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WHAT IS THE BIBLE?
Simply put, the Bible is God's Words to Men. It is a book supernaturally conceived, preserved, protected and delivered to mankind by God for our benefit.
All quotes I will use are from the Authorized King James Version. (Why?) I will always start from Gods Word and explain what the words mean and how it applies to us, now, in the 21st century!
WHAT DOES GOD SAY ABOUT THE BIBLE?
2Timothy :3:16: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
To understand written words we must have correct definitions. The following are Merriam Webster definitions for the words in this quote.
Scripture = "the books of the Bible -- often used in plural"
Inspiration = "A divine influence or action on a person." It also says the act of "breathing". I say The Bible, like mankind is God Breathed!
Profitable = "affording profits : yielding advantageous returns or results"
Doctrine = "something that is taught : a principle or position or the body of principles in a branch of knowledge or system of belief"
Reproof = "criticism for a fault"
Correction = "the action or an
instance of correcting; something substituted in place of what is wrong"
Instruction = "a direction calling for
compliance"
Righteousness = "acting in accord with divine or moral law : free from guilt or sin; morally right or justifiable"
Now let's re-read that verse:
2Timothy 3:16- All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Oh yeah I forgot the word All, It means Every part of Scripture.
(That would be Old Testament and New Testament!)
So to sum it up 2Timothy 3:16 tells us, God's
Word is good for teaching us how to be free from darkness and how to act in accordance
with God's divine will.
The next verse we are going to chew on is this one:
2Peter 1:21- For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Prophesy = "to utter by or as if by divine inspiration"
Holy Ghost = "the third person of the Trinity" The word trinity trips lots of people up. To to avoid silly arguments about God let me make this easy. We Have ONE GOD...That ONE God chooses to deal with mankind in three distinct, separate but, equal aspects....These aspects are God the Father/Creator God the Son/Saviour and God the Holy Spirit/teacher :
Holy men = "devoted entirely to deity (GOD) or the work of the deity (GOD)"
So to rephrase this verse: God gave prophesy to "His" guys and they recorded it and we have it in the form of the Holy Bible.
What is the Bible? It is our "Instruction Manual" for life. It is a love letter from God to each and every person ever born on this planet! It is crib notes on life. It is not scary, it is not hard to understand. Read it, DO it and WIN, now and for all eternity!!
THE CONTENTS OF THE BIBLE
OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT
The Bible is composed of 66 books. The Old Testament has 39 books and the New Testament has 27. The Bible was penned by 40+ writers (the plus is because the book of Hebrews does not mention the writer, although I believe Paul penned it). From the above verses however, we know that the Bible has ONE AUTHOR and that is GOD Himself! The texts (scrolls) were written over a period of 1,500 years and cover a period of time 6,000 years long.
The original languages of the Bible are principally Hebrew (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament). However, there are small portions written in Aramaic and Chaldees.
Since the Bible is written in ancient languages we have had to rely on language scholars to translate it into english for us. As noted on the (Why the KJV?) Link we use the KJV because although the translation is not perfect it is by far the most accurate and complete we have available. BUT.... at times we need to double check the 1611 translators by checking the original languages and this is easily done with a Strong's Exhaustive Concordance!
The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls Further confirms that the Old Testament as translated in the KJV is overwhelmingly correct, in that the scrolls found in the caves at Qumran in 1947, are in agreement with the Masoretic Texts which were used by the KJV translators for the english version of the Old Testament! (Isn't God COOL! Just when the enemy thinks it has people confused and doubtful, God brings physical proof of Bible accuracy to our attention! (Actually the same sort of confirmation of Biblical historical correctness is found in modern Biblical Archeology! )
We will continue here by describing the composition of the Holy bible. The First five books of the Bible were originally written as one big scroll. For ease of use men divided them up into five scrolls. The Jews call these five books the Pentateuch or Torah. The Torah contains the core of the Jewish system of belief. They were penned by Moses after spending many days with God, being told exactly what to write. They are the Law by which the Chosen people, the 12 tribes of Isreal, were to live. I will now give a brief description of each of these five books:
The first book of the Bible. The name is derived from a Greek word meaning Origin, and in Hebrew it is "Bereshith" or "In the Beginning" from the First Words in the Book of Genesis.
Part One, Genesis 1:1 - 11:26, describes the creation of all matter as we know it, day and night, land divided from water, the sun, moon, and stars, fish, birds, animals, and man. It describes the fall of man and the curse that resulted from that fall. It traces the generations of Adam and Cain and tells us about The world before the flood, the flood itself and the descendants of Noah, after the flood.
Part Two, Genesis 11:27 - 50:26 Traces the history of Abraham and Lot, Ishmael and Isaac, Jacob and Esau, and Joseph and His brothers in Egypt.
In reading Genesis, God is revealed as creator, and in his creation we see that he is an all powerful, loving being, But more importantly we come to know Him as a just and righteous God. We learn that God means what He says and that He is not messing around with mankind. We see that obedience brings blessing and disobedience brings cursing.
The second book of the Bible. The name is from a Greek word that means "The going out", which refers to the departure of the Israelites from Egypt. The Hebrews called this book, "These are the names" which are the opening words of the book. Exodus can be divided into three main categories.
Part One, Exodus 1:1 - 12:36, Is abut the Israelites in Egypt. It tells of their multiplication and there suffering as slaves. It relates the birth, preparation and commission of Moses, the ministry of Moses and Aaron to Isreal and to Pharaoh, of the ten plagues upon Isreal, the Passover, and the death of the first born.
Part Two, Exodus 12:37 - 19:2 tells of the hasty flight of Isreal from Egypt, the importance of the Passover and consecration of the first born, the destruction of Pharaoh's army, the song of thanksgiving of Moses and Miriam. It tells of the journey in the wilderness and the miracles of water and food given to them by God and the curses brought when the people began to complain and murmur against Moses. It closes with the War with Amalek and Moses getting counsel from Jethro.
Part Three, Exodus 19:3 - 40:38 Deals with the Manifestation of God at Mount Sinai, the giving of the Ten commandments and the law, Instructions for building the tabernacle, its furniture and the priests garments, the sacrifices for consecration of Aaron and his sons, the rebellion of the people in the building of the golden calf, the renewing of the Tablets, The building of the tabernacle and the filling of it with the Glory of God.
The third book of the Bible, the name means relating to the Levites or Priests. Descendants of Levi. This book closely relates to Exodus and Numbers in Historical continuity, but differs in that the historical element is subordinate to the legal and ritual considerations. The emphasis is on the Priests, much of which is technical instruction for carrying out their duties in conducting worship and regulating the society of the Israelites.
Part One, Leviticus 1:1 - 7:38 Gives detailed instructions of procedures for sacrificing, showing various kinds of offerings, burnt offerings, Sin offerings, meal offerings, guilt offerings etc. These sacrificial offerings were done to atone for sin and defilement under the covenant of law.
Part Two, Leviticus 8:1-20:27 describes the consecration of Aaron and the priesthood, and the designation of clean and unclean beasts and certain rules of hygiene. The Ritual Day of Atonement is spoken of in chapter 16, followed by laws on marriage and general conduct.
Part Three,21:1 - 25:55 Tells about Priestly holiness and consecration of seasons, and deals with the legislation surrounding the sabbatical and jubilee years,
Part Four, 26:1 - 27:34 Outlines God's promises and God's warnings of the consequences of disobedience and reinforces the reality of man as a sinner, substitutionary atonement (The sacrifice of innocent animals for the sins of men), and Divine Holiness.
The Fourth book of the Bible, numbers seems to be named for the fact that the Israeli Army was twice numbered in it. The Hebrew title is "In the wilderness" because the book details the 40 years of wandering the 12 tribes did in the wilderness after they arrived at Sinai (Exodus 19).
Part One, Numbers 1:1-10:11 Tells of additional legislation and organization of the host.
Part Two, 10:12 - 12:16 Covers the march from Sinai to Kadesh-Barnea.
Part Three, 13:1 - 21:11 The sad report of Israel's failure to believe Gods Promise and the subsequent consequences in their lives.
Part Four, 21:12 - 36:13 Israel's conquest of Trans-Jordan and their preparations to enter Canaan.
The Fifth and final book of Mosaic law. Named simply "Words" in Hebrew, because it begins "The words which Moses spoke.." The word Deuteronomy means second law. the Book of Deuteronomy is a full scale exposition of the covenant concept and demonstrates that Gods Covenant with His people is a proclamation of His sovereignty and it is His instrument of binding His elect to himself in a commitment of absolute allegiance by Men acting under free choice.
Part One, Chapters 1-4 In these opening chapters Moses recalls the leaders and the journeys, victories and trials of the Israelites. Moses gives the divisions of the lands and he exhorts the people to obedience.
Part Two, Chapters 5-26, In these chapters Moses recalls further the history of the 12 tribes, giving more exhortation to fear God. Foretells other nations destruction, and warns Isreal to be separate from the pagan idolaters. He recounts laws and rules governing behavior and penalties for disobedience of the people. He covers moral laws and blessings and curses for behaviors in or out of Gods will.
Part Three, Chapters 27-30, These chapters are some of the easiest to understand in regards to blessings and cursing and what brings what! God makes it perfectly clear to all that will read them that destruction came upon those that chose to disobey God and walk in their own ways. Chapter 28 Far from being frightening is a clear picture that when you choose to obey God you live in His blessings. Viewed from a point of determined obedience, this chapter becomes a beautiful love song full of promises from Almighty God to us!
Part Four, Chapters 31-34 These chapters contain Moses final counsels to a people he has loved and cared for for 40 years. He uses these words to encourage them and give them strength and faith in God. Moses closes this book with a blessing bestowed upon the tribes, and the commissioning with the laying on of hands of Joshua, Son of Nun, as the new leader of the 12 tribes!
These books are called Books of Law. Biblical scholars have divided the rest of the Old Testament books in to categories, like poetry, history, prophetic etc. But, I'm not going to! We will address these books one at a time in the order they appear in the Bible, for continuity. These books are not in chronological order, they are in the order God intended them to be in and I for one am very comfortable with that! In fact if I am ever given a choice to do things as God said or as men decide that God really meant, I will choose God over men 100% of the time!
Named for Joshua successor to Moses for the leadership of the 12 tribes. The book relates the history of the tribes from the entry into the Promised Land to Joshua's farewell address.
Part One, Chapters 1-12 Covers the conquest of Canaan, the promised land.
Part Two, Chapters 13-22 Contains the apportionment of the lands as territories to the tribes .
The Book of Judges is name for the title of the leaders that ruled Isreal from the period from Joshua to Samuel. Their principle function was as military delivers to the oppressed Hebrew people. This book bridges the historical gap between Joshua and Samuel. It shows the moral degradation of the people and the neglect of their spiritual heritage and the compromise of their faith through mixing with the surrounding pagan cultures.
Part One, Chapter 1:1 - 2:10, Is the introduction. It recalls the state of things at the death of Joshua.
Part Two,Chapter 2:11 - 16:31, Covers the Periods of the 13 Judges of Isreal, starting with Othneil and ending with Samson
Part Three, Chapter 17 - 21,Tells us what life in Isreal was like during the time of the Judges.
The Book of Ruth is rich in teaching. Named for the principle character it also shows Gods Willingness to include gentiles in the plan of salvation. Ruth a Moabitess is in the Genealogy of Christ due to her love for Naomi, and her willingness to abide by the will of Naomi's God. Ruth was unafraid to obey her mother-in- law even when doing so meant having to do menial labor. Neither woman had any idea what their love for each other and God would reap in their lives and they show us what pure faith and trust can bring!
The Books of Samuel are named for the Prophet Samuel. Jewish history says that Samuel is the author, however Samuel died before the end of 1st Samuel and was not alive for the entire Book of 11 Samuel. We will only be sure of who penned or helped Samuel pen this book when we get to heaven and ask God.
Part One, Chapters 1-3, tell us of Samuel's parentage and how he came to be brought to Shiloh to be raised by the Priest Eli. It also tells of Samuel receiving His calling by God.
Part Two, Chapters 4-25 Covers Samuel's life and introduces us to Saul the First King of Isreal. We read of Saul and David, and of David and Jonathan. Samuel dies in Chapter 25.
Part Three, Chapters 26-31 take us through the life of David and Saul and ends with the death of Saul and his sons.
2 Samuel is a continuation of and was originally joined to 1 Samuel.
Part one, Chapters 1-6 covers David acts as king. He recaptures the Ark and returns it to Jerusalem, called The City of David.
Part Two, Chapters 7-13 Recalls David's sin and the consequences including the death of the baby conceived with Beth-Sheba. this part ends with the Birth of Solomon
Part Three, Chapters 14-24 Speaks of the treachery of David's sons and his brother. It recalls the Mighty acts of David's men. While David was deeply devoted to God we see him as a man with sin and the consequences. David never failed to repent when he saw the error of his ways and left us the legacy of second chances with God when we seek them with pure hearts. Even to the last verse of the last chapter of this wonderful book we see God staying his hand against the people in His great grace and mercy.
1 and 2 Kings were originally joined as one. The Books of Kings serve as a sequel to 1 and 2 Samuel. The Books of Kings are named for their subject matter: four centuries of Kings of Isreal, from David to Jehoiachin. These books show clearly, how God rewards good and punishes evil.
Part One, 1 Kings 1-11, Covers the reign of King Solomon
Part Two, 1 Kings 12 -2 Kings 18, tells of the Kings of Isreal and Judah
Part Three, 2 Kings 18-25, Relates the events surrounding the reigns of the Kings of Judah up to the Babylonian Exile.
First and Second Chronicles does not reveal the writer, however, Jewish tradition and the Scholar, Wm. F. Albright believe it to be Ezra. It is interesting to note that the closing lines of 2 Chronicles and the opening lines of Ezra use the same words. Written to the Post Exile Jews it is a work of encouragement to the returning exiles and an exhortation to return to full obedience to the Mosaic Laws. The Contents parallel the book of Ezra in the history of the Jews, both having extensive genealogies. And both show a marked interest in Priestly rituals and a return of the Mosaic Law.
Part One, 1 Chronicles 1-9, Recalls the genealogies of the people from Adam to Obadiah and Hanan.
Part Two, 1 Chronicles 10-29, Covers the Reign of King David and its pattern for the ideal theocratic state.
Part Three, 2 Chronicles 1-9, Tells us of the Glories of King Solomon's Reign.
Part Four, 2 Chronicles 10-36, is the history of the Southern Kingdom and stresses religious reforms and emphasizes the victories, through God, of Judah's more obedient Kings.
This book is so named for the principle person mentioned in it: possibly also because he penned it! Jewish tradition holds that he did. The Book of Ezra continues the narrative after Chronicles, and tells the story of the return from Babylon and the rebuilding of the Temple, The purpose of the writer is to show how God fulfilled His promise given through the prophets to restore His exiled people to their own land. He intended to re-establish the old forms of worship, and to put a stop to the compromise with heathenism. He includes only material that contributes to this purpose.
Part One, Chapters 1-6 is a narrative of the return of the Jews from Babylon under Zerubbabel and the restoration of worship in the rebuilt temple.
Part Two, Chapters 7-10, tells the story of the second group of exiles returning with Ezra, and of Ezra's religious reforms.
The Book of Nehemiah is closely allied to the book of Ezra. It gives the History and reforms of Nehemiah as governor from 444 BC to about 420 BC. Nehemiah's reforms involved the teaching of Mosaic law by Ezra and others to the people. This resulted in a mass repentance and a covenant that was solemnly sealed to walk in the law of the Lord as given by Moses.
Part One, Chapter 1:1 - 2:20, Tells of Nehemiah's return to Jerusalem
Part Two, 3:1 - 7:4, recalls the rebuilding of the Temple despite continual opposition from outside forces against it.
Part Three, 7:5 - 7:73, Is the genealogies of the first returning exiles.
Part Four, 8:1 - 10:39 The revival of the people and the sealing of the covenant to return to God's laws.
Part Five, 11:1 - 12:26, the People return to dwell at Jerusalem and the genealogies.
Part Six, 12:27 - 12:47, The dedication of the rebuilt walls
Part Seven, 13:1-31, The final reforms.
The Book of Esther is a wonderful example of Gods Hand at work in men's lives. While it does not mention the name of God even once, It shows possibly more clearly then in any other book, the working of God in the midst of the people to bring about salvation and restoration to the Jews!. Written by an unknown Jew probably a few years after the actual event. The Book of Esther began what the Jews today celebrate as the Feast of Purim!
The book of Job is named for the chief character, Job. This book is classed as one of the books of Wisdom and does include much in the way of useful wisdom for us today.
Part One, 1:1 - 2:10, details Jobs state before his trail began and his great fall into desolation.
Part Two, 2:11 - 3:36, Job makes his complaint.
Part Three, 4:1 - 41:34, This part shows the ways of wisdom illuminated and darkened. It includes the counsel of Jobs Friends and contains a series of debates between Job and his friends. At 38:1 we begin to hear the voice of God.
Part Four, 42:1-6, Jobs confession and the ways of wisdom regained.
Part Five, Jobs Restoration and Triumph!
Psalms in Hebrew means Praises, and it is one of the most quoted of the Old Testament books, in the New Testament. Loved for Centuries it is composed of 150 Songs/Poems. The writers of the Psalms are ascribed as Follows: 73 - David, 2 - Solomon, 1 - Heman, 1 - Ethan, 1 - Moses, 23 to The Levitical Singing/clan of Asaph and 49 are anonymous. I have heard that during the 1611 translation the King James Translators asked Shakespeare himself to have a go at rewriting them and after reading them The Bard concluded that they were perfect in form and content, so He refused to even think of changing even one. Each of the 150 psalms exhibits the formal character of Hebrew poetry. This consists not primarily in rhyme, or even rhythmic balance but rather in a parallelism of thought, where by succeeding phrases of thought repeat or in some way elaborate the previous line. The Book of Psalms is not merely the hymnbook of the temple of Solomon, but also a devotional "heart beat" of men like David. The richest blessing of the Psalms flow from its affirmations of personal faith. The Lord is MY Shepherd, I shall not want. (23:1)
Proverbs, also included in what men classify as Books of Wisdom, is a collection of thoughts, ideas, and declarations credited to Solomon. King Solomon prayed to God for wisdom to rule Gods people at the beginning of his reign, God responded, saying that He would give Solomon more wisdom than any man ever had or EVER WOULD HAVE, maybe we should hear him? The theme running through out is "The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom" The Proverbs of Solomon are as relevant today as when they were penned, and much good, sound, common sense doctrine for living is found emanating from its pages!
The Word means Preacher and was written by King Solomon. It is a beautiful example of God using man to communicate the very core wisdom of God. Here we have the wisest man ever created, telling us plainly that life in the physical universe is empty (vain) He clearly states that all men think and do one there own is empty and that though you be wise or rich or important all that men do, without God, is vain. Lets take it from Solomon who was the richest, most powerful, wisest King ever to rule Isreal and He comes to the conclusion that; The whole duty of man is to Fear God and Keep His Commands! (12:13)
When viewed from a purely physical point this book appears to be a guide to marital love. But when you view it from a spiritual perspective this book become so much more than a simple earthly love story. The Bride spoken of in this book is the "Church" or all believers. The Bridegroom is "Christ. And the much overlooked players in this drama are the Daughters of Jerusalem.....The "onlookers" of our lives. Those that wonder What is this Bridegroom the Bride so seeks? and Why does she want Him? Every verse draws these onlookers closer into the story. We too should be drawn into a place of wanting this intimate spiritual relationship with Jesus as our Bridegroom!
link to a sound teaching on Song of Solomon by a Mighty Man of God, Hudson Taylor
The Book of Isaiah is one of the most thrilling books of the Bible. It is most interesting to note that Isaiah is more quoted in the New Testament than all the writing prophets put together. The Prophet Isaiah warns, exhorts, and offers comforts, through the prophesy of Messiah, to the People of God. Isaiah prophesied through four reigns Uzziah to Hezekiah (Approximately 740-681 BC). Another interesting fact is, when the Dead Sea Scrolls were found the Scroll of Isaiah was the only completely in tact scroll discovered, and it was found to be in complete agreement with the Text used by the King James Translators, thereby confirming for us that we do indeed have the pure Word of God with us today!
Jeremiah is one of the greatest of the Hebrew Prophets. Because the Book of Jeremiah is autobiographical in nature, it is possible to understand his life, character and the times in which he lived better than those of any other Hebrew Prophet. Jeremiah was called to prophesy in the 13th year of the reign of King Josiah, this was five years after the great revival of religion among the Hebrew people (2 Kings 23)
This book bewails the siege and destruction of Jerusalem, and sorrows over the sufferings of the inhabitants during this time. Jeremiah makes poignant confession of sin on behalf of the people and their leaders, acknowledging complete submission to God's will, and prays that once again God will favor and restore his people.
Ezekiel was a prophet of the exile. He grew up in Judah during the last years of Hebrew independence, and was deported to Babylon in 597 BC probably at an early age, thus making him a young contemporary of The Prophet Jeremiah and of Daniel. He was called to prophesy in the fifth year of captivity and his ministry lasted 22 years (593 - 571 BC). The book of Ezekiel is divided into three parts.
Part One: is the denunciation of Judah and Isreal
Part Two: Are the Oracles against foreign nations
Part Three: The prophesies of the restoration of Isreal.
Daniel was a Hebrew Child taken into captivity to Babylon under the rule of King Nebuchadnezzar. He was trained in Babylonian Wisdom but remained faithful to the God of the Hebrews. A powerful book, Daniel is a study in Faith and God's Faithfulness, and is rich in end time wisdom and warning. The First half of the book (Chapters 1-6) consists of six narratives on the life of Daniel and his friends; their education, his revelation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream-image, the trial by fiery furnace, his prediction of Nebuchadnezzar's madness, his interpretation of the Handwriting on the wall, and his ordeal in the lion's den. The second half of the Book (7-12) consist of four apocalyptic visions, predicting the course of world history.
Hosea was born during the reign of Jeroboam II, (786-746 BC), He exercised his prophetic ministry during the time of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah's reign in Isreal. God chose to illustrate his love for and forgiveness toward His People through the life of Hosea. Hosea was commanded to marry a women who would be unfaithful, to have children and give them symbolic names indicating God's displeasure with Isreal. Hosea lived during a time of great prosperity and great indulgence in sexual sin and wanton indulgence in alcohol and other pursuits that were not pleasing to God, His life was an example to the people of Gods Love and forgiveness after repentance, and Gods willingness to restore Isreal to full favor.
Joel was the son of Pethuel, and more than that we do not know. The time of the writings are unknown but have been suggested as possibly ranging from 830 BC to 350 BC. The background of the book is a locust plague that is regarded by Joel as a punishment to Isreal from God for sin. Joel urges the nation of Isreal to repent of it's sins and he predicts a far worse visitation referred to as the "Day of The Lord" In Joel we find the prophesy of the Holy Spirit being poured out on all flesh (Joel 2:28) which Peter refers to (Acts 2:14-21) on the day of Pentecost (33AD)
Amos was one of the most colorful personalities of his time, which saw the rise of several towering prophetic figures! His ministry occurred during the reign of Jeroboam, at a time of great prosperity for the Northern Kingdom. A cultural, social and economic revival was taking place. With the prosperity came a subtle social corruption. Amos stressed the need to turn from idols and sensual living, drunkenness and religious form to true righteousness. the style of Amos though simple is picturesque, and is marked with striking illustrations taken from his rural surroundings.
Obadiah was a Prophet who prophesied the destruction of Edom, which from time immemorial has been hostile to Isreal. It is supposed that He prophesied in the 8th Century BC. He also prophesied the restoration of Isreal in the Day of Jehovah.
The book of Jonah is probably one of the best known of the OT, being taught to children from an early age. Jonah was a prophet with remarkably human traits! He was proud, rebellious, self centered, willful, pouting and jealous. His story (which is the subject of this book) is one that all people can learn and profit from. Simply put "You can not evade or run from God, and God will save whom he chooses, Jew or Gentile."
The Book of Micah was written in the late 700's BC. In it Micah predicts the fall of Samaria which occurred in 722 but concerns more pointedly the sins of the Hebrews and the dangers of Jerusalem in the days of King Hezekiah around 700 BC. The message oscillates between condemnation for present sins and God's purpose of ultimate blessings for His people.
Little is known of the prophet Nahum the Elkoshite, even the city he is from, Elkosh, is mentioned only in this book. The short book of Nahum is largely a poem, a masterpiece, predicting the downfall of Nineveh The first part of the book is a poem on the greatness of God and the second part is a poem regarding the city of Nineveh.
Habakkuk is a prophet about whom little is known. The book out lines His vision from God of the judgement to come upon the Jews by the hand of the Chaldeans. Twice Habakkuk questions God and twice God responds with the answers. Dating the book by events mentioned it seems it must have been written during the reign of Judean King Jehoiakim.
Zephaniah was a prophet during the reign of Josiah and the last prophet before the seventy year exile of the Jews. He prophecies the captivity, He pleads with the people to repent, he foresees the restoration of a remnant of God's People and foretells of Jehovah in the midst of Zion.
Prophet of God to the Jews in 520BC, little is known of his personal history. He lived soon after the captivity and was a contemporary of Zechariah. Haggai calls the people to rebuild and gives them encouragement, and speaks of the Messianic hope!
Zechariah is a prophet to the Jews returning to Jerusalem after the Babylonian Captivity. Zechariah along with Haggai is raised up by God to encourage the people to rebuild the Temple and the City of Jerusalem. He does so through telling of the visions He has had of the future greatness of Jerusalem, where he states that nations will come to Jerusalem to share the Feast of Tabernacles and all will enjoy the blessings of God. !
The book of Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament. With Malachi ends the Old Testament scriptures as recognized by the Jews and Christians alike. and here begins a 400 year period of silence from God which ended with the birth of Jesus! In this book Malachi speaks to the lack of zeal of the people for the rebuilding of the temple and a situation of moral and spiritual decline. He addresses mixed marriages, failure to pay tithes, the offering of blemished sacrifices. Malachi's prophecies seems to have occurred about the same time as Ezra and Nehemiah.
The New Testament is a collection of 27 documents and makes up the Second part of the Christian Sacred Scriptures, called The Bible. Written during the second half of the first century, it is the new order or new covenant from God spoken of by the Prophet Jeremiah (Jer 31:31) and Is called a covenant in 1 Corinthians 11:25 and Hebrews 8:6 and 13. It relates the fulfillment of the promised Messiah of the Old Testament or Old Covenant and is inaugurated by the death of Jesus Christ. The order in which the New Testament appears in our Bibles is an order by subject matter rather than a chronological order. The First four documents (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) are narratives of Jesus Birth, Life, death, and resurrection and the fifth (The Acts of the Apostles) is a continuation of the Gospel of Luke, taking up with the resurrection of Christ and showing how over the next 30 years the gospel spread from Jerusalem to Rome. We are also introduced to Paul (Saul of Tarsus) in the book of Acts, His life and calling and travels are outlined. Of the next 21 epistles (letters) The Apostle Paul is the stated writer of 13 of them, The Apostles John is credited with 3, Peter with 2 , James with one and the Letter to the Hebrews is not credited with the writer, however most modern scholars agree in style and substance that Paul more than likely wrote it too. The last book of the New Testament is called the Revelation of Jesus Christ, as given to the Apostle John, on the Isle of Patmos. This letter is exactly what it is called, Jesus Christ's Revelation of the current state of the earth and of the "church" and what is to take place on the earth leading up to the return of Jesus and the events that come to pass at that time.
The Gospel of Matthew was written by Matthew an eye witness to the events described therein. Matthew before being called to follow Jesus, was a Tax collector for Rome and was called Levi. The Gospel of Matthew had been used by the Church as a main stay for teaching the Gospel and to refute heresy. Matthew is a Gospel of fulfillment and especially concerns showing that Christ is the fulfillment of the OT prophesy of the Messiah.
The shortest of the Gospels Mark, is the Gospel of action. starting with the Ministry of John the Baptist it comes immediately to the public ministry of Jesus, ending with his death and resurrection.
The third book of the New testament, Luke, the beloved gentile physician and co-worker of Paul, states that this Gospel is gathered from reports of eye witnesses and it is believed it was written somewhere between 58-60 AD.
John states his purpose in writing this gospel in Chapter 20:30-31, as being to show that Jesus is the Christ (Promised Messiah), The Son of God and that those believing in Him shall have eternal Life, and shall not perish. His emphasis is on the deity of Jesus, His eye is on the King and not the Kingdom, The teachings of Jesus and he emphasizes the coming and the work of the Holy Spirit.
This book opens with the Ascension of Jesus and gives the early history of believers, ending after two years of Paul imprisonment in Rome.
The Letter (Epistle) to the Roman Believers is believed to have been penned in 56 or 57 AD. Paul was writing to a mixed group of Jewish and Gentile believers and spends quite a bit of time on how Christians can and should get along. The Teachings in Romans are very relevant for the believers of today and adherence to them can take a lot of the divisions out of the"church".
Written to the believers at Corinth, a Greek City, this epistle addresses issues such as schisms or factions in the group, incestuous marriage, Disputes between believers being brought before heathen courts, Meat offerings to idols, spiritual gifts, proper observance of the "Lord's Supper" or Communion, resurrection of the Body and offerings for the believers at Jerusalem.
Written in response to a report given to Paul by Titus, the second epistle addresses the following issues. The crisis the group had just gone through, collection for the poor, and a defense of Paul ministry that was being attacked by factions in the group and a vindication of his Apostleship.
Galatians is a short but very important letter from Paul to the believers at Galatia. Galatia was originally a territory in North central Asia-Minor. This letter contains a protest to legalism and a clear statement of Gods Gospel of Grace. IT was written to counteract propaganda of certain Jewish teachers that insisted faith must be accompanied by circumcision and adherence to Mosaic Law. In it God, through Paul, gives us all the ammunition needed to shoot down any and all false teachings so prevalent today. Including the admonition that Salvation is by GRACE and not works and an warning to reject any "other" Gospel.
This letter, from Paul, to the believers at Ephesus is generally acknowledged as one of the richest most profound of the New Testament epistles. The depth and grandeur of its concepts, the richness and fullness of it's message and the majesty and dignity of its contents has made it precious to believers in all ages and in all places.
The church at Philippi was the first European work founded by Paul, and represents the first major penetration of Christianity into the gentile territory (Macedonia), so we find His letter to the believers at Philippi the most personal of all the letters.
This epistle, written to the the Believers at Colossae around 62 AD, is sent in response false doctrine that has crept into the body. It counters this heresy with a reiteration of the simple truth. Paul exhorts then to consistency in doctrine, and warns and exhorts against false teachers.
1 and 2 Thessalonians are two of the earliest epistles written by the Apostle Paul. They are addressed to the Church at Thessolanica, which was founded by Paul during his second missionary journey. The letter was intended to encourage the people and settle the questions that were troubling them.
This epistle deals with two different aspects if the same general subject. Evidently the Thessalonicians had been disturbed by a letter that arrived purporting to be from Paul, which he did not write or authorize. Paul exhorts them to retain their faith and improve their conduct.
This epistle was written by Paul to Timothy and is classified as a Pastoral Epistle. Paul in it addresses areas of concern for Pastoring the established works in Ephesus. Paul speaks about Timothy's duties and right conduct and encourages and exhorts him to steadfastness and faithfulness.
Paul wrote this letter to Timothy from Rome during his second imprisonment. He writes concerning church organization and discipline, including matter such as appointment of bishops and deacons, the opposition of heretical or rebellious members and the provision for maintenance of doctrinal purity.
Paul gives Titus instruction on church administration, individual conduct and Personal advice. Paul emphasizes good works but also salvation by grace through faith.
This letter is written to Philemon from Paul while he was imprisoned in Rome. It is about a run away slave named Onesimus, who has apparently run from Philemon, possibly having taken money or goods and ends up in Rome seeking Paul who brings about His conversion to Christianity. This Epistle is a wonderful example of Christian Love. Paul exhorts Philemon to see Onesimus as a brother and to forgive him and his debt. Paul offers to repay for Onesimus whatever he owes Philemon.
While the writer of this letter is not stated, and to whom it is written is also not mentioned, the content allows us to decern that it is written to believers in Christ that are in need of encouragement in their faith. It is a Faith filled letter written in a elegant style bringing out the necessity of Faith and cites examples through out the OT of people of great faith, and how their faith was rewarded by God.
The Writer of this epistle is James the brother of Jesus. In this letter addressed to the twelve tribes scattered abroad James gives exhortation against the sin of gossip and doublemindedness, He clearly shows the relationship between faith and works and has often been misrepresented as saying Faith plus works brings salvation when in fact he is saying IF you have Faith you WILL have works. He is saying Show me your works and I will see your faith!
Written by the Apostle Peter, to the "strangers" located in the Roman provinces of Asia Minor. His letter stresses Christian suffering and Christian ways of meeting it. It is calculated to strengthen believers. This letter reflects Peters life and mind, in it he expresses the joy of his forgiveness.
2 Peter teaches definitely the Divinity of Scripture and stresses the doctrine of the person return of Jesus, which was then, as it is now, ridiculed by false teachers. This letter concludes with an appeal for Holy living, and with a promise of the new heavens and earth.
John, the Apostle and writer of the fourth Gospel writes this epistle to warn readers against false teachers and exhort them to hold fast the Christian faith and fulfill Christian duties, especially love for the brethren. False teachers are referred to as anti-Christ.
Also by the writer of the Gospel of John this letter is directed to the Elect lady and exhorts readers to hold fast the commandments which they have recieved and to warn against false teachers, who deny the Christ has come in the flesh.
This Epistle is written by John to the Elder Gaius, commending him for his Christian life and hospitality and to censure Diotrephes for his bad conduct.
Written by what is believed to be the Bother of James and Jesus. Jude and James were not an Apostles but they became believers after the resurrection. The book of Jude is written in response to an alarming heresy, with immoral tendencies, that arose in the body of believers. Jude makes clear the condemnation in store for false teachers, and explains the duty of Christians in these circumstances.
The book of Revelation some times called the Apocalypse is the last book of the Bible and is the only book in the new testament that is whole prophetic in nature. Revelation is written by the Apostle Paul from the Isle of Patmos. while he was in exile for His faith. The First four Chapters are devoted to letters to the seven Churches and after chapter four there is no more mention of the church. But begins a narrative of the things that shall come to pass as the end of this dispensation draws to a close and we near the time of the Millennial reign of Christ.