Further Study

Review Questions

These questions are designed to help you review important material covered in the lecture.

1. Describe the two types of narratives found in Old Testament prophecies.
2. Describe the variety of contents found in Old Testament prophetic narratives.
3. How are historical narratives used within Old Testament prophetic writings?
4. What do prayers of lament look like and how did the prophets use them?
5. What do prayers of praise look like and how did the prophets use them?
6. What do speeches of judgment look like and how did the prophets use them?
7. What do speeches of blessing look like and how did the prophets use them?
8. What are mixed speeches and how did the prophets use them?
9. In general, why did prophets prophesy?

Application Questions

Application questions are appropriate for written assignments or as topics for group discussions. For written assignments, it is recommended that answers not exceed one page in length.

1. Why is it important to pay attention to historical narratives in prophetic books? When we read prophetic writings, what relationship should there be between our understanding of things written in historical narratives and the other things we are reading?
2. What do standard prophetic forms imply about the way we should read prophecy?
3. When was the last time you spent time lamenting to God? What type of lament did you offer?
4. How often do you interpret suffering in your life as a result of divine judgment? Are there other reasons that Christians suffer?
5. What can we learn from the ways the prophets lamented that might incline God to respond to us positively?
6. The theme of praise for judgment appears many places in the prophetic writings. Is it appropriate for Christians to praise God his judgments? Why or why not?
7. Why did the prophets speak so frequently about both the blessings and the curses of God? Should modern churches do the same thing? Why or why not?
8. What is the most significant insight you have learned from this study? Why?