Instructions for Facilitators

Each of the weekly modules in this course contains a short video featuring scholars of the text, a study guide, and discussion questions. Certain modules also feature additional resources for further study.

Below is the schedule for which portions of the text are being studied in a given week, occasionally including optional reading when relevant. In addition to reviewing the recommended scripture, you should review the “Questions for Discussion” section each week in order to help facilitate group discussion.

Week 1 – Introduction to the Course

1. Prepare for the session by familiarizing yourself with the organization of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel.
2. Optional: Review the book of Judges.

Week 2 – Samuel: Judge of Prophecy

1. Prepare for the session by reading 1 Samuel chapters 1-12.
2. Optional: Read Psalm 2, Deuteronomy 17:14-20, and Joshua 7 to compare themes of election and anointing.
3. Optional: Read Luke 1:46-55 and compare to 1 Samuel 2:1-10.

Week 3 – Saul

1. Prepare for the session by reading 1 Samuel chapters 13-15.

Week 4 – The Rise of David

1. Prepare for the session by reading 1 Samuel chapters 16-20.

Week 5 – The Character of David

1. Prepare for the session by reading 1 Samuel chapters 21-31 and 2 Samuel chapters 1-3.

Week 6 – David’s Kingship

1. Prepare for the session by reading 2 Samuel chapters 4-10, with a special focus on chapter 7.
2. Optional: read Psalm 89.

Week 7 – Bathsheba

1. Prepare for the session by reading 2 Samuel chapters 11-12.

Week 8 – David’s Decline

1. Prepare for the session by reading 2 Samuel chapters 12-24.