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Basic
Introductions to the Books of the Bible
This may help out beginner Bible readers.
Old Testament
Genesis Exodus
Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy
Joshua
Judges Ruth
1 Samuel
2 Samuel 1 Kings
2 Kings
1 Chronicles
2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah
Esther Job Psalms
Proverbs
Ecclesiastes Song Of Songs Isaiah
Jeremiah Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel
Hosea
Joel
Amos
Obadiah
Jonah
Micah
Nahum
Habakkuk
Zephaniah
Haggai
Zechariah
Malachi
New Testament
Mathew Mark
Luke John Acts Romans
1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians
Galatians
Ephesians
Philippians
Colossians 1 Thessalonians
2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy
Titus
Philemon
Hebrews
James 1 Peter 2
Peter 1 John 2 John 3
John
Jude Revelation
GENESIS
The book of Genesis is about beginnings-the beginning of the universe,
the beginning of the human race, the beginning of sin, and the beginning
of God's promises and plan for salvation. Genesis is mainly a story of
relationships - between God and his people, between God and nature and
between his people and others . Genesis reminds us of the beautiful ways
in which God initiates and enters into covenants with all of his chosen
people and how he pledges his love and faithfulness to us.
EXODUS
In Exodus the author Moses unfolds a revelation of God's name, his
attributes, his redemption, his law and his worship. Moses tells
exciting stories of how God delivers his people from slavery in Egypt,
how he gives them the law at Mount Sinai and how he instructs them to
build the tabernacle. The book of Exodus demonstrates not only the depth
of God's saving love for his people but also the fact that his holiness
demands obedience. The Ten Commandments embody God's concern for our
welfare and holiness even today.
LEVITICUS
Moses writes Leviticus while the Israelites are in the desert, before
they enter the promised land. The books key thought is stated in (11:45)
-- "be holy, because I am holy." The laws in the book were given to help
the Israelites worship and live as God's holy people. Even though the
new covenant has freed us from the intricacies of the Levitical law,
Leviticus reminds us that every part of our lives is important to God
and that we are to love and to serve him in holiness.
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NUMBERS
The book of Numbers gets its name from the two numberings, or mountings
of the people of Israel during their years of wandering in the desert.
Numbers represent an accounting of the wandering following the
establishment of the covenant at Mt. Sinai. It tells of the murmuring
and rebellion of God's people and of their subsequent judgment.
Throughout the years in the desert one thing becomes clear to Israel __
God's constant care for them. Not only does he meet their needs but he
also loves and continually forgives his people.
DEUTERONOMY
After forty years the Israelites are about to enter Canaan. Before they
do, Moses reminds them of all that God has done for them and encourages
them to keep obeying the laws God has given them. Moses reminds them of
God's goodness to them throughout their journey and through his giving
them the land of Canaan. Above all, Moses wants his people to see how
much God loves them and how they are to return that love to their
powerful God.
JOSHUA
Named after its leading character, Joshua, whom God appointed leader of
Israel before Moses' death, this book begins with the tribes still
camped on the east side of the Jordan River. Joshua tells the story of
how, with God's help. the people cross the Jordan River and take
possession of the promised land. Joshua reminds the people of God's
covenant promises to them and urges them to serve only the Lord.
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JUDGES
The book of Judges gives an account of Israel's frequent failure and
apostasy, which in turn provoke God's discipline. It also tells of the
peoples urgent appeals to God in times of crisis, which move him to raise
up leaders (judges) through whom he throws off oppression and restores the
land to peace. Judges reminds us to let go of our rebellion and find joy
in God's firm but loving and forgiving presence.
RUTH
This book tells the story of Ruth, a young Moabite woman and
great-grandmother of King David. Set in the time of the judges, the book
of Ruth gives a series of intimate glimpses into the private lives of the
members of an Israelite family and presents a delightful account of true
faith and piety. In this powerful story of love and devotion, look for
God at work to bring fullness in the lives of those who feel empty.
1 SAMUEL
The book of 1 Samuel records the lives of Samuel and Saul and much of
the life of David. Here you will find the story of Israel's first king,
Saul. But Saul disobeys God, who in turn rejects him as king. The
prophet Samuel secretly anoints David to take Saul's place. The rest of
the book records the struggles between Saul and David. As you read this
book, note how God protects and blesses those who follow him obediently
and how those who disregard him inevitably face difficulties.
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2 SAMUEL
This book tells of the story of David's reign over Israel. Although God
called David a man after his own heart (ACTS 13:22), David knew sin and
failure. The book of 2 Samuel tells the story of David's adultery and
testifies to the power of God's faithfulness and forgiving love. Look
for God's hand at work as the nation prospers under David's rule. Take
comfort that as you lay your sins before God, he will forgive you and
use you once again in his service.
1 KINGS
The books of 1 and 2 Kings were originally on literary work, called
"KINGS". Beginning with Solomon's reign, 1 Kings records the history of
Israel through the divided kingdom to the death of King Ahab. In
general, 1 and 2 Kings describe the history of the kings of Israel and
Judah in light of God's covenants. As you read the accounts, note the
positive examples to follow and the mistakes to avoid as you seek to
serve God in your life.
2 KINGS
The book of 2 Kings continues the history of Israel and Judah begun in 1
Kings. It includes the fascinating stories of the great prophets Elijah
and Elisha. Look for the prophet's warning that God will punish the
people if they do not repent of their sins, and note the terrible losses
God's people endure because of their sin.
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1 CHRONICLES
The book of Chronicles is written for the exiles who have returned to
Israel after the Babylonian captivity. It reminds them that they are
still God's chosen people. The burning issue is the question of
continuity with the past:
Is God still interested in them? Are his covenants still in force? Do
they still fit into his plan?
Be Encouraged by God's affirmation that his people belong to him, and
then respond to him with worship and thanksgiving.
2 CHRONICLES
The book of 2 Chronicles continues the history of David's royal line.
This book, like 1 Chronicles, teaches that the people's relationship to
God is crucial to their daily living. Notice that when the author writes
about the kings, he measures them on the basis of their faithfulness to
God. The reigns of evil kings are reported by the author briefly, while
the reigns of good kings are described in more detail.
EZRA
Ezra tells of the return of the Jews from exile in Babylon and also of
the rebuilding of the temple. The people complete and dedicate the
temple in 516 B.C. after being delayed for 18 years by their enemies
from the north. As you read this book, take comfort in the story of
ordinary people, restored by God, and rejoice in the God who always
gives you a second chance to trust and follow him.
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NEHEMIAH
The book of Nehemiah continues the history of the Jews who return from
exile in Babylon. Nehemiah goes to Jerusalem in 445 B.C. and leads the
people in repairing the walls. Along with Ezra he provides leadership
for the people. A recurring theme of this book is the importance of
prayer. As you read this book, learn from Nehemiah's example of
balancing spirituality with down-to-earth action.
ESTHER
The book of Esther is named after it's leading character, a beautiful
Jewish girl whom King Xerxes of Persia chose to be his queen. It records
the great deliverance of the Jewish people during the reign of Xerxes.
Although the name of God does not appear in the book, God's care for his
chosen people is clearly shown. Be assured that he is at work in your
life today as well.
JOB
The book of Job is named for its main character, a righteous man who is
very rich. Even after losing everything he owns and suffering from
terrible sickness, Job still professes his trust in God. This book
provides a profound statement on God's justice in light of human
suffering. As you read this book, remember that even though you do not
have all the answers to questions about suffering, God is still in
control.
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PSALMS
Psalms gives voice to human emotion. This is not a book of catechism or
doctrine; it is, for the most part, a book of prayer and praise. It
speaks to God in prayer and of God in praise and professions of faith
and trust. Think of the psalms as entries in a dairy, reflecting peoples'
most intimate dealings with God. You will find comfort and strength here
when you identify with the Old Testament saints who wrote these prayers
and songs.
PROVERBS
According to the prologue (( 1: 1-7 )), Proverbs was written to give
"prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young" (( 1:4
)) and to make the wise wiser (( 1:5 )). Acquiring wisdom and knowing
how to avoid the pitfalls of folly will lead to health and success.
Although Proverbs is a practical book dealing with the art of the
living, it bases wisdom solidly on the fear of the Lord (( 1:7 )). Here
you will find wisdom that works and insights that will not wear out.
ECCLESIASTES
Ecclesiastes teaches that a life not centered on God is purposeless and
meaningless. Without God, nothing can satisfy { 2:25 }. With Him, all of
life and his good gifts are to be gratefully received and fully used and
enjoyed { 2:26... 11:8 } As you read this book, you will confront honest
confessions of doubts and struggles with disillusionment. Think about
your own sense of purpose as you seek to cultivate a God-fearing
attitude toward life.
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SONG OF SONGS
In ancient Israel everything human came to expression in words. In Song
of Songs, love finds words-inspired words that disclose love's exquisite
charm and beauty as one of God's choice gifts. This book illuminates the
spontaneous and exclusive love between a lover an his beloved,
demonstrating at the same time the kind of love Christ has for his
church. Rejoice in the gift of love as you read this timeless expression
of the joy and intimacy of love, the gift of our Creator.
ISAIAH
Isaiah writes about the stormy period marking the expansion of the
Assyrian empire and the decline of Israel. Isaiah unveils the full
dimensions of God's judgment, warning Judah that her sin would bring
captivity at the hands of Babylon. Yet, following round after round of
warnings, Isaiah turns to the promise of God's comfort. forgiveness and
restoration. The restored earth and the restored people will then
conform to the divine ideal, and all will result in the praise and glory
of the holy God of Israel.
JEREMIAH
Jeremiah prophesies in Judah during a period when the doom of the entire
nations-including Judah itself is being sealed. Judgment is one of the
pervasive themes in Jeremiah's writings, although, like Isaiah, he
writes, stirring words of hope about Judah's future redemption. Watch
for Jeremiah's encouragement-prophecies that are being fulfilled today
whenever sinful hearts are transformed by God.
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LAMENTATIONS
Lamentations is the only book in the Old Testament that consist solely of
laments. It's author, traditionally thought to be Jeremiah, laments the
intense suffering of God's people and the utter devastation of the
temple. Knowing that God is merciful, the author appeals for mercy in
prayer. In the middle of the book. Jeremiah affirms God's goodness and
faithfulness in the midst of suffering. Here you find a faith rooted in
God's unchanging character- a ringing affirmation of the God whose
"compassions never fail" [ 3:22 ]
EZEKIEL
Ezekiel is among the more than 3000 Jews exiled to Babylon by
Nebuchadnezzar in 597 B.C. There among the exiles he receives his call
to become a prophet. As a priest-prophet called to minister the exiles,
he uses words, visions, and "mini-dramas" to urge the people to renew
their commitment to God. Nowhere in the Bible is God's control over all
creation expressed more clearly that in Ezekiel. Watch for the message of
God's majesty and glory, all this will happen so that "they will show
that I am Lord" (6:10)
DANIEL
Daniel records events that take place during Israel's captivity and
encourages the people to trust in the God who controls all of
history. Daniel's visions always show God as triumphant. As you read this
book, be encouraged that God still shows his faithfulness and protection
today as he keeps his promise never to desert you. He gives you the
strength to stand firm in him as you serve and obey him day to day.
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HOSEA
This book is named after the prophet whose message it preserves. Hosea
prophesies just before the northern kingdom of Israel is conquered by
the Assyrians. The story of Hosea's family life illustrates a love
story- that God loves us, even when our sins have broken his heart. Look
beyond Hosea's suffering to see a startling example of another's love
that will not quit. Take courage in knowing that God's love and healing
are available to you today.
JOEL
The prophet Joel urges the people of Judah to turn again to God and
warns them that judgment is at hand. As you read the book of Joel, you
will see God' intense desire for intimacy with all his people. God cares
for you with a passion and concern, and he desires to fill you with his
Spirit and to receive you in his Love.
AMOS
Amos a shepherd from the small town of Tekoa, is sent to announce God's
judgment on the northern kingdom of Israel. with strong poetic imagery,
Amos speaks passionately about God's concern for the poor and urges a
return to righteousness and justice. As you read, look for God's
perspective on issues of social justice and be prepared to respond with a
heart of compassion.
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OBADIAH
Obadiah's prophecy centers around an ancient feud between Edom and
Israel. As descendants of Esau, the Edomites hold a grudge against Israel
because Jacob has cheated their ancestor out of his birthright. Obadiah
prophesies judgment against Edom that God is in control of the world.
Edom itself will be destroyed, but Mount Zion and Israel will be
delivered, and God's kingdom will triumph.
JONAH
When God sends him to warn the people of Nineveh to repent, Jonah runs
in the opposite direction. But God uses the reluctant prophet as a
vehicle of his grace. As you read this book, note God's great compassion
for all people and his desire for sincere repentance regardless of what
someone has done. Thank him for reaching out to you in love and calling
you to tell others about his grace for them.
MICAH
The prophet Micah writes to the people of Judah to warn them that God's
judgment is near because they have rejected God and his law. His
message alternates between oracles of doom and oracles of hope,
stressing that God hates idolatry, injustice, rebellion and empty
ritualism, but he delights in forgiving those who return to him. As you
read this book take comfort that God offers hope for those who remain
faithful to him.
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NAHUM
Nahum (meaning comfort) prophesies against the cruel nation of Assyria.
He reminds the people of Judah that God is in control of history and
will not allow evil to prevail forever. Nahum prophesies that the
Assyrian city of Nineveh will fall, which does happen in 612 B.C.
Kingdoms built on wickedness and tyranny must fall, as Assyria did.
HABAKKUK
Habakkuk prayed and prophesied in a time when the people of God were
caught up in a crisis of religious and moral bewilderment. It is into
the troubled scene that Habakkuk steps with his expressions of confusion
and complaint. As you read this book, notice God's unexpected answer and
hope that Habakkuk finally discovers.
ZEPHANIAH
Zephaniah writes to the people of Judah, warning them of judgment and a
terrible "day of the Lord" (1:7) that is to come - a day when God will
severely punish the nations. As you read this book, look for the note of
hope that God's judgment will pave the way for a new society in which
justice prevails and all people worship the Lord.
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HAGGAI
Haggai, along with the prophet Zechariah, encourages the returned exiles
to rebuild the temple. The messages of Haggai are given during a four
month period in 520 B.C. Haggai clearly shows the consequences of
disobedience and the blessings of obedience as he tells the people they
have deprived themselves of God's blessings by forsaking the temple
building project. When the people give priority to God and his house,
they are blessed. Obedience brings, the encouragement and strength of
God's Spirit.
ZECHARIAH
Zechariah's prophetic ministry takes place after the exile, when the Jews
return to their homeland from Babylonian captivity. His prophecies begin
2 months after Haggai's first message. To a people discouraged about
their task of rebuilding the temple, Zechariah speaks words of
encouragement and motivation.
MALACHI
The temple has been rebuilt but times of prosperity have not come. God's
people are suffering drought and famine, and they respond
within difference and spiritual lethargy. They have forgotten God and
treat him with dishonor. Malachi ( meaning "my messenger") message is
filled with indictments and warnings, be alert to God's passionate love
for his people and his desire that they return that love with their
whole heart and with obedience.
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Matthew
Matthew writes this gospel to reveal Jesus as the promised Messiah and
King. He also tells us much about the life and ministry of Jesus,
especially how he fulfills the promises of the OLD Testament and how his
followers should conduct their lives as citizens of God's kingdom.
Matthew begins this gospel with the birth of Jesus. He closes his story
with Jesus reassuring promise.
Mark
The gospel of Mark takes a fast paced approach to introducing Jesus
Christ, The Son of God. Mark shows Jesus moving quickly from teaching
his disciples to healing the sick people to confronting religious
leaders on his way to death on the cross. Take note of Mark's sensitive
portrayal of the compassionate suffering servant, Jesus, full of life
and emotion and purpose. Also his call for us to be disciples of Jesus
and the love Jesus showed his disciples.
Luke
Luke writes this gospel to share the good news of salvation. A physician
by profession, Luke shows compassion for the people considered outcast,
including tax collectors, women and children and the poor. He also shows
a deep concern for prayer, discipleship, joy and the ministry of the
Spirit. This is Luke's account of the life of Jesus.
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John
John's writings are designed to convince people to believe in Jesus as
God in human form and, as a result to "have life".
Acts
Like a sequel to a movie, Acts picks up the action begun in the book of
the Gospel of Luke. Acts is referred to the focus on the coming of the
Spirit on Gods people-the church-in a new and powerful way. In this book
Luke records Christianity's amazing growth and that the revival comes
not of human effort but by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans
The book of Romans offers some of the most lively teachings on faith and
life. In this letter Paul tells of God's wonderful plans for redeeming
his people and setting them free for service through the power of his
Spirit.
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1 Corinthians
Paul writes to the church he had started in Corinth, a church now
struggling to live in obedience. In a letter marked by a true pastor's
heart, Paul addresses problems in Christian conduct and character. Look
for practical information to Christian living and relationships, as well
as words abut love and the resurrection.
2 Corinthians
Paul writes this second letter a few months after the first letter. The
divisions and problems addressed in 1 CORINTHIANS are still present in
the church, and false teachers are challenging Paul's integrity and his
authority as an apostle. Watch for practical advice on resolving
conflict within the church and providing financial support for the
church and for the poor.
Galatians
Paul's letter to the churches he established in Galatia contains his
classic statement of the foundational Biblical truth that a person is
justified but faith, in Christ. After warning the Galatians not to desert
the gospel, Paul encourages them to live out the freedom they have in
Christ.
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Ephesians
Paul writes this letter so that his readers might better understand
God's eternal purposes for the church. One of the purposes is to
reconcile people to God and to each other through the work of Jesus on
the cross.
Philippians
Paul writes to the Philippians during his first Roman imprisonment to
thank them for their love and help and to warn them against false
teachers. Be alert to Paul's warnings against pride and self-seeking
attitude that can lead to harmful divisions. Paul provides to help you
shape your thinking according to God's ways.
Colossians
During Paul's 3 year ministry in Ephesus, Epaphras is converted and
carries the gospel to Colossi. The young church that results then
becomes the target of attack. Paul's purpose in writing this letter is to
refute the false teachers but asserting the supremacy of Christ and
examining what that means for everyday living.
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1 Thessalonians
Paul founds the church at Thessalonica during his second missionary
journey. Paul writes to commend believers for growing in he Lord and to
encourage them to correct some misunderstandings. The subject of Christ's
second coming permeates this letter, with almost every chapter referring
to it.
2 Thessalonians
Paul writes this second letter to believers at Thessalonica, who need
clarification on the advice given in his first letter. Some people have
misunderstood Paul and are so sure Jesus is coming so soon, that they
stop working. While assuring the Thessalonians that Jesus is in fact
coming, Paul urges his readers to concentrate on living and working with
what HE has given them for today.
1 Timothy
Paul writes to Timothy with affirmation and advice on how to lead the
church at Ephesus.
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2 Timothy
Paul's second letter to Timothy, written shortly before Paul's death,
represents the advice of someone who knows he is at the end of his life.
In a cold dungeon, chained like a common criminal, Paul knows that his
work is done. He challenges Timothy to a more effective ministry and
encourages him to persevere in his walk with God.
Titus
Titus, a close friend of Paul, helps Paul organize and lead churches in
the Eastern half of the Roman empire. Paul writes this letter to Titus
to help him lead the troubled church on the Island of Crete. Paul covers
such matters as qualifications of church leaders, guidelines for a godly
life and an emphasis on faith that overcomes division among believers.
Philemon
Philemon, a believer in Colossi, owns a slave named Onesimus, who steals
from his owner and then runs away. But Onesimus meets Paul and through
his ministry becomes a Christian. Now he is willing to return to his
master. Paul writes this personal appeal to ask Philemon to accept
Onesimus as a Christian brother, not as a slave.
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Hebrews
The 1st century church suffered severe persecution, and this letter is
written in that setting. The intended readers seem to be Jewish
Christians who are thinking of abandoning their faith and of lapsing back
into Judaism. The author begs them to hold fast to their confession of
Christ as Savior and Lord.
James
The book of James is written by James, probably the brother of Jesus and
the leader of the Jerusalem council. The book of James has a
distinctively Jewish nature that suggest it was composed when the church
was still predominantly Jewish. The letter deals with the practical
aspects of the Christian faith, for everyday conduct.
1 Peter
The recipients of this letter had been suffering various trials and
afflictions, along with a very real threat of more severe difficulties
to come. Peter touches on various doctrines and has much to say about
Christian life and duties. 1st Peter has been characterized as a letter
of suffering and persecution, of suffering and glory, of hope and
courage. No other New Testament book so reflects the real nature and
effect of God's love in Jesus Christ.
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2 Peter
The same group of Christians addressed in Peter's first letter are now
in danger of being misled by false teachers. Peter as a "shepherd" of
Christ's sheep. not only teaches the church how to deal with false
teachers but also to seek a wholesome Christian faith and practice.
1 John
The author of this letter is John, the son of Zebedee, and the author of
the Gospel of John and the book of Revelation. John has 2 basic purposes
in mind for this letter. (1) to expose false teachers who deny Jesus'
humanity, and (2) to give believers assurance of salvation. John stresses
God's love as an example for us to follow in our relationships with each
other. He encourages believers to live right and to maintain truth by
maintaining fellowship with the Lord.
2 John
During the first 2 centuries A.D., the gospel was taken from lace to
place by traveling evangelists. Believers customarily took these
missionaries into their homes and gave them provisions when they left.
Because false teachers also relied on this practice, 2nd John is written
to urge discernment in supporting traveling teachers.
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3 John
Itinerant teachers sent out by John were rejected in one of the churches
in the province of Asia, by a doctorial leader, Diotrephes. John write
to his friend Gaius a leader in the church, to thank him for his help
and to encourage him in his support of legitimate teachers. He also
reproves Diotrephes for not cooperating and for rebelling against John's
leadership.
Jude
This is a personal letter to one or more of the congregations dispersed
throughout the Roman empire. The dangers facing the church is from
heretics and distorters of the faith. Although Jude is eager to write
about salvation, he must instead warn his readers about immoral men ego
are perverting God's grace. This letter advises believers to strengthen
their relationship to God with prayer and mutual support.
Revelation
John writes what Jesus Christ reveals to him in order to comfort believers
suffering for their faith. It is a book of hop, for it's central message
that God and goodness will triumph over evil. Look for a combination of
warnings and encouragements here...
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