INTRODUCTION TO THE OLD TESTAMENT

A Free Short Course from Morling College.
Learn how the Old Testament prepares the way for Jesus and shapes our understanding of God’s mission.
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Marc Rader

About the Presenter

Marc Rader

Marc Rader is a faculty member at Morling College, where he teaches in Preaching, Bible, and History. He also serves as the Senior Pastor of Gymea Baptist Church, a large, multi-staff congregation in Sydney’s south. Originally from Canada, Marc has been part of the Australian church landscape since 1997 and brings a pastoral, practical, and thoughtful approach to teaching the Scriptures.

Course Overview

For many, the Old Testament can feel like a closed or confusing book, full of strange laws, troubling stories, and distant history. But what if it could become a source of clarity, confidence, and hope?

In this six-session video series, Marc invites you to explore some of the major narratives and themes of the Old Testament, from Babel to Babylon, and beyond. Each session highlights a key text, a psalm that reflects on its theme, and a piece of art that stirs reflection. You'll discover how the Old Testament tells a cohesive story of God's faithfulness, covenant, and mission—and how it ultimately points us to Jesus.

Each session includes thought-provoking questions and further resources, making it ideal for personal reflection, team training, or church-wide conversation.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

AT A GLANCE

STARTS
Anytime!
Six online sessions at your own pace.
WHO'S IT FOR?
Anyone seeking to understand the Old Testament better.
Perfect for lay leaders, small groups and the simply curious.
DURATION
6 Sessions
12 minutes per video session + optional resources
COST
FREE
No hidden costs or obligations, just sign up and enjoy!

COURSE SESSIONS

Session 1: The Tower of Babel
Session 1: The Tower of Babel
  • Trace how God’s purposes in creation continue despite human rebellion.
  • Explore how the promises to Abraham become a key to God's ongoing mission.
Session 2: Joseph and the Famine
Session 2: Joseph and the Famine
  • Discover how God’s faithfulness shaped the lives of the patriarchs, especially Joseph.
  • Reflect on the distinction between descriptive stories and prescriptive truths in Scripture.
Session 3: Joshua and the Gibeonites
Session 3: Joshua and the Gibeonites
  • Follow the fulfilment of God’s covenant promises as Israel enters the land.
  • Consider how unexpected faithfulness in outsiders reflects God's desire to bless the nations.
Session 4: Elijah on Mount Carmel
Session 4: Elijah on Mount Carmel
  • Examine Israel’s spiritual decline and God’s response through the ministry of Elijah.
  • Understand the role of miracles in affirming God’s presence and power.
Session 5: Hezekiah and Sennacherib
Session 5: Hezekiah and Sennacherib
  • Learn how trust in God contrasts with political compromise in a time of crisis.
  • Explore the significance of Hezekiah’s reign in light of ancient near eastern history.
Session 6: Cyrus’s Decree
Session 6: Cyrus’s Decree
  • Reflect on the theological weight of exile and the surprising role of foreign rulers in God’s plan.
  • See how the Old Testament ends with hope and points forward to Christ’s coming.

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