WE BELIEVE IN JESUS
STUDY GUIDE 3.1
Lesson 3: The Prophet
Section 1: Old Testament Background


OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES

Introduction

I. Old Testament Background

A. Qualifications

  1. Called by God

  2. Given God’s Word

  3. Loyal to God

  4. Authenticated by Fulfillment

B. Function

  1. Authority

  2. Task

  3. Methods

C. Expectations

  1. Historical Development

  2. Specific Prophecies


REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. How does the lesson define a "prophet"?

2. What were the four qualifications of a true prophet?

3. Explain how the Holy Spirit inspired a prophet. Did He circumvent the prophet's personality? Explain.

4. Did a prophet's message always have to agree with God's existing revelation?

5. Was a prophet's message always fulfilled quickly?

6. Explain the teaching of the lesson regarding the way some prophecies were meant to depend on how people responded to the message.

7. Explain how the example of Jonah helps illustrate how some prophecies were meant to depend on how people responded to the message.

8. What was a "suzerain" in the ancient Near East? What was a "vassal"?

9. What elements were often included in a covenant in the ancient Near East?

10. What methods were used by the prophets to accomplish their task? Which was the most common?

11. Describe the special focus of the prophets' message and task during each period of Old Testament history: pre-monarchy, monarchy, exile, post-exile (restoration).

APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. What can we learn from the prophetic office in the Scriptures? Is there any sense in which we can also carry on a similar ministry today? In what ways would our ministry be different?

2. How can you be a faithful ambassador for God in your current areas of influence?

3. What ministries are you currently engaged in and how are they promoting God’s covenant and encouraging others to worship him?

4. How does the teaching about prophets influence your view of the Bible?