Bible Study: Day 7 Of “Encounter The 3D Bible” By Dr. Susan Michael

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Day 7: Why the Old Testament Still Matters

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

— Psalm 119:105

Study Tip:

One of the biggest takeaways from today’s study is realizing that learning to read the Bible this way (in 3D) deepens my faith. Instead of fearing difficult passages, I’m beginning to understand that many of them deserve a closer look before I draw conclusions.

If you read certain passages and feel attacked or come to a harsh conclusion – make sure you dig deeper into those verses to learn the history, the geography, the cultural context, who it was written for, what was going on in the world at that time, etc. I think you’ll come to the same realization that I am starting to see – I’ve been missing out on so much context that there is no way I could have known what the true meaning was supposed to be. Learning to read the Bible in 3D isn’t about another Bible study – it is learning how to strengthen my relationship with God by looking at the Word with a new perspective.

Rose Book Of Bible Charts, Maps, and Timelines

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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)

Psalm 119:105
Jeremiah 31:31–34
Ezekiel 11:19–20
Matthew 4:1–11
Matthew 22:31–32
Romans 2:14–15
Ephesians 2:11–22
2 Timothy 2:15
2 Timothy 3:14–17
Hebrews 8:6–13
Habakkuk 2:4

Cross-Reference Bible Scriptures (Explore Further)

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Opening prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving us the whole counsel of Your Word. Forgive me for the times I have overlooked parts of Scripture because they seemed old, confusing, uncomfortable, or difficult to understand. As I study the Bible – the Old Testament and the New Testament – give me patience and humility. Help me resist the temptation to judge an ancient text only through the assumptions of my modern culture. Teach me to ask better questions. Help me understand the people, places, covenants, customs, and historical circumstances surrounding each passage.

Lord, show me how the Old Testament prepares the way for Jesus and reveals Your faithful plan of redemption. When I encounter difficult verses, keep me from fear or shallow conclusions. Give me the desire to search, study, pray, and seek wise guidance. May Your Word take deep root in my heart so that confusion, doubt, and half-truths cannot easily pull me away from You.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Today's Journey & Study Overview

Chapter 4 asks an important question: How should Christians read the Old Testament?

Many believers find the Old Testament difficult. It contains unfamiliar cultures, ancient laws, warfare, genealogies, covenants, symbolic language, and practices that can feel confusing or even troubling to modern readers. Because of those difficulties, some Christians avoid it altogether. Others assume that because it is called “old,” it is no longer relevant. Today’s reading from “Encounter The 3D Bible” challenged that assumption.

The Old Testament is not a discarded first draft of Christianity. It provides the history, promises, covenants, language, and expectations necessary to understand the New Testament. Without the Old Testament, we lose the foundation that helps us understand:

who Jesus is,
why humanity needs redemption,
what the Messiah was expected to accomplish,
why Jesus died and rose again,
how God’s covenants unfold,
and why Christ has promised to return.

The New Testament does not appear out of nowhere. It grows out of everything God had already revealed.

In today’s study we’ll use “Encounter The 3D Bible” by Susan Michael to explore the following questions:

Why the word “old” can create misunderstanding.
The difference between the Old Testament and the Old Covenant.
What Christians mean when discussing Replacement Theology.
How the new covenant relates to the Mosaic covenant.
Why Jesus and Paul treated the Hebrew Scriptures as authoritative.
How to read difficult Old Testament passages responsibly.
Why cultural, historical, literary, and chronological context matter.
How the Old Testament forms the foundation of the Christian faith.

(Go deeper into this study by getting your own copy of the study materials > linked here)

Thinking Differently

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 4 Notes

Who?

Many people and groups are involved in today’s study:

The people of Israel
Abraham and his descendants
Moses
David
The prophets
Jesus
Paul
Timothy
The early Church
Jewish believers in Jesus
Gentile believers

Each person or group occupies a place within the same unfolding story. The Old Testament introduces the covenants, people, promises, conflicts, and hopes that shape the New Testament. The New Testament then shows how those themes come together through Jesus Christ.

What?

Today’s chapter explains why Christians should not ignore or dismiss the Old Testament. One concern Dr. Susan Michael brings up in her book is the name of the Old Testament – when modern readers hear the word old, they may assume something is outdated, worn out, or no longer useful. That can make the New Testament sound more relevant and the Old Testament less important.

Dr. Michael suggests alternative names for the Old Testament and New Testament that may help readers better understand the two major portions of the Bible – but to respect the hard work Dr. Michael put into the book, we aren’t going to list those names here in our notes. Instead, we urge you to support Dr. Michael’s work by getting a copy of the study materials so you can gain the value and knowledge “Encounter The 3D Bible” book shares with us.

Whatever names we choose to use for these parts of the Bible, both sections belong to one connected story. This connection is one of the base-premises and an important concept from “Encounter The 3D Bible”. Focusing on Chapter 4 right now, Dr. Michael spends time distinguishing between: the Old Testament (which is a collection of biblical books) and the Old Covenant (which usually refers to the Mosaic covenant made with Israel at Sinai). The Old Testament and Old Covenant are not identical. The distinction matters because saying that the Mosaic covenant is becoming obsolete does not mean that the entire Old Testament has become obsolete. Remember that the Old Testament contains other covenants that are still relevant even today, which you can learn more about in the study materials.

When?

The Old Testament covers a vast period of history. It begins with creation and the earliest generations of humanity. It then follows the lives of the patriarchs, Israel’s slavery in Egypt, the Exodus, the wilderness years, the conquest of Canaan, the judges, the kings, the divided kingdoms, exile, and return.

Because so many centuries and generations are involved, it is easy to become confused about when a person lived or where an event belongs. This becomes especially difficult during the period of the divided kingdom, when Israel and Judah had separate rulers and prophetic ministries operating at different times. Understanding the timeline helps us recognize:

which covenant was in view,
which kingdom was being addressed,
which enemy threatened the people,
which prophets were speaking,
and how each event moved the story toward the coming Messiah.

Where?

Geographical Context

Related To My “Encounter The 3D Bible” Book Notes:

The Old Testament unfolds primarily in the ancient Middle East. Important locations include:

Mesopotamia
Egypt
Canaan
The wilderness
Israel
Judah
Jerusalem
Assyria
Babylon
Persia

These locations were not culturally identical to the modern Western world. The people lived within communities shaped by family identity, tribes, honor, shame, covenant relationships, agricultural cycles, kings, temples, and collective responsibility. Reading Scripture, as Dr. Michael notes, is therefore a cross-cultural experience. To understand a passage responsibly, we must make an effort to enter the world of the original writer and audience rather than forcing the passage to fit our own culture.

Why?

“Encounter The 3D Bible” prompts us with this question: Why should Christians study the Old Testament?

Chapter 4 explains the answer in detail, to which we will summarize here: We study the Old Testament because it provides the foundation for almost everything the New Testament assumes its readers already understand. Stories and subjects the New Testament frequently refers to:

creation,
the fall,
Abraham,
covenant,
sacrifice,
Passover,
the Law,
the priesthood,
the temple,
David’s throne,
exile,
restoration,
prophecy,
and the promised Messiah.

Without the Old Testament, many of these references lose their depth.

We may understand that Jesus died for our sins, but the sacrificial system helps explain the language of atonement.
We may call Jesus the Lamb of God, but Passover helps us understand why that title matters.
We may call Him the Son of David, but the Davidic covenant explains the promise behind that name.
We may speak of a new covenant, but Jeremiah and Ezekiel explain what God had promised to do.

The Old Testament does not compete with Jesus. It prepares us to recognize Him.

Digging In Deeper

One of my favorite parts of today’s lesson was learning more about Bible translations. Before today, I understood that different translations existed, but I had never clearly understood the differences and why there are so many. Some translations seek to remain as close as possible to the original Hebrew and Greek wording; while others seek to communicate the meaning of a passage more naturally in modern English.

Neither approach exists to change God’s Word. Instead, each seeks to help readers understand the Scriptures faithfully in different ways. One practical takeaway for me was the value of comparing multiple trustworthy translations while studying a passage.

Note: Dr. Susan Michael explains each of the translations and gives examples we are not giving here in our notes – again, to support her work. If you ever question the different translations and types of Bibles out there – they are explained by the author clearly. Get your copy of the book today – linked here: Book Only (Paperback) | Audio Book (For Kindle) | Study Guide Only (Paperback)

Cultural Context

Perhaps the biggest lesson I learned today was that the Bible reflects a culture very different from my own. Western culture often emphasizes the individual. Biblical culture frequently emphasizes covenant, family, and community. That realization alone helped me read familiar passages with fresh eyes.

My Reflections

Learning HOW To Read The Bible

Whenever I read a verse, I’m beginning to train myself to ask:

What kind of writing is this?
Who wrote it?
Who first received it?
What was happening historically?
What cultural influences shaped this moment?
How does this passage fit into God’s larger story?

These questions don’t make Bible study more difficult. They help me become a more careful reader and draw me closer to my Lord & Savior.

Application To Life On The Homestead

Anyone who has worked the land knows that understanding the environment matters. A farmer doesn’t plant the same crop the same way in every field without first considering the soil, the season, the weather, and the purpose of the harvest. The same principle applies to Bible study. Before drawing conclusions from a verse, I’m learning to understand the “environment” in which it was planted—its history, culture, audience, and literary style. Only then can I better appreciate the harvest God intended it to produce.

Seeing Jesus

One of the most beautiful truths I noticed today is that Jesus didn’t simply come to save isolated individuals. He came to reconcile people to God and bring them into His family. From beginning to the end, God’s heart has always been RELATIONSHIP. Through Christ, people from every background are invited into that covenant family—not because of who they are, but because of His grace.

A Moment That Changed My Perspective

There was one part of today’s lesson that genuinely shifted the way I think. For years, I struggled with some of Paul’s writings concerning women. Without understanding the historical and cultural background, those passages often felt harsh and difficult to reconcile with the compassion of Jesus. Today’s lesson didn’t answer every question I still have, but it reminded me that before assuming I understand a difficult passage, I should first understand the world in which it was written.

Instead of asking, “Why would Paul say this?” I’m beginning to ask, “What was happening in that church that prompted Paul to write those words?” That one change in perspective has opened the door to deeper study rather than quick conclusions.

Closing Thoughts From CJ

Today’s lesson may have changed my perspective more than any lesson so far and we are only in Day 4. For years, I’ve struggled with some of Paul’s writings regarding women. If I’m being completely honest, there were times when I wondered if Paul simply disliked women. Reading those passages through my modern Western perspective made some of them feel harsh, attacking, confusing, and even discouraging. Today’s study didn’t magically answer every question I still have. What it did do was give me something far more valuable: It reminded me that before deciding what a passage means, I first need to understand the world in which it was written.

Learning that there were specific cultural influences affecting the church in Ephesus completely changed the way I approached those passages. Instead of immediately assuming I understood Paul’s intent, I found myself asking a different question: “What was happening in this church that caused Paul to write these words?” That single question shifted my entire perspective. It also reminded me that understanding Scripture takes humility. There are passages I’ve probably misunderstood simply because I didn’t have enough historical or cultural context to understand them correctly. Instead of being frustrated by that realization, I’m actually encouraged. It means there’s still so much more to discover.

Another thing that stood out to me today was the reminder that God’s story has always been bigger than the individual. As someone raised in Western culture, I naturally read many passages asking, “What does this mean for me?” But today’s lesson reminded me that God’s plan has always centered on creating a covenant family—a people who reflect His character to the world. That doesn’t make my personal relationship with God less important. It simply places it within the much bigger story He has been telling since Genesis.

Finally, I realized something about Bible study itself. Reading the Bible devotionally feeds my heart. Studying the Bible deeply engages both my heart and my mind. I don’t think God intended me to choose between those two approaches. I think He invites me to do both.

Planting Your Seeds This Week:

This week, choose one Bible passage that has always been confusing, difficult, or uncomfortable.

Before searching for someone else’s explanation, spend some time asking these questions:

Who wrote this?
Who was the original audience?
What was happening historically?
What cultural influences might have shaped this passage?
What type of literature am I reading?
How does this fit into the larger story of Scripture?

Write down your observations before reading a commentary.

You may be surprised by what you discover simply by slowing down and asking better questions.

Spend More Time In The Word:

Today’s study led me to spend time in these passages:

Genesis 12:1–3
Genesis 17:8
Leviticus 26:12
Romans 11
Acts 17:11
Ephesians 1:15–18
Matthew 28:19–20
Revelation 7:9

Together they remind me that God’s redemptive plan has always been bigger than one nation—it extends to people from every tribe, language, and nation through Jesus Christ.

Questions I Still Have (Because I'm Human)

One of the things I love most about studying God’s Word is that every answer seems to open the door to another question. Rather than seeing that as a weakness, I’m beginning to see it as an invitation to keep learning.

Today’s study left me thinking about several questions I’d like to continue exploring:

How can I become better at recognizing when I’m reading my own culture into Scripture instead of understanding the culture in which it was written?
How do I know when a passage should be applied directly to my life versus understood within its historical setting?
How can I become more confident in researching biblical history without getting overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information available?
What other difficult passages might become clearer when I understand their audience, historical setting, and cultural background?
How can I continue growing in Bible study without allowing it to become simply an intellectual pursuit instead of a relationship with God?

I don’t expect to answer all of these questions today, but I believe every sincere question is another step toward knowing God more deeply.

Other Tools For A Great Bible Study Experience

Rabbit Holes Worth Exploring

Today’s lesson sent me down several rabbit trails that I’d love to explore in future studies:

The church at Ephesus
Diana (Artemis) and her influence on the ancient world
Women in the early church
Olive tree symbolism throughout Scripture
Bible translations and how they are created
Study Bibles and Bible study tools
The Bereans and what made them such faithful students of Scripture

Purchase Your Study Materials:

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for reminding me that Your Word is alive, rich, and deeper than I often realize. Thank You for giving us Scripture that continues to reveal new truths each time we return to it with humble hearts.

Help me never become satisfied with simply reading familiar verses. Give me a desire to know You more deeply by understanding Your Word more faithfully. Teach me to approach difficult passages with humility instead of frustration, with curiosity instead of fear, and with confidence that Your truth can withstand every honest question.

Thank You for preserving Your Word throughout history and for the faithful men and women who have dedicated their lives to helping others understand it more clearly. As I continue this journey, may my knowledge never outgrow my love for You. Let every lesson draw me closer to Your heart and transform the way I live each day.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

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:

✔ Understanding context strengthens—not weakens—my faith.

✔ Difficult passages deserve deeper study before quick conclusions.

✔ God desires a relationship with me that grows through intentional time in His Word.

Looking Ahead

Today’s lesson introduced several of the tools that help bring Scripture to life, but we’re only beginning the journey. As we continue studying, we’ll start putting these principles into practice by examining specific passages through their historical, geographical, cultural, literary, and audience context.

I’m excited to see how God continues changing not only what I know about the Bible, but how I experience it each time I open its pages.

If today’s lesson inspired you to begin digging deeper into God’s Word, here are a few resources I’m either using now or hope to add to my own library as this journey continues.

Books

Digital Resources

Other Study Tools

Bible atlas and maps
Strong’s Concordance
Chronological Study Bibles
Bible dictionaries
Multiple Bible translations (ESV, NIV, NKJV)

Every tool has the same purpose: not simply helping us learn more about the Bible, but helping us know the God of the Bible more deeply.

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Bible Study Disclaimer

References:

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Day 6: God’s Story Continues, Even Today!

“He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:24 (ESV)

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

To learn more about affiliate links, please read our Legal Terms & Conditions.

Bible Study Disclaimer

To learn more about affiliate links, please read our Legal Terms & Conditions.

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”

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.

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Memory Verse:

“He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:24

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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: