The Epic of Eden: Introduction and Overview

Introduction

• Purpose of the Bible: The Bible communicates the realities of redemption and tells the epic tale of God's quest to save creation.
• Misinterpretation: The church has erred by making the Bible less or more than it is.
• True Objective: To tell the story of God's grace and quest to ransom creation.

Struggles with the Old Testament

• Relevance: Many Christians have not been taught that the Old Testament is part of their story.
• Misconceptions: Some believe the God of the Old Testament is different from that of the New Testament.
• Great Barrier: Historical, linguistic, cultural, and geographical separations make the Old Testament seem inaccessible.

The Dysfunctional Closet Syndrome

• Analogy: The Old Testament knowledge is like a messy closet — full but inaccessible.
• Impact: This disorganization prevents effective understanding and use of the Old Testament.

Author's Goal

• Objective: To organize Old Testament knowledge so it can be used effectively.
• Method: Identify a general law or structure within the text rather than imposing an external paradigm.

Chapter 1: The Bible as the Story of Redemption

Understanding Culture

• Ethnocentrism: Humans assume other cultures are like theirs, affecting biblical interpretation.
• Canonizing Culture: Assuming one's own cultural norms are superior to others.
• Cross-Cultural Study: Understanding the Old Testament requires viewing it through the eyes of its original authors.

Redemption

• Definition: The term originates from secular tribal customs, not theology.
• Israel's Tribal Culture: Patriarchal, patrilineal, and patrilocal structures are fundamental.
• Patriarchal: The oldest male led the family, making key decisions.
• Patrilineal: Inheritance passed through male lines.
• Patrilocal: Families lived in compounds centered around the patriarch.

Tribal Society Laws and Customs

• Laws for Protection: Protective laws for widows and orphans, like the gleaning and Leveret laws.
• Inheritance Laws: Ensured land remained within family lineage; nearest kin could redeem land.

Key Biblical Stories

• Judah and Tamar: Shows cultural norms of responsibility and justice in tribal society.
• David and his Brothers: Illustrates favoring the unexpected in God's plan over cultural norms.

Conclusion

• Goal: Equip Christians to understand their Old Testament heritage, recognizing it as part of their redemption story.
• Next Steps: Overcome historical-cultural barriers to integrate Old Testament insights into Christian faith.