Assignment Brief: Old Testament Narrative Bible Study for BIBL 105 Old Testament Survey

For those leading BIBL 105 modules, this assignment serves as a core hermeneutical exercise that recurs across semesters. Students apply structured observation, interpretation, correlation, and application to an Old Testament narrative passage. The template-driven format ensures focus on inductive study methods rather than broad essays. Assign it after introductory weeks on hermeneutics, providing adequate time for careful exegesis. During moderation, verify accurate handling of historical context, textual details, and theological connections to maintain academic integrity.

Assignment Overview

Complete an Old Testament Narrative Bible Study using the provided template. Select one assigned passage and analyze it through observation, interpretation, correlation, and application, demonstrating proper exegetical skills for understanding and applying Scripture.

Assignment Instructions

1. Choose one passage from the approved options: 2 Samuel 6:1-23 (The Ark Brought to Jerusalem), 1 Kings 17:7-24 (Elijah and the Widow at Zarephath), or 2 Kings 4:1-7 (Elisha and the Widow’s Oil).
2. Follow the template sections precisely: Background, Observation, Interpretation, Correlation, Application, and Conclusion.
3. Support interpretation and correlation with at least three scholarly sources in addition to the Bible and course textbook.
4. Apply APA style for in-text citations and include a references page. Integrate biblical references and secondary sources thoughtfully throughout.
5. Submit the filled template as one document through the course platform on or before the due date.

The total length should be 1,000–1,300 words across sections, excluding references. Penalties apply for significant deviation from the word range.

Marking Rubric

Grade according to this rubric for fairness and consistency. Total points: 100.

• Background and Observation (20 points): Comprehensive context and precise textual details. Excellent: 18–20; Good: 14–17; Fair: 10–13; Poor: Below 10.
• Interpretation (25 points): Accurate exegesis reflecting authorial intent and original meaning. Excellent: 23–25; Good: 18–22; Fair: 13–17; Poor: Below 13.
• Correlation (20 points): Relevant links to wider canonical themes with sound cross-references. Excellent: 18–20; Good: 14–17; Fair: 10–13; Poor: Below 10.
• Application (20 points): Practical, biblically faithful insights for today. Excellent: 18–20; Good: 14–17; Fair: 10–13; Poor: Below 10.
• Source Integration and Citation (10 points): Effective use of three scholarly sources with correct APA formatting. Excellent: 9–10; Good: 7–8; Fair: 5–6; Poor: Below 5.
• Writing Mechanics and Structure (5 points): Clear, organized, grammatically correct presentation. Excellent: 5; Good: 4; Fair: 3; Poor: Below 3.

The passage in 2 Samuel 6:1-23 recounts David’s efforts to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, marked by Uzzah’s death for touching it and David’s subsequent joy mixed with fear. Observation notes the transportation method shift from cart to poles after the incident, David’s dancing before the Lord, and Michal’s contempt. Interpretation reveals God’s holiness demanding obedience to prescribed handling and the joy of proper worship. Correlation connects to Exodus instructions on the Ark and broader themes of God’s presence among His people. Application urges reverence in approaching God while embracing celebratory worship. As Hill and Walton observe, such events underscore the tension between human initiative and divine prescription in covenant relationship (Hill, A. E. and Walton, J. H., 2020. A Survey of the Old Testament).

References

Hill, A. E. and Walton, J. H., 2020. A survey of the Old Testament. Zondervan Academic. Available at: https://zondervanacademic.com/products/a-survey-of-the-old-testament.

Block, D. I., 2019. The book of Deuteronomy. Eerdmans. DOI: 10.2307/j.ctvqf8q1q.

Kaiser, W. C., 2018. The Old Testament documents: Are they reliable and relevant? InterVarsity Press. Available at: https://www.ivpress.com/the-old-testament-documents.

Schreiner, T. R., 2021. The King in his beauty: A biblical theology of the Old and New Testaments. Baker Academic. DOI: 10.2307/j.ctv1ddctf1.