1 and 2 Samuel: The Rise of Kingship

You’re familiar with how central Jesus the Messiah is to the story of Scripture. You may also know that “Messiah” means “anointed” and that it’s a term used for royalty. So, how did this idea begin? How did Israel even get a royal line at all, and how was it chosen?

You have some initial ideas already. The book of Judges ended with corruption and anarchy led especially by one tribe in Israel. The book of Ruth ended with the hesed or lovingkindness expressed in another tribe. Those two tribes will contribute to the story of kingship in the books of 1 and 2 Samuel. This course explores how this initially unnecessary institution becomes essential to God’s purposes in the world.

If this is your first course in the Bible Journey curriculum, you must first visit the Journey Prep page to understand the background, history, and terminology we will use in the courses.