Course Description:
Few nations have experienced such blessing as Israel, and fewer yet have experienced such failure. This course follows the journey of the people of Israel in Joshua, Judges, and Ruth as they cross the Jordan River, overtake and divide the land, and fall into a cycle of sin and repentance. Significant events will be analyzed in their historical and cultural contexts, such as the fall of Jericho, the day the sun stood still, and the defeat at Ai. Learners will explore the ministry of important judges like Gideon, Jephthah, and Samson, as well as the life and lessons of Ruth. Throughout the course, Dr. Davis places emphasis on theological and practical truths gleaned from these books.
Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Gain a basic understanding of the events surrounding Israel’s conquest and settlement of Canaan during the days of Joshua and the judges.
- Achieve a working knowledge of the contents of Joshua, Judges, and Ruth with respect to theological themes, historical developments, and archeological problems.
- Arrive at fresh insights about practical Christian living as illustrated by the lives of godly saints who lived during that era.
Course Texts:
Davis, John J. Conquest and Crisis. Winona Lake, Indiana: BMH Books, 1987.
Cundall, A.E. and L. Morris. Judges and Ruth. Tyndale Old Testament Commentary. Downer’s Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity, 1968.
Aharoni, Yohanan and Michael Avi-Yonah. The MacMillan Bible Atlas. New York: The MacMillan Company, 1968.
