Section outline

  •  Kelvin Friebel

    Dr. Kelvin Friebel   kmfriebel@gmail.com


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    • AN INTRODUCTION TO OLD TESTAMENT WISDOM LITERATURE
      Old Testament Wisdom Literature includes Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes, which explore themes of wisdom, suffering, and the meaning of life. These books use poetic and philosophical reflections to contrast righteousness with folly. Their teachings guide believers in moral and spiritual formation, emphasizing the fear of the Lord as the foundation of wisdom.

    • CREATION THEOLOGY AND COVENANT THEOLOGY IN WISDOM LITERATURE
      Wisdom literature in the Old Testament is rooted in both Creation Theology and Covenant Theology. Creation Theology emphasizes God as Creator, revealing wisdom through nature and experience, while Covenant Theology sees God as the covenant Lord, revealing wisdom through His law. These perspectives shape different ways of understanding divine guidance and human responsibility.

    • TRADITIONAL AND REFLECTIVE WISDOM IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
      Wisdom literature in the Old Testament consists of both traditional and reflective wisdom. Traditional wisdom, found in Proverbs, teaches that righteous living leads to blessings, while reflective wisdom, seen in Job and Ecclesiastes, questions why suffering exists despite righteousness. These two perspectives provide a balanced view of wisdom, acknowledging both order and unpredictability in life.

    • THE FEAR OF THE LORD AND WISDOM IN PROVERBS
      The book of Proverbs teaches that the fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom, emphasizing reverence and devotion to God. This concept is both the starting point and guiding principle for gaining true understanding. Proverbs highlights how wisdom and the fear of the Lord are interconnected, shaping moral character and decision-making.

    • THE FUNCTION AND INTERPRETATION OF PROVERBS
      Proverbs use concise and memorable statements to communicate wisdom about life. Some proverbs offer direct advice, while others describe general life patterns, requiring discernment for proper application. Understanding their literary form helps in interpreting their meaning within different contexts.

    • THE NATURE AND PURPOSE OF PROVERBS
      Proverbs are short, insightful sayings that communicate wisdom through memorable phrases. They function as general truths rather than absolute promises, offering guidance for ethical and practical decision-making. Understanding their context helps in applying them appropriately to different life situations.

    • THE THEMES AND STRUCTURE OF ECCLESIASTES
      Ecclesiastes explores life's meaning through the themes of vanity, wisdom, and human limitations. The book is structured around the reflections of Qohelet, who questions traditional wisdom and emphasizes the fleeting nature of life. Despite its skeptical tone, Ecclesiastes concludes by affirming the importance of fearing God and keeping His commandments.

    • THE SEARCH FOR MEANING IN ECCLESIASTES
      Ecclesiastes examines the human quest for ultimate meaning through work, pleasure, and wisdom. Qohelet concludes that all earthly pursuits are fleeting and that true purpose is found in fearing God. The book challenges readers to reflect on what truly lasts beyond this life.

    • THE PURPOSE AND MESSAGE OF ECCLESIASTES
      Ecclesiastes explores the limits of human wisdom and the fleeting nature of life. It challenges readers to recognize that ultimate meaning cannot be found in earthly pursuits alone. The book concludes by affirming that true purpose is found in fearing God and keeping His commandments.

    • JOB'S RESPONSE TO SUFFERING
      Job's story highlights how a righteous person can endure suffering without losing faith. He openly questions God but never abandons his trust, illustrating that lament and faith can coexist. His perseverance serves as a model for facing trials with integrity and reliance on God.

    • JOB'S FRIENDS AND THE CHALLENGE OF COMFORT
      The friends of Job initially offer silent presence, which is the most compassionate response to his suffering. However, when they begin speaking, they accuse Job of sin, assuming suffering must be divine punishment. Their failure highlights the importance of listening and supporting others without rushing to judgment.

    • GOD'S RESPONSE TO JOB
      God responds to Job from the whirlwind, emphasizing the vastness of creation and Job’s limited understanding. Instead of explaining Job’s suffering, God highlights His wisdom and control over the universe. This response shifts Job’s focus from demanding answers to trusting in God’s sovereignty.