There is a second reason why we find these applications so immediate.
This volume in the Encountering Biblical Studies series fills that void. Readings from the Ancient Near East takes the student through a wide variety of primary source texts from the ancient Near East that illuminate every book of the Old Testament. It is the companion volume to Encountering the Old Testament, coauthored by Bill Arnold and Bryan Beyer.
1, 2 Samuel which is part of the NIV Application Commentary Series is a commentary on 2 books that have much to say to the 21st century concept of sin, repentance, forgiveness, and life under the lordship of God.
Comprehensive, up-to-date collection of primary source documents (creation accounts, epic literature, etc.) gives insight into the Ancient Near East and the Old Testament.