Getting Started

Now it’s time to watch how the players move predictably on the playing board of geography—the “cats” and the “mice” who constantly seek control over the resources of each region. This lesson will provide background for another one of Israel’s chronic temptations: political alliances.

Remember this is a big picture overview. When you understand the context of ancient Near Eastern geopolitics, the rise and fall of empires, the movements and migrations, the invasions and wars, then you’ll understand a lot more about the miracle of God’s people. You’ll also see why he placed them in a land “on the way” and “in the way.”

Now, buckle up for our 15-century fly-over …