In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. In the last two years, we have walked in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, the wilderness, the Promised Land, and with the kings.
Now we will continue walking in this era of the kings of Israel and Judah, but we will do so from the perspective of the prophets. We will consider the indictments, judgments, and instruction delivered through the prophets. What do we learn about God and how should we hear these accusations and calls for repentance? We’ll pause with them in the messy middle, and then we will consider the messages of hope. How can we understand God in these messages and lean more deeply into the One who offers us a new heart?
Week 1: Walking With the Prophets
This week, we started our journey through the prophets. Dr. John Walton provided important guidance for how we should read, understand, and respond to the messages of the prophets. As we walk with the prophets, we are invited to stay attentive to their message rather than focusing on fulfillment.
Kingdom Practice
In our practice, we spent time considering the four kinds of messages delivered by the prophets (indictment, judgment, instruction, and aftermath/hope). Which one do you feel like you need most in this season, or is there one you feel God is inviting you to spend time considering? This week, let’s continue to consider and chew on that message.
Week 2: Injustice (Amos)
This week, we leaned into the message God delivered to Israel through the prophet Amos. Injustice is one of the consistent indictments of Israel and Judah in the prophets. The message of Amos shows us that faithful worship cannot be separated from justice.
Kingdom Practice
This week, we want to continue walking in the message of Amos with the practice of scripture meditation. Let’s walk together meditating on Amos 5:24, “Let justice roll down like water and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” If it is helpful, you can use this guide to scripture meditation.
Week 3: Idolatry (Hosea)
on 11/17 with Casey Tygrett and the Judson Choir
Week 4: The Messy Middle (Ezra/Nehemiah)
on 12/1 with Jason Feffer
Week 5: We Need New Hearts (Ezekiel 36 and 37)
on 12/8 with Rebecca Moss
Week 6: We Need a Messiah (Isaiah 55)
on 12/15 with Kellye Story
Week 7: We Need a New Creation (Isaiah 55)
on 12/22 with Nicole Howe
Additional Resources
Books
The Lost World of the Prophets by John Walton
The Lost World of the Torah by John Walton
Wisdom for Faithful Reading by John Walton
The Presence of God by J. Ryan Lister
Amos: The Shepherd Prophet by Allan Harman
Articles
Hosea and Amos: Two Sides of Covenant Failure
Guide to the Book of Amos
Videos
Bible Project Overviews You can find overviews of each one of the prophets here.
Amos Overview
Justice a Bible Project video about the Biblical theme of justice
If you have a story to share about how you have been encountering God in this season, we would love to hear it!
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