confront the King and pronounce His judgment on both the
king and queen.
II. Interpretation
A. Determine the author’s main point. In 1–2 paragraphs (100–400 words) explain what you
think the author is trying to communicate in this passage. Remember, the Old Testament
narratives frequently communicate truth by showing it to us in story form instead of
telling it to us by way of teaching or sermon. See EBS ch. 28.
The story of Naboth’s vineyard emphasizes the reality that God hears, sees, and knows of
the suffering his people endure. He does not distant and disinterested in the plight of his
children. He is a God of justice and will punish the oppressors, regardless of their
position. Both King Ahab and Queen Jezebel faced the wrath of God for their sins that
led to the death of Naboth. This narrative also highlights the repeated temptation pattern
of “see” and “take” resulting in destruction (Adam & Eve, David & Bathsheba, etc.).
Human beings continue to give in to temptation that leads to the suffering and destruction
of others. It is to this suffering and destruction that God responds with His justice.
B. Based on your answer above, write out one principle from this passage. You should be able
to express this principle in 1-3 sentences. See EBS ch. 33.
God is a God of justice. He will not tolerate evil and he will hold responsible those who
commit acts of injustice. Those who suffer can take comfort in knowing a just God rules
the world.
BIBL 105
Page 4 of 6
III. Correlation
A. How does this Old Testament narrative fit within the metanarrative of the Bible? State what
type of story you believe this to be (creation, fall, redemption, or new creation) and
explain why you believe this to be so. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100–200
words) in length. See EBS chs. 1–2.
The story of Naboth’s vineyard fits within the “fall” theme of the metanarrative of the
Bible. This story highlights the rebellious, sinful, and wicked actions of human beings
who willingly choose to disobey God’s laws. Jezebel disregards both reasons why God
had forbidden the selling or trading of land in His laws. Further, she is also guilty of
breaking God’s law with regards to murder and testifying falsely against a neighbor.
While it is easy to identify the ways in which Jezebel is a law breaker, it should be noted
that Ahab is also guilty of breaking God’s law. Ahab is also guilty of breaking God’s law.
In desiring something that was not his (Naboth’s vineyard), Ahab had coveted something
that belonged to his neighbor.
B. How does your principle fit with the rest of the Scripture? This principle is the one you have
written out in 1-3 sentences in the Interpretation section. If your principle is a true
Biblical principle, it will be reflected throughout the Scriptures. Where is the principle
discovered in this Old Testament narrative found elsewhere in the Scriptures? Your
explanation should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length. See EBS ch. 29.
We live in a fallen and rebellious world. This reality results in the suffering of
individuals. In this case, Naboth suffered at the hands of a rebellious and wicked queen.
However, like the Exodus narrative, God heard, saw, and knew of the suffering of the
Israelites. In this passage, God heard, saw, and knew Naboth’s suffering. Like His
execution of judgment on the Egyptians, God executes justice on both Jezebel and Ahab.
While they may have felt like their actions were concealed, God saw them. While they
may have believed they got away with their sin because God’s justice was delayed, God
would not let evil go unpunished.
C. How does this Old Testament narrative reflect the person and work of Jesus Christ? State
and explain at least one way that the principle of this narrative can be identified in the
person and work of Jesus Christ. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100–200
words) in length. See EBS ch. 30.
Paul writes in Philippians, “You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to.
Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was
born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in
obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross” (Phil 2:5-8 NLT). While
Naboth offers us a glimpse of someone who is unjustly suffering, in Christ Jesus we see
the true picture of a righteous sufferer. Jesus’s life was not one devoid of suffering.
Instead, his life was one of suffering that culminated with the ultimate suffering of
crucifixion. However, it was through Christ’s suffering that God responded to what he
BIBL 105
Page 5 of 6
heard, saw, and knew of his people’s suffering. It was through the cross of Christ that
God rescued human beings from their eternal suffering.
IV. Application
What points of application can be made using the Four Questions for Application (EBS ch.
31)? State and explain 1 point of application for each of these four questions. Your explanation
for each of these points should be 1 paragraph (100–200 words) in length.
A. The question of duty
We have the responsibility of taking care of our neighbors. This is something both the
Old and New Testament specifically address. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were
commanded to be honest, provide justice for all of their neighbors, and to love their
neighbors as themselves (Lev. 19:11-18). In the New Testament, Jesus told the parable of
the good Samaritan in order to highlight what being neighborly looked like. The expert in
the law asked Jesus the question, “Who is my neighbor?” The answer Jesus provides
through the parable does not answer that question and instead poses a question of “Are
you neighborly?” The duty to take care of your neighbors is one that the two scoundrels
who lied about Naboth refused to uphold. We ought to refuse treating our neighbors as
they treated Naboth and instead follow the commands of God and love our neighbors as
we love ourselves.
B. The question of character
Through the examples of Jezebel and Ahab, we see the kind of character we should
avoid. These are two people who have complete disregard for the laws of God. To that
end, they are guilty of coveting, lying, and murder. However, through the example of
Naboth, we see the kind of character we should develop. Naboth follows God’s law and
will not sell or trade his land, because he knows that it is an inheritance given to him by
God through his ancestors. It would have been easy for him to earn some extra money or
perhaps even political favor by breaking the law of God. Instead, he simply affirms the
law of God and holds to it. He will not let monetary or personal gain at the expense of
breaking God’s laws dictate his decisions.
C. The question of goals
The queen’s plan involved two wicked men and the elders and nobles of Naboth’s city.
This group of people went along with Queen Jezebel so that Naboth would be unjustly
tried, convicted, and sentenced to death. These men had the opportunity to pursue justice
and righteousness so that city life conformed to God’s plans. If these men had set their
focus on Godly aims, they would have sided with God’s laws and Naboth instead of the
schemes of the wicked queen. We ought to make it our goal to pursue a life of Godliness
where what we chase after lines up with what God has commanded, instead of wicked
schemes designed for the pursuit of forbidden desires.
D. The question of discernment
BIBL 105
Page 6 of 6
There are power systems in this world that are set up to oppress others and take
advantage of those who have something desirable. However, these systems do not go
unnoticed by the eyes of God. Instead of being an oppressor of the sufferer, He is the one
who executes judgment on those who contribute to and cause the suffering of human
beings. To that end, we should seek to discern where we can be the voice of God for
those who are suffering through actions of justice. These just actions will be
characterized by integrity, honesty, and uprightness. When these types of attributes
represent our response to suffering and injustice, we are demonstrating the character of
our God who is a God of righteousness and justice.
V. Teaching
Create an opportunity to teach this passage in a Bible-study setting of your choosing. Examples
could include a church setting, a family Bible study, or discussing the passage with a friend or
roommate. Use the interpretive method learned above to study the passage (Observe), derive a
principle (Interpretation), compare with other Scriptures (Correlation), and apply to everyday
living (Application). Write a report below of at least 250 words. Comment on what went well,
what was challenging, and what you learned overall through this experience.
For my teaching opportunity, I chose to do a family devotion with my wife and two kids,
who are in elementary school. We ate dinner together as a family, and then I brought my
Bible to the table. Since our kids are young, I read from the passage myself. My wife and
I helped them understand certain things in the passage as we read. Then, I asked them
about the story to see what they observed as they listened to the Bible reading. To my
surprise, the kids commented on almost everything I had written above. My wife added
some of the Why and How questions to what I had observed. Then, we discussed the
interpretation of the passage, which is pretty straightforward. While there are many things
that stand out in this text, we all agreed that one of the main takeaways is the supremacy
of Yahweh over the false gods. I used the principle outlined above to drive the point
home. Then, we turned to two other Old Testament passages that warn about worshiping
other gods and discussed some basic applications, such as honoring the Lord, trusting in
Him alone, and reading God’s Word every day. One thing that went well was that our
kids paid attention. One challenge, though, was trying to simplify the applications so that
they were appropriate for the kids. Overall, this was a terrific experience since we are not
accustomed to doing family devotions like this. My wife and I are encouraged to continue
teaching the Bible to our kids…not just Bible stories.
BIBL 105
Page 1 of 3
OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE STUDY TEMPLATE
INSTRUCTIONS
For this assignment in three parts, you will be studying the Old Testament story of “Elijah and
the Prophets of Baal” found in 1 Kings 17:1; 18:1–46. You will use the template below in order
to complete a study of this passage. In your study, you will use the skills of Observation,
Interpretation, Correlation, and Application that you have learned through your reading in
Everyday Bible Study (EBS). You will complete this template in three parts and submit the same
document each time, incorporating feedback from the instructor for each submission.
I. Observation
A. I have read 1 Kings 17:1; 18:1–46 in both a formal translation (KJV, NKJV, NASB, ESV,
or CSB) and a functional translation (NIV, NLT, or NCV). Highlight the correct answer. You
can find various Bible translations by searching for them online (EBS ch. 16).
o Yes
o No
B. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying (EBS chs. 15 & 33).
1. Main characters: (List them)
2. Plot: (50–100 words)
3. Story structure: (50–100 words)
C. List basic observations about this passage using the Key Questions from EBS ch. 17.
1. Who:
2. What:
3. Where:
4. When:
5. Why:
6. How:
II. Interpretation
A. Determine the author’s main point. In 1–2 paragraphs (100–400 words) explain what you
BIBL 105
Page 2 of 3
think the author is trying to communicate in this passage. Remember, the Old Testament
narratives frequently communicate truth by showing it to us in story form instead of
telling it to us by way of teaching or sermon. See EBS ch. 28.
B. Based on your answer above, write out one principle from this passage. You should be able
to express this principle in 1–3 sentences. See EBS ch. 33.
III. Correlation
A. How does this Old Testament narrative fit within the metanarrative of the Bible? State what
type of story you believe this to be (creation, fall, redemption, or new creation) and
explain why you believe this to be so. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100–200
words) in length. See EBS chs. 1–2.
B. How does your principle fit with the rest of the Scripture? This principle is the one you have
written out in 1-3 sentences in the Interpretation section. If your principle is a true
Biblical principle it will be reflected throughout the Scriptures. Where is the principle
discovered in this Old Testament narrative found elsewhere in the Scriptures? Your
explanation should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length. See EBS ch. 29.
C. How does this Old Testament narrative reflect the person and work of Jesus Christ? State
and explain at least one way that the principle of this narrative can be identified in the
person and work of Jesus Christ. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100–200
words) in length. See EBS ch. 30.
IV. Application
What points of application can be made using the Four Questions for Application (EBS ch.
31)? State and explain 1 point of application for each of these four questions. Your explanation
for each of these points should be 1 paragraph (100–200 words) in length.
A. The question of duty
B. The question of character
C. The question of goals
D. The question of discernment
BIBL 105
Page 3 of 3
V. Teaching
Create an opportunity to teach this passage in a Bible-study setting of your choosing. Examples
could include a church setting, a family Bible study, or discussing the passage with a friend or
roommate. Use the interpretive method learned above to study the passage (Observe), derive a
principle (Interpretation), compare with other Scriptures (Correlation), and apply to everyday
living (Application). Write a report below of at least 250 words. Comment on what went well,
what was challenging, and what you learned overall through this experience.
BIBL 105
Page 1 of 7
OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE STUDY TEMPLATE
Student's First Name, Middle Initial(s), Last Name
Institutional Affiliation
Course Number and Name
Instructor's Name and Title
Due Date
BIBL 105
Page 2 of 7
OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE STUDY TEMPLATE
INSTRUCTIONS
For this assignment in three parts, you will be studying the Old Testament story of "Elijah and
the Prophets of Baal" found in 1 Kings 17:1; 18:1–46. You will use the template below in order
to complete a study of this passage. In your study, you will use the skills of Observation,
Interpretation, Correlation, and Application that you have learned through your reading in
Everyday Bible Study (EBS). You will complete this template in three parts and submit the same
document each time, incorporating feedback from the instructor for each submission.
I. Observation
A. I have read 1 Kings 17:1; 18:1–46 in both a formal translation (KJV, NKJV, NASB, ESV,
or CSB) and a functional translation (NIV, NLT, or NCV). Highlight the correct answer. You
can find various Bible translations by searching for them online (EBS ch. 16).
o Yes
o No
B. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying (EBS chs. 15 & 33).
1. Main characters: (List them)
God, Elijah, Ahab (King of Israel), Jezebel (Queen of Israel), Obadiah (a servant of
Ahab), The prophets of Baal, the people of Israel
2. Plot: (50–100 words)
In this biblical story, Elijah engages in a fiery confrontation with the prophets of
Baal to demonstrate the superiority of the true God. While Elijah's God responds
by devouring fire, the prophets of Baal fail when Elijah challenges them to a
contest to discover whose God can answer with fire. The false prophets are
destroyed due to this manifestation of God's might, and the Israelites come to
understand the real nature of their God.
3. Story structure: (50–100 words)
Introduction: The story introduces Elijah and the announcement of drought (1 Kings
17:1).
Inciting incident: Elijah meets a widow at Zarephath and performs a miracle by
providing food and oil (1 Kings 17:8-16).
Rising action: Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, leading to a
contest (1 Kings 18:20-40).
Climax: The climax occurs during the contest between Elijah and the prophets of
Baal.
Resolution: The drought ends, and Elijah departs (1 Kings 18:41-46).
C. List basic observations about this passage using the Key Questions from EBS ch. 17.
1. Who:
God, Elijah, Ahab, Jezebel, Obadiah, The prophets of Baal, the people of Israel
BIBL 105
Page 3 of 7
2. What:
Elijah announces a drought in the land
Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to a contest to prove the true God
The prophets of Baal failed to receive an answer from their God
Elijah calls upon God, who answers with fire and consumes the offering
The people recognize the power of the true God and turn away from the false
prophets
3. Where:
The story takes place in the kingdom of Israel, specifically on Mount Carmel,
where the contest between Elijah and the prophets of Baal occurs.
4. When:
During a time of spiritual decline and idolatry in Israel's history, the story unfolds
amidst the reign of King Ahab.
5. Why:
Why did Elijah confront the prophets of Baal?
To expose their gods' falsehood and demonstrate the true God's power.
Why did Elijah want to demonstrate the true God's power?
To bring the people of Israel back to the worship of the Lord and turn
away from idolatry.
Why did Elijah want the people to turn away from idolatry?
Because idolatry violated the First Commandment, leading the people
away from the true God.
6. How:
How did Elijah challenge the prophets of Baal?
Elijah proposed a contest where both parties would prepare offerings and
call upon their respective gods to send fire.
How did the prophets of Baal respond to Elijah's challenge?
The prophets of Baal accepted the challenge and prepared their offering.
How did Elijah's challenge unfold?
Elijah allowed the prophets of Baal to go first in the contest.
How did the prophets of Baal attempt to call upon their god?
The prophets of Baal called upon their god by fervently praying and
chanting.
How did the prophets of Baal's attempts fail?
Despite their efforts, their god did not answer their prayers and did not
send fire.
How did Elijah demonstrate the power of his God?
BIBL 105
Page 4 of 7
After the failure of the prophets of Baal, Elijah prepared his offering and
called upon his God.
How did Elijah's God respond to his call?
Elijah's God answered his call by sending fire upon the offering,
consuming it completely.
How did Elijah's God affirm His power and authority?
The fire sent by Elijah's God was undeniable proof of His power and
authority, demonstrating He was the true God.
II. Interpretation
A. Determine the author's main point. In 1–2 paragraphs (100–400 words), explain what you
think the author is trying to communicate in this passage. Remember, the Old Testament
narratives frequently communicate truth by showing it to us in story form instead of
telling it to us by way of teaching or sermon. See EBS ch. 28.
The author's goal in telling the tale of "Elijah and the Prophets of Baal" is to demonstrate
the superiority of the true God over idols and false deities. The story illustrates the value
of loyalty and submission to the Lord, contrasting it with the idolatrous practices of the
prophets of Baal and the spiritual decline under King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. Through
the dramatic contest on Mount Carmel, the author portrays the ineffectiveness and
emptiness of false worship while highlighting the miraculous intervention and
demonstration of power by the true God in response to Elijah's unwavering faith.
The story also serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the consequences of
turning away from the Lord. The drought and subsequent confrontation expose the
spiritual depravity of Israel under the influence of foreign gods and the corruption of their
leaders. By witnessing the failure of the prophets of Baal and the powerful manifestation
of God's presence, the people are invited to return to worship the true God, reaffirming
His sovereignty and the importance of remaining faithful to Him.
B. Based on your answer above, write out one principle from this passage. You should be able
to express this principle in 1–3 sentences. See EBS ch. 33.
One principle derived from this passage is that true worship and devotion are found in
wholehearted commitment to the true God, who demonstrates His power and answers the
call of His faithful servants. Underscoring the futility of idolatry and the emptiness of
chasing false gods, this principle emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith,
obedience, and trust in the Lord. Only through these can one achieve authentic spiritual
fulfillment and redemption.
III. Correlation
A. How does this Old Testament narrative fit within the metanarrative of the Bible? State what
type of story you believe this to be (creation, fall, redemption, or new creation) and
explain why you believe this to be so. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100–200
words) in length. See EBS chs. 1–2.
Within the meta-narrative of the Bible, the tale of "Elijah and the Prophets of Baal" might
be viewed as a story of redemption. Although it does not provide the complete redeeming
story, it does reflect a significant episode of God's redemptive plan unfolding. The
BIBL 105
Page 5 of 7
narrative highlights the fallen state of Israel due to its idolatrous practices, representing
the consequences of the fall. Through Elijah's faithful intervention and the miraculous
demonstration of God's power, a redemptive act reveals God's desire to restore His
people and draw them back to Himself. The story showcases God's sovereignty and
willingness to redeem and renew His chosen nation, paving the way for future acts of
redemption and pointing toward the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ.
B. How does your principle fit with the rest of the Scripture? This principle is the one you have
written out in 1-3 sentences in the Interpretation section. If your principle is a true
Biblical principle it will be reflected throughout the Scriptures. Where is the principle
discovered in this Old Testament narrative found elsewhere in the Scriptures? Your
explanation should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length. See EBS ch. 29.
The principle derived from the narrative emphasizes the importance of wholehearted
worship and commitment to the true God, a genuine Biblical idea that appears in all
Scriptures. The Israelites are taught to love the Lord with all of their heart, soul, and
strength in various places in the Old Testament, such as Deuteronomy 6:5, implying the
same devotion and wholeheartedness found in the story of Elijah. In the New Testament,
Jesus Himself affirms this principle in Matthew 22:37 when He says that the greatest
commandment is to love the Lord one's selflessly and completely. This echoes the
message of the Elijah narrative, underscoring the enduring nature of this principle in the
overarching message of Scripture.
C. How does this Old Testament narrative reflect the person and work of Jesus Christ? State
and explain at least one way that the principle of this narrative can be identified in the
person and work of Jesus Christ. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100–200
words) in length. See EBS ch. 30.
The principle of wholehearted devotion to the true God found in the story of Elijah
resonates with the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus exemplified complete and
unwavering devotion to His Father, demonstrating perfect love and obedience in His
earthly ministry. Just as Elijah confronted the false prophets and pointed people back to
the true God, Jesus confronted the religious leaders of His time who propagated empty
religious practices. Jesus, as the sacrificial Lamb, has revealed Himself to be God's
perfect solution to the problem of achieving redemption. His message to humankind was
clear - abandon idolatry and rely only upon Him for salvation. Through His life, death,
and rebirth, the path has been cleared for humankind to revere the genuine God with all
their hearts again, thus reinstating the connection between divinity and its people.
IV. Application
What points of application can be made using the Four Questions for Application (EBS ch.
31)? State and explain 1 point of application for each of these four questions. Your explanation
for each of these points should be 1 paragraph (100–200 words) in length.
A. The question of duty
One important lesson drawn from the tale of "Elijah and the Prophets of Baal" is
maintaining our convictions and being bold while confronting untruth. In the same way that
Elijah fearlessly challenged the prophets of Baal and declared the truth of God, we are
BIBL 105
Page 6 of 7
obligated to protect and defend the truth of the Gospel in our lives. We must diligently
study and understand God's Word, discern false teachings or idols that may hinder our
relationship with God, and boldly proclaim the truth to those around us. By fulfilling this
duty, we can be effective witnesses for Christ and lead others to the knowledge and
worship of the true God.
B. The question of character
The story of Elijah highlights the character trait of unwavering faith and trust in God. An
application point regarding character is cultivating and strengthening our faith in God's
power and faithfulness. We are commanded to put our faith in God's promises, despite
difficulties or resistance, just as Elijah did because he had unshakeable faith in God's
capacity to respond with fire. This involves deepening our relationship with God through
prayer, studying His Word, and relying on His guidance and strength. Developing a
character of faith will enable us to overcome obstacles, persevere in difficult times, and
experience the fullness of God's provision and blessings.
C. The question of goals
One point of application regarding goals from this narrative is prioritizing the worship of
the true God above all else. The story of Elijah demonstrates the importance of aligning our
goals and desires with God's will and seeking His kingdom above earthly pursuits. We are
called to set our hearts on eternal values and seek to honor and glorify God in all aspects of
our lives. This requires examining our goals and aspirations, ensuring they align with God's
Word and purposes. By making God the central focus of our lives and pursuing His
righteousness, we can experience the true fulfillment and purpose that come from walking
in alignment with His will.
D. The question of discernment
The story of Elijah emphasizes the need for discernment between true and false worship.
An application point regarding discernment is cultivating a discerning spirit and testing all
things against the truth of God's Word. We must be cautious in spotting what is real and
fake in a society with many different opinions and philosophies. This entails frequently
going through the Bible in study and meditation, asking the Holy Spirit for direction, and
contrasting teachings and practices with the ideas and truths in God's Word. By developing
discernment, we can guard ourselves against deception and ensure our beliefs and actions
align with God's revealed truth.
V. Teaching
Create an opportunity to teach this passage in a Bible-study setting of your choosing. Examples
could include a church setting, a family Bible study, or discussing the passage with a friend or
roommate. Use the interpretive method learned above to study the passage (Observe), derive a
principle (Interpretation), compare it with other Scriptures (Correlation), and apply it to
everyday living (Application). Write a report below of at least 250 words. Comment on what
went well, what was challenging, and what you learned overall through this experience.
BIBL 105
Page 7 of 7
I created a teaching opportunity for this assignment in a small group Bible study setting
with friends. We focused on studying the passage of "Elijah and the Prophets of Baal" found in
1 King 17:1; 18:1–46. We followed the interpretive method of Observation, Interpretation,
Correlation, and Application to delve into the text and uncover its deeper meaning and
practical application for our lives. With a desire for enlightenment and wisdom from God's
Word, we began our lesson with a prayer. Our first stage involved a group reading of the
passage through various translations, focusing on Observation. Key characters, plot, and
structure were emphasized as we marked important details using Everyday Bible Study's
guiding questions. Next, we moved into the Interpretation phase, discussing the author's main
point in the narrative. The call for wholehearted devotion and faithfulness to the true God was
emphasized in the story, showcasing His power and supremacy over the false gods. We derived
a principle from this passage, expressing the importance of unwavering commitment to the true
God and the futility of idolatry.
In the Correlation step, we examined how this Old Testament narrative fit within the
metanarrative of the Bible. In our analysis, we recognized the tale as one of redemption, a
testament to God's longing to restore and save His people from the effects of wrongdoing. Our
linkages were made with other Old Testament verses accentuating the duty to hold love and
devotion for God with every ounce of our being. Additionally, we explored how this principle
of wholehearted devotion can be seen throughout Scripture, particularly in the teachings of
Jesus. Finally, we applied the lessons from the passage to our everyday lives. We discussed the
various facets of the application using the Four Questions for Application: duty, character,
objectives, and discernment. We encouraged one another to stand firm in our faith, prioritize
worshiping the true God, align our goals with His purposes, and develop a discerning spirit
through studying His Word.
Overall, the teaching experience was enriching and fruitful. Engaging in open and
meaningful discussions was a success during our collaborative study, as diverse perspectives
and insights were shared, strengthening our comprehension of the text. Nonetheless, the task of
balancing the depth of analysis while maintaining practicality and relatability proved to be
difficult. It demanded thoughtful consideration to ensure the teaching wasn't purely academic
but suitable for our spiritual growth. This encounter emphasized the significance of
approaching Scripture with a teachable spirit and humility. Throughout Scripture, we can trace
the threads of truth and gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and interconnectedness of
the Word of God. Prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit for guidance and illumination
were also emphasized as significant.
