sections of the old testament
The section summaries below are designed to help ground you in an overview of the whole Old Testament. These books are not written in chronological order. If you would prefer to read the Bible in chronological order, many apps have a chronological reading plan.
The pentateuch—the first five books
Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy
The first five books of the Bible start with Genesis, which means “Beginnings,” and account for the creation of the earth by an eternal God. They reveal God’s original intent for the earth and humanity. Unfortunately, humanity’s first inclination is to get out from under the thumb of God and the beautiful life God intended. The consequences are disastrous. As God grieves over and and yet continues to pursue his beloved created people, his picture of law, grace, and provision unfolds. With those who have regard for God and his ways, an everlasting covenant is established—one that promises to bless all people for eternity.
The Nation Israel—a history
Joshua through Esther
The descendants of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and Jacob and Rachel—multiplied to form a nation. The books of Joshua through Nehemiah cover the history of the nation Israel as their turbulent relationship with God develops, and God continues to pursue them with the love of a Father—attentively guiding, teaching, and disciplining them towards the abundant life he intended. These books reveal the true heart of God—his rejoicing over his creation, and exactly what insights his anger. It’s important to read these books I the context in which they exist—in a time period where tribal politics were violent affairs and existed without modern conveniences of medical care, sanitization, refrigeration and food storage, and more.
Books of the Heart—Wisdom, Songs, and Poetry
Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs
These stories, accounts, songs, and poetry explore the deep wisdom of the earth and of God. The tragic story of Job is placed somewhere in the time-period of the book of Genesis. King David wrote many of the beautiful Psalms, which follow the turbulence of his life as he alternately cries out to the Lord and praises him through personal and political challenges. Much of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes were documented by Solomon, known, at least at first, for his incredible wisdom. Song of Songs is a passionate love story of Solomon.
The Prophets—God Sends Messengers
Isaiah through Malachi
During the time of the Books of History, God sent messengers to his people. These messengers revealed the heart of God, provided direction and warnings to the people of God and the nations surrounding Israel. Through them God speaks against practicing false religions to false gods (often manifested in violence against women and children), oppressing the poor, and dealing unjustly. His wrath is revealed in dire consequences, and his final answer unfolds into a beautiful picture of grace as the promise of the coming Redeemer is told.