I’m just starting a new class in my M.A. program at Bethlehem Seminary: Old Testament Theology. Our main text for the class is THE OLD TESTAMENT. Novel, I know.
Can I tell you how completely thrilled and excited I am?! So in the spirit of shared learning, linking arms, and strength in numbers, I made a spread sheet of our Bible reading as it appears on our syllabus.
I’m linking to it below in PDF form, hoping that many of you reading this blog post will join me in reading the OT:
Here are few things to note:
Firstly, our prof has encouraged us to read ahead on the lighter weeks. So, it’s not essential that you only read what’s listed on that week. The goal is to get through it all.
Secondly, we are required to read each book in one sitting. If you want to follow along, of course you don’t have to do that, but I think it’s going to be really helpful and I’m excited about it.
Thirdly, some tips: Use audio to listen to the Bible, esp in the car for a chunk of time or on a treadmill or walk or folding clothes. Consider listening at 1.5 speed. Don’t read as you would for inductive study, but also don’t skim. Try and pay attention so that your mind is engaged and “lost” in the story or the text. Read or listen in a translation that is accurate, yet good for reading or listening: NIV, CSB, ESV.
And finally, an encouragement. I realize this is a big thing to throw yourself into at the last minute like this, but just think of it! Eight weeks from now you will have read the entire Old Testament. Think about how valuable that is. Think about how quickly it will be over. Think about how short our time is on earth and all the dumb things we waste our hours and minutes doing. Think about how this could change your life–to really get to know God as he reveals himself in his Word. Let’s do it!
P.S. I’ll have a four week break over Christmas and the New Year, then we’ll be onto the New Testament in eight weeks, so stay tuned!
I want to do the study with you. How does it work?
If you click on the link in the post, it will take you to a pdf that you can print out at home. It’s a simple bible reading plan so that you can read through the Old Testament in eight weeks. The date next to the books of the Bible is the date that you will finish that reading. So, for the first week (which started yesterday) you will read through the book of Genesis, with the goal of finishing by Oct 22. You are welcome to read ahead, especially if you notice that one week has more reading than another. Hope that helps! Happy reading!
Did you get to finish Genesis today?
I’ve joined! This is an exciting challenge, it’s been a while since I’ve read it all through. Will you be able to post thoughts/notes from your class?