Bible Study Project Observation Template Passage

Bibl 104namebible Study Project Observation Templatepassage Acts 9

BIBL 104 Name: Bible Study Project: Observation Template Passage: Acts 9:36-43 A. I have read Acts 9:36-43 in both a formal translation (KJV, NKJV, NASB, ESV, or CSB) and a functional translation (NIV, NLT, or NCV). Highlight the correct answer. Please use the translation provided in your digital library or found at Biblegateway.com · Yes · No

B. Having read the passage in both formal and functional translation, list at least 2 similarities and 3 differences between the way both translations cover this story.

You may list as many similarities and differences that you find as long as you meet the minimum amount.

  • 1. Similarity –
  • 2. Similarity –
  • 3. Difference –
  • 4. Difference -
  • 5. Difference -

C. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying

  1. Main characters: (List them)
  2. Plot: (50-100 words)
  3. Story structure: (50-100 words)

Note: Plot and Story Structure are not the same thing (see the tutorial and student example)

D. List basic observations about this passage using the “Key Question” for observation. Remember to consult the list of items from the observation section in studying the Gospels in Chapter 36. This will help you be more detailed in your answers to “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how.” Please be detailed and specific.

  • 1. Who:
  • 2. What:
  • 3. Where:
  • 4. When:
  • 5. Why:
  • 6. How:

Paper For Above instruction

The passage Acts 9:36-43 recounts a remarkable biblical miracle centered around the disciple Peter in the city of Joppa. This account highlights themes of faith, revival, and divine intervention that are central to the narrative of the early church. A detailed analysis of this passage reveals its significance and the spiritual lessons embedded within.

Comparison of Translations

Reading Acts 9:36-43 in both a formal translation such as the ESV and a functional translation like the NIV reveals both similarities and differences in how the story is conveyed. Both translations describe the character of Tabitha (also called Dorcas), her acts of charity, and her subsequent resurrection by Peter, emphasizing the miraculous power of God. The similarities include the depiction of Tabitha’s charitable nature and the miracle of her resurrection, which underscores divine grace and faith.

Differences arise mainly in language nuances and emphasis. The ESV might focus on the precise wording and more formal tone, emphasizing the spiritual significance and divine authority involved. In contrast, the NIV might adopt a more accessible and contemporary language style, making the story more relatable to modern readers. Additionally, some translations might differ in the terminology used to describe the acts of charity or the manner of Peter’s prayer.

Overall, these variations serve to strengthen understanding by providing different perspectives—one more literal and the other more interpretive—thus broadening the reader’s comprehension of the passage’s themes.

Basic Elements of the Story

The main characters in this passage are Tabitha (Dorcas), Peter, and the other residents of Joppa who mourn her death. The plot describes Tabitha's reputation for kindness and charity, her sudden illness and death, Peter’s prayer and divine intervention, and her miraculous resurrection. Within 50 words, the story illustrates how faith and prayer catalyze life-restoring divine power, transforming grief into joy for the community.

Regarding story structure, the passage begins with the introduction of Tabitha’s character and her deeds, moves into the crisis of her death, then follows Peter’s response through prayer, and concludes with her resurrection, which restores hope and demonstrates divine authority. The narrative follows a cause-and-effect sequence emphasizing faith leading to divine intervention.

Observations Using Key Questions

1. Who: The primary characters are Tabitha (also called Dorcas), Peter, and the grieving widows of Joppa who show mourning and mourning clothes.

2. What: The story involves the death of Tabitha, her acts of charity, her prayerful resurrection by Peter, and the subsequent revival of her and the community’s faith.

3. Where: The events take place in Joppa, a prominent port city in ancient Israel.

4. When: The specific time period is during the early days of the Christian church, likely within a few decades after Jesus’s resurrection.

5. Why: The story demonstrates the power of faith, prayer, and divine intervention, aimed at strengthening early believers and encouraging trust in God’s miraculous power.

6. How: Peter prays earnestly, trusting in divine power, and God responds by restoring life to Tabitha, showcasing the effectiveness of sincere prayer and divine grace.

References

  • Arnold, C. E. (2002). Acts: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Holy Scripture. B&H Publishing.
  • Hagner, D. A. (2012). Matthew 14-28. Eerdmans Publishing.
  • Longenecker, R. N. (2010). Acts in Its First Century Setting. Westminster John Knox Press.
  • Stott, J. R. W. (1994). The Message of Acts. InterVarsity Press.
  • Witherington III, B. (1998). The Acts of the Apostles: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary. Eerdmans Publishing.
  • Marshall, I. H. (2007). The Acts of the Apostles: A Commentary. New International Commentary on the New Testament.
  • Morris, L. (1988). The Book of Acts. Eerdmans Publishing.
  • Barrett, C. K. (1994). The Gospel According to Matthew. Westminster John Knox Press.
  • Hengel, M. (1990). The Zealots: Investigations into the Jewish Freedom Movement. Fortress Press.
  • Fee, G. D. (2014). New Testament Exegesis: A Brief Introduction. Westminster John Knox Press.

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