Old Testament 2026
Week 1
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Week | 01 |
| Dates | December 29, 2025 – January 4, 2026 |
| Reading | Introduction to the Old Testament |
| CFM Manual | Introduction Lesson |
| Total Chapters | Introductory Material |
| Approximate Verses | N/A (Preparatory Week) |
This opening week serves as a foundation for an entire year of studying the Old Testament—one of the oldest and most influential collections of writings in human history. Rather than diving directly into specific chapters, this week invites us to step back and consider how we will approach this ancient text and why it matters for our covenant journey today.
The Come, Follow Me manual acknowledges that feelings about studying the Old Testament may range from eager anticipation to genuine uncertainty. This is natural. The Old Testament comes from an ancient Near Eastern culture that can seem foreign, and its stories sometimes contain difficult or uncomfortable elements. Yet within these pages, we encounter people remarkably like ourselves—experiencing family joy and discord, moments of faith and doubt, successes and failures.
More importantly, this week establishes the central lens through which Latter-day Saints approach the Old Testament: it is a witness of Jesus Christ. From the sacrificial lamb to the brass serpent, from manna in the wilderness to Jonah in the belly of the great fish—the Old Testament is filled with symbols, types, and prophecies that point us toward the Savior and His Atonement.
President Marion G. Romney declared: "The message of the Old Testament is the message of Christ and his coming and his atonement." Every prophecy, symbol, and covenant in these ancient texts ultimately points to the Redeemer. As Moses taught: "All things have their likeness, and all things are created and made to bear record of me" (Moses 6:63). Learning to see Christ in the Old Testament transforms these ancient writings from historical curiosity into living scripture.
A foundational understanding for Latter-day Saint study: the God who speaks throughout the Old Testament is Jesus Christ in His premortal state. When we read "the LORD God" (Hebrew: Yahweh Elohim), we are reading about Jehovah—the premortal Christ who created the world, spoke to Moses, led Israel through the wilderness, and covenanted with Abraham. President Dallin H. Oaks taught that "the scriptural records of words spoken by 'God' or the 'Lord' are almost always the words of Jehovah, our risen Lord, Jesus Christ."
The Old Testament is fundamentally the story of God seeking to make His people a "peculiar treasure" through covenant (Exodus 19:5). The Hebrew word for covenant (berit) appears over 280 times in the Old Testament. Understanding covenants—their nature, their promises, their requirements—is essential to understanding everything from Abraham's journey to Israel's wanderings to the prophets' warnings. President Russell M. Nelson has emphasized that the "everlasting covenant" reveals a God desperately seeking relationship with His children.
| Person | Role | Significance This Week |
|---|---|---|
| Moses | Prophet, Lawgiver, Author | Traditional author of Genesis-Deuteronomy; his restoration of "plain and precious things" through Joseph Smith enriches our study |
| Abraham | Patriarch | The Abrahamic covenant becomes a central theme throughout the Old Testament |
| Jehovah | God of Israel | Understanding Jesus Christ as the pre-mortal Jehovah is foundational |
| Joseph Smith | Latter-day Prophet | Restored clarifying texts (Book of Moses, Book of Abraham, JST) that illuminate Old Testament passages |
Historical Period: Introductory/Overview
Approximate Dates: The Old Testament covers approximately 4,000 years of history—from Creation through the post-exilic period (roughly 400 BC)
World Context: The Old Testament world spans from the earliest civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt through the Persian Empire. Understanding Ancient Near Eastern context illuminates these texts.
Biblical Timeline Position: This week provides the framework for understanding the entire Old Testament narrative arc:
Arranged in four sections:
This three-part structure is ancient, referenced in the Dead Sea Scrolls and even by Jesus Himself (Luke 24:44).
The Book of Moses and Book of Abraham provide essential restored context for Genesis:
The temple is perhaps the most significant through-line connecting the Old Testament to Latter-day Saint worship. This year's study will reveal:
The Old Testament is, in many ways, a temple text. President Russell M. Nelson has taught that understanding the temple helps us understand the scriptures, and vice versa.
Manual Focus: Approaching the Old Testament with faith, looking for Jesus Christ, and understanding covenants
Key Questions from Manual:
Manual's Suggested Activities:
If You Have Limited Time (Essential Reading):
If You Have More Time (Full Reading with Highlights):
For Deep Study:
Dr. Josh Sears offers a transformative reframe: the tendency when reading the Old Testament is to "hunt for Messianic prophecies" and skip over everything else. But Jehovah IS Jesus Christ acting in real-time throughout the narrative. When Moses encounters God at the burning bush, that's not just "pointing to" Christ—that IS Christ. In Isaiah 7, there are 13+ references to "the LORD" (Jehovah) versus just one Messianic prophecy (v. 14). Reading for Jehovah rather than just for prophecies transforms every chapter.
Practical Application: Whenever you see "LORD" (all caps), substitute "Jesus" and see how the narrative changes.
Taylor Halverson and Mike Harris offer a reframe on God's relationship with Israel: Belonging > Belief + Behavior. God doesn't wait for Israel to get their act together before claiming them. He says "you are my people" first. This grace-first framework, rooted in the Hebrew words chesed (covenantal loyalty) and chen (favor/grace), colors how we should read every Old Testament story.
Dr. Lynne Wilson makes a surprising discovery: the book of Genesis never mentions temptation, Satan, or devil. The entire Old Testament uses "devil" zero times and "Satan" only appears in Job and Chronicles. Dr. Wilson suggests this is "one of those precious things that were removed from the scriptures." This is why Moses 1's revelation about Satan as deceiver is so essential—it's restored truth that helps us understand the adversary in ways other Abrahamic faiths don't.
President James E. Faust reinforced why this restored knowledge matters: Satan is "the great imitator, the master deceiver, the arch counterfeiter, and the great forger." He "comes as a thief in the night; he is a wolf in sheep's clothing" with "such perfect disguise that many do not recognize either him or his methods" ("The Great Imitator," October 1987 General Conference).
Dr. Kerry Muhlestein encourages readers to recognize the lens they bring before reading the Old Testament. Are you reading with assumptions about God's character? Expectations about what scripture "should" say? Let God tell you who He is rather than imposing expectations. The Old Testament reveals a God who is both "divine warrior" with sword in hand AND gentle shepherd—both fully present, not contradictory.
For those wanting a systematic approach to Old Testament study, Dr. Barbara Morgan Gardner offers an organizing framework based on the olive tree (Romans 11, Jacob 5):
This framework helps distinguish between eternal doctrines and cultural applications that may have changed.
The Church officially encourages studying from modern translations alongside the King James Version. John Hilton III provides practical recommendations:
This isn't replacing scripture—it's accessing the same truths in clearer language.
File Status: Complete Created: January 4, 2026 Last Updated: January 4, 2026 Next File: 02_Historical_Cultural_Context.md
Approximate Dates: The Old Testament spans from Creation through approximately 400 BC Biblical Era: All eras—from pre-history through post-exile (this is an overview week) World Historical Context: The Old Testament was composed against the backdrop of the great civilizations of the Ancient Near East: Egypt, Mesopotamia (Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, Assyria), the Hittites, Persians, and various Canaanite city-states.
Primary Locations:
| Location | Modern Region | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Mesopotamia | Iraq/Syria | Origin of Abraham; Babylon and Assyria |
| Canaan | Israel/Palestine | The Promised Land |
| Egypt | Egypt | Site of bondage and exodus |
| Sinai Peninsula | Egypt/Israel border | Covenant-making with Moses |
| Persia | Iran | Freed Israel from exile |
Map Reference: LDS Bible Maps 1-6 provide overview of Old Testament world
The Old Testament unfolds across multiple political eras:
The Old Testament was written by people in the Ancient Near East for people in the Ancient Near East. The original audience understood cultural practices, literary conventions, and religious concepts that modern Western readers often miss. Learning about the ANE world helps us:
Description: In the ANE, covenants were binding agreements between parties—often between a greater king (suzerain) and a lesser king (vassal). These treaties followed recognizable patterns: historical prologue, stipulations, blessings/curses, witnesses, and document deposit in a temple.
Biblical Significance: God's covenants with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David follow similar patterns, but with crucial differences—particularly God's gracious initiative and His binding Himself to bless His people.
Description: Ancient temples were conceived as the meeting place between heaven and earth, the dwelling of deity, and often as a model of the cosmos. Ziggurats in Mesopotamia and temples in Egypt reflected this understanding.
Biblical Significance: The Tabernacle and Temple of Solomon embody these concepts but redirect them toward Yahweh alone. The Garden of Eden itself is described with temple imagery.
Description: All ANE cultures practiced animal sacrifice as a means of approaching deity, making restitution, or securing favor. Blood was considered the carrier of life.
Biblical Significance: The Israelite sacrificial system shares surface similarities with neighbors but serves fundamentally different purposes—particularly as types pointing to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.
Egyptian Religion:
Mesopotamian Religion:
Canaanite Religion:
Contrast with Israelite Worship:
Note: Early Israel shows evidence of henotheism (worship of one God while acknowledging others exist) and awareness of a divine council (see Psalm 82; 1 Kings 22:19-23). The strict "one God alone" emphasis develops particularly from Moses onward. Latter-day Saint theology acknowledges the Godhead as three distinct beings united in purpose—what the Hebrew echad (אֶחָד) in Deuteronomy 6:4 suggests: "united as one."
The Old Testament is not a single book but a library of diverse writings composed over centuries in various genres. Approaching it requires genre awareness.
| Genre | Books/Sections | How to Read It |
|---|---|---|
| Narrative | Genesis-Esther | Look for plot, characterization, dialogue |
| Law/Torah | Exodus 20-40, Leviticus, Deuteronomy | Covenant stipulations; principles behind specifics |
| Poetry/Wisdom | Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes | Parallelism, imagery, emotional expression |
| Prophecy | Isaiah-Malachi | Forthtelling vs. foretelling; historical context |
| Apocalyptic | Daniel, Ezekiel, Zechariah | Symbolic language, cosmic scope, vindication |
Parallelism (especially in poetry):
Repetition: Hebrew writers repeat key words, phrases, and ideas for emphasis. What appears redundant may signal importance.
Chiasmus: A-B-C-B'-A' structures where the center carries the main point. Common in Hebrew thought.
Type-Scenes: Recurring patterns (meeting at a well, birth announcements, call narratives) that create expectations the reader can follow.
Wordplay: Hebrew uses puns, alliteration, and sound patterns often lost in translation.
Understanding how to read scripture is as important as what we read. Two frameworks prove particularly valuable for Old Testament study.
Jewish tradition identifies four levels of scriptural meaning, forming an acronym that spells PaRDeS (פַּרְדֵּס)—Hebrew for "garden" or "paradise":
| Level | Hebrew | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peshat | פְּשָׁט | Plain | Literal, straightforward meaning |
| Remez | רֶמֶז | Hint | Allegorical meaning; allusions to deeper truths |
| Derash | דְּרָשׁ | Search | Homiletical; interpretive applications |
| Sod | סוֹד | Secret | Mystical or hidden meaning |
For LDS Study:
In his October 1986 Ensign article, "Understanding Scriptural Symbols," Gerald N. Lund offered six principles for interpreting scriptural symbolism, to which a seventh has been added:
Joseph Smith's Foundation: > "Whenever God gives a vision of an image, or beast, or figure of any kind, He always holds Himself responsible to give a revelation or interpretation of the meaning thereof." > — Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 291
Author: Moses traditionally credited with the Torah (Genesis-Deuteronomy); various prophets and scribes for other books Writing Period: Spans from Moses (~1400 BC) through post-exilic period (~400 BC) LDS Perspective: Modern prophets affirm Moses as the foundational author of the Torah while acknowledging that prophetic scribes may have made additions and preserved the texts over time
The same books are arranged differently:
TaNaK (Jewish):
Christian Old Testament (39):
The TaNaK order is more ancient and may reflect original compositional intent. For example, Chronicles as the final book ends with hope for return, while the Christian order ends with Malachi's prophecy of Elijah's return.
The Hebrew text was carefully preserved by Jewish scribes, eventually standardized as the Masoretic Text (MT). The Greek Septuagint (LXX) translation (~250-100 BC) was widely used in Jesus' day and by New Testament authors. The Dead Sea Scrolls (discovered 1947) confirmed remarkable preservation of the biblical text.
Book of Moses: Received through revelation 1830-1831, restores significant portions of Genesis, including:
Book of Abraham: Received 1835 while examining Egyptian papyri, provides:
Joseph Smith Translation (JST): Clarifications throughout the Bible, many included in LDS footnotes and appendix. Key changes appear in Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, Isaiah, and throughout.
Joseph Smith: "The Old Testament is one of the best books in the world" and should be studied to understand covenants, prophecy, and types of Christ.
Modern Prophets: Have consistently emphasized that the Old Testament, properly understood through the Spirit and restoration texts, witnesses of Christ and teaches covenant principles central to temple worship.
Because it was written in and for an ancient culture very different from our own. Learning that context helps bridge the gap.
The Book of Moses, Book of Abraham, and JST restore "plain and precious things" lost or obscured over centuries of transmission.
With humility, recognizing cultural context, seeking the Spirit's guidance, and trusting that prophetic interpretation will clarify what matters most.
Monotheism, ethical emphasis, covenant relationship, historical revelation, and prophetic tradition distinguish Israel's faith from surrounding religions.
File Status: Complete Created: January 4, 2026 Last Updated: January 4, 2026 Next File: 03_Key_Passages_Study.md
This introductory week does not have a specific scripture reading assignment in the traditional sense. Instead, the Come, Follow Me manual focuses on preparing hearts and minds for the year-long journey through the Old Testament. The emphasis is on understanding how to approach these ancient texts and why they matter for Latter-day Saints.
The CFM manual highlights four foundational concepts: (1) The Old Testament testifies of Jesus Christ through types, symbols, and prophecies; (2) Jesus Christ is Jehovah, the God of the Old Testament; (3) Joseph Smith restored "plain and precious things" that clarify Old Testament passages; and (4) Covenants are the central theme connecting God to His people throughout scripture.
This week's key passages are drawn from the scriptures referenced in the CFM manual and preparatory materials rather than from a sequential reading assignment.
These passages were chosen because the CFM manual explicitly references them as foundational for understanding the entire Old Testament. They establish the interpretive framework Latter-day Saints use to approach these ancient texts—seeing Christ in types and symbols, understanding Jesus as Jehovah, recognizing restored truths, and appreciating covenant theology.
This week's passages span multiple genres: law/instruction (Moses 6:63), historical narrative with prophetic vision (1 Nephi 13), and prophetic discourse (Exodus 3, 6). Reading across genres requires flexibility—poetry is meant to evoke and inspire, narrative is meant to show rather than tell, and prophetic vision uses symbolic imagery.
Moses 6:63
> And behold, all things have their likeness, and all things are created and made to bear record of me, both things which are temporal, and things which are spiritual; things which are in the heavens above, and things which are on the earth, and things which are in the earth, and things which are under the earth, both above and beneath: all things bear record of me.
Structure Type: Comprehensive Enumeration with Inclusio
The verse opens with "all things" and closes with "all things," creating an inclusio that emphasizes totality. Between these bookends, the passage systematically lists every realm of creation:
Significance of Structure: The exhaustive listing leaves no category uncovered. There is nothing in all creation that does not point to Christ. This totalizing structure mirrors the universal scope of Christ's Atonement.
This verse appears in the restored account of Adam receiving instruction about sacrificial ordinances. In the Ancient Near East, sacrifice was universal but often served to appease capricious gods. Here, God explains that sacrifice is pedagogical—it teaches about the coming Redeemer.
This is one of the most sweeping Christological statements in scripture. It establishes that:
This verse provides the lens for reading the entire Old Testament. Every sacrifice, every deliverance, every prophetic promise participates in a grand testimony of Jesus Christ.
While this passage comes from restoration scripture rather than biblical Hebrew, the concept aligns with the Hebrew understanding of mashal (מָשָׁל) — parable, likeness, or comparison. Creation functions as God's living parable.
Old Testament:
New Testament:
Book of Mormon:
This verse is central to temple understanding. Temple symbolism—from the veil to the ordinances—participates in the cosmic testimony of Christ. President Russell M. Nelson has taught that the temple helps us see symbols in scripture, and scripture helps us see symbols in the temple.
Exodus 3:13-15
> 13 And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? > > 14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. > > 15 And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.
Structure Type: Call Narrative with Divine Self-Disclosure
This passage follows the biblical call narrative pattern but reaches its climax in divine self-revelation. The structure moves from question (v.13) → answer (v.14) → expansion and perpetual declaration (v.15).
Significance of Structure: Moses asks for information to share with Israel; God responds with revelation about His own nature. The name is not merely identification—it is theology.
In Ancient Near Eastern culture, knowing a god's name meant having access to that god's power. Names revealed character and function. Pharaoh's gods had names tied to natural phenomena (Ra = sun, Hapi = Nile). By contrast, YHWH's name reveals being itself—existence, presence, reliability.
The Divine Name (YHWH/Jehovah): The Hebrew אֶהְיֶה אֲשֶׁר אֶהְיֶה (ehyeh asher ehyeh) is notoriously difficult to translate. Options include:
The name Yahweh (יהוה) derives from the same root (hayah = to be). It appears over 6,800 times in the Old Testament, rendered as "LORD" (all caps) in English Bibles.
Jesus as Jehovah: This passage is foundational for understanding that Jesus Christ is the God of the Old Testament. When Jesus declared "Before Abraham was, I AM" (John 8:58), He claimed the divine name for Himself—and the Jews understood this, picking up stones to kill Him for blasphemy.
ehyeh (אֶהְיֶה)
Yahweh/YHWH (יהוה)
Old Testament:
New Testament:
Book of Mormon:
Doctrine & Covenants:
Latter-day revelation clarifies what the Bible hints: Jehovah/YHWH is the premortal Jesus Christ, acting under the direction of the Father. This understanding transforms Old Testament reading—every interaction with "the LORD" is an interaction with Christ before His mortal birth.
1 Nephi 13:28-29, 40
> 28 Wherefore, thou seest that after the book hath gone forth through the hands of the great and abominable church, that there are many plain and precious things taken away from the book, which is the book of the Lamb of God. > > 29 And after these plain and precious things were taken away it goeth forth unto all the nations of the Gentiles; and after it goeth forth unto all the nations of the Gentiles, yea, even across the many waters which thou hast seen with the Gentiles which have gone forth out of captivity, thou seest—because of the many plain and precious things which have been taken out of the book, which were plain unto the understanding of the children of men, according to the plainness which is in the Lamb of God—because of these things which are taken away out of the gospel of the Lamb, an exceedingly great many do stumble, yea, insomuch that Satan hath great power over them. > > 40 And the angel spake unto me, saying: These last records, which thou hast seen among the Gentiles, shall establish the truth of the first, which are of the twelve apostles of the Lamb, and shall make known the plain and precious things which have been taken away from them; and shall make known to all kindreds, tongues, and people, that the Lamb of God is the Son of the Eternal Father, and the Savior of the world; and that all men must come unto him, or they cannot be saved.
This vision explains why the Bible (including the Old Testament) sometimes seems unclear, contradictory, or incomplete. It was not originally so—"plain and precious things" were removed through transmission and intentional alteration.
The solution is not to abandon the Bible but to read it alongside restoration scriptures—the Book of Mormon, Book of Moses, Book of Abraham, and Doctrine and Covenants—which restore what was lost.
Implications for Old Testament Study:
Old Testament:
Book of Mormon:
Doctrine & Covenants:
This passage provides the theological rationale for the LDS scripture canon. We treasure the Bible while acknowledging its transmission challenges. Restoration scripture doesn't replace the Bible—it restores, clarifies, and validates it.
Exodus 12:3-5; John 1:29
> Exodus 12:3-5: Speak ye unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb, according to the house of their fathers, a lamb for an house: And if the household be too little for the lamb, let him and his neighbour next unto his house take it according to the number of the souls; every man according to his eating shall make your count for the lamb. Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year: ye shall take it out from the sheep, or from the goats. > > John 1:29: The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
The Passover lamb is the paradigmatic Old Testament type of Christ. Every element points forward:
John the Baptist's declaration explicitly connected Jesus to this type, helping his hearers understand Christ's mission through the lens of Exodus.
Old Testament:
New Testament:
Book of Mormon:
Key insight: This verse captures the purpose of scripture study—divine guidance for life's path. The psalmist describes scripture not as a searchlight revealing distant horizons but as a lamp for the next step. Connection: Referenced in CFM manual as expressing the attitude we should bring to Old Testament study.
Key insight: The Shema is the foundational creed of Israelite faith, declaring monotheism amid a polytheistic world. Jesus called this the first and greatest commandment. Hebrew note: The word echad (אֶחָד) means "one" but can imply unity (as in Genesis 2:24, "one flesh"). Connection: Mark 12:29 — Jesus quotes this as the greatest commandment.
Key insight: This prophecy anticipates a covenant written on hearts rather than stone—a prophecy Latter-day Saints see fulfilled in the Restoration. Connection: Hebrews 8:8-12 — Directly quotes this passage as fulfilled in Christ.
Key insight: One of the great Messianic prophecies, looking forward to Christ's miraculous birth. Hebrew note: The Hebrew word almah (עַלְמָה) means "young woman of marriageable age"; the Septuagint translated it as parthenos (virgin), which Matthew affirms. Connection: Matthew 1:22-23
Key insight: This beloved passage names the coming Messiah with divine titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Connection: This passage is a major theme in Handel's Messiah and is referenced throughout Latter-day prophetic teachings.
| Pattern | Where Found | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Typology | Throughout | Physical realities point to Christ |
| Divine Self-Disclosure | Exodus 3, 6 | God reveals Himself through names |
| Restoration Pattern | 1 Nephi 13 | Lost truth → Prophetic restoration |
| Term | Meaning | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| YHWH (יהוה) | "I AM" / "He causes to be" | Divine name revealed to Moses; Jesus is Jehovah |
| Berit (בְּרִית) | Covenant | Central concept connecting all Old Testament narrative |
| Mashal (מָשָׁל) | Parable, likeness | Creation functions as God's living parable of Christ |
| Chesed (חֶסֶד) | Covenantal loyalty/love | God's steadfast love that cannot be earned or destroyed (Scripture Insights) |
| Chen (חֵן) | Grace/favor | God's unmerited favor; same root as "Hannah" (Scripture Insights) |
Jehovah in Real-Time, Not Just Prophecy (Follow Him): Dr. Josh Sears emphasizes that rather than "hunting for Messianic prophecies," we should recognize Jehovah acting throughout the narrative. Isaiah 7 has 13+ references to "the LORD" versus one Messianic prophecy—every reference to Jehovah IS a reference to Christ.
The Belonging Framework (Scripture Insights): Taylor Halverson notes that in the Old Testament, Belonging comes before Belief + Behavior. God claims Israel as "my people" before they've earned anything. This reframes difficult passages where Israel fails—God's covenant love (chesed) persists.
Moses 1 as Temple Text (Lynne Wilson): The introduction to Genesis through Moses 1 is essentially temple text—Moses on a mountain, receiving revelation about God's purposes, being taught to discern Satan. Mountains in the Old Testament are temples.
Symbol Literacy Crisis (Kerry Muhlestein): We face a crisis of symbol literacy. Ancient people understood that lions, lambs, serpents, and temples all carried meaning. Recovering this literacy unlocks the Old Testament.
File Status: Complete Created: January 4, 2026 Last Updated: January 4, 2026 Next File: 04_Word_Studies.md
The Old Testament was written primarily in Hebrew (with some Aramaic sections). This introductory week establishes foundational terms that will recur throughout the year. Understanding these Hebrew words from the start provides a framework for deeper study all year long.
Our Hebrew-first approach examines:
| Hebrew | Transliteration | Strong's | Primary Meaning | Key Passage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| יהוה | YHWH/Yahweh | H3068 | "I AM" / "He Causes to Be" | Exodus 3:14-15 |
| בְּרִית | berit | H1285 | Covenant | Genesis 15:18 |
| תּוֹרָה | torah | H8451 | Instruction, Law, Teaching | Deuteronomy 4:44 |
| מָשִׁיחַ | mashiach | H4899 | Anointed One, Messiah | 1 Samuel 2:10 |
| קָדוֹשׁ | qadosh | H6918 | Holy, Set Apart | Leviticus 19:2 |
Strong's Number: H3068
Hebrew Script: יהוה
Transliteration: YHWH (pronounced Yahweh or Jehovah)
Pronunciation: yah-WEH (traditional scholarly reconstruction)
Root: הוה (hawah) or היה (hayah) - "to be, to exist, to become"
Grammatical Form: Proper noun; Divine Name
BDB Definition: "The proper name of the God of Israel"
Range of Meaning:
OT Occurrences: 6,828 times across the Old Testament
Key Passages Where This Word Appears:
Usage in This Week's Reading: This divine name appears when God reveals Himself to Moses at the burning bush. The name encapsulates God's eternal self-existence and His covenant faithfulness. Every time we see "LORD" (all caps) in English Bibles, the underlying Hebrew is YHWH.
LXX Translation: κύριος (kyrios) - G2962
Why This Translation Matters: Ancient Jewish translators substituted the divine name with kyrios (Lord) out of reverence, just as they substituted Adonai when reading aloud in Hebrew. This practice influenced the New Testament, where kyrios applied to Jesus carries divine implications.
New Testament Usage: When Thomas calls Jesus "My Lord (kyrios) and my God" (John 20:28), he uses the same term the Septuagint used for YHWH—a stunning declaration of Christ's divinity.
English Equivalent: Jehovah / LORD
Etymology: "Jehovah" arose from combining the consonants YHWH with the vowels from Adonai (a-o-a). This hybrid form appeared in medieval Latin texts and entered English via William Tyndale's translation.
Why "LORD" in English Bibles: Following Jewish reverence for the divine name, English translators render YHWH as "LORD" (all capitals) to distinguish it from Adonai (Lord, mixed case).
JEHOVAH - "The Scripture name of the Supreme Being. If, as is supposed, this name is from the Hebrew substantive verb, the word denotes the Permanent Being, or the self-existent Being; the eternal God."
Joseph Smith Era Understanding: Early Latter-day Saints understood Jehovah as the pre-mortal name of Jesus Christ—an understanding confirmed by modern revelation (D&C 110:3-4).
YHWH is the most sacred name in the Hebrew Bible. Its revelation at the burning bush (Exodus 3) represents a pivotal moment—God not only commissions Moses but reveals His essential nature: eternal, self-existent, and faithful to His promises.
For Latter-day Saints, this name carries additional weight. Modern revelation confirms that Jehovah is Jesus Christ in His pre-mortal state. When we read "the LORD" in the Old Testament, we are reading about Christ before Bethlehem. This transforms our reading—every covenant God makes, every deliverance He accomplishes, every word He speaks through prophets—these are the words and acts of Jesus Christ.
This understanding connects temple worship to scripture study. In the temple, we encounter symbols and covenants that connect us to the same God who spoke to Moses from the burning bush.
Old Testament:
New Testament:
Doctrine and Covenants:
Strong's Number: H1285
Hebrew Script: בְּרִית
Transliteration: berit (also spelled berith or brit)
Pronunciation: beh-REET
Root: Uncertain; possibly from בָּרָה (barah) "to cut" (referring to covenant rituals involving cutting animals) or from Akkadian biritu "bond, fetter"
Grammatical Form: Feminine noun
BDB Definition: "Covenant, alliance, pledge; between men, between God and man"
Range of Meaning:
OT Occurrences: 287 times
Key Passages Where This Word Appears:
Usage in This Week's Reading: The CFM introduction emphasizes covenant as the central organizing theme of the Old Testament. Understanding berit is essential for everything that follows—from God's covenant with Noah, to Abraham, to Moses at Sinai, to David, to the "new covenant" promised in Jeremiah.
LXX Translation: διαθήκη (diathēkē) - G1242
Why This Translation Matters: Greek diathēkē can mean either "covenant" (mutual agreement) or "testament" (unilateral disposition, as in "last will and testament"). The Septuagint's choice emphasizes that biblical covenants, while involving human response, are fundamentally God's gracious initiative—He sets the terms.
New Testament Usage: The word appears throughout Hebrews discussing the "new covenant" (Hebrews 8-10) and in Jesus' words at the Last Supper: "This is my blood of the new covenant" (Matthew 26:28).
English Equivalent: Covenant
Etymology: From Old French covenant "agreement," from Latin convenire "to come together, agree." The English word emphasizes the "coming together" of parties, though biblical covenants are primarily about God coming down to humanity.
COVENANT - "A mutual consent or agreement of two or more persons, to do or to forbear some act or thing; a contract; stipulation. A covenant is created by deed in writing, sealed and executed; or it may be implied in the contract."
Joseph Smith Era Understanding: Early Saints understood covenants as central to the Restoration. The "new and everlasting covenant" (D&C 132) encompasses all saving ordinances.
Berit appears at every crucial turning point in Israel's story. God's covenants are not mere contracts but relationships—He binds Himself to His people with promises of blessing, protection, and eternal life.
President Russell M. Nelson's emphasis on the "everlasting covenant" draws directly from this Hebrew concept. When we make temple covenants, we enter the same berit tradition that began with Adam and continued through every prophet.
The Hebrew etymology connecting berit to "cutting" illuminates Genesis 15, where God passes between cut animals—a ceremony that meant "may I become like these animals if I fail to keep my word." God literally stakes His existence on His faithfulness.
Old Testament:
Book of Mormon:
Doctrine and Covenants:
Strong's Number: H8451
Hebrew Script: תּוֹרָה
Transliteration: torah
Pronunciation: toh-RAH
Root: ירה (yarah) - "to throw, cast, shoot; to point out, teach, instruct"
Grammatical Form: Feminine noun
BDB Definition: "Direction, instruction, law; the direction given by a father to his children; divine instruction"
Range of Meaning:
OT Occurrences: 220 times
Key Passages Where This Word Appears:
Usage in This Week's Reading: Understanding Torah as "instruction" rather than merely "law" transforms how we approach the Pentateuch. These are not arbitrary rules but loving guidance from a Father.
LXX Translation: νόμος (nomos) - G3551
Why This Translation Matters: The Greek nomos emphasizes the legal/regulatory aspect of Torah, which unfortunately narrowed the Hebrew concept. Many New Testament passages about "law" reflect this Greek lens rather than the fuller Hebrew meaning.
New Testament Usage: Paul's discussions of "the law" must be read understanding that nomos translates torah—he's discussing Israel's divine instruction, not legalism in the abstract.
Recovering the meaning of torah as "instruction" changes how we read the first five books. These are not primarily legal codes but divine teaching for covenant life. A father instructs his children because he loves them and wants them to flourish.
The root yarah (to throw, point out) suggests a teacher pointing the way, like an archer pointing an arrow toward the target. Torah shows us the direction of life with God.
Old Testament:
New Testament:
Strong's Number: H4899
Hebrew Script: מָשִׁיחַ
Transliteration: mashiach
Pronunciation: mah-SHEE-akh
Root: משׁח (mashach) - "to smear, anoint"
Grammatical Form: Noun/adjective (anointed one)
BDB Definition: "Anointed one; of the Messiah, the Messianic prince; of the king of Israel; of a high priest"
Range of Meaning:
OT Occurrences: 39 times
Key Passages Where This Word Appears:
LXX Translation: χριστός (christos) - G5547
Why This Translation Matters: Christos (from chriō "to anoint") is the direct Greek equivalent of mashiach. When the New Testament calls Jesus "the Christ," it is calling Him "the Messiah"—the Anointed One promised throughout the Old Testament.
Every time the Old Testament mentions anointed priests or kings, it foreshadows the ultimate Mashiach—Jesus Christ. The anointing with oil symbolized empowerment by God's Spirit for sacred service. Jesus was anointed not with oil but with the Holy Spirit without measure.
Understanding that "Christ" means "Messiah/Anointed One" helps us see the continuity between Testaments. The promised deliverer of the Old Testament is the Jesus of the New.
Strong's Number: H6918
Hebrew Script: קָדוֹשׁ
Transliteration: qadosh
Pronunciation: kah-DOHSH
Root: קדשׁ (qadash) - "to be set apart, consecrated"
Grammatical Form: Adjective
BDB Definition: "Sacred, holy; set apart; of God; of places; of things; of persons"
Range of Meaning:
OT Occurrences: 116 times (the root קדשׁ appears over 700 times)
Key Passages Where This Word Appears:
Qadosh is fundamentally about separation and dedication—being set apart for God's purposes. Israel was called to be qadosh (holy) because their God was qadosh (Leviticus 19:2).
This concept permeates temple worship. Temple space is qadosh—set apart from ordinary space. Priests were qadosh—set apart for sacred service. Covenant people are qadosh—a holy nation (Exodus 19:6).
Understanding holiness as "set-apartness" helps us see that it's not primarily about moral perfection (though it includes that) but about belonging to God and being dedicated to His purposes.
Strong's: H430 Key Insight: Grammatically plural but takes singular verbs when referring to the God of Israel. Used in Genesis 1:1 ("In the beginning God created..."). The plural form may hint at divine majesty or plurality within deity. LDS Connection: Abraham 4-5 uses "the Gods," which some connect to this plural form.
Strong's: H5030 Key Insight: From a root meaning "to bubble up, pour forth." A prophet is one from whom divine words "bubble up"—one called by God to speak His message. Where It Appears: Over 300 times; central to understanding prophetic literature.
Strong's: H2617 Key Insight: One of the richest words in Hebrew—combining love, loyalty, mercy, and covenant faithfulness. Often describes God's attitude toward His covenant people. Key Passage: Exodus 34:6-7 — "Abundant in goodness (hesed) and truth"
| Hebrew | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| בְּרִית (berit) | Covenant | The agreement itself |
| חֶסֶד (hesed) | Covenant love | God's faithful love within covenant |
| אֱמֶת (emet) | Truth, faithfulness | God's reliability to His word |
| שָׁמַר (shamar) | To keep, guard | Human responsibility in covenant |
Why These Words Cluster: Covenant theology in the Old Testament requires this vocabulary constellation. God initiates covenant (berit) out of covenant love (hesed), demonstrates faithfulness (emet), and calls His people to keep (shamar) their commitments. These terms appear together repeatedly (e.g., Deuteronomy 7:9, 12).
| Term | Meaning | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| יהוה (YHWH) | "I AM" / "He Causes to Be" | Divine name; Jesus is Jehovah |
| בְּרִית (berit) | Covenant | Central organizing theme of OT |
| תּוֹרָה (torah) | Instruction, teaching | More than "law"—loving guidance |
| מָשִׁיחַ (mashiach) | Anointed One | Christ = Messiah = Anointed One |
| קָדוֹשׁ (qadosh) | Holy, set apart | Temple vocabulary; our calling |
This introductory week establishes vocabulary that will recur throughout the entire Old Testament. Understanding that YHWH is Jesus Christ in His premortal ministry transforms how we read every chapter. Understanding berit as covenant—a binding relationship rather than mere contract—helps us see God's relational purposes throughout scripture.
Perhaps most transformative is understanding torah as "instruction" rather than "law." The God of Israel is not primarily a legislator enforcing rules but a Father teaching His children how to live. This perspective prepares us to read Leviticus and Deuteronomy not as tedious legal code but as loving parental guidance.
Several key terms directly connect to temple experience:
As we study the Old Testament this year, these Hebrew terms will deepen our temple understanding, and temple experience will illuminate these ancient texts.
File Status: Complete Terms Analyzed: 5 major terms, 3 brief terms Created: January 4, 2026 Last Updated: January 4, 2026 Next File: 05_Teaching_Applications.md
This introductory week sets the tone for an entire year of study. Rather than rushing to cover content, focus on building excitement, establishing key interpretive principles, and helping learners see the Old Testament as relevant, accessible, and Christ-centered.
The four foundational principles from the CFM manual provide the framework for all teaching this week: (1) The Old Testament testifies of Jesus Christ; (2) Jesus Christ is Jehovah; (3) The Restoration clarifies the Old Testament; and (4) Covenants connect us to God.
Key Teaching Principles:
Technique 1: Christ-Centered Reading Practice This week, before diving into any Old Testament passage, pause and ask: "How might this point to Christ?" Practice with the examples from the CFM manual (manna, sacrificial lamb, brass serpent, Jonah). Then extend this practice to other passages. Keep a journal of "Types of Christ" you discover throughout the year.
Technique 2: Name Recognition Exercise Read Exodus 3:13-15 and John 8:58 together. Note that "I AM" connects Jesus to Jehovah. For the next week, whenever you see "LORD" (all caps) in the Old Testament, consciously recognize it as referring to the pre-mortal Christ. Let this awareness transform your reading.
Technique 3: Restoration Cross-Reference Study Choose one passage from the Book of Moses or Book of Abraham. Compare it carefully with its Genesis parallel. Note what the restoration adds. Use the JST footnotes throughout the week to see how Joseph Smith clarified difficult passages.
Technique 4: Covenant Tracing Begin a "Covenant Journal." This week, research the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12, 15, 17). Each week going forward, note how that covenant appears, is renewed, or is fulfilled. By year's end, you'll have traced the covenant thread through all of scripture.
Technique 5: Hebrew Word Study Choose one Hebrew term from this week's word studies (YHWH, berit, torah, mashiach, qadosh). Use Blue Letter Bible to study its occurrences. Write a one-page reflection on what you learned. This practice prepares you for deeper study all year.
Exercise 1: Old Testament Reading Plan Create your personal reading plan for the year. Will you read the full text or focus on the CFM selections? Set a realistic daily time commitment. Consider using the Church's Gospel Library app to track progress.
Exercise 2: Temple Preparation Attend the temple this week with Old Testament themes in mind. Bring a small notebook for reflections afterward (not in the temple itself). Note any connections you sense between temple worship and Old Testament themes.
Exercise 3: Symbol Awareness Week For seven days, look for "likenesses" in daily life that point to Christ (Moses 6:63). Sunrise, meals, seasons, relationships—how might these testify of the Savior? Record at least one observation daily.
Exercise 4: Share Your Learning Share one insight from this week's study with someone—a family member, friend, or on social media. Teaching reinforces learning and invites the Spirit.
Materials: Multiple pictures depicting Old Testament scenes (from Gospel Art Book or printed from Gospel Library)
Activity:
Debrief Questions:
Title: "The God Who Introduced Himself"
Story Framework: "Moses was taking care of sheep in the desert when something amazing happened. He saw a bush that was on fire—but it wasn't burning up! When Moses went closer to see, God spoke to him from the bush. Moses asked, 'What is your name?' And God said something mysterious: 'I AM THAT I AM.' This special name tells us that God has always existed and always will. Here's the amazing part: Jesus told people that name was HIS name too! When He said 'Before Abraham was, I AM,' He was telling everyone that He is the same God who spoke to Moses."
Interactive Elements:
Application Discussion: "How does knowing that Jesus is the God of the Old Testament change how we might read these ancient stories?"
For Younger Children (Ages 3-8):
For Older Children (Ages 9-12):
For Teenagers (Ages 13-18):
For Adults:
Object Lesson 1: The Treasure Hunt Map Materials: A simple treasure map, a small prize Lesson: Show the map. "This map leads to treasure, but it uses symbols—X marks the spot, dotted lines show the path. The Old Testament is like a treasure map pointing to Jesus. The symbols (sacrifices, temples, prophets) lead to the ultimate treasure: our Savior." Application: This year, we're learning to read the map!
Object Lesson 2: The Missing Puzzle Pieces Materials: A jigsaw puzzle with 5-10 pieces removed Lesson: Try to see the full picture with missing pieces. "The Bible is amazing, but some pieces were lost over time. Joseph Smith received those missing pieces through the Book of Moses, Book of Abraham, and JST. Now we can see the fuller picture!" Application: Read restored scriptures alongside the Bible this year.
Object Lesson 3: The Lamp and the Path Materials: Flashlight, darkened room Lesson: Turn off lights. "Try walking across the room." (Difficult!) Turn on flashlight pointed at feet. "Now try." (Easier!) "The scriptures are 'a lamp unto our feet'—not a spotlight showing the whole road, but enough light for the next step." Application: We study daily for daily guidance.
Activity 1: Old Testament Timeline (Ages 5+) Create a large timeline on poster board spanning from Creation to Malachi. Each week, add events and figures from your reading. By year's end, you'll have a visual overview of the entire Old Testament narrative.
Activity 2: Covenant Ceremony (Ages 8+) Discuss what covenant means. Create a simple family covenant for the year (e.g., "We will read together, serve together, grow together in Christ"). Have family members sign it. Revisit at year's end.
Activity 3: "LORD" Highlight Study (All Ages) Print a page from the Old Testament. Have everyone highlight or circle every "LORD" (all caps). Discuss: "Each of these is Jehovah—Jesus before His birth. What is He doing in this passage?"
Teaching Point 1: The Old Testament Testifies of Jesus Christ
Method - Symbol Exploration:
Application: This week, find one additional Old Testament type of Christ and share it next week.
Teaching Point 2: Jesus Christ is Jehovah
Method - Scripture Comparison:
Application: This week, every time you see "LORD" in the Old Testament, pause and think: "This is Jesus."
Teaching Point 3: Restoration Scriptures Clarify the Old Testament
Method - Missing Pieces Discovery:
Application: Use the JST footnotes whenever you study Genesis this year.
Activity 1: Types of Christ Gallery Walk (15 minutes) Post 6 images around the room representing Old Testament types (lamb, manna, temple, high priest, David, Jonah). Groups rotate, spending 2 minutes at each station discussing how it points to Christ. Share findings.
Activity 2: Covenant Definition Workshop (10 minutes) In groups of 3-4, define "covenant" in your own words. Then read the Bible Dictionary entry. Refine your definition. Share: "Why are covenants central to both the Old Testament and our lives today?"
Day 1: Looking for Jesus
Day 2: The Name Above All Names
Day 3: Missing Pieces Restored
Day 4: Covenant People
Day 5: A Lamp for the Journey
Discussion 1: "Why Should I Care About Old Stories?" Situation: A friend says, "The Old Testament is too old and weird to be relevant." Questions:
Activity: List 5 things the Old Testament addresses that youth face today (family conflict, doubt, peer pressure, identity, purpose). Application: The Old Testament is ancient but not irrelevant.
Discussion 2: "The God Who Never Changes" Situation: Some people think the Old Testament God is harsh while the New Testament God is loving. Questions:
Application: Same God, same love, same plan—fully revealed in Christ.
Discussion Topic 1: The Everlasting Covenant Opening: Read President Russell M. Nelson's statement that the "everlasting covenant" is "the most important concept we can learn in this life." Deep Dive:
Application:
Discussion Topic 2: Approaching Difficult Passages Opening: The Old Testament contains passages that are difficult—violence, cultural practices foreign to us, hard-to-understand laws. Deep Dive:
Application:
Development Goal 1: Consistent Old Testament Study Goal: Read from the Old Testament or related restoration scriptures daily for the year. Plan:
Progress Tracking: Weekly check-in with self; monthly reflection on what you're learning.
Development Goal 2: Temple-Old Testament Connection Goal: Attend the temple at least monthly and note connections to Old Testament themes. Plan:
Progress Tracking: Monthly journal entry.
Song 1: "I Am a Child of God" (Children's Songbook 2) Activity: The God who loves us in this song is the same God who spoke to Moses, led Israel, and sent prophets. He's been loving His children for a very long time!
Song 2: "I Love to See the Temple" (Children's Songbook 95) Activity: The Old Testament tells us about the very first temples! This year we'll learn about the tabernacle and Solomon's temple—places where God met His people.
Song 3: "Search, Ponder, and Pray" (Children's Songbook 109) Activity: This is how we'll study the Old Testament—searching for Jesus, pondering what we learn, and praying for understanding.
Object Lesson 1: Flashlight Faith (Ages 4-7) Materials: Flashlight, dark room Lesson: Turn off lights. "Can you see?" (No!) Turn on flashlight. "Now where do you look?" (At the light!) "The scriptures are like this flashlight. They help us see Jesus and know where to go!" Application: We read scriptures to see Jesus better.
Object Lesson 2: The Promise Bracelet (Ages 5-9) Materials: String, beads Lesson: Make simple bracelets together. "This is like a covenant—a special promise. God made promises to people in the Old Testament, and He keeps His promises. We make promises to Him too, like at baptism." Application: Wear the bracelet as a reminder of promises.
Craft 1: Burning Bush (Ages 4-8) Materials: Brown paper (trunk), red/orange/yellow tissue paper (flames), green paper (bush), glue Instructions:
Teaching: "God spoke to Moses from a burning bush. God still speaks to us through scriptures and prophets!"
Craft 2: Old Testament Bookmark (Ages 6-12) Materials: Cardstock, markers, stickers Instructions:
Teaching: Use this bookmark all year as you read!
Principle 1: God Has Always Loved His Children Teaching Approach:
Scripture to Share: Exodus 19:5-6; Moses 1:39 Response to Objection: "If God loves everyone, why did He have a 'chosen people'?" — Being chosen meant being chosen to BLESS others (Genesis 12:2-3), not exclusion.
Principle 2: Prophets Have Always Testified of Christ Teaching Approach:
Scripture to Share: Acts 3:24; Jacob 4:4-5
Principle 3: Covenants Connect Us to God Teaching Approach:
Scripture to Share: The Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:1-3) and its fulfillment through the Restoration
Application 1: Common Ground Many people (Jews, Christians, Muslims) revere the Old Testament. Use shared stories as conversation starters: "What's your favorite Old Testament story? Here's what we learn from it..."
Application 2: Life Questions The Old Testament addresses universal questions: Why am I here? Why is there suffering? Is there hope? Use these entry points for gospel conversations.
Teaching Insight - Jehovah Mode: Rather than hunting for Messianic prophecies, teach students to see Jehovah (Jesus) acting in every chapter. In Isaiah 7, there are 13+ references to "the LORD" versus one Messianic prophecy. Every interaction with Jehovah IS an interaction with Christ.
Teaching Insight - Covenant as Relationship: Use President Nelson's framework—covenant is about relationship, not just rules. Sacrament is a weekly "date" with the Lord; repentance is relationship repair, not punishment.
Teaching Insight - Belonging First: God says "you are my people" BEFORE Israel earns it. Belonging > Belief + Behavior. This is the chesed (covenantal love) framework.
Teaching Insight - OT as Love Story: Reframe the Old Testament as God's love story with humanity, not a rule book. Even difficult passages show a God desperately pursuing His children.
Teaching Insight - Satan Removed: Genesis never mentions Satan, temptation, or devil. This is why Moses 1 is so crucial—it restores the understanding of the adversary that was lost from the text.
Teaching Insight - Temple Text: Moses 1 is temple text. Mountains = temples. Use this framework throughout the year when mountains appear.
Teaching Insight - Divine Warrior with Two Hands: The Old Testament shows God with both a "sword hand" (justice) and a "gentle hand" (mercy). Both are equally present. Don't pick one and ignore the other.
Teaching Insight - Symbol Literacy: We face a crisis of symbol literacy. Teach students to read symbols (lions, lambs, serpents, water, mountains) as ancient people would have understood them.
Teaching Insight - Olive Tree Framework: Distinguish between:
This helps with difficult OT passages—some were applications for their time, not eternal doctrines.
Teaching Insight - Women's Voices: President Ballard said the Lord needs women "who will speak up." The OT is filled with women whose voices we can elevate.
Teaching Insight - Modern Translations: The Church officially supports using modern translations. NIV reads at 7th-grade level vs. KJV at 12th. This isn't replacing scripture—it's accessing the same truth in clearer language.
Teaching Insight - 9 Periods of OT History: Use this framework to help students understand where they are in the story:
File Status: Complete Subsections: Personal Study, Family Home Evening, Sunday School, Seminary, Relief Society/Priesthood, Children, Mission Created: January 4, 2026 Last Updated: January 4, 2026 Next File: 06_Study_Questions.md
These questions are designed for multiple contexts:
This introductory week focuses on establishing the framework for the entire year. Questions emphasize the four foundational principles from the CFM manual: (1) The Old Testament testifies of Jesus Christ; (2) Jesus Christ is Jehovah; (3) The Restoration clarifies the Old Testament; and (4) Covenants connect us to God.
Questions 1-10: Christ-Centered Reading
Questions 11-20: Jesus Christ as Jehovah
Questions 21-30: Restoration Scriptures and the Old Testament
Questions 31-40: Covenant Theology
Questions 41-50: Approaching the Year Ahead
Questions 51-60: Covenant Living Today
Questions 61-70: The Nature of God
Questions 71-80: Scripture and Revelation
Questions 81-90: Immediate Application
Questions 91-100: Long-Term Preparation
Questions 101-110: Group Discussion
Questions 111-120: Deeper Exploration
Questions 121-130: Bringing It Together
Questions 131-140: Action Steps
Question 141: The One Thing
If you could only remember ONE thing from this week's introduction to carry through the entire year of Old Testament study, what would it be? Why?
[Space for reflection]
File Status: Complete Total Questions: 141 Categories: Understanding the Framework (40), Personal Application (20), Doctrinal Understanding (20), Practical Application (20), Discussion Starters (20), Synthesis (21) Created: January 4, 2026 Last Updated: January 4, 2026 This completes the 6-file set for Week 01