Israel's Story - Part Two

This study has 7 sessions, incorporating an introductory session and 6 lessons. The Study Set includes the Study Guide by Catherine Upchurch and a commentary, Israel's Story-Part Two, by Dianne Bergant (Liturgical Press). Please note that Israel's Story - Part One uses a different commentary, and so al those who have studied Part One will need to order complete Study Sets for Part Two as well.

Dianne Bergant, CSA, is professor of Old Testament studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She is author of the Preaching the New Lectionary series and general editor of The Collegeville Bible Commentary (Old Testament) published by Liturgical Press. She was also editor of "The Bible Today" from 1986-1990.

Our Old Testament is divided into sections based on traditional understandings of the type of literature they represent. Anyone reading through the Old Testament in the order the books appear might find themselves challenged to appreciate their contribution to Israel's self understanding or how they reflect the setting and period of history they arose from. This study explores Old Testament history, theology, and stories, from the diVision of the kingdom following the death of King Solomon, through the prophets to the southern kingdom of Judah, the Exile in Babylon, and the return to restore Jerusalem. This study also provides insights into how the rebuilding of the Temple following the exile and the influence of Greek culture in later periods gave rise to Jewish beliefs that shaped Jewish beliefs and practices in the time of Jesus. A helpful glossary of terms is provided at the end of the commentary.