~~THE PURPOSE OF THESE OUTLINES
The purpose of these outlines is three-fold: to present an analysis, an interpretation, and a synthesis of the basic contents of each book of the Bible. The intent of analysis is to lay bare the content for examination; that of interpretation is to reveal and, explain its meaning; and the intent of synthesis is to develop the materials in an organized structure for purposes of better understanding, exposition, and application.
In developing these materials in this form this three-fold purpose has been kept in mind. An effort has been made to analyze or open up the native message and to synthesize or develop this basic content in an inductively-conceived structural form, genuinely related to the various contexts. The outline designations, however, are given with an interpretive flavor rather than in a purely historical framework. For instance, the life of Abraham is divided into three periods related to faith: 1) the awakening of faith; 2) the rewarding of faith; and 3) the perfecting of faith. We have thus attempted to blend the three essential elements of analysis, interpreta¬tion, and synthesis into one.
THE FOUNDATIONAL CHARACTER OF THESE OUTLINES
It is believed that each Biblical passage has an historical significance, a theological significance, and spiritual principle (s) for current applications. The student of the Bible should learn to discern these essential elements as he studies each passage. It is not enough to know the historical story; one should discover what truth the story teaches about God, and with this background, discern the abiding principle(s) involved. With these materials and principles firmly grasped from the individual contexts, one may build theological structures and homiletical treatises with confidence. Without a mastery of these basic Biblical materials it is foolhardy to attempt the structural work of theology and exposition.
THE SOURCES AND SCOPE OF THESE OUTLINES
The materials herein presented have been garnered and organized from a wide range of scopic, introductory, expositional, exegetical, and archaeological works, most of which are listed in the various bibliographies given. The watchword in gleaning and organization has been selectivity in keeping with inductively conceived principles of hermeneutics for Bible understanding. The emphasis throughout is on a strong adherence to the Bible text itself as understood in the grammatical historical contextual setting.
To live with the prophets and apostles as they spoke God's Word out of living historical situations and experiences with God, is to catch a fresh insight into the mind of the Almighty and His program for the redeemed. It is hoped that these materials will spark a kindred interest and enthusiasm in the student for the Word of God which is living and active and bears its own guarantee that it will inevitably accomplish God's will.