"All Scripture is breathed out by God..." — 2 Timothy 3:16
The word Bible comes from the Greek and Latin words meaning “book”—a fitting name for a sacred text that is over 3,400 years old and still influencing lives, nations, and cultures today.
The Bible is the living Word of God. It inspires us to live with purpose and to treat one another with love and compassion. It teaches us to rely on God for strength and direction in every area of life, so we may receive eternal life through His grace and love.
Divine Authorship
At its core, the Bible proclaims one central truth: God created all of us and desires a real, personal relationship with His children. This message, consistent from beginning to end, has never changed—and never will—because God Himself is the true Author. Though written by men, the words were divinely inspired. Through Scripture, God reveals who He is and how we are to walk with Him.
God does not make mistakes. The instructions He gave us through His Word have stood the test of time—unchanging, perfect, and powerful.
STRUCTURE OF THE BIBLE
The Bible contains 66 books written by over 40 individuals. These weren’t professional writers; they were shepherds, farmers, tent-makers, physicians, fishermen, priests, philosophers, and kings—ordinary people used by an extraordinary God.
It was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, and took approximately 1,900 years to complete.
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The first book, believed to be either Genesis or Job, was written by Moses around 1400 BC during Israel’s 40 years in the wilderness.
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The final book, Revelation, was written by the Apostle John around AD 90.
Depending on perspective, the Bible is about 1,900–3,400 years old.
Languages & Timeline
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Originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek
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Composed over 1,900 years
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First book: Genesis or Job, likely written by Moses (~1400 BC)
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Last book: Revelation, written by the Apostle John (~AD 90)
Division of the Bible
The Bible is divided into two major parts:
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The Old Testament
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The New Testament
The word “testament” means covenant, which is a sacred agreement between God and man. The Old Covenant was between God and the nation of Israel. The New Covenant is between God and all people through the blood of Jesus Christ.
The Old Testament
The Old Testament contains 39 books written by 28 authors. The first five books—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—are called the Pentateuch, meaning “five scrolls,” and are believed to have been written by Moses. These foundational books form the first of three divisions of the Hebrew canon:
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The Law (Torah)
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The Prophets
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The Writings
The Old Testament shares the history, wisdom, laws, and prophecies of Israel before the coming of Jesus. It lays the foundation for understanding God’s nature, His laws, and His promise to send a Messiah (Isaiah 53).
The New Testament
The New Testament consists of 27 books written by eight authors. The Apostle Paul is traditionally credited with writing the most, up to 13 books, although scholars debate the exact number.
The New Testament builds upon the revelations of the Old Testament. While the Old focused on God’s relationship with one nation, the New reveals His offer of salvation to all people through Jesus Christ.
As Jesus said in John 14:6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (KJV)
The New Testament highlights God's grace toward sinners, while still showing glimpses of His righteous judgment. In contrast, the Old Testament focused on God’s judgment against sin, with glimpses of His grace.
“The Passover lamb of the Old Testament (Ezra 6:20) becomes the Lamb of God in the New Testament (John 1:29). The Old Testament gives the Law; the New Testament gives grace through Jesus Christ.”
Old vs. New Testament Themes Comparison
HISTORY OF THE BIBLE
Just like you, I am learning the Bible. I have done—and am still doing—research on what I’ve written and shared here.
Please remember: your salvation is rooted in your own prayerful study and personal relationship with God.
Do not hold my inexperience or lack of formal education against the truth of God’s Word. As I learn and write, you may learn even more. Let's grow together in grace, truth, and understanding.