Rev. Martin Mayer, Edited by Rev. Michael Kasting

This study describes the beginning of the world, human race, and, in particular, the Chosen People of God. This is not a book of science, but a book of faith. The important question is not "when" or "how" God created the world, it is "why."  It is in that spirit that we invite you to join us in our study of Genesis.

Rev. James Young

What does slavery in Egypt and wandering in the wilderness have to do with us in the 21st century?   Exodus describes the exciting ways God delivered His people from slavery and led them through the wilderness towards the Promised Land.  Today, as then, He still delivers and leads us by the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit and speaks to us through His Word.  Exodus shows us WHO sets us free!

Rev. Martin Mayer

Joshua was among those who had come out of Egyptian slavery and knew well the almighty power of God.  It was this experience, no doubt, which influenced Joshua to a strong faith in God and in his role as leader of the Israelites.

Rev. Rodger Gredvig

The recurring theme in the book of Judges is Israel's prosperity that degenerated into idolatry, God's consequential rejection and punishment, followed by repentance and cries for mercy.  In response, God would send a deliverer (Judge) to rescue them.  This pattern emphasizes the basic nature of man's sinfulness contrasted with the mercy and patience of our forgiving God.  Updated 2013

Lois Engelbart Edited by Rev. Robert Wolff

Ruth is the account of two remarkable women held by God's enduring grace.  God will turn their loss into gain and their sorrow into joy. This is a journey through a loving story of God's grace with the theme of redemption throughout.  Updated 2013

Lois Engelbart Edited by Rev. Robert Wolff

First Samuel marks the transition in Israel's form of government of the judges to the monarchy.  It centers on the lives of Samuel, Saul and David.

Lois Engelbart Edited by Rev. Robert Wolff

The book of 2nd Samuel tells the story of David's ascent to the throne and his reign as king.  Throughout, we see how God was the source of David's strength and why God referred to David as a "man after my own heart."

Lois Engelbart Edited by Rev. Robert Wolff

First Kings is a picture of a 'united kingdom' under Solomon as he builds the Temple.  After his death, the kingdom is torn into two and filled with enmity, strife, and idolatry.  But God graciously provided His people with His prophets calling them to repentance. 

Lois Engelbart Edited by Rev. Robert Wolff

Second Kings stresses that God is the sovereign Lord over the history of Israel and other nations.  Unfortunately, the last years portray corruption and captivity which lead to the downfall of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. 

Rev. Dr. Erwin Kurth

Ezra chronicles the return of the exiles from the Babylonian Captivity. The theme of the book is faithfulness to the Lord and His law. It is a record of the return to Israel and the rebuilding of the temple where Solomon's temple once stood. Dr. Kurth explains Ezra's involvement in the rebuilding of the people through God's Word., Updated 2014

Rev. Dr. Erwin Kurth

Nehemiah reveals himself as a brilliant leader when he returns to Jerusalem to help rebuild its walls.  This magnificent action occurred in only 52 days. Nehemiah's prayer life is an encouragement to us all. Dr. Kurth says, "The chief message of the book of Nehemiah is the joy of the Lord is your strength" (Neh. 8:10) and Nehemiah exhibits this. Updated 2014

Rev. Dr. Erwin Kurth

An excellent study identifying "Queen Esther as an instrument in the hand of God to save the remnant of Israel, the tribe of Judah, from extermination...Esther was the woman for an emergency, thanks to the over-shadowing concern of Jehovah Lord."

Rev. Dr. Erwin Kurth

Dr. Kurth relates, "it is the Holy Spirit's record of man's groping for an answer to the problem of evil."  Job deals with the justice of sovereign God in a world filled with suffering.