This topic covers the basic overview of the Bible, including its structure, authorship, historical context, and major divisions such as the Old Testament and the New Testament.
Introduction to the Bible – Study Notes
| Section | Number of Books | Main Genres | Time Span |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pentateuch (Torah) | 5 | Law, Narrative | c. 1500‑1400 BCE |
| Historical Books | 12 (OT) | Israel’s history | c. 1400‑400 BCE |
| Wisdom & Poetry | 5 (OT) | Psalms, Proverbs, etc. | c. 1000‑400 BCE |
| Major Prophets | 5 (OT) | Prophetic messages | c. 800‑400 BCE |
| Minor Prophets | 12 (OT) | Prophetic messages | c. 800‑400 BCE |
| Gospels | 4 (NT) | Life of Jesus | c. 60‑90 CE |
| Acts | 1 | Early church history | c. 63‑70 CE |
| Epistles | 21 | Letters to churches/individuals | c. 50‑100 CE |
| Apocalypse | 1 | Prophetic vision | c. 95 CE |
Note: Catholic and Orthodox Bibles include additional “Deuterocanonical” books.
| Theme | Old Testament Illustration | New Testament Fulfillment |
|---|---|---|
| Creation | Genesis 1‑2 | John 1:1‑3; Colossians 1:16 |
| Covenant | Abrahamic & Mosaic covenants | New Covenant in Christ (Jeremiah 31:31; Luke 22:20) |
| Redemption | Exodus, sacrificial system | Jesus’ death & resurrection (Romans 3:24) |
| Kingdom of God | Davidic monarchy | Jesus’ proclamation (Matthew 4:17) |
| Justice & Mercy | Prophetic calls for righteousness | Ethical teachings of the apostles (James 2:13) |
Authorship
Oral Tradition
Manuscript Transmission
Canon Formation