Lesson 10, May 30-June 5
Sabbath Afternoon
Read for This Week’s Study: 1 Samuel 17; Isaiah 36:1-3, 37:14-38; Daniel 1, 5; Matthew 26:57-67; Hebrews 11.
Memory Text: “I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.” Exodus 20:2 (also Deuteronomy 5:6).
The Bible is constituted in history. Biblical history moves in a linear direction from an absolute beginning, when God created all things, to an ultimate goal, when He will restore the earth at His Second Coming.
The historical nature of Scripture is one characteristic that distinguishes it from the sacred books of other religions. The Bible assumes the existence of a God who personally acts in history; it does not try to prove that existence. In the beginning, God speaks, and life on earth is created (Genesis 1:1-31). He calls Abram out of the Chaldees. He delivers His people from the bondage of Egypt. He writes the Ten Commandments on tablets of stone with His own finger (Exodus 31:18). He sends prophets. He sends judgments. He calls people to live and share His divine law and the plan of salvation with other nations. Ultimately, He sends His Son Jesus Christ into the world, thus dividing history forever.
This week, we’ll look at some of the key issues in history as portrayed in the Bible and also at some of the archaeological evidence that helps substantiate history as expressed in the Bible.
