Skip to main content
30% OFF Store Wide – Early Black Friday Sale – Nov 1 to 3 only! Coupon Code: EARLY30

Journey through the Books of the Bible: What You Need to Know

Written by Dianna Wiebe on .
INSIDE: Discover a simple guide to journey through the books of the Bible. Learn about key themes, types of books, and where to start reading.

The Bible is the way in which God introduces Himself to mankind. It is a rich collection of stories, lessons, and wisdom. As Christians, understanding and applying the Bible is key to deepening our faith. But with 66 books, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Here’s a simple guide to help you on your journey through the books of the Bible.

1. The Big Picture
The Bible is divided into two main parts: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament focuses on God’s covenant relationship with Israel, the Laws of God, and His promise to send a Messiah. The New Testament reveals Jesus as the Messiah, the life and teachings of Jesus, and what a relationship with God through Jesus should look like in our lives. Together, they tell the story of God’s plan for humanity.

2. Different Types of Books
Not every book is the same! Some are historical, some are poetic, and some are prophetic. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Books of the Law: These include Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. They give us the origin stories for the world, and the family of Abraham known as the children of Israel.
  • Books of History: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, I & II Samuel, I & II Kings, I & II Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. These books continue to the story of the children of Israel as they grow into a nation and settle into their own land.
  • Poetry and Wisdom: Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes, which include songs, wise sayings, and life advice.
  • Books of the Prophets: the books of the prophets are divided into two categories, the “Major Prophets” and “the Minor Prophets” mainly based upon the length of the books. The major prophets include: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel. The minor prophets include: Hosea, Joel. Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Before the Lord judges, He sends a prophet a message to a king, a city, or a country. These books record warnings and exhortations for the people to repent.
  • Books of the Gospel: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
  • Book of Church History: Acts
  • Books of the Epistles: Romans, I & II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, I & II Thessalonians, I & II Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, I & II Peter, I, II, & III John, Jude, and Revelation

Download a free Books of the Bible Chart!

3. Key Themes to Watch For
As you read, you will discover themes or threads that run through the Bible. Watch for these threads, like God’s faithfulness, the importance of obedience, and the promise of forgiveness when we repent or return to God. These themes help tie the Bible’s message together from start to finish.

4. Where to Start
You don’t have to read the Bible from cover to cover but where do you start reading the Bible? We recommend beginning with Genesis and Exodus before moving to the Book of Mark, Luke and Acts. Focus on one book or chapter at a time and reflect on what you learn from that book about God, the people and then ask the Lord help you apply the lessons to your life.

5. Take Your Time
Reading the Bible isn’t a race! It’s okay to spend time reflecting on what you’ve read or discussing it with others. If you have kids or students, use flexible and engaging resources to help them understand and apply Bible stories to their lives.

This journey of reading through the Bible is a life-changing experience. Take it one step at a time, and you’ll see how God’s Word can shape and guide your daily life. Once you start, you will never look back!

Save this to your favorite Bible Study Pinterest Board

Related Posts

10 Easy Thanksgiving Bible Study Ideas

| Dianna Wiebe |

Bible Timeline Events in November

| Dianna Wiebe |

How to Use Timeline Reviews to Boost Student Retention of Bible Lessons

| Dianna Wiebe |

Products You Might Like

Old Testament Bible Study Journal Bundle

$218.00$314.00

Old Testament Bible Activities

$24.95$29.95

New Testament Overview eBook Bundle

$125.60$293.60

New Testament Bible Trivia Flashcards

$15.95$47.85