THE BIBLE

The Bible is a collection of sixty-six documents inspired by God. These documents are gathered into two testaments, the Old (39) and the New (27). Prophets, priests, kings, and leaders from the nation of Israel wrote the Old Testament books in Hebrew (with two passages in Aramaic). The apostles and their associates wrote the New Testament books in Greek. The Old Testament begins with the creation of the universe and closes about four hundred years before the birth of Jesus Christ.

The History of the Old Testament

•      Creation of the universe

•      Fall of man

•      Flood over the whole earth

•      Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel)—fathers of the chosen nation

•      The history of Israel begins

•      Exile in Egypt—430 years

•      Exodus and wilderness wanderings—40 years

•      Conquest of Canaan—7 years

•      Era of Judges—350 years

•      United Kingdom—Saul, David, Solomon—110 years

•      Divided Kingdom—Judah/Israel—350 years

The details of Old Testament history are explained in the 39 books, which are divided into 5 categories:

•      Return and rebuilding the land—140 years

•      The Law—5 books (Genesis–Deuteronomy)

•      History—12 books (Joshua–Esther)

•      Wisdom—5 books (Job–Song of Solomon)

•      Major Prophets—5 books (Isaiah–Daniel)

•      Minor Prophets—12 books (Hosea–Malachi)