BUILDING BIBLICAL THEOLOGY
STUDY GUIDE 2.1
Lesson 2: Synchronic Synthesis of the Old Testament
Section 1: Orientation

OUTLINE FOR NOTES

Introduction

I. Orientation

A. Synchronic

B. Synthesis

  1. Denial

  2. Affirmation

C. Example


REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Explain the illustration that Dr. Pratt uses in his introduction to describe the way Biblical Theology uses a "synchronic" approach to study the Old Testament.

2. Define the words "synchronic" and "synthesis".

3. What argument did some twentieth century critical theologians use to deny the logical character of the Old Testament? How does Dr. Pratt answer these theologians?

4. Describe the characteristics of the Old Testament that do NOT exactly fit the standards of formal western philosophical traditions that influenced SYSTEMATIC Theology.

5. Explain how Romans 5:12-14 is an example of "synchronic synthesis."


APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. What is your opinion regarding the "logical character" of the Old Testament? Do you think it is forcing a "Greek mindset" on the Hebrew writers when we look for logical coherency in Old Testament theology? Explain your opinion.

2. How do you feel about the characteristics of the Old Testament that Dr. Pratt mentions, when he explains that they do not exactly fit the "standards of formal western philosophical traditions" that influenced Systematic Theology? Do you agree with these characteristics? If these descriptions are valid, how does it affect the way you study the Old Testament?