The Bible as the Word of God

A book that guides

Believers read their holy book to learn how to live. The KICD Religious Education curriculum asks Grade 5 learners to understand the Bible and respect other holy books. This note covers Christianity with brief references to others.

Structure of the Bible

The Bible is a library of books in two parts:

• Old Testament: 39 books, such as Genesis, Exodus and Psalms.
• New Testament: 27 books, such as Matthew, Luke and John.

Types of books

• Law and history, for example Exodus
• Wisdom and songs, for example Proverbs and Psalms
• Prophets, for example Isaiah
• Gospels about Jesus, for example Mark
• Letters, for example Romans

Why we read it

• It teaches us about God.
• It guides our choices and behaviour.
• It comforts us in difficult times.
• It teaches love, honesty and forgiveness.

Using the Bible

1. Find the book name.
2. Find the chapter number.
3. Find the verse number. Example: John 3:16 means book John, chapter 3, verse 16.

Other holy books

Muslims read the Quran, Hindus read the Bhagavad Gita and the Vedas. We respect every holy book and do not drop or insult it.

Translations in Kenya

The Bible has been translated into Kiswahili and many mother tongues, so more people can read it.

Try it

• Find Psalm 23 in a Bible and read it.
• Name three lessons the Bible teaches.
• Say how you can show respect to another faith's holy book.