The Law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

– The Story of Jesus 1.2

[Adapted from Jn 1:17]

Although it can vary in content and translation, the Bible is the primary text of multiple world religions, most notably Christianity and Judaism. In its most common form, the Bible is divided into two major sections, each containing multiple smaller books:

1. The Old Testament follows the history of Israel as a nation through its formation, settlement, exile, and restoration. It also includes books of songs, poetry, prophecy, and law.

2. The New Testament starts with four different accounts – written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John – that detail the life of a teacher named Jesus, who claimed to be God’s Son. It goes on to describe the beginning of the church, including letters addressed to various churches of the day.

This sacred text, particularly the Old Testament, is also simply called the Scripture.

Originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, the Bible has become the most widely reproduced book in the world. And despite having multiple authors and being written over centuries, the Bible claims to be the inspired words of God.

The first five books of the Bible, in the Old Testament, are collectively referred to as Moses’ Law. It’s also called the Pentateuch, the Torah, the “Book of the Law,” or simply “The Law.” This ancient Scripture records the development of Israel, as well as the laws God gave them for fulfilling their destiny as his people.

1. Genesis records the early history of the world and the establishment of Abraham’s descendants as the nation of God. It follows Israel’s first four generations, from Abraham to the twelve patriarchs, ending with their settlement in Egypt. It also includes accounts of creation, the first sin, the worldwide flood with Noah’s ark, and Babel’s tower to heaven.

2. Exodus records Israel’s flight from slavery under Pharaoh in Egypt. It also details God’s covenant with them as a nation.

3. Leviticus lays out instructions on holiness.

4. Numbers records forty years of wandering in the desert and how Israel’s territory was to be divided once they got there.

5. Deuteronomy records final commands to serve God as Israel prepared to enter their promised land.

These books served as the foundation for Jewish government, law, religion, and culture.

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