The Kingdom of David

Session One:

By the Rivers of Babylon

Introduction: We begin this course with reading chapters 1-4 in Kirsch's King David followed by viewing episode one of the accompanying film The Kingdom of David - "By the Rivers of Babylon."

After having completed the readings for this session and reviewed the accompanying video you may choose - on a purely optional basis - to answer the study questions and submit them at etwimber@hotmail.com or to contact Dr. Wimberley by phone or email to request a time for dialogue about what you have learned. You may do so by phone or dialogue via Skype or Facetime. Dr. Wimberley's phone number is 239.405.4164. We may convene group meetings of the class using the Zoom application on our computers. You can enroll in this course by emailing etwimber@hotmail.com or by texting Dr. Wimberley at 239.405.4164.

Readings: Kirsch, Jonathan (2008) King David: The Real Life of the Man Who Ruled Israel. Chapters 1-4.

Video: By the Rivers of Babylon

Study Questions:

1. How did was the "sacred" and the "profane" expressed in the life of King David?
2. So if the "seed" of David is flawed then how does that reflect on the expectations that the Messiah will spring from David's "seed"?
3. David is said to have complied with God's will and defied his law. How so?
4. What is the theological meaning of the tale of 'David & Goliath' and how does that differ from the cultural interpretation of the story?
5. David was a master of political intrigue. Explain..
6. What was it about the Isrealites that made them one of the most conquered peoples in history?
7. Why did the Babylonians destroy the temple and exile the Judeans?
8. Explain how writing a Bible while in Exile was an act of defiance against the Babylonians.
9. Can stories that are not historically accurate or true in every respect be morally edifying? Explain.
10. Describe the extent of archeological evidence that exists supporting the Exodous story.