Summary
of the books of the Old Testament Books
Genesis
Genesis is largely narrative and
genealogies written by Moses. It opens the Hebrew Bible up with the story of
creation by God. Some of the major personalities are that of Adam, Eve,
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. The major events include the creation, the
fall, the flood and the history of the key personalities mentioned above. Being
created in the image of God, Adam and Eve brought sin and death upon all
mankind by being disobedient to God’s only command of not eating from the
forbidden tree of the knowledge of good and evil. After being condemned and
exiled from the garden and starting the line of creation, sin and evil became
more prevalent which caused God’s judgment to fall on all mankind saving only
Noah and his family, and causing a global flood destroying all of civilization.
After the flood, God had a new covenant which included Abraham and his line of
genealogy. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of nations because
of his love for Him. Abraham fathered a son, Isaac, who fathered Jacob who God
later named Israel. Joseph was the son of Jacob who was sold into slavery by
his brothers because of jealousy. Joseph’s position later changed politically
because of his interpretation of a king dream while he was in prison. This
event brought his brothers to Egypt to buy food and reunite with Joseph, and in
turn, brought Jacob and his entire family to Egypt to survive a severe famine
that Joseph interpreted in the king’s dream.
Exodus
Exodus
begins where Genesis left off and consists of narrative history and laws which
was also written by Moses. Some of the major personalities include Moses,
Miriam, Aaron, Joshua, Pharaoh, and the daughter of Pharaoh. The key event of
Exodus is the deliverance of God’s chosen people as well as the ten plagues on
Egypt. Exodus opens by telling of the conditions of the Jews as slaves under
the Pharaoh and how Moses rose to power which eventually would be the key
person who God used to set His people free. When Moses was born, Jochebed, and
her daughter Miriam hid him who was later found by the Pharaoh’s daughter who decides to keep the baby naming him Moses. Miriam
arranged that Moses’ real mother be the wet nurse. While Moses rose to power he killed an Egyptian
for striking a Hebrew slave which forced him to flee to Midian. After in exile
for a period of time, God calls Moses back to be the one to set His people
free. After trying to escape from God’s assignment, Moses gave in and went back
to Egypt with Aaron. After awhile of showing the Pharaoh the many signs that
God has given him as proof; the Pharaoh still refused to let the people go. God
then released ten plagues with the tenth being the death of all male
firstborns, including the Pharaoh’s son. This is where the Passover was
derived. Pharaoh finally gave in and let the people go. Moses was leading the
people to the Promised Land when Pharaoh changed his mind and fled after Moses
and the Hebrews. God showed His power
and Moses struck the sea with his staff and the sea departed allowing the
nation to pass. After the sea had closed in on Pharaoh and his army, Moses led
his people to Mt. Sinai where the Ten Commandments were written by God on stone
tablets. While Moses was on the mount, the people became inpatient and began to
worship idols made of gold that they collected. They became disobedient and
resorted back to pagan worship. Once Moses came down from the mountain and saw
what was going on; he threw the stone tablets. The people repented and worshiped
God. In the end of Exodus, after Moses
returned to the mount and was given instructions on building the temple, this
is what was done.
Leviticus
The book of Leviticus, written by Moses has
two narratives; history and law. It is the sequel to Exodus. Some of the major
personalities include Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, Ithamar.. The
major events are the message of the holiness of God, the way to deal with sin,
and how to worship Him. Leviticus is somewhat complex with the different
rituals that was necessary and the how to with God’s laws.
The
book of Leviticus begins with instructions on offerings and the types of
offerings for different types of situations. God express’ His holiness
throughout the book of Leviticus while giving instructions on His law
concerning the way things are to be done. The offerings are a sacrificial
system that God designed for mankind to remain in the Abrahamic covenant.
This system moves from the instruction of offerings, and in looking at it in
another way, dealing with sin; to the instructions for God’s priests. This is
the time Aaron and his sons are ordained under the instructions of God. God
then instructs His people how to be clean and what to do when someone is
unclean and the procedures that are tied together. God instructs Moses to give
the people the instructions on the different holidays that is considered His
Holidays. Each holiday is significant with a purpose that God has given. It was
days that would remind us what He has done for us. In the end, the structure
was set up and the law was established, it was time for them to move.
Numbers
Numbers is mainly a narrative of history
written by Moses. The major personalities are Moses, Miriam, Joshua, Caleb,
Eleazar, Korah, and Balaam. The major themes in Numbers are the preparation of
Israel to enter the Promised Land, Israel’s sin and the census taken by Moses.
Moses
begins by taking a census of to see how many men are available for battle. He
takes the census from all the tribes. The Israelites begin traveling closer to
the land that was promised to them, but on the way they lacked trust in God and
began to complain about the food. God hears there cries and provides them with
quail and also sends them a plague because they were greedy. Miriam and Aaron
are taught a lesson about who God places as leaders. We then see disobedience
and unfaithfulness from the people towards God, and the punishment from God for
this. Moses sends out several people to the Promised Land to check out what was
there and to report back to him with the news, but once back the news wasn’t
that good because there were another people already there. The Israelites
became fearful of the people who were already there and began to rebel not
wanting to take it. God sees this and punishes them by having them wander in
the wilderness for forty years. In the end, the new generation of Israelites
goes into the Promised Land and conquers the nations within it. Balak uses a
prophet named Balaam to seduce Israel to worship Baal and many die from their
disobedience. God does not permit Moses to enter the Promised Land because he
too was disobedient. Joshua became the first leader of the Promised Land.
Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy
is largely a narrative of again, history and law, and was also written by
Moses. The major personalities in Deuteronomy are Moses and Joshua. The major
events in the last book of the Pentateuch is Moses writing to the Israelites of
what God expects from them and also what He has done for them, Moses’ death is
pretty significant in Deuteronomy. Moses writes and explains to Israel of their
heritage and what has all happened, including what they just experienced, as
far as wandering in the wilderness because of their lack of obedience to God.
Moses restates the Ten Commandments and the covenant laws and consequences if
they are broken. In the end, God allows
Moses to see the Promised Land, though he cannot enter. Moses gives Joshua
leadership over Israel and blesses the nation. After which, he dies.
Joshua
The genre
of Joshua is narrative history, and was written by Joshua himself; the leader
of the Israelites. The major personalities in Joshua are Joshua, Achan, Rahab,
Phinehas and Eleazar. The major events that take place are the entrance into
the promise land, the defeat of Jericho, and the dividing of the land.
When the
Israelites came to the Jordan River we see an incredible entry as that of Moses
crossing the Red Sea. God shows grace to Rahab a prostitute; the ancestor of
King David. Joshua then defeats Jericho
a strong and mighty city. God proved that He alone conquered this fortress.
Because of sin in the camp, the Israelites did not defeat the next stop which
was Ai, but upon the second attempt, Ai was taken; again by the mighty hand of
God. Joshua and the Israelites then occupied both the Southern and Northern
land, but never completely conquered it. In the final part of Joshua the land
was divided among each of the Israelite tribes. The Levitical priests did not
receive land, but the larger cities were set aside for them. Finally, Joshua
gives a challenge to the nation to choose for yourselves this day, who they
will serve. He then passed away.
Judges
The genre of judges is interesting
to say the least; it is mainly Narrative history but includes riddles and
poetry. Judges was written by Samuel the prophet. The key personalities are
Othniel, Deborah, Gideon, Ehud, Abimelech, Samson, Delilah and Jephthah. Some
of the key events are the failures to remain loyal and keep the covenant. The judges
that were raised up to deliver the Israelites and the cycle of good and evil
each time they were saved.
The book of Judges shows that God will punish sin,
yet is faithful. God requires obedience and a loyal devotion to Him. This is
not the case.
In the
book of Judges, God has promised the entire land to the Israelites, but they
refused to remain loyal to the covenant and were sinful and evil in their ways.
As time passes by, the problems become severe and evil prevails in the nation.
God rises up different judges several times to save His people. Once they were
rescued, they resorted back to their sin, and this became a cycle among the
nation of being saved and the resorting back to sin; as if they were tempting
God with the repeat cycle. The major judges that take notable mention are
Deborah, Gideon, and Samson. The tribes of Dan and Benjamin have slipped into
deep moral wicked ways and Israel fell into moral demise and ruin as well. The
tribe of Benjamin was almost completely wiped out in a war because of their
sin. The book ends with Israel having no king and everyone did as he saw fit.
Ruth
The book
of Ruth; a somewhat relief from Judges, is the narrative of a love story, as
well as a genealogy. Ruth takes place believed to be during the time of Judges.
The key personalities in Ruth are, Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. The key events that
take place is the loyal that Ruth has to her husband’s family after he passed
away. Ruth adopts Naomi’s God and decides to stay with Naomi. The marriage of
Ruth and Boaz is another key event, because of the genealogy.
We can see
in the book of Ruth the faithfulness of Ruth to her in-laws after her husband’s
death. Naomi is the mother-in-law of Ruth and decides to return to her home in
Bethlehem. Ruth insists on staying with her and adopting her God as her own.
When they both returned to Bethlehem, Ruth worked gleaning the fields of
Naomi’s relative Boaz. Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz, and Boaz agrees. However, Boaz
must first check to see if there are no others with first rights. After they
marry, they have a son names Obed, who is also the grandfather of King David,
which follows the genealogy of Christ.
1
Samuel
1st Samuel is a narrative history written
by the last of the judges for which the book is named, Samuel. Key
personalities are Eli, Hannah, Samuel, Goliath, Saul, Jonathan, and David.
There is a lot of drama in this book. The key events include the Israelites
loosing the Ark of the Covenant, selecting who they believe will be a great
king, the rise of David and the battle with Goliath.
1st Samuel begins with the Samuel being
born to Hannah as a Nazirite. Samuel was to serve God and was brought to the
tabernacle. The Israelites were in a great battle with the Philistines when
they lose the Ark of covenant to the Philistines who in turn are struck by God
with a plague. In turn, they return the Ark on two cows. Samuel anoints Saul to
be king after the Israelites choose him as they saw fit. Saul at first was
good, but toward the end became evil. Because of Saul’s disobedience, Samuel
tell him that God has rejected him as the rightful king. God then sends them to
His chosen who was David, a young boy. Samuel anoints David and a few years go
by when David stands up to a Philistine giant name Goliath, which David kills
will a sling. Saul out of anger and jealousy begins to go insane and sets out
to kill David. Several times, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but did
not. End the end, Saul commits suicide on the battlefield after being mortally
wounded.
2
Samuel
The book of 2nd Samuel is a narration of
David as he became king of Israel. 2nd Samuel also includes two
psalms. It was written by the prophet Samuel. They key personalities include,
David, Joab, Bathsheba, Nathan, and Absalom. The key events that take place
include, David becoming king of Judah while the Northern Kingdom rejects God,
by selecting Saul’s son to rule. David commits adultery with a Bathsheba and
the birth of Solomon.
While
David observes Saul as the king, he becomes the king of Judah. Israel’s
rejection of David as king ushers in the son of Saul, Ish-Bosheth to reign, who
ended up being killed. The Northern tribes ask David to rule the entire nation
of Israel which he then sets up a new capital in Jerusalem, which later brings
the Ark there. During David’s reign, we
see a sinful side to David and see how it affected the nation. He commits
adultery with a married woman named Bathsheba who in turn becomes pregnant. He
later has her husband killed in an attempt to make things right. The child was
born but because of his sinfulness, the child dies. Nathan a prophet confronts
David who in turn repents from his sin. He then has another child, Solomon, who
becomes the next king. David’s other son; Absalom tries to plot against David
and gets the support of the people, which causes David to flee for his life,
but later gathers enough people who back him up to take back the power and
restore order, during the takeover, his son is killed.
1
Kings
The book of 1st Kings is both narrative
history and prophecy and was written by what some believe to be as Jeremiah.
The key personalities are David, Solomon, Rehoboam, Jeroboam, Elijah, Ahab, and
Jezebel. Some of the key events in 1st King are Solomon becoming
king, David’s death, and the beginning to the end of the United Kingdom.
After the death of David, Solomon becomes king and
asks God for wisdom. God being pleased with his request approves. Solomon
begins his reign rebuilding, which includes rebuilding the temple. Later after
the return of the Ark to the temple, God descended on it and Solomon prays a
powerful prayer where sacrifices were offered. Solomon began worshiping the
gods that his wife worshiped and falls into sin of lust for women. Thereafter
Solomon dies. The later of 1st Kings the beginning of the end to the
United Kingdom takes place. The kingdom divides from North and South. Rehoboam
is persistent on raising taxes while the North crowned Jeroboam as king. God raises
up Elijah the prophet to warn King Ahab to turn from worshiping idols back to
God. (YHWH)
2
Kings
The book of 2nd Kings is a narrative
history and prophecy of the affairs of the Northern and Southern Kingdoms. The
book was written by Jeremiah, although there are arguments over this. There are
many key personalities, and they include Elijah, Elisha, Naaman, Jezebel, the
women from Shunem, Joash, Jehu, Hezekiah, Sennacherib, Isaiah, Manasseh,
Josiah, Jehoiakim, Zedekiah, and Nebuchadnezzar. The key events include the
conclusion of Elijah and God taking him through a whirlwind, and his
replacement Elisha who received a double portion of the spirit that Elijah had.
Other key events include the captivity of the Northern Kingdom and the soon to
be judgment against the Southern Kingdom.
God performs some awesome miracles through the
prophets as they go out and give the messages to the two kingdoms. They are the
only hope that this lost nation has. Though God remains faithful, judgment will
soon follow. After Elijah concludes his ministry, he gives the charge over to
God’s chosen, Elisha. Elisha follows Elijah and soon God takes Elijah up in a
whirlwind. Thereafter, Elisha prays and asks God for a double portion of the
spirit Elijah had, and it was granted to him. Elisha carries out twice as many
miracles as Elijah; we also see the details of the kings and the dynasties
which led them to ignore God’s provisions. The Assyrians ended up taking the
Northern Kingdom into captivity, which they ignored the warnings by the prophet
Hosea. The Northern Kingdom was more evil than the Southern Kingdom, but the
Southern Kingdom was falling to the wayside. It is presumed that the Northern
Kingdom was taken into captivity because of their evilness. The Southern
Kingdom, not doing any better, will soon face God’s judgment.
1
Chronicles
The book of 1st Chronicles is a book of Narrative
History, and Genealogies. The author appears to be the
prophet Ezra. Key personalities are King David and Solomon. This
book parallels some of 2nd Samuel, and therefore describes similar
key events. It was written after the exile, its purpose was to encourage the remnant that
had come out of the Babylonian captivity. It begins with the ancestry of the nations
past, but it is not chronological.
The book begins with the genealogies of Israel
starting with Adam and going through all 12 tribes of Israel, then King David
and ending with the Priestly line. The history of the nation is taught which
includes the creation account and ending with the Babylon exile. The final
chapters of the book end with an account of King Saul’s death, King David’s
reign and the preparation of the temple Solomon would build. The book ends with
Solomon reigning as the king of Israel.
2
Chronicles
The book of 2nd Chronicles is a Narrative
History. The author appears to be the prophet
Ezra who also wrote the previous book. The key personalities are King Solomon, the queen of Sheba, Rehoboam, Asa, Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, Joash, Uzziah, Ahaz, Hezekiah, Manasseh, and Josiah. The key events are King Solomon’s reign and the beginning of the Babylonian captivity.
Ezra who also wrote the previous book. The key personalities are King Solomon, the queen of Sheba, Rehoboam, Asa, Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, Joash, Uzziah, Ahaz, Hezekiah, Manasseh, and Josiah. The key events are King Solomon’s reign and the beginning of the Babylonian captivity.
It was written to emphasize the blessings of the
righteous kings and to expose the sins of
the wicked kings. It parallels some parts of 1st and 2nd Kings. Like 1st Chronicles, it is
written from the viewpoint of a priest who spoke from spiritual perspectives, including
revivals. It too, was written after the exile and focuses on correct worship to YHWH. The beginning of the chapters tell the details of the reign of King Solomon, which consists of the building and reconstruction of the temple as well as his wisdom. The later chapters talk about the events between the Northern Kingdom and the Southern Kingdom. The Northern Kingdom revolted against King Rehoboam and decided on a new king by the name of Jeroboam. After this the main focus on 2nd Chronicles are the events of the Southern Kingdom; this includes the dynasty of King David. Later Babylon took the Northern Kingdom into captivity.
the wicked kings. It parallels some parts of 1st and 2nd Kings. Like 1st Chronicles, it is
written from the viewpoint of a priest who spoke from spiritual perspectives, including
revivals. It too, was written after the exile and focuses on correct worship to YHWH. The beginning of the chapters tell the details of the reign of King Solomon, which consists of the building and reconstruction of the temple as well as his wisdom. The later chapters talk about the events between the Northern Kingdom and the Southern Kingdom. The Northern Kingdom revolted against King Rehoboam and decided on a new king by the name of Jeroboam. After this the main focus on 2nd Chronicles are the events of the Southern Kingdom; this includes the dynasty of King David. Later Babylon took the Northern Kingdom into captivity.
Ezra
The book of Ezra is narrative history and
genealogies and was written by Ezra. The key personalities in Ezra include
Cyrus, Ezra, Haggai, Zechariah, Darius I, and Zerubbabel. The key events
include the recording of the return from the exile in Babylon, and the events
that surround the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.
The book of Ezra begins with a remnant of Jews
returning to Jerusalem and start building the new temple. This process takes
awhile because Israel’s enemies start oppressing them which in turn scares
them. It took about 20 years for the temple to be completed. Later, the second group
of Jews returns to Israel, including Ezra. Who in turn studied the law of the
Lord and then practiced it, and from this point he taught it, but ran into
different problems with intermarriage and the pagan women who brought their
pagan women with them from exile.
Nehemiah
The book of Nehemiah is a narrative history written
by Nehemiah. The key personalities include Nehemiah, Ezra, Sanballat, and
Tobiah. The key events are similar to Ezra and include the return to Jerusalem
and the rebuilding the walls in 445 B.C.
To protect the Jerusalem and the temple, Nehemiah
traveled to Jerusalem and was amazed that the walls were not yet constructed by
Ezra. Feeling compassion and at fault he organized a massive crew and within a
short time built the wall. Nehemiah heads the construction up as the governor.
Each of the families built a section of the wall. Each family felt an important
part of this project and the total completion was done in a matter of days. Nehemiah
ends with Israel reestablishing themselves as a nation from being in exile.
Ezra brings all the Jews together for a ceremony and grafted in the public
teaching of the Law. The mixed marriages had laws put in place concerning it as
it was condemned. They understood that in order to survive as a nation, they
must obey God’s law.
Esther
The book of Esther is a narrative history and was
written by whom some believe was Mordecai who was Esther’s uncle. The key personalities
include Esther, Mordecai, King Ahasuerus (or Xerxes), and Haman. The key events
in Esther include Esther becoming queen, the remnants that stayed behind in
Babylon after the return from exile and the saving of the people.
After King Ahasuerous becomes intoxicated and asks
that his wife the queen parade herself in front of the people to show her
beauty, and she declines. The king divorces her. He then finds favor with
Esther, a Jew, which he did not know, and she becomes queen. Mordecai, highly
favorable to the king refuses to bow down to Haman a high official to the king
and Haman becomes angry and plots to destroy all the Jews in the Kingdom.
Mordecai hears of the plot and tells Esther and in turn outwits Haman and tells
the King. The king out of anger has Haman hung on the gallows, which was built
to destroy all the Jews. Esther saves her people through her faith and courage.
Job
The book of Job is a narrative history and it was
written by Job himself. The key personalities in Job include Job, Eliphaz the
Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, Zophar the Naamathite, and Elihu the Buzite. The
keys events in Job include Job’s attack by Satan, the ridicule of blame by
Job’s friends, and the sovereignty of God.
In the beginning of Job, we see that God tests the
faithfulness of Job by allowing Satan to attack him, because Satan believes
that the reason Job is faithful to Him is because God has a hedge of protection
around him and has bless him. Satan tells God that Job will curse Him if the
hedge is taken down; so God allows Satan to attack without taking Job’s life.
Through the tests, all is lost in Job’s life. His wife even tells him to curse
God, but Job remains faithful. Job’s friends then begin to give him bad advice
and mistakenly blame Job of his loss because of his own sin. Job yet, remained
faithful. God speaks to Job after he lost his family and tells him that he
received wrong counsel from his friends by words without knowledge. In the end
after a series of questions, Job responds to God by saying that he has declared
that which he did not understand. God in turn blessed him with twice as much as
he had before.
Psalms
The book of Psalms’ genre is songs and poetry and
was written by multiple authors including some that are anonymous. The key
authors are David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Ethan, and Moses. The
psalms include praises, laments, blessings, and thanksgivings. Some of the
major themes in Psalms include praise, God’s power, forgiveness, trust, and
thankfulness. Psalms was divided into five books originally but has since been
looked at as one entire book composed of themes to help express praise to God.
Psalms is generally a book we look at to give us a deeper understanding of
expression towards God. If a person is struggling, happy, angry, upset or sick;
Psalms is a book that can usually be looked at to help.
Proverbs
The genre in Proverbs is as the name describes,
Proverbs; there is also poetry and some parables. Proverbs was mainly written
by the wisest king ever to rule, Solomon. There are later writers including
Lemuel and Agur, The proverbs were written in Solomon’s time, after he asked
God for wisdom to rule the nation in which God found this request pleasing and
therefore it was granted to him.
Proverbs are short teachings that are easy to
remember and deal with a wide range of subjects, such as principles of life,
good judgment and perception. Solomon writes and speaks of Godly living and
obeying parents. Solomon teaches us that fearing the lord is the beginning of
knowledge. Solomon teaches that salvation is through faith in the Lord alone.
Many of the parables contrast a good (righteous) man and a wicked (evil) man.
Proverbs contain many warnings; it also instructs us in seeking a life that is
Godly.
Ecclesiastes
The book of Ecclesiastes contains several different
things such as Proverbs, maxims, sayings, and is mostly an autobiographical
story. It was written by Solomon later in his life when he became aware of the
mistakes he made throughout his life and began to write them down. The key event in Ecclesiastes is the teaching
of seeking after God using wisdom and not foolish and meaningless things of
one’s own heart.
Ecclesiastes opens up with Solomon’s own experiences
in his life and that he went after things that was selfish and meant nothing
eternally. He was the man God gave all the wisdom to and he realized that in
the end, the only happiness there is was in the Lord. Solomon makes an
observation about his life that as he had come from his mother’s womb naked, so
will he return. His message appears to be that no matter what we desire in this
world, when we die, we cannot take the things we have with us.
Song
of Songs
The book Song of Songs is a large love poem filled
with smaller poems. It was written by Solomon, sometime during his reign. The
key personalities include King Solomon, the Shulammite girl, and friends. The
key events or themes include the relationship of Solomon and the Shulammite
girl, a marriage, and how a relationship should be. Many correlate the book,
Song of Songs with God’s love towards us and the relationship in depth.
Song of Songs opens with Solomon’s courtship and
engagement with the Shulammite girl. Solomon then writes of the ceremony of the
bride and bridegroom, as if the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. He then expresses
the relationship between the union of husband and wife and what it supposed to
be like. The Song of Songs shows how sacred a marriage should be between man
and women, or in this case, between God and us as the bride.
Isaiah
The book of Isaiah is narrative history and a
Prophetic Oracle and was written by the prophet Isaiah. The book of Isaiah is
also called Major Prophets; not because it is more important, but because of
the amount of material covered. The key personalities include Isaiah, his two
sons, Shear jashub and Maher-shalal-jash-baz. The key events in Isaiah include
the prophecies, and to call the nation back to being faithful.
Isaiah begins with the sins of the Northern and
Southern Kingdoms being exposed by Isaiah. Severe punishment is declared on
them as well as the other nations around them. Thereafter, Isaiah speaks about
the return from exile and the restoration. He constantly declares the premise
that there is no other God besides Me. Throughout the writing, Isaiah foretells
of the Messiah, Christ Jesus. In the end of Isaiah, he writes of a new Heaven
and Earth as the great reward to those who trust and obey the Lord.
Jeremiah
The book of Jeremiah is a narrative history and
Prophetic Oracle, written by the prophet Jeremiah. The genre is not completely
in chronological order. The key personalities include many kings, Judah,
Baruch, Ebdemelech, King Nebuchadnezzar, and the Rechabites. The key events
include the warning of destruction, the message to return and submit to God,
the prophecies of the kings to come and the New Covenant that will be made.
The book of Jeremiah opens with Jeremiah condemning
Judah and going after their faithlessness. He warned the people of the
destruction that God would pour out on Judah. Judah was full of sin and God was
angry. Judah practiced worship of false gods and would offer sacrifices to the
other idols. This was the wickedness that was going to cause their destruction.
The New Covenant was later written about. King Zedekiah throws Jeremiah into
prison and then puts him into a muddy cistern. In spite of this imprisonment,
Jeremiah warned that the king would fall to Babylon. Jeremiah records
Jerusalem’s fall as was announced by previous prophets. The exile of both the
Northern and Southern kingdoms are completed.
Lamentations
The book of Lamentations is a book of songs or
poems; songs or poems that are sorrowful. Lamentations was also written by
Jeremiah. The key personalities are Jeremiah and the people of Jerusalem. The
key event is a reflection of the destruction of Jerusalem.
The prophet Jeremiah also known as the “weeping
prophet”, was an eyewitness to the destruction of Jerusalem. This destruction
was foretold by other prophets as well as by Jeremiah. After the destruction,
Jeremiah reflects sadly on what took place. Jeremiah mourns for Jerusalem and
Judea as it was in ruin. Almost as if he was looking down from atop a mountain.
He tells of the anger that the Lord had with the wickedness, as he foretold and
warned. Jeremiah feels sorrow as well because this was his land and his people
as well. Jeremiah reminds us that God the Lord’s loving-kindness indeed never
ceases, for His compassions never fail. In the end, God brought justice and His
wrath was witnessed. Jerusalem suffered a great loss. Starvation was so bad
that the Israelites ate their own children. “The Lord has accomplished His
wrath…”
Ezekiel
Ezekiel is a book of narrative history, Prophetic
and Apocalyptic in genre and even has some parables. The book of Ezekiel was
written by the prophet Ezekiel. The key personalities are Ezekiel, the leaders
of Israel, Ezekiel’s wife, King Nebuchadnezzar, and the prince. The key events
were the announcement of judgment on Judah and the coming deliverance of God’s
people from exile.
Ezekiel
a prophet and also commissioned by God as a priest. Ezekiel has visions to
confront the sinful nation a rebellious people who have rebelled against God.
Ezekiel sets out to deliver the message to the people in captivity. He told of
an adulterous woman comparing her to Israel, a parable if you will. God
announces that they have borne the penalty of their lewdness and abominations.
Soon after; there were other nations that mocked YHWH, because of their
captivity. Later in the book of Ezekiel, a message was written of restoration
and deliverance, which not only included the nation of Israel but also included
the future of the coming of the Messiah, the Temple, and the kingdom of God in
the end times. Ezekiel ends with the vision of the dry bones. He
said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord God,
You know”.
Daniel
The book of Daniel is narrative history, prophetic
oracle, and apocalyptic. The book of Daniel was written by the prophet Daniel
and the writings records events during the captivity. The key personalities
include Daniel, Nebuchadnezzar, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Belshazzar, and
Darius. The key events include the fiery furnace, an account of how God
protected and provided His followers while they were in captivity and the
visions of future redemption and of course hope.
Daniel begins with writing about his own time, spent
in captivity. He was chosen to work for king Nebuchadnezzar during the
captivity. He nevertheless, made decisions with his friends to stand for God by
rejecting the king’s food and resorting back to the food in the OT, today, it
is known as the Daniel fast. He also prayed and refused to bow to the king’s
idol; for this reason, they were thrown into the fiery furnace, but were
protected by God. Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams and was promoted
to chief over all the wise men in Babylon. At the end of the book, Daniel has
visions from God regarding his prophetic ministry. Some of the visions he had
regarded the Messiah and future events to come.
Hosea
The book of Hosea is a narrative history and
prophetic oracle and was written by Hosea. The book of Hosea is also known as
Minor Prophets, again, not because it is less important but because of the size
of the writing. The key personalities include Hosea, Gomer, and their children.
The key theme in this book is a record of events which include the fall of the
wicked Northern Kingdom. It shows that God has everlasting love for His sinful
people, even after they committed spiritual adultery. Hosea brings the message
from God to the Northern Kingdom during this time, which they oppressing the
poor in slavery and worship of idols.
God gives Hosea orders to marry an unfaithful woman which he does.
Gomer, his wife was a harlot, and ends up leaving Gomer to find another man.
Hosea goes after her and brings her back. Hosea then describes Israel’s
unfaithfulness towards God and how God wants to restore Israel, but Israel
continues to be disobedient and follow their own wicked ways.
Joel
The book of Joel is narrative and a prophetic oracle
and was written by Joel after the fall and exiles of the Northern and Southern
Kingdoms. The key personalities include Joel and the people of Judah. The key
events were a call for repentance and the coming judgment for the Southern
Kingdom. Joel correlates a symbol of a plague of locust with the coming
judgment and destruction for their disobedience and evilness. Repentance is
called by God of His people and for them to turn from their ways back to Him. Joel’s
“Day of the Lord” is referring to the coming destruction in 586 B.C.
Amos
The book of Amos is also a narrative history and
prophetic oracle and was written by Amos soon after the fall of the Northern
Kingdom to Assyria. The key personalities include Amos, Amaziah, and Jeroboam
II. The key events include the call of God’s judgment on the Northern Kingdom
and to call for repentance for their self righteousness and idolatry.
God sent Amos to call His people back to Him. The
people were superficially religious. It is declared that the neighboring
nations would also be punished. Amos gives examples of God’s judgment and warns
the Northern Kingdom that it will be destroyed, also known as the day of the
Lord. Amos then tells of the restoration
of Israel in chapter 9 by rising up its ruins and rebuilds it as in the days of
old. This restoration is talked about as in the latter days. Israel is to be
restored, and is to be head of the nations.
Obadiah
The book of Obadiah is a book of prophetic oracles
and was written by the prophet Obadiah. The key personalities in Obadiah
include all of the Edomites. The key event was to tell that God’s judgment will
fall upon Edom because of them being against His chosen people; His children.
Edom is used as an example of this truth. It is declared by Obadiah the
wickedness of Edom and even points out examples, Obadiah explains that Edom
should have been like a brother to Israel and stand for them. Edom is referred
to as Esau, Jacob’s brother, which signifies that Edom is the descendants of Jacob’s
brother Esau. In the end, we read about Esau’s house will be as stubble and the
house of Jacob will be a fire, which shows that Israel has victory and Edom is
destroyed. Obadiah is only one chapter long and is considered the shortest book
in the Old Testament.
Jonah
The book of Jonah is narrative history and a
prophetic oracle. The book of Jonah was written by Jonah before Assyria
conquered the Northern Kingdom. The key personalities include Jonah, the
captain of the ship’s crew and the people of Nineveh. The key event was Jonah’s
disobedience towards God and the message of repentance to the nation of
Nineveh. God wants Jonah to go to Nineveh to give the nation a message of
repentance but Jonah gets on a ship and heads toward Tarshish. After a great
storm on the sea erupts, Jonah explains to the sailor’s that it is because he
disobeyed God and that God was bringing judgment upon him. The sailors then
take and throw Jonah overboard into the sea, where he is swallowed by a huge
fish, and the fish was not a whale. After being in the belly of the fish for
three days, the fish spews him out. Jonah finally obeys God and goes to Nineveh
to deliver the message of repentance. After Jonah gave the message to Nineveh,
they repented; but must have been short lived because it was later destroyed in
612 B.C.
Micah
The book of Micah is a prophetic oracle and was
written by the prophet Micah before the fall of the Northern Kingdom. The key
personalities include the people of Samaria and Jerusalem. The key event was a
message of warning to both the Northern and Southern Kingdoms. The message was
similar to that of Isaiah’s and was written about the same time. Micah
describes the soon to come judgment that would exile the nation. In chapter 1:6
“for I will make Samaria a heap of ruins in the open country, planting places
for a vineyard. I will pour her stones down into the valley and will bare her
foundations. “Micah clearly goes into detail to explain the judgment. Micah later predicts the birthplace of the
Messiah in Bethlehem. Micah explains what the desires are of God; to do
justice, to love, kindness, and to walk humbly with God. Micah proclaims
restoration and salvation to God’s people.
Nahum
The book of Nahum is also a prophetic oracle written
by the prophet Nahum just before the fall of Nineveh. The key personalities
include Nahum, the people of Nineveh, and the Assyrian empire. The key event is
to give a second warning to Nineveh, the first in which was given by Jonah. The
message was to give a final warning to Nineveh and to the Assyrian empire to
turn from their wicked ways. Nahum goes and warns of judgment and explains the
mighty power of God. Nahum goes and gives a message of hope to the Southern
Kingdom of the soon to come judgment on Nineveh. The people rejected his message
because later Nineveh was destroyed. Nineveh was never rebuilt, and this
confirms Nahum's prediction in 1:9 that “distress will not rise up twice.“ It
wasn't until 1850 that Nineveh was discovered by archaeologists. It was lost in
time. The destruction of Nineveh and Assyria would be a message of consolation
for the nations Assyria had oppressed. Israel and Judah were two of those
nations.
Habakkuk
The genre in Habakkuk is narrative history and
displays prophetic oracle. The book was written by Habakkuk just before the
fall of Judah in the Southern Kingdom. The key personalities include Habakkuk
as well as the Babylonians. The key event was the announcement of a message of
judgment on Judah. Judah was wicked and sinful and the all familiar message was
carried on by Habakkuk. Habakkuk was asking God questions as to why evil was
prevailing; which was answered to be patient and trust in Him. God claimed that
He would do amazing things. All the surrounding nations were also super powers
and they would all fall in ruin as well. Babylon was an empire that grew to
rule over everything, but only for a short time. Later in the book, in the end;
Habakkuk gives God praise, thanksgiving and glory for faithfully responding to
his questions about evil prevailing.
Zephaniah
The small book of Zephaniah is narrative and
prophetic oracle and was written by the prophet Zephaniah before the fall of
Judah in the Southern Kingdom. The key personalities include Zephaniah, and the
nation of Judah. The key event was to show that God rose up a prophet,
Zephaniah to give a message of warning about the coming judgment and to
encourage the people to repentance.
Before their captivity, Zephaniah foretells a coming judgment that was
going to happen to Judah if they did not turn from their ways and back to YHWH.
God’s demonstration of how He gives mercy to a sinner who doesn’t deserve it is
proclaimed in chapter 3. Zephaniah also wrote of a day of hope, when Israel
would come back out of exile under the protection of YHWH, to fulfill His
promise. “The LORD has taken away His judgments against you; He has cleared away your enemies. The King of
Israel, the LORD, is in your midst; You will fear disaster no more” (3:15).
Haggai
The book of Haggai is Narrative History and
Prophetic Oracle. The prophet Haggai
wrote it approximately 520 B.C. Haggai is among the most carefully and precisely dated
books in the entire Bible. It is a post-exilic book, meaning it was written after (post) the
captivity (exile) in Babylon. Key personalities are Haggai, Zerubbabel, and Joshua.
wrote it approximately 520 B.C. Haggai is among the most carefully and precisely dated
books in the entire Bible. It is a post-exilic book, meaning it was written after (post) the
captivity (exile) in Babylon. Key personalities are Haggai, Zerubbabel, and Joshua.
The purpose of this book was that
Haggai was called by God to encourage the people to
finish the construction of the temple in Jerusalem. The building had stopped because of opposition and the neighboring countries, and the Jews were
frightened. God called Haggai to proclaim His message that while Israel
was comfortable, that the Temple, the House of God, was not finished. Thereafter,
the Jews began working on completing the Temple. Haggai expressed to the Jews
that God would bless them as a motivation for them to keep working. The Temple was completed in 515 B.C. in
Jerusalem.
Zechariah
The book of Zechariah is narrative history,
prophetic as well as Apocalyptic.It was written by Zechariah. This book is
among the most precisely dated books in the Bible. The key personalities
include Zechariah, Zerubbabel and Joshua. The key events include the
encouragement of Israel who had just returned from exile, and the visions of Zechariah.
Israel’s faith was weak and they were not motivated to build the Temple. It was
as if they had to learn and conform to God’s law all over again. Zechariah had
visions and recorded them as well as encouraged the people to reinstate the
priesthood, and other laws that were forgotten during the exile. Zechariah
gives visions of the coming Messiah who will set up His throne and will offer
up the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world. Zechariah writes about
judgment against neighboring enemies. His foretells of the Messiah being
mounted on a donkey; His betrayal; and His crucifixion. Finally, he writes of
the vision he has about the second coming of Christ descending from heaven the
same way he left in Acts.
Malachi
The last book of the Old Testament is that of
Malachi, and it is a book of prophetic oracle. It was written by Malachi after
the return from captivity in Babylon. The key personalities include Malachi and
the priests. The key theme of this book is that Malachi writes to ensure the
hearts are right with the Jews and that they are keeping God first in their
lives. Malachi writes about the sins of the Jews as well as the sins of the priests.
He wrote about God sending a messenger to prepare the way, which is not Christ
but John the Baptist. He later writes about what is God’s as far as tithes and
offerings and that when being disobedient in this, it is stealing from God. Finally, Malachi writes about the great and
terrible day of the Lord, and about the coming judgment and His holy anger, but
gives us hope that those who do the will of God and are righteous will be
spared.
New
Testament
Matthew
The book of Matthew is the first of the synoptic
gospels; a Gospel that contains Narrative History, Genealogy, Parables, Sermons,
and some Prophetic Oracles. It was written by Matthew, a
Disciple of Christ. The personalities of this book
include the Messiah Jesus Christ, His parents Mary and Joseph, the Twelve
Disciples, the prophet John the Baptist, and leaders of different kinds
including government like Pilate and religious leaders such as the Pharisees,
who attempt to hinder the work of Jesus. The key events include the revealing of the Lord Jesus as the Messiah, the
King of the Jews, from the line of David, the Sermon on the Mount, the miracles
performed, the teachings and of course the death at Calvary. It also was to convince
the Jews that Jesus Christ was indeed their long-awaited Messiah.
In the beginning of Matthew the genealogy of Jesus
is indicated as far back as Abraham. The book mainly speaks about the miracle
birth of Jesus and the events that surrounded His early life. The book involves
John the Baptist a Nazarite who proclaimed the coming of the Lord, who
eventually baptized Jesus. It gives the teaching to everyone who would listen
and the famous Sermon on the Mount. At the end of Matthew, it tells of the
death and resurrection of Jesus, and how He bore the sins of man, also known as
the “Good News”. Many Old Testament
prophesies are fulfilled in these final moments.
Mark
The book of Mark, the second of the synoptic gospels
contains Narrative History, Sermons, Parables and Prophetic Oracles. Mark is
also considered the first book written of the synoptic gospels. It was written
by John Mark, one of the missionaries who were with Paul and Barnabas on their
mission trips. Mark is also the shortest book of the gospels. The key
personalities include Jesus, His twelve disciples, Jewish leaders, Pilate, and
John the Baptist. The key events are much similar to the other synoptic gospels
and include the preparation of Jesus by way of John the Baptist, the temptation
of Christ in the desert, the teachings, miracles, and the death and
resurrection of Jesus our Messiah. Mark was also close to Peter in Rome who was
considered as an eye witness of the life and resurrection of Jesus.
Mark opens with an introduction of John the Baptist
and the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. Jesus then left and went into the
desert where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. Mark then talks of the
miracles and teachings of Christ, and indicates Jesus as a Servant. The book
then focuses of the betrayal of Jesus, the faulty trial and the suffering that
Christ endured by way of beatings. Christ was condemned to die which later
shows His servant hood by giving up His life for sinners. It then talks of the
resurrection and the numerous accounts of Him appearing. Mark ends with the
Great Commission commandment and finally His ascension to Heaven.
Luke
The book of Luke is the third book of the synoptic
gospels and is Narrative History, Genealogy, Sermons, Parables, and some
Prophetic Oracles. The book of Luke was written by Luke who also wrote the book
of Acts. Luke went with Paul on mission trips and was also a physician and
Christian. The key personalities in Luke include Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the
twelve disciples, John the Baptist, Herod the Great, Jewish religious leaders,
and Pilate. Luke being Greek writes to the Greeks to present Jesus as the perfect,
Son of Man. The key events in Luke are similar to the other two synoptic
gospels and include a detailed account of the birth of Christ, the preparation
of Jesus by John the Baptist, teachings, healings by way of miracles, and the
death and resurrection of Christ Jesus.
Luke gives us a very detailed account of the birth
of Jesus, also known id today’s western world as the Christmas story. He writes of the work from John the Baptist
and his message of the soon Son of Man. John the Baptist then baptizes Jesus in
the Jordan River and thus, ushers in the ministry of Jesus throughout the land.
As he travels through the land, he teaches and heals the sick, all the while
bringing hope to those that needed it.
Later Jesus was met by many religious leaders who were trying to trick
and kill Him. Jesus was then betrayed by one of His own which ended in His
arrest and false court proceedings which in turn led to the crucifixion. He was
resurrected after three days as prophesied in the Old Testament and arose from
the grave as the King of kings and Lord of lords,
John
The book of John is Narrative History, Sermons,
Parables and some Prophetic Oracles. It was written by the Disciple/Apostle
John and is not part of the synoptic gospels. The key personalities include Jesus
Christ, His twelve disciples, Mary Magdalene, John the Baptist, Lazarus, Mary
and Martha, Jewish religious leaders, and Pilate. The key events are similar to
that of the synoptic gospels. John wrote the book so that all may believe in
Christ Jesus. Unlike the synoptic gospels the book of John was written with
more of a theological view, yet is equally inspired and just as important as
the first three.
John begins be declaring Christ more
than a man, that He was in existence even at the beginning of time. His
reference was that Christ was God. As with the other gospels, John the Baptist
set the stage for Christ by declaring His coming. During the ministry of Jesus,
He is consistent in proclaiming Himself as God and makes reference that He is
the I AM. John describes the many miracles and teachings throughout Jesus’
ministry which leads to the trials, conviction, death, and resurrection. In the
final chapters, when Christ is resurrected, He appears to Mary Magdalene and
the disciples. As John finishes his gospel he write an amazing truth about
Jesus, “And there are many other things which Jesus did, which if
they were written in detail, I suppose
that even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written”
(21:25).
Acts
The
book of Acts is Narrative History, with several Sermons. Luke is also the
writer of Acts. The key personalities of Acts are Peter, Paul, John, James,
Stephen, Barnabas, Timothy, Lydia, Silas, and Apollos. Luke wrote the book of
Acts (Acts of the Apostles) to record how believers were empowered by the Holy
Spirit and worked to spread the Gospel of Christ, and to be a model for the
future church. The book of Acts is also the history of the birth, the founding,
and the spread of the Church from Jerusalem to Rome the very heart of the Roman
Empire. It also records the transition of the Church from being almost
exclusively a Jewish institution into becoming a Gentile and an international
institution. Consequently, it records the transition of Christianity from a
Jewish religion into an international religion.
Acts
contains the events that surround the infancy of the church, and the
evangelistic work in Jerusalem. It describes the gathering at Pentecost and the
baptism of the Holy Spirit. Later Paul preaches a bold sermon to the Jews who
were at the Feast of Weeks, which resulted in an additional 3000 new believers.
Luke then writes of a transition in evangelism to other areas. Stephen in later
is stoned to death after being falsely accused. The book then shifts to Saul
and how he persecuted the Christians, but later had an encounter with Christ
who asks him why he is persecuting Him. Saul later changed his name to Paul and
started preaching to the gentiles. The book ends with Paul traveling to
Jerusalem where he was arrested and sent to Rome for trial, but the book ends
without describing the events of his trial.
Romans
The book of Romans is a Pauline Epistle
(letter from Paul). The book was written by the Apostle Paul. The key
personalities in the book of Romans are the Apostle Paul, and Phoebe who
delivered the letter. Paul wrote the letter to the believers in Rome, hence the
name Romans. He wrote it to give them a concrete theological foundation on
which to construct their faith and to serve God effectively. Most scholars also
describe it as the righteousness of God, which can be received only by faith in
the atoning death of Jesus Christ.
Paul explains the fundamentals and
foundations of the Christian faith, this is the Gospel Message, which all
believers are commanded to share with the entire world. Some of the most
important and popular memorization passages about Salvation can be found in the
first several chapters of Romans. Paul teaches about the sinful nature of all
men in the eyes of God, justification by faith in Jesus Christ, freedom from
sin, and victory in Christ. Paul explains to whom this Gospel message is
provided. He teaches that salvation is available to, “Whoever will call on the
name of the Lord will be saved” (10:13). Paul struggles in sorrow because the
Jew’s rejection of the Messiah Jesus Christ. Paul gives instructions for all
Christians about how to live a holy lifestyle. In the beginning of chapter 12
he writes, “Present you bodies a living and holy sacrifice”, and “Do not be
conformed to this world”. Much of the errors and trials that Paul dealt with in
his “Epistles”, were because the believers had conformed their lives to the
world and not to God.
1
Corinthians
1st Corinthians is a letter from Paul, a
Pauline Epistle. It was written by the Apostle Paul. The key personalities
include the Apostle Paul, Timothy and the household of Chloe. Paul wrote this
letter to the church in Corinth to address and correct the immorality as well
as the divisions that had arisen and was going on between them. In the
beginning of 1st Corinthians, Paul received reports of the church in
Corinth having problems. Paul then addresses their problems. Paul was direct in
exposing their immorality which includes sexual immoral conduct, marriage, and
lawsuits among believers. The practices of worship and the confusion with it is
also addressed. Other problems that were addressed include the role of women in
worship, the use of the different spiritual gifts, as well as observing the
Lords Supper. The last chapters, Paul addresses the resurrection of Jesus, and
declares an important truth; “Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel
which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, by
which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you,
unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what
I also received, that Christ died for our sins
according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (15:1-4).
according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (15:1-4).
2
Corinthians
The book of 2nd Corinthians
is a Pauline Epistle (letter from Paul). The Apostle Paul
was the writer of this book. The key personalities of this book are the Apostle Paul, Timothy,
and Titus. Paul wrote this letter to the church in Corinth to defend and protect his
Apostleship and to teach and warn against false teachers who were spreading heresy. Paul begins by telling the characteristics of an Apostle, and explaining his purpose was to not preach about himself, but it was about Jesus Christ alone. He told them to give their offerings to the believers in Judea, as they had promised before. He explained to them that if they gave, that they would also reap. Paul defends his ministry and addresses the attacks about his Apostleship. Paul explains that if anyone preached another, other than Christ Jesus that they were deceitful workers and false teachers and therefore should be rejected. In the end, Paul explains that if you want to know if you’re a Christian, that we must examine ourselves with scripture.
was the writer of this book. The key personalities of this book are the Apostle Paul, Timothy,
and Titus. Paul wrote this letter to the church in Corinth to defend and protect his
Apostleship and to teach and warn against false teachers who were spreading heresy. Paul begins by telling the characteristics of an Apostle, and explaining his purpose was to not preach about himself, but it was about Jesus Christ alone. He told them to give their offerings to the believers in Judea, as they had promised before. He explained to them that if they gave, that they would also reap. Paul defends his ministry and addresses the attacks about his Apostleship. Paul explains that if anyone preached another, other than Christ Jesus that they were deceitful workers and false teachers and therefore should be rejected. In the end, Paul explains that if you want to know if you’re a Christian, that we must examine ourselves with scripture.
Galations
The book of Galatians is a Pauline
Epistle (letter from Paul). It was written by the Apostle
Paul, prior to the Jerusalem Council had taken place. It quite
possibly could have been Paul’s first letter. The key personalities
of this book are the Apostle Paul, Peter, Barnabas, Abraham, Titus and false
teachers. Paul writes this book to deal with the problem
of circumcision and Jewish legalism toward Gentile believers.
Paul’s gives his testimony about how he
had received the authentic Gospel message. He warns that if anyone presents
another Gospel message other than the one he was preaching that person is accursed; “As we have said before, so I say
again now, if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you
received, he is to be accursed!” (1:9). Paul was speaking of the one true
Gospel that he had received. Paul begins declaring that salvation is through
faith and trust in Jesus Christ “Alone”, and cannot be obtained through the
keeping of the Law. “You foolish Galatians! Who put you under a spell? Was not
Jesus the Messiah clearly portrayed before your very eyes as having been
crucified? I want to learn only one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit
by doing the works of the law or by believing what you heard? Are you so
foolish? Having started out with the Spirit, are you now ending up with the
flesh? (Galatians 3:1-3). The Law (10 Commandments) is our tutor to lead us to
salvation in Jesus Christ, the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ,
so that we may be justified by faith” (3:24). No one can obey the 10
Commandments, it is impossible, we all have broken them. Therefore, we can only
attain salvation through trusting in our Savoir Christ Jesus. Paul finally
teaches the Fruits of the Spirit and tells us to “walk by the Spirit, and you
will not carry out the desire of the flesh” (5:16). Good works does not save
us, but a Christian will have the desire to produce good fruit and obey God’s
Law and live a holy and righteous life in the eyes of God. Christians should
live this redeemed life.
Ephesians
The book of Ephesians is a Prison
Epistle and was written by Paul while he was in prison, hence the genre of
being a Prison Epistle. The key personalities include the Apostle Paul, and
Tychicus. Ephesians was written to encourage other believers to walk as
fruitful believers of Jesus and to serve in unity and love even while being
persecuted. Ephesians was probably written at the same time as Colossians and
Philemon, and carried the same messengers.
Paul had a special relationship with the
Ephesians because he founded the church on his third missionary journey almost
ten years earlier. Paul begins by encouraging the Ephesians, unlike the other
churches, whose founding pastor was in prison for his faith. While the church
had a solid foundation, it still had room to grow. Throughout the book of
Ephesians, Paul uses the term, “in the heavenlies”, at least five times,
referring to the spiritual realm where he saw hope for the church. Paul
addresses the hope and love and the addresses their lifestyle issues in three
general areas. Finally, Paul instructs believers how to prepare for spiritual battle
by dressing in the full armor of God. Prayer is the key weapon to Christians.
He emphasizes his principle with the repeated statement “stand firm”.
Philippians
The book of Philippians is a Prison
Epistle (letter written while in prison). Paul wrote it as he anticipated his
release from prison. They key personalities are the Apostle Paul, Timothy,
Epaphroditus, Euodia, and Syntyche. It was written to show his appreciation and
love to the Philippians in a thank-you letter, for their continued help and
support, and also to encourage their growth.
Paul seems to have been encouraged
towards the end of his imprisonment. Paul acknowledged that some of the gospel
proclamation was a result of wrong motives.
Chapter 2, Paul explains the benefits of believers in unity with the
“mind of Christ”. He teaches a theological lesson about the humanity of Jesus
Christ as He laid down His glory and became a perfect human man. Paul expounds
on the joys of a Christian and encourages the church to press forward with the
Gospel. Paul again mentions joys in Christ as he believers to rejoice in the
Lord. It is important for the believer to be well ground in prayer and
thanksgiving. To offer praise and to give God thanks for
the many provisions they are blessed with, “my God shall supply
all your needs” (4:19).
Colossians
The book of Colossian is a Prison
Epistle(letter written while in prison). It was written by Paul. The key
personalities include Paul, Timothy, Tychicus, Onesimus, Aristarchus, Mark, and
Epaphras. It was written to counter and respond to heretical teachings and
encourage believers serve with fervor and passion. The basic problem was a
Judaic-Gnostic heresy that sought to mix Greek philosophy with Christian
theology. Gnostic philosophy taught that matter was evil. In order to avoid
having a pure God create evil they had created a system of emanations or lesser
deities that overflowed from God. At some point, these lesser gods were far enough removed from the pure to be able to create the universe, which was composed of matter, which was evil. They named this lesser deity the Jehovah God of the Hebrews.
deities that overflowed from God. At some point, these lesser gods were far enough removed from the pure to be able to create the universe, which was composed of matter, which was evil. They named this lesser deity the Jehovah God of the Hebrews.
Paul sends thanks to the faithful
brethren “who are at Colosse”. Paul did not establish the Colossian Church and
had never visited there. He teaches one of the most powerful passages
attributing the divinity of Jesus Christ who is God in flesh. It is apparent
that false teachers were spreading heresy by rejecting the deity of Jesus
Christ, probably teaching that He was just a “unique man”. Paul warns not to
allow anyone to lead them astray with Philosophy, trickery or by traditions of
men. Paul then assured the church that Jesus is God. He teaches believers how
to live at home, how to manage family matters and how to get along with other
believers in Christ. His approach is for believers to put
aside the petty situations that become obstacles in our lives, ultimately slow us
down, and prevent the spread of the Gospel.
1st
Thessalonians
The book of 1st Thessalonians
is a Pauline Epistle (letter from Paul). The Apostle Paul was the writer of the
book, and it was one of his earliest letters written. The key personalities in
this book are the Apostle Paul, Timothy, and Silas. Paul wrote this letter to
strengthen and encourage the church in Thessalonica. To encourage and hearten
the believers, Paul chose to emphasize second coming of Jesus Christ.
Throughout this letter, Paul focused on the principles of Faith, Hope, and
Love.
Paul first Paul accentuates and commends
them for their faithfulness to the Lord. Paul highlights Love and Hope. He
encourages the church to walk in love; to (excel still more). He then expounds
on the return of Jesus and “the day of the Lord”. Paul teaches the church about
the resurrection on the last day and that Christ will return in the clouds,
this was exactly the encouragement that the church in Thessalonica needed.
Lastly, before Paul finishes his letter he does not forget to add that they
must pray constantly and “Examine Everything Carefully”; this advice must still
be applied today.
2nd
Thessalonians
The book of 2nd Thessalonians
is a Pauline Epistle (letter from Paul). It was written by the Apostle Paul
several months after his first letter to the church in Thessalonica. . The key
personalities in this book are the Apostle Paul, Silas, and Timothy. Paul wrote
this letter to reemphasize the coming return of Jesus Christ. Some of the
people in Thessalonica had thought the Jesus had already returned; this letter
was written to correct any misunderstandings.
Paul highlights
the great hope of Jesus’ future return although the exact time
is unable to be known by anyone. He
commends the church in Thessalonica for their
perseverance in the midst of persecution.
He then teaches that God will punish those who are persecuting on
the last day. Speaking of the return of Jesus Christ, Paul was sure to include
the signs and setting that “the man of lawlessness” (the
antichrist) had to arrive first, for that to occur, the “restrainer”
(Holy Spirit) must be removed from restraining him. The Holy Spirit indwells
all believers and when He is removed, all believers will be “caught
up” in the clouds with the Lord Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Paul pushes them to pray and serve until this all transpires.
1st
Timothy
The book of 1st Timothy is a
Pastoral Epistle (letter from Paul to a church leader). This
book was written by Paul. The key personalities are the Apostle
Paul, and Timothy. It was written to give encouragement
and leadership guidelines to a young pastor named Timothy at the church in
Ephesus.
Paul begins with a greeting to Timothy,
which transcends into a warning against false teachings. Paul encourages him to
fight the good fight. Paul then proclaims that the desire of God is salvation
for everyone, and that there is one God, which is Christ Jesus. Paul then lays
explains the important guidelines and principles for church leadership. He taught the controversial subject of women in the church,
the two offices of leadership in the church; the Overseer and the Deacon. He even taught some of the practices that should be carried
out in the church. Paul gives guidelines for relationships
within the church and explains how to deal with
discipline and care for widows. He
gives advice of how to minister and lays more guidelines
for the wealthy instructing them to be generous.
2nd Timothy
The book of 2nd Timothy is a
Pastoral Epistle (letter from Paul to a church leader). The
writer is the Apostle Paul, and is probably his last letter. After Paul’s release from his first imprisonment in Rome, and after his final missionary journey (probably into Spain), he was again imprisoned under Emperor Nero. The key personalities are Paul, Timothy, and Luke, Mark and many others. Its purpose was to give direction regarding an urgent visit while Paul was in prison. From the somber nature of this letter, it is apparent that Paul knew that his work was
done and that his life was nearly at an end.
writer is the Apostle Paul, and is probably his last letter. After Paul’s release from his first imprisonment in Rome, and after his final missionary journey (probably into Spain), he was again imprisoned under Emperor Nero. The key personalities are Paul, Timothy, and Luke, Mark and many others. Its purpose was to give direction regarding an urgent visit while Paul was in prison. From the somber nature of this letter, it is apparent that Paul knew that his work was
done and that his life was nearly at an end.
Paul begins with thanksgivings and an
announcement to remain faithful, strong and to “Join with me in
suffering for the Gospel” (1:8). Looking at his imprisonment this time,
we can see that it is not as pretty as his first imprisonment where he was on
house arrest. This imprisonment, he is in a cold dungeon and chained like a
common criminal. While in prison, Paul continues to proclaim Christ as Lord,
showing himself faithful and as a model to other Christians. He challenges Timothy to endurance reminding
him that endurance is one of the main qualities essential for a successful
preacher of the Gospel. Men would become just as they were in the time of Moses.
In the end Paul writes about personal concerns, asking that some of his personal
items be brought to him; it appears that his imprisonment was completely
unexpected. Soon after this letter, it is likely that Paul was beheaded as a
Roman citizen.
Titus
The
book of Titus is a Pastoral Epistle (letter from Paul to a church leader). The
author Titus was written by Paul. The key personalities include Paul and Titus.
It was written to guide Titus, a Greek believer, in his leadership of the
churches on the island of Crete. Paul writes to encourage and guide young
pastor of how to deal with opposition from both false teachings and the sinful
nature of men.
Titus
begins with Paul giving qualifications on how to choose leaders in the church.
He also warns that we need to be aware of rebellious men and deceivers who turn
away from truth. Paul teaches how
believer may live healthy inside and outside of the church. He told them to
live Godly lives and to be prepared for the coming Savior Jesus Christ. Paul
describes how Jesus rescues us from sin. When a person first places their faith
and trust in Jesus Christ for salvation they are saved from the penalty of sin;
which is Justification, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation
to all men”. While the believer is worshiping and serving God on earth they are
saved from the binding power of sin; this is Sanctification, “Instructing us to
deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and
godly in the present age”. When a believer’s life comes to an end they go to be
with Jesus Christ, to live with Him for eternity and they are safe and protected
from the presence of sin; which is Glorification.
Philemon
The book of Philemon is a Prison Epistle
(letter written while in prison), which Paul was the author. The key personalities of Philemon include
Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus. It was written to Philemon
as a plea, to request forgiveness for his runaway servant Onesimus, who was a
new believer in Jesus Christ. The book of Philemon consists
of only one chapter.
Paul begins with a greeting to Philemon
and tells him that he appreciates him for his work in Christ. Philemon was
likely wealthy to own slaves. Paul appeals to Philemon for Onesimus who had ran
away and went to Rome where he met Paul. While there Onesimus gave his life
over to Christ. Philemon was angry that he had ran away and under Roman law,
Philemon had the right to execute Onesimus for fleeing as a slave. Paul pleads
with Philemon to accept him back, but not only to accept him back, but also to
accept him as a brother in Christ as well as overlooking his errors. Onesimus
carried this letter back to Philemon.
Hebrews
The book of Hebrews is a General Epistle
(Apostolic Letter). It was written mainly to the Hebrew believers. The author is unknown, although either Paul or Barnabas was
traditionally accepted as the author. Its purpose was to present the Lord Jesus
Christ as perfect and superior in comparison to anything Judaism and the old
covenant had to offer. The author was writing to a
group of Christians who were under severe persecution and some were thinking about returning to Judaism. He encouraged them not to turn away from their only hope of salvation.
group of Christians who were under severe persecution and some were thinking about returning to Judaism. He encouraged them not to turn away from their only hope of salvation.
The writer explains that the New
Covenant is greater than the Old Covenant because Jesus was the perfect,
permanent sacrifice, rather than the Old Testament sacrifices. The author also
presents the power and authority of the Word of God. The writer then tells of
the highlights of all the faithful people from the Old Testament. The book ends
with the writer emphasizing to put our trust and faith in Christ Jesus, and
ends with Christ being the same yesterday and today and forever.
James
The book of James is a General Epistle
(Apostolic Letter). James the half-brother of Jesus is the author. It was
likely the first New Testament book (letter) to be written. The key
personalities of this book include James and Persecuted Christians.
James wrote this book to Jewish
believers to encourage them to endure and live bold Christian lives. James is a
book about practical Christian living that reflects a genuine faith that
transforms lives. In many ways it is similar to the OT book of Proverbs.
The book begins by James teaching
believers to test their faith and prove yourself doers of the word. He tells us
to put our faith into action and to be servants of Christ Jesus. James then
distinguishes between faith and works, and states that a person of faith
without work demonstrates useless faith. He also teaches that everyone is a
sinner and that if one of the Ten Commandments is broken, than that person is
guilty of breaking everyone of them. James uses the word prayer seven times, to
signify the importance of prayer. James stresses the weight and importance of
prayer for every believer. James finally expresses faith in action and the
significance of it.
1st
Peter
The book of 1st Peter is a
General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). It was written to all believers in general.
The author of 1st Peter is Peter himself late in his life. The key
personalities are the Apostle Peter, Silas, and Mark. Its purpose was to
encourage suffering Christians and to call them to personal holiness; Peter’s
central focus is persecution. Peter was one of the first letters that won
virtually universal acceptance by the church.
Peter
addresses the issue that believers are to live a life of personal holiness as
God’s people, even during times of suffering and persecution. He teaches that
all Christians are to expect suffering; it is normal and Scriptural for
Christians to suffer persecution and even imprisonment and death. Peter
explains that our salvation in Christ is secure and that He took our sin on the
cross and, “for by His wounds you were healed” (2:24). He then explains that as
believers, we are to preach the hope that is in us, which is Christ Jesus. He
tells that as believers, we should not be surprised when persecution comes. If
the believer suffers from persecution, they are to glorify God and trust in
Him.
2nd
Peter
The book of 2nd
Peter is a General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). It
was written to all believers in general. The author is
Peter even though some scholars have questioned whether they had the same
author. The key personalities are the Apostles Peter, and
Paul. Its purpose was to warn against the increasing
number of false teachers attacking the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Peter gives guidance and reassurance to
the growing church and claims that the Gospel they are preaching is of Jesus
Christ. The trouble they were dealing with was the beginning of what we now know as “Gnosticism” a philosophical principal that was hurting the
churches. Peter went on to teach
that, in the end, God would judge all of the false
prophets. Peter then encourages believers with the coming Day of the Lord. The
Earth will receive its punishment and the righteous will dwell in the “New
Heavens and the New Earth”. His final warning is critical which he claims, “Be
on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled
men” (3:17).
1st
John
The book of 1st John is a
General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). It is written by the
Disciple/Apostle John. The key personalities include the Apostles Peter and Paul. Its purpose was to warn about the increasing threat of false teachings and to reassure Christians of their faith and love in Jesus Christ. It was written to combat false teachings that had to do with the denial that Jesus had a genuine human body (1:1). This Gnostic view of matter as being evil led to two
responses, asceticism or licentiousness. He very clearly writes to give the true tests of a true Christian. These tests also contradicted the Gnostic licentious approach to Christianity. He gives several means to measure the reality of one’s conversion experience.
Disciple/Apostle John. The key personalities include the Apostles Peter and Paul. Its purpose was to warn about the increasing threat of false teachings and to reassure Christians of their faith and love in Jesus Christ. It was written to combat false teachings that had to do with the denial that Jesus had a genuine human body (1:1). This Gnostic view of matter as being evil led to two
responses, asceticism or licentiousness. He very clearly writes to give the true tests of a true Christian. These tests also contradicted the Gnostic licentious approach to Christianity. He gives several means to measure the reality of one’s conversion experience.
John wrote that if sins were confessed,
that Christ would cleanse them, because Jesus is the propitiation for “the
whole world” (2:2). Because John was aware of the continuing attack of false
teachings, he then urged believers not go after the things of this world
because it was not of the Father, and would ultimately pass away. John explains
that the love of God for us, through Him, was sent Christ Jesus as a
demonstration of His love. John tells Christians to live by faith because
through our faith in Christ that we overcome the wickedness of the world. In addition, John writes one of the most powerful and assuring
statements concerning the work of Jesus on the cross.
2nd
John
The book of 2nd John is a General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). It
is written by the Disciple/Apostle John. The key personality is John. It was written to encourage all Christians not to lose focus
of Jesus Christ and to warn against persistent heresy. His
key purpose is that his children (the children of God) may abide in the truth
and the Truth may abide in them.
John begins with a greeting to the
chosen lady, who is most likely a church in his region. John supports the
commandment to “love one another”. He cautions them to watch for the deceivers
and the antichrists that are abundant and active in the world spreading false
teachings. A key Thought: “Walk in the
truth”; John is still dealing with “Gnosticism” which denied that Jesus had a
real human body composed of matter since they viewed matter as being innately
evil. Those who do not follow the teachings of Jesus Christ are false teachers
and stretch the truth into heretical doctrine. John was writing to protect his
readers from the evil deception of those who refused to remain in the teaching
of Christ, but was going beyond the truth of apostolic teaching (vs. 9). He
makes it clear that these people are anti-Christ and do not know the Lord (vs.
7, 9). He also reminds his readers of their responsibility as Christians to
love other Christians (vs. 5). Although, above all things he wants them to
“walk in truth”. John ends the book (letter) with the intensions of making a
visit and speaking on many topics face to face.
3rd
John
The book of 3rd
John is a General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). It
is written by the Disciple/Apostle John. The key
personalities in this book are the Apostle John, Gaius, Diotrephes, and
Demetrius. This book is the shortest book in the New
Testament and was written to praise Gaius and Demetrius for their faithful
service.
John writes to praise two teachers for walking
in truth. Jogn expresses that nothing gave him more joy than to see Christians
walking in truth and acting faithfully, and the ones who does evil has not seen
God. John then speaks of a false teacher named Diotrephes. John tells of a
previous letter (that we do not have) that he sent to the church however,
Diotrephes rejected the letter out of pride and discouraged anyone from
accepting or accommodating any of the brethren of the church with hospitality.
John then writes that he is planning a visit to discuss many things face to
face.
Jude
The book of Jude is a General Epistle
(Apostolic Letter). The author is Jude the brother of James, both of who are
half-brothers of Jesus Christ. The purpose of this book is to address false
teachings and to illustrate a contrast between the error of heresy and the
truth of Jesus Christ. Jude consists of only one chapter.
Jude is somewhat controversial for two
reasons. Verses 17-18 are very similar to 2 Peter 3:2-3. Some argue that 2
Peter borrowed from Jude, meaning it had to be written later. The second point
of controversy is the writer’s use of non-canonical books. Jude identifies himself and promptly thrusts
into the dilemma of false teachings. Heresy was obviously seeping into the
region, disturbing the churches, and deceiving believers. He begins by
illustrating similarities between false teachers and condemned individuals from
the Old Testament citing Cain, Balaam and Korah. Jude urges Christians to
“remember the words that were spoken beforehand by the apostles of our Lord
Jesus Christ” (vs. 17). He was referring to all of the apostles and disciples
in the past, which had warned about false teachers and prophets that were
coming to deceive. His advice is to focus on Jesus Christ and to watch out for
each other so that no one is misled into error.
Revelation
The literary genres of the book of
Revelation are an Apocalypse, a Prophecy, and an
Epistle (or Letter). The Disciple/Apostle John, who followed Jesus Christ and witnessed
His crucifixion, was the author. John wrote Revelation while a prisoner on the Island of Patmos. Its purpose is to give encouragement and hope all Christians to continue watching for the return, and triumph of the Lord Jesus Christ, and also to warn of the Final Judgment that nonbelievers will endure on that Last Day. There is much controversy on the book of Revelation. There is much disagreement on what it means. Revelation can be considered both prophetic and apocalyptic literature.
Epistle (or Letter). The Disciple/Apostle John, who followed Jesus Christ and witnessed
His crucifixion, was the author. John wrote Revelation while a prisoner on the Island of Patmos. Its purpose is to give encouragement and hope all Christians to continue watching for the return, and triumph of the Lord Jesus Christ, and also to warn of the Final Judgment that nonbelievers will endure on that Last Day. There is much controversy on the book of Revelation. There is much disagreement on what it means. Revelation can be considered both prophetic and apocalyptic literature.
John begins by
describing the details of the setting as he received this revelation (unveiling
of truth). John was elderly and
imprisoned on the Island of Patmos when he received an
apocalyptic vision from an angel. With
this vision, he was instructed to write to seven churches
about what he had seen. John then, describes a basic outline of the
entire letter written by John, “Therefore write the things which you have seen,
and the things which are, and the things which will take place after these
things” this is the pattern that is followed by John. He describes of the seven
churches, their qualities and/or their weaknesses and failings (such as Sardis and
Laodicea). John depicts what he sees in his vision about the Spiritual Realm. He
describes Jesus Christ as the “Slain Lamb” who is the only one able to open the
book with 7 seals. Aside from the 5th seal, each will bring a judgment upon the
populace of the Earth. The 7th seal introduces 7 angels who each possess 7
trumpets, another series of daunting judgments. Incredibly, after the 6th
trumpet in which 1/3 of the Earth’s population is killed, John claims, “The
rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, DID NOT REPENT” (9:20).
John then receives a vision regarding
the antichrist and Satan who is aware of his coming end. Seven more angels carrying
seven bowls of plagues to be poured out on earth. John then describes Hell, the
final place for nonbelievers, as well as the false prophet and the antichrist.
After one thousand years (The Millennium) Satan is also cast into the Lake of
Fire. John describes Hell as an eternal place of conscious torment. Finally,
John writes and describes the New Heaven and the New Earth, and being a holy
city of the New Jerusalem. Only those, whose names are written in the Book of
Life, can enter to be with the Lord, Christ Jesus forever.
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