Why Start with the Old Testament?

The Bible is unlike any book ever written. It’s more than a religious text—it’s a record of history, identity, struggle, promise, and redemption. It is God’s story—and ours too.

Though it’s the best-selling book in his

tory, many of us were never taught to read it through the lens of our own heritage. But when we begin with the Old Testament, we don’t just meet God—we begin to rediscover ourselves.

The Old Testament Is Our History Too

Starting in the Old Testament isn’t just about learning rules or reading ancient stories. It’s about reconnecting with our roots.

The Bible tells the story of a people—God’s chosen people, the Israelites—who were called, tested, delivered, scattered, and promised restoration. For centuries, many have overlooked the fact that Black people are deeply woven into that history.

From Egypt to Cush (modern-day Sudan and Ethiopia), from Moses’ Midianite wife to the Queen of Sheba, the Old Testament is filled with the presence and power of African nations and Black leaders. And deeper still, many believe that we are descendants of those original

Israelites, scattered across the world, just as the Bible said would happen.

Reading the Old Testament helps us see:

• The truth of who we are,

• The consequences of disobedience,

• And the promise of return and restoration.

You Can’t Fully Know Jesus Without First Knowing God

The Old Testament introduces us to God the Father—His holiness, His covenant, His justice, and His deep love. It reveals why humanity needed saving in the first place.

Everything in the New Testament—Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—is built upon the foundations laid in the Old. Without that understanding, the power of Jesus’ sacrifice is easily watered down.

3 Great Places to Begin

1. Genesis

The beginning of all things. It’s here that we see the origin of the world, the rise of nations, and the beginning of God's covenant with Abraham—a covenant that many of us are still part of today.

2. Deuteronomy

This book captures Moses’ final words to Israel before they entered the Promised Land. It outlines God’s law and the blessings for obedience, and the curses for turning away. Many of those curses, especially in chapter 28, reflect what has happened to Black people around the world.

3. The Prophets (Jeremiah, Isaiah, Ezekiel)

The prophets speak of judgment, exile, but also a future hope. A restoration of the scattered. A regathering of God's people. A renewed covenant. Their words still speak to our situation today.

The Bible Is Black History

We were always in the Book. But colonization, whitewashing, and distorted theology tried to erase that truth.

Starting with the Old Testament lets us reclaim our place in God’s story. It shows us that:

• We are not a forgotten people.

• Our suffering was foretold.

• Our return was promised.

• And our God has not abandoned us.

Come Discover the Truth

Whether you’re seeking identity, healing, or deeper faith, the Bible is your inheritance. God wants you to see yourself in the Word and to realize that you are not on the outside looking in.

You are a part of the story.

So start at the beginning. Learn who God is. See who you are. And walk boldly in the truth they tried to hide.