Bible Study: Day 6 Of “Encounter The 3D Bible” By Dr. Susan Michael
Purchase Your Study Materials:
Day 6: God's Story Continues, Even Today!
"He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it."
Study Tip:
Ask Whether a Prophecy Has Been Fulfilled, Is Being Fulfilled, or Awaits Future Fulfillment.
Not every prophecy functions the same way. Some were fulfilled shortly after they were spoken; some point directly to Jesus; while others describe events Christians think are coming in the future.
Learning to distinguish between these categories helps to read prophetic passages more carefully and responsibly.
Affiliate Link Notice
Many of the links on this page are affiliate links. This simply means that we get a referral bonus if you click our link and place an order. The company rewards us for the referral – but it doesn’t cost you anything extra over the cost of the products/services that you decide to purchase (plus any shipping fees and taxes). The payment is sometimes in monetary form, sometimes in discounts, sometimes in store credits, sometimes with other types of rewards. By using our links, you are supporting a small family business and helping our little farm.
To learn more about affiliate links, please read our Legal Terms & Conditions.
Bible Study Disclaimer
This study series reflects my personal notes and observations while working through Encounter the 3D Bible by Dr. Susan Michael. These posts are not a substitute for the book or study guide. I encourage you to purchase the materials and study alongside me.
Primary Bible Scriptures (Read These)
- 1 Thessalonians 5:24
- Luke 21:5–38
- Revelation 1:17
- Isaiah 11:11–12
- Acts 1:6–8
- Romans 11:17–29
- John 19:30
- Ephesians 1:7
- Revelation 22:12–13
Cross-Reference Bible Scriptures (Explore Further)
- Luke 21
- Romans 11
- Revelation 1
- Revelation 22
- Isaiah 11
- Acts 1
- Hebrews 12
Opening prayer
Lord, My God,
Thank You for reminding me that Your story is still unfolding. As I open Your Word today, help me remember that I am not simply reading ancient history—I am learning about Your faithfulness throughout every generation. Give me wisdom as I study prophecy, humility when I encounter things I don’t fully understand, and discernment to distinguish between what Scripture clearly teaches and what still requires careful study.
Help me keep my eyes fixed on Jesus rather than becoming distracted by speculation or fear. Strengthen my faith as I see Your promises unfolding throughout history, and remind me that Your perfect timing has never failed. May today’s study increase my hope, deepen my trust, and draw me closer to You.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Today's Journey & Study Overview
Today’s reading brought Chapter 3 to a close by walking through the final major events of the biblical storyline—from the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70 to the birth of the Church, the continuing return of the Jewish people to Israel, and the future hope of Christ’s return. More than anything else, today’s lesson reminded me that the Bible isn’t simply a record of what God has done.
It is the story of what God is still doing. Although many biblical prophecies have already been fulfilled, others remain future promises that continue pointing us toward God’s ultimate plan of redemption.
In today’s study we’ll explore:
- The Second Exile and its significance.
- God’s faithfulness throughout history.
- Why biblical prophecy still matters today.
- How Gentile believers become part of God’s family through Christ.
- Why the Bible’s story continues beyond its final written page.
SUPPORT THE AUTHOR: Quick plug for dr. susan michael's wonderful book "encounter The 3D Bible"
Before we continue, we want to take a moment to recognize and thank Dr. Susan Michael for creating “Encounter the 3D Bible”. Although we’ve never met Dr. Michael, her work has already changed the way we approach Scripture. Before beginning this study, we primarily read the Bible from a devotional perspective. Through her teaching, we’re learning to explore God’s Word through its historical, geographical, cultural, literary, and audience context, and it has completely transformed the way we study.
As we share our Bible Study Journal here on Koutz Farm, we are committed to respecting the work of the authors whose studies inspire us. These posts are our personal notes, reflections, and observations as we work through the material—they are not a replacement for the book or study guide. In fact, we’ve intentionally written them in a way that encourages you to dig into the original material for yourself rather than relying on our notes alone.
If you’re enjoying this series, we wholeheartedly encourage you to purchase “Encounter the 3D Bible” and the companion study guide. Not only will you receive the complete teaching experience—including insights, discussion questions, and exercises that we don’t reproduce here—but you’ll also be supporting an author who has invested years of study, research, and ministry into helping believers better understand God’s Word.
If you decide to follow along with us, we hope you’ll study directly from Dr. Michael’s materials while using our journal as a companion resource. We truly believe you’ll gain far more from experiencing the lessons firsthand than you ever could by reading our notes alone.
Thank you for supporting Christian authors, teachers, and ministries who faithfully invest their time and talents into helping others grow in their relationship with Jesus. If you’d like to pick up a copy, simply click on the links below to order your study materials and begin the journey with us.
Day 6 Notes
Who?
Today’s reading introduced several important groups of people:
- The Jewish people.
- The Roman Empire.
- The early Church.
- The apostles.
- Gentile believers.
Each played a unique role within God’s unfolding plan. One thing that especially stood out to me is that God’s story has always been larger than any one nation while still honoring the unique role He gave Israel throughout biblical history.
What?
Today’s chapter concluded the overview of the Bible’s grand narrative.
- The destruction of Jerusalem…
- The Second Exile…
- The preservation of God’s people…
- The birth of the Church…
- The spread of the Gospel…
- The hope of Christ’s return.
Rather than viewing these as disconnected historical events, I’m beginning to see them as one continuous story revealing God’s faithfulness and His desire to redeem humanity.
When?
Historical Context
Related To My “Encounter The 3D Bible” Book Notes: Today’s reading centers around one of history’s most significant events. In AD 70, Roman forces destroyed Jerusalem and the Second Temple after a prolonged siege. This event dramatically changed Jewish history and fulfilled Jesus’ warning recorded in Luke 21. It also marked the beginning of centuries during which Jewish communities were scattered throughout many nations. Understanding these historical events helps me appreciate why this period remains so significant within both biblical history and world history.
Where?
Geographical Context
Related To My “Encounter The 3D Bible” Book Notes: Today’s study focused primarily on:
- Jerusalem
- Judea
- The Roman Empire
- The Island of Patmos
- The modern nation of Israel
Each location reminds me that God’s work unfolds within real places occupied by real people throughout history.
Why?
Why does this matter?
Because God’s promises didn’t stop after the resurrection. The Bible concludes with hope; not because every promise had already been fulfilled, but because God always finishes what He begins.
That realization fills me with a sense of spiritual peace among the chaos of this modern world. As I continue studying Scripture I become more confident in my faith and walk with Jesus.
Digging In Deeper
REMINDER: Don’t forget to support Dr. Susan Michael’s work by getting your own copy of the book and study guide – both linked here: Book Only (Paperback) | Audio Book (For Kindle) | Study Guide Only (Paperback)
Cultural Context
It is important to understand that God’s covenant relationship with Israel remained central throughout biblical history. Understanding that context helps to better appreciate how Gentile believers were welcomed into God’s family through Jesus Christ.
Prophecy
Today’s lesson reminded me that biblical prophecy isn’t simply about predicting future events that may or may not be in my lifetime. Its primary purpose is revealing God’s faithfulness to all of us. Every fulfilled prophecy reminds us that God keeps His promises. Every future prophecy reminds us that His story isn’t finished yet.
Literary Context
Today’s passages moved between prophecy, historical narrative, Gospel accounts, and apocalyptic literature. Each communicates differently while contributing to the same larger story.
My Reflections
The Bible isn’t simply the story of people long ago. It’s the story of God’s faithfulness throughout history. As I read about Israel, the Church, and the promises that still await fulfillment, I couldn’t help but realize something:
- God didn’t forget the Gentiles.
- He didn’t forget me.
Through Jesus Christ, people who were once outsiders have been invited into God’s covenant family by grace. That realization filled me with gratitude. Not because I deserved a place – but because Jesus made one.
As I look around today’s world, I also find myself fascinated by discoveries in archaeology and history that continue encouraging people to investigate the Bible. While many discoveries are still being researched and debated, I love seeing how history, archaeology, and Scripture often intersect, prompting us to keep asking thoughtful questions and digging deeper into God’s Word.
More than anything, today’s study reminded me that God’s story isn’t over. The Bible isn’t simply the story of what God has done. It’s the story of what God is still doing. By His grace, we have been invited to become part of it.
Application To Life On The Homestead
Every season on a farm tells part of a much larger story.
- Spring planting.
- Summer growth.
- Autumn harvest.
- Winter rest.
No single season tells the whole story. Someone visiting during winter might think nothing is happening. Yet beneath the soil, life continues preparing for what comes next. God’s story unfolds much the same way. Sometimes His work is obvious; sometimes it is hidden, but every season serves His greater purpose.
Today’s lesson reiterated that just because a chapter ends doesn’t mean God’s story is over. He’s still writing it and by His grace we get to be part of it.
Seeing Jesus
Jesus is not only the Savior who came once for people long ago. He is also the King who will come again. His sacrifice on the cross secured redemption. His resurrection secured victory. His promised return gives believers hope. Every page of Scripture ultimately points toward Him.
A Moment That Changed My Perspective
One of the biggest realizations I had today was understanding that I am not simply reading the Bible from the outside looking in. Through Jesus Christ, I’ve been invited into God’s story. As far as I know, my family doesn’t have Jewish ancestry. Growing up, I sometimes wondered where I fit into God’s plan since I wasn’t Jewish. Today’s reading reminded me that through faith in Jesus, God graciously welcomes people from every tribe, nation, and background into His family. That doesn’t diminish God’s covenant faithfulness to Israel. Instead, it magnifies His incredible grace.
The invitation has been extended and by His mercy, I have been invited to belong and so have YOU.
Planting Your Seeds This Week:
Spend time thanking God for inviting you into His family through Jesus Christ. Then read Romans 11 slowly.
Ask yourself:
- What does this passage teach me about God’s faithfulness?
- How does it deepen my appreciation for His plan of redemption?
- How should this change the way I live today?
Spend More Time In The Word:
If today’s study encouraged you to see the Bible as one continuous story of God’s faithfulness, spend some additional time this week following the thread of God’s promises from the Old Testament into the New Testament.
Read each passage slowly, paying attention to how God’s plan unfolds over generations rather than all at once.
This Week’s Reading
- Genesis 12:1–3 – God’s covenant promise to Abraham.
- Genesis 15 – God confirms His covenant with Abraham.
- 2 Samuel 7:8–16 – God’s covenant with David.
- Isaiah 53 – The promised suffering Messiah.
- Luke 21:5–38 – Jesus warns about Jerusalem’s destruction and speaks of future hope.
- Romans 11 – The olive tree, God’s faithfulness to Israel, and the inclusion of the Gentiles.
- Acts 1:6–11 – Jesus’ ascension and the promise of His return.
- Revelation 21–22 – God’s story reaches its glorious conclusion with the promise of a new heaven and a new earth.
Questions to Consider
As you read, reflect on these questions:
- What promise of God stands out to me the most?
- How does each passage point me toward Jesus?
- What does this teach me about God’s faithfulness across generations?
- Am I trusting God’s timing, even when I don’t understand His plan?
- Where do I see myself fitting into God’s ongoing story of redemption?
Don’t rush through these passages. Read them prayerfully, ask questions, and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding. Remember, our goal isn’t simply to finish reading another chapter—it’s to know the Author more deeply and allow His Word to transform our hearts.
Questions I Still Have (Because I'm Human)
Studying Scripture often raises new questions. Some I’d like to explore further include:
- How should Christians understand fulfilled and future prophecy?
- What can archaeology teach us about biblical history?
- How did the destruction of Jerusalem reshape both Jewish and Christian history?
- How do I distinguish between historical evidence, ongoing research, and speculation?
- What does it truly mean to be grafted into God’s family through Christ?
Other Tools For A Great Bible Study Experience
Rabbit Holes Worth Exploring
- Josephus and the destruction of Jerusalem
- The Second Temple
- The Island of Patmos
- Biblical archaeology
- The Shroud of Turin
- Noah’s Ark research
- The Six-Day War
- Olive tree symbolism
- Aliyah
- Biblical covenants
What I'm Taking With Me
As I close today’s study, these are the truths I want to carry with me throughout the week:
✔ God’s story is still unfolding.
✔ Every fulfilled promise strengthens my confidence in God’s future promises.
✔ Through Jesus Christ, I have been graciously invited into God’s family.
Looking Ahead
Chapter 3 has given me a broad overview of God’s incredible plan of redemption. As I begin the next chapter, I’m excited to move beyond the timeline and start applying the 3D Bible study method in greater depth. My prayer is that each lesson will continue teaching me not only more about God’s Word, but also more about the heart of the God who gave it.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for writing a story that reaches across generations and welcomes people from every nation through Your Son, Jesus Christ.
Thank You for Your faithfulness, Your patience, and Your promises that never fail.
Help me continue studying Your Word with humility, discernment, and wonder. Guard my heart from fear and speculation, and keep my eyes fixed on Jesus—the Author and Perfecter of my faith.
May I never lose sight of the incredible privilege it is to belong to Your family and to take part in the story You are still writing today.
In Jesus’ precious name,
Amen.
Purchase Your Study Materials:
Memory Verse:
"He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it."
Books
- Encounter the 3D Bible — Dr. Susan Michael
- Encounter the 3D Bible Study Guide — Dr. Susan Michael
- Strong’s Concordance Made Easy
- The Complete Jewish Study Bible
- The CBS Holy Land Illustrated Bible
- The Evidence Study Bible
- The Daily Bible
- Rose Book Of Bible Charts, Maps, and Timelines
- Hebrew Vocabulary (Quick Study Guide)
Digital Resources
Other Study Tools
Find a Bible timeline that spans Genesis through Revelation. As you study, begin placing each event where it belongs. Seeing the entire story visually helps individual passages become much easier to understand. Here is one I found that is pretty cool:
Affiliate Link Notice
Many of the links on this page are affiliate links. This simply means that we get a referral bonus if you click our link and place an order. The company rewards us for the referral – but it doesn’t cost you anything extra over the cost of the products/services that you decide to purchase (plus any shipping fees and taxes). The payment is sometimes in monetary form, sometimes in discounts, sometimes in store credits, sometimes with other types of rewards. By using our links, you are supporting a small family business and helping our little farm.
To learn more about affiliate links, please read our Legal Terms & Conditions.
Bible Study Disclaimer
This study series reflects my personal notes and observations while working through Encounter the 3D Bible by Dr. Susan Michael. These posts are not a substitute for the book or study guide. I encourage you to purchase the materials and study alongside me.
References:
