How is the Bible Organized?
The Old and New Testaments can be divided into the same three basic sections. Each section contains various genres, though one is often prevalent.
HISTORY/GOSPELS
OT: Genesis-Esther | NT: Matthew-Acts
Both Testaments begin with historical books. The Old Testament tells the history of the nation of Israel—initiated and chosen by God to reveal Him to all nations. The New Testament describes Jesus’ life and ministry and the explosive growth of the early church during the following few decades.
WISDOM/EPISTLES
OT: Job-Song of Solomon | NT: Romans-Jude
Wisdom literature of the Old Testament consists primarily of poetry, the instructive counsel of proverbs and similar “sayings” that speak of how to live wisely in light of life’s deeper meaning. New Testament wisdom literature comes in the form of letters to early churches or specific believers. These letters explain theological truths behind Jesus’ work, expose our sin and point to God’s grace and instruct us how to live as believers “in Christ.”
PROPHECY/APOCALYPTIC
OT: Isaiah-Malachi | NT: Revelation
Prophetic writings primarily reveal current realities lurking beneath the surface of life (the true state of our sinful, fickle hearts) or future realities (what God would or will one day do). Many of the events referenced are described in the historical books and/or are fulfilled chiefly in the Messiah, Jesus. The Apocalypse, or end times, is also a frequent subject.
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