What is an Old Testament Narrative?

What is an Old Testament narrative?

     A narrative is a story, a history, more importantly, it is HIStory. The story of God and his people presented to teach us about who God is and who we are. They show us our place in Him and act as a guide to direct us in Godly living. However, they are much more than that. They also show us that we are not and cannot be perfect. Even David the ‘man after God’s own heart’ was a sinner who stumbled. As a Christian when we read the narratives, we must realize they are our histories as well.

     How are we to read our HIStory? Is it as simple as reading a self-help book and making a couple of changes? Are the Old Testament narratives a ‘How to be Holy for dummies’ book? No, it is more complicated than that, yet wisdom, guidance and joy can be found throughout.

     To understand the Old Testament narratives it is important that you avoid some common errors and mistakes people make when interpreting the narratives.

1.  The narratives are stories of sinful men. The narratives are about God and his interaction with fallen mankind. Since they are sinners, not everything they do is right or good, just because David did something does not make it right.

2.  They are stories from God about God and not direct teachings on specific doctrine.

3.  They are snapshots of the events written from varying viewpoints and not the complete story on the life of our Bible heroes.

4.  We have to understand the culture and the times to correctly interpret the message implied by the narratives. You must look at who is the narrator, who is the audience and what is happening to get a complete understanding. You cannot ignore the historical context.

5.  Do not try to fit the story to you preconceived notions and doctrines. While we can read between the lines somewhat avoid trying to make it say what you want it to.

6.  Don’t always try to pick out some deep moral meaning. There might not be something there if you have to dig too deep or leap to far.

7.  Take the whole narrative into account you can’t parse the word or you destroy the story. Make sure to keep everything in context.

8.  Don’: t over personalize it. God may very well be speaking to you through the narrative but try not to think it is all about you.

9.  Don’: t try to copy the people in the narratives; the stories are not to be used a roadmap for you life. There are countless valuable lessons to learn from the narratives, but they are not self-help books.

10.  Lastly, if you are confused by a section or not sure of the meaning. Seek help in a commentary, try another translation or ask for some godly advice. Never assume you can muddle through if you don’t understand.