(Old Testament Books)
The Bible is a unified story made up of sixty-six books, written by inspired authors over many centuries. It tells the grand narrative of God’s relationship with humanity, from creation to new creation, and centers on His plan to restore a broken world through a promised Savior. Though written in many times and styles, the Bible consistently reveals God’s faithfulness, humanity’s need for redemption, and the unfolding hope of the Kingdom of God.
The Old Testament begins with Genesis, where God creates a good world and forms humanity in His image. But sin enters through human rebellion, fracturing the relationship between God and creation. Yet from the earliest pages, God promises a deliverer, a future descendant who will crush evil and restore what was lost. God chooses Abraham and his descendants, Israel, to be a covenant people through whom this promise will unfold.
As Israel’s story continues, God delivers them from slavery, gives them laws to live by, and dwells among them. But despite His faithfulness, the people repeatedly fall into idolatry and injustice. The prophets call them back to covenant loyalty and speak of a coming King, a righteous Servant, and a renewed Kingdom. Through poetry, history, and prophecy, the Old Testament anticipates a Messiah who will rescue not only Israel, but all nations, and bring peace to a weary world.
The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of that promise in Jesus of Nazareth, who is shown to be the long-awaited Messiah, the Son of God. Through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and resurrection, Jesus offers redemption from sin and opens the way to reconciliation with God. He proclaims the arrival of God's Kingdom, where the humble are lifted, the lost are found, and the dead are raised. His followers are called to live by His teachings and share the good news with the world.
The story concludes with the promise of Jesus' return, final judgment, and the renewal of all things. In the last chapters of Revelation, the Bible ends as it began, with God dwelling with His people in a restored creation, where there is no more death or pain. The Bible is ultimately the story of God’s relentless love, His plan to save humanity through the ransom of Christ, and the hope of an eternal Kingdom where righteousness, peace, and fellowship with the Creator are fully restored.
JJ Bowks, @CDMI