The content essay assignment provides you with the opportunity to take a “deep dive” into the content of a particular interpretive issue within an Old Testament book. The ability to engage with the historical, literary, and theological elements of interpretation is an essential skill to develop in biblical studies. Developing these skills through research and writing is a time-tested means toward becoming a more competent reader and interpreter of Scripture. The content essay assignment probes challenging issues by answering the interpretive questions that rise from the text of Scripture.

INSTRUCTIONS
You will write two (2) content essays during the course, one on the book of Judges and a second on 1 Samuel. The following parameters should be followed:

• Length of assignment: At least 1000 words but no more than 1500 words, excluding title page and bibliography.

• Format of assignment: current Turabian format. The paper must be double spaced. Use headings and page numbers as appropriate. Include title page and bibliography. The student must document Scripture passages with parenthetical citations within body of paper, but all other sources used must be documented with properly formatted footnotes in current Turabian format.

• Acceptable sources: The Bible (excluding study notes), textbook, and at least 3 additional academic sources published within the past 50 years that directly address the assigned Scripture passage. The student is encouraged to use academic biblical commentaries, academic journal articles, and academic monographs. Avoid devotional and general audience sources. Internet sources require instructor’s prior approval.

Content Essay: Judges Assignment
After reading Judges 1-8 and the corresponding textbook material, in an essay, answer the following questions pertaining to Judges:

1. What is the recurring cycle that appears in the book of Judges? How does this relate to the theology of the book of Judges?
2. Is there any prophetic significance to the recurring cycles in Judges and the concluding statement of Judges 21:25, “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in their own eyes.”? If so, explain how, and if not, then explain why not.
3. What is the central message in the book of Judges and what is its relationship to the rest of the Old Testament?

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