What is the Bible?
The Bible is the greatest book ever written. It is not just one book however, it is a collection made up of 66 books written over a period of 1500 years by 40 different authors. Despite the difference in cultural origin, the collection of books stay perfectly consistent in communicating one story; the story of the Gospel. The first thing that needs to be understood about the Bible is that it was inspired by God. In other words, the Bible came from God Himself (2 Timothy 3:16) and used men to write the physical words down. God's inspiration sets this Book apart from every single book in human history because its Author possesses an unrivaled authority. Due to it's inspiration from God, the Bible is also free of error and completely true, making it a reliable and trustworthy revelation from God. There has never been, nor will there ever be, a book like it.
The Old Testament
The Bible is divided into two main parts: The Old and the New Testament. The Old Testament begins with the perfect creation of the universe with every living thing in it (Genesis 1:1). God created mankind to care for the earth and to be in an intimate relationship with Him. History took a quick turn when sin entered into the world through man's disobedience to God, creating a separation between God and mankind (Genesis 3). The remainder of the Old Testament is a demonstration of God working through the nation of Israel, His chosen people, through whom he would send His Son, Jesus, to save mankind from their sins. The Old Testament closes with an awaiting of the Savior to come and bring humanity back to God.
The New Testament
The New Testament begins with the birth of this long-awaited Savior. The first four books of the New Testament tell us about the coming of Jesus, His teaching, how he fulfilled all the requirements of the Old Testament, his death, burial, and resurrection. The remainder of the New Testament describes the beginnings of the Church and guidance for the church documented through letters from some of the key leaders of the early Church. The Bible closes with a letter about the end times. It describes how Jesus will return again to declare victory over sin, and to take His Church home.
Where do I begin?
If you've never read the Bible before, the best place to start is in the New Testament. Start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), so you will become more familiar with Jesus' life and teachings. Then, read through the rest of the New Testament. After that, read the book of Genesis and read through the entire Old Testament. As you read, remember that each book plays a part in the larger story of redemption.
The Bible can be hard to understand. We encourage you to always start your reading with a time of prayer, asking God to help you understand His heart. It is also important that you study with believers around you and attend a local church that takes the teaching of the Bible seriously. As you read, remember that God wants you to know Him. This is His gift to us, so that we may grow in loving relationship with Him.
