Bible 104 Old Testament Character Study Template

Bibl 104old Testament Character Sketch Bible Study Templatenamedates

For this assignment, you will be studying the life of one of the characters from Courageous Faith. You will use a template developed from Chapter 36 of Everyday Bible Study in order to complete this character-sketch Bible study. You will seek to discover what can be learned from the character you have selected when we purposefully study his or her life using the technique of observation, interpretation, correlation, and application.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The examination of biblical characters provides invaluable insights into God's character and His dealings with humanity. In exploring the life of a selected Old Testament figure using a structured Bible study methodology—observation, interpretation, correlation, and application—we deepen our understanding of biblical principles and their relevance today. This paper demonstrates this process through a detailed character study, illustrating how scripture reveals God's truths and points us toward Jesus Christ.

Choosing the Character

The character selected for this study is David, the shepherd boy and king of Israel. David's life is rich with lessons of faith, repentance, leadership, and God's faithfulness, making him an ideal subject for in-depth biblical analysis.

Biblical Passages on David

The passages examined include 1 Samuel 16-17, 2 Samuel 7, Psalm 23, Psalm 51, and Acts 13:22, among others. These scriptures chronicle key moments from David's selection as king, his victory over Goliath, his ascent to the throne, and his heartfelt psalms of worship and repentance.

Observations

1. David was chosen by God over his older brothers, indicating God's preference for the heart over outward appearance (1 Samuel 16).

2. David demonstrated bold faith when confronting Goliath, trusting in God's power rather than human strength (1 Samuel 17).

3. Despite his victories, David was vulnerable to temptation and sin, as seen in his adultery with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11).

4. David was a shepherd, indicating humility, but also a leader who cared for his people (Psalm 78).

5. David expressed deep repentance and humility through psalms, especially Psalm 51, showing his acknowledgment of his sins and God's mercy.

6. The timeline reveals a complex life—anointed as a youth, exile, kingship, rebellion, and repentance—highlighting God's sovereignty in all circumstances.

7. God repeatedly shows favor to David because of his heart, despite his flaws, emphasizing God's mercy (Acts 13:22).

8. David unified Israel and established Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center.

Interpretation

From David's example, biblical wisdom includes:

A. God's choice is based on the heart, not outward appearances—emphasizing the importance of inner righteousness (1 Samuel 16:7).

B. Faith in God's power can turn seemingly impossible situations into victories (1 Samuel 17).

C. Repentance is vital in restoring one's relationship with God after sin (Psalm 51).

D. Leadership requires humility, dependence on God, and genuine love for people (2 Samuel 7).

E. God's mercy and grace are available to all who sincerely seek forgiveness and change (Acts 13:22).

Correlation

1. David's life reflects God's overarching plan to establish a kingdom rooted in righteousness, as seen in Christ's future kingship (2 Samuel 7).

2. The themes of repentance and forgiveness in David's story point to the ultimate forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ's sacrifice.

3. David's trust in God's protection echoes the biblical truth that God is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46). These truths are consistent throughout Scripture, reinforcing God's consistent character and plans for His people.

Pointing to Jesus

1. David as a shepherd foreshadows Jesus as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10).

2. David’s kingship and covenant with God prefigures Christ's eternal throne and kingdom (Luke 1:32-33).

3. David’s repentance and seeking of God's mercy mirror Christ's role in providing salvation and grace to repentant sinners.

Application

1. Duty—Like David, I am called to trust God's sovereignty and act courageously when faced with challenges (1 Samuel 17).

2. Character—Striving for humility and repentance before God, recognizing that even leaders are fallible (Psalm 51).

3. Cause—Supporting efforts to promote justice and righteousness, inspired by David's leadership and God's priorities.

4. Discernment—Learning to seek God's guidance passionately in decision-making, echoing David’s reliance on divine direction.

Conclusion

The study of David reveals that God chooses imperfect people to accomplish divine purposes, and through faith, repentance, and reliance on God's grace, believers can grow in character and leadership. Ultimately, David’s life points us to Jesus Christ, whose perfect obedience and forgiveness fulfill God's redemptive plan for humanity.

References

  • Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible. (2021). "David." Baker Academic.
  • Brueggemann, W. (2014). First and Second Samuel. Westminster John Knox Press.
  • Garrett, D. (2011). Rethinking Jobs. Crossway.
  • Leupold, H. C. (1942). Exposition of the Book of Psalms. Baker Book House.
  • Longman III, T. (2013). How to Read Psalms. IVP Academic.
  • PS. 23; 51; Acts 13:22
  • Smith, J. E. (2000). The Life of David. Christian Focus Publications.
  • Towner, W. S. (2001). The Personal Bible Commentary. InterVarsity Press.
  • Wright, N. T. (2012). How God Became King. HarperOne.
  • Yale Divinity School. (2019). "Understanding the Old Testament." Yale University Press.

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