This study of The Patriarchs has been a richly rewarding experience for me. It has reconfirmed to me the value of systematic Bible study. Lacking discipline as most of us do, it is very easy to skip around in our studies, ever giving our attention to those sections of scriptures which are more interesting and easy for us while seriously neglecting other passages and truths. Such an approach is certain to produce gaps in our learning and weaken our overall comprehension of God’s word. Sometimes major misinterpretations and a very unbalanced outlook are the result. There are many benefits to taking a careful and systematic look at all of the scriptures. Nothing is there by accident or for filler. God knows that we need all of His word.

For easy teaching purposes and in view of the chronological connections, I have included the entire age of the patriarchs in this one study guide. You will no doubt see that it is natural to the scriptures to study all of the major patriarchs together. With this study, the Chronological Survey of Bible History will have considered most of the major elements of both Genesis and Job.

I am deeply indebted to the great church and support staff which makes it possible for me to do this kind of work while still being pastor of a sizeable church. Not only does the congregation support me in this effort, but my ministerial and secretarial staffs attend much of the pastoral work which otherwise would not allow me to study and write like this. A competent team of volunteers provides the proofreading and editorial support without which this work couldn’t be done. I also thank God for the vision and commitment of Berean Baptist Church to publish its own materials. The publishing of a book is no small undertaking in terms of equipment, labor, personnel and cost.

It is my prayer that God will use this publication to His glory. I am keenly aware that it is His, not mine, and that it is the product of many godly people working in concert with the enhancement of His great work as our common goal. I am glad to be just one player on a lovely and deeply committed team.