HE GAVE US PROPHETS
STUDY GUIDE 4
Lesson 4: Dynamics of the Covenant


OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES

Introduction

I. Covenant Ideals

A. Covenant Structures
B. Prophetic Ministry

II. Covenant Judgment

A. Types of Judgment

  1. Judgment in Nature 
  2. Judgment in Warfare 

B. Process of Judgment 

  1. Divine Patience
  2. Increasing Severity
  3. Particular Climax

III. Covenant Blessing

A. Types of Blessings 

  1. Blessing in Nature 
  2. Blessing in Warfare

B. Process of Blessings

  1. Grace 
  2. Degrees
  3. Climax 

Summary

REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. What are the two fundamental aspects of the covenants God makes with Israel?

2. Summarize the basic structures of the covenant between God and Israel.

3. What are the two main ways covenant judgment was manifest in the Old Testament?

4. How did the role of the prophets relate to the basic structures of God’s covenant with Israel?

5. Indicate the three steps in the process of divine judgment in the correct order.

6. What role did the prophets play in this system of judgment?

7. Describe the two main types of covenant blessing.

8. What role did the prophets play in this system of blessing?


APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. According to Deuteronomy 29:25-28, God’s people can provoke his anger. What are some ways that modern Christians might be angering God?

2. Faithful Israelites knew that God’s blessings depended on his mercy and forgiveness, not on human merit. In what ways do modern Christians erroneously seek to merit God’s blessings? How might this affect their relationship with God? What practical steps can they take to begin to rely on God’s mercy and forgiveness?

3. What is the most significant insight you have learned from this study? Why?