Lesson 1 Short Answer Questions

These questions are designed to help you understand the material covered in the lesson. We cover a lot of content in the class, so it is important that you have a way to think through it. I have found that many students miss some important points because of the speed with which we move through the lectures.

Please write out your responses on a separate sheet of paper (handwritten or typed). You can then compare your answers to the answers provided at the bottom. I would encourage you to share your work with a parent or teacher to spark additional discussion.

1. What is the goal of the class?
2. Why does the class begin with Luke 24, and how does Jesus explain the Old Testament there?
3. Why is the NASB Study Bible recommended, and how should students use its study notes?
4. What does “Old Testament” mean, and why is it foundational rather than just “old”?
5. How is Genesis 1 structured, and what does this reveal about God’s creation?
6. How does the principle of “Scripture Interpreting Scripture” work, using examples from the class?
7. Why is history central to the Old Testament, and how does it relate to biblical faith?
8. Why is active study of the Old Testament important, and what tools should students use?

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1. What is the goal of the class?

The class aims to show how the Old Testament connects to Jesus Christ. It challenges a student’s knowledge through difficult questions, historical content, and theological concepts. The goal is not just familiarity but deep understanding of the Bible, emphasizing that the Old Testament leads to Jesus, just as He taught.

2. Why does the class begin with Luke 24, and how does Jesus explain the Old Testament there?

The class starts with Luke 24 to highlight Jesus’ teaching on the Road to Emmaus, where He explains how the Old Testament points to Him. After His resurrection, Jesus meets two disciples and calls them foolish for not recognizing that Moses and the Prophets foretold His suffering and glory. He interprets the Scriptures, showing that the entire Old Testament testifies about Him. This sets the foundation for the class, as Jesus’ first post-resurrection teaching focuses on the Old Testament’s role in revealing Him. Using the principle of Scripture Interpreting Scripture, this New Testament passage explains the Old Testament’s purpose in leading to Christ.

3. Why is the NASB Study Bible recommended, and how should students use its study notes?

The NASB Study Bible is recommended for its accurate translation and accessible study notes, which provide historical and theological background. The instructor prefers it to keep everyone on the same page, noting its older but precise style. Students should use the notes to understand cross-references, footnotes, and context, such as verse divisions added in the Middle Ages. Subheadings like “The Resurrection” and “The Road to Emmaus” in Luke 24 help navigation, though not original. This tool aids in deeper interpretation without overwhelming beginners.

Note: Since the recording of this class, the NASB Study Bible has gone out of print. Although it is available in used copies, we now recommend the ESV Student Study Bible or ESV Study Bible.

4. What does “Old Testament” mean, and why is it foundational rather than just “old”?

The term “Old Testament” means “Old Covenant,” referring to God’s covenant bond with His people before Jesus established the New Covenant. It is foundational to Christianity, as Jesus constantly quoted it, calling it “Moses and the Prophets” or “the Law and the Prophets.” The Old Testament records real history, preserved meticulously by the Jews, unlike other ancient civilizations. Its events are essential for understanding biblical faith, as Jesus relied on it for authority since the New Testament did not yet exist.

5. How is Genesis 1 structured, and what does this reveal about God’s creation?

Genesis 1 is structured around six days: Days 1-3 form the world (light and darkness on Day 1, sky and water on Day 2, dry ground and vegetation on Day 3), while Days 4-6 fill it (sun, moon, and stars on Day 4; birds and sea creatures on Day 5; land animals and humans on Day 6). This framework shows God’s intentional design, with patterns like light before its bearers to emphasize His priority over pagan sun and moon gods. It reveals creation as real history, not just a poetic structure, affirming God’s order and purpose.

6. How does the principle of “Scripture Interpreting Scripture” work, using examples from the class?

The principle of Scripture Interpreting Scripture means using the Bible to explain itself through cross-references. For instance, Genesis 1:1-3 describes creation from formless earth, with God creating light and time. Hebrews 11:3 in the New Testament explains this as creation ex nihilo (Latin: from nothing), by faith understanding that God formed the visible from the invisible through His word. Another example is Jesus quoting Deuteronomy during His temptation, showing the Old Testament’s absolute authority. This method ensures internal consistency and deeper insight by connecting passages.

7. Why is history central to the Old Testament, and how does it relate to biblical faith?

History is central because the Old Testament records God’s real actions in time, such as the Exodus referenced in the Ten Commandments: “I am the Lord your God who brought you out of Egypt.” Unlike myths, it preserves detailed events, making faith grounded in verifiable history. Skeptics attack this historicity because if true, the Bible holds authority. Biblical faith relies on these events, as seen in Luke’s research method, interviewing eyewitnesses like a Greek historian, to compile accurate accounts.

8. Why is active study of the Old Testament important, and what tools should students use?

Active study builds confidence in the Bible’s truth and defends one’s faith. Students should take notes to retain knowledge, read introductory materials, and use maps, timelines, and historical backgrounds in study Bibles. Scholarly contributions provide valuable insights; reading beyond assigned texts, like introductions, relies on the work of experts. This approach transforms superficial knowledge into profound understanding.