Instructions:
For this assignment, you will be studying the Old Testament story of The Bronze Serpent found in Numbers 21:4-9. You will use the template below in order to complete a study of this passage. In your study, you will use the skills of Observation, Interpretation, Correlation, and Application that you have become familiar with through your reading in Everyday Bible Study.
I. Observation
A. I have read Numbers 21:4-9 in both a formal translation (KJV, NKJV, NASB, ESV, or
CSB) and a functional translation (NIV, NLT, or NCV). Highlight the correct answer. You will find a copy of the NASB, ESV, CSB, and NLT in your myWSB Library.
Yes
No
Having read the passage in both formal and functional translation, list at least 2 similarities and 3 differences between the way both translations cover this story. You may list as many similarities and differences that you find as long as you meet the minimum amount.
Similarities Differences
Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying
1. Main characters: (List them)
2. Plot: (50-100 words)
3. Narrative structure: (50-100 words)
Hint: Be sure to consult the section on narrative/story structure given in the tutorial for this assignment.
C. List basic observations about this passage using the Key Question for observation.
1. Who:
2. What:
3. Where:
4. When:
5. Why:
6. How:
II. Interpretation
A. Determine the authors main point. In 1-2 paragraphs (100-400 words) explain what you
think the author is trying to communicate in this passage. Remember, the Old Testament narratives frequently communicate truth by showing it to us in story form instead of telling it to us by way of teaching or sermon. Please remember that words like I, We, Us, and Our are application words and not interpretation words. Interpretation is about then and there and not here and now. We were not there so the passage is not about us. Our part in the passage is application or how we will respond to Gods Word.
B. Based on your answer above, write out one principle from this passage. You should be able
to express this principle in 1-3 sentences.
III. Correlation
A. How does this Old Testament narrative fit within the metanarrative of the Bible? State what
type of story you believe this to be (creation, fall, redemption, or new creation) and explain why you believe this to be so. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length.
B. How does your principle fit with the rest of the Scripture? This principle is the one you have
written out in 1-3 sentences in the Interpretation section. If your principle is a true Biblical principle it will be reflected throughout the Scriptures. Where is the principle discovered in this Old Testament narrative found elsewhere in the Scriptures? Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length.
C. How does this Old Testament narrative reflect the person and work of Jesus Christ? State
and explain at least one way that the principle of this narrative can be identified in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length.
IV. Application
What points of application can be made using the Four Questions for Application? State and explain 1 point of application for each of these four questions. Your explanation for each of these points should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length.
A. The question of duty
B. The question of character
C. The question of goals
D. The question of discernment
