Lesson 1 | Read Well
Jesus’ Family
While the focus throughout the course is on developing skills in making observations and asking questions, our reading of Scripture cannot end there. The aim of this work is to accurately understand what the text actually says (i.e., interpretation)—and that for the sake of bringing the truth we see to bear on our lives (i.e., application). That is, after all, what Jesus’ family does.
To this end, each assignment will ask you to consider one point of interpretation and one application to take away from your study. (Note: we will explore the difference between observations, interpretations, and applications further in the next lesson.) Let’s use the passage in Joshua which we read earlier in the lesson as an example.
Sample Observations
The Lord repeats the command, "be strong and courageous" three times (vv. 6, 7, 9).
The Lord includes the same promise both before and after the command: "I will be with you" (vv. 5, 9).
The “prospering” and “good success” promised directly relates to the assigned task (leading the people to enter the land) and comes as a consequence of Joshua’s adherence to the written law (vv. 7, 8).
The words “so that” connect daily meditation on God’s word to faithfully walking according to that word (v. 8).
Sample Questions
What does “not able to stand before you” (v.5) refer to? No one will be able to oppose you? No one will be your equal? Something else?
When the Lord says “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth” and “you shall meditate on it” (v.8), is he giving Joshua confidence that this is in fact what is going to happen or is he stating a command?
What does the question, “Have I not commanded you?” (v.9) refer to? The present command to be courageous or to the command to enter the land and drive out the inhabitants?
One Point of Interpretation
God promises his abiding presence to encourage and strengthen his people for a life of faithful obedience.
One Point of Application
When I have a good sense that “things will work out,” I typically move ahead without hesitation. Yet I am most prone to walk in fear, shrinking back from what God has called me to, when I am uncertain of the outcome. (E.g. How will this Christian brother respond when I confront him about his sin?) God’s promise, “I will never leave nor forsake you,” applies to all believers (Ps 118:6; Heb 13:5–6). I can walk in full confidence that, no matter the circumstances, God will not forsake me. Here is all the certainty I need to step forward with courage.