ORGANIZING the BIBLE

The Bible is the inspired word of God which makes us furnished (prepared) unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Inspired means ‘God-breathed’;
Greek: theopneustos

2 Peter 1: 20-21…….“knowing this first, that NO prophecy [teaching] of the scriptures is of private interpretation…for the prophecy came not at any time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” The writers of the scriptures inked their pens, God gave the words.

The two big sections of the Bible are the Old Testament and the New Testament. The first book of the Bible, Genesis, and half of the book of Exodus discuss the creation and down to the giving of the (OT) Law to Moses and the Israelites at Mt. Sinai. The Old Testament (10 commandments and numerous other laws) was given ONLY to the Nation of Israel. Deuteronomy 5:1-3.

The purpose of the Old law was to prepare the people to receive the Messiah (Christ) when He came. The Old Testament was no longer in effect after Christ came and was crucified.
The New Testament went in to effect on the Day of Pentecost - Acts 2; Galatians 3:23-25; Colossians 2:14; Hebrews 9:15-17.

Many today are ignorant of the fact that the Old Testament is NOT our law today. A testament, or will, goes in to effect after the one who made it dies.
Again, Hebrews 9:15-17.

It is good to study the Old Testament (Romans 15:4) to learn much about God, the history of the world - including creation - and how God dealt with man in times past. Hebrews 1:1.

In addition, there are many prophecies in the Old Testament about Christ and His kingdom, which is the church. Matthew 16:18-19. Some do not believe that the kingdom has come. But the bible plainly states that it has, that the kingdom IS the church, and that Christ is King. Mark 9:1; Matthew 16:18-19; Colossians 1:13; Revelation 17:14; Hebrews 12:28.

The first four books of the New Testament are the birth, early years, and personal ministry of Christ. The book of Acts is the history of the establishment of the church (kingdom), how one gets into the church (kingdom), and the growth of the church.

The next 21 books are written to churches and individuals telling how to live as a Christian (one IN Christ), how to worship, and the work of the church.

The last book – Revelation – deals with the final resting place of ALL humanity – Heaven or Hell – and the great spiritual battle going on between God and His people and the Devil and his people. This spiritual battle is ongoing until the end of time and Christs’ return. Revelation was written in signs and symbols, a lot of it is not literal, but figurative. It was also to encourage the early church [church in any age] and Christians undergoing horrific persecution at that time. It also underscores who will be triumphant – GOD.

The New Testament tells one how to be on Gods winning side and spend eternity in Heaven with God and His angels.

See previous posts: ‘How Does One Become a Christian’; ‘Are We Under the Old Testament Today?’