Old Testament overview and historical context

Genesis

This book includes the creation of the Earth as well as the creation of Adam and Eve, the first man and woman.

Exodus

Exodus focuses on the Israelites exodus from Egypt. Moses is an important character and we become aware of God's covenant with his chosen people in this book.

Leviticus

This book can be seen as a manual for priests and Levites as it includes duties and precepts. The books also covers issues of Godliness and holiness. Many of these principles are established in the New Testament.

Numbers covers how Israel intended on entering the Holy Land. It also covers the years spent at Sinai and Moab. The book also discusses how events are guided by God, the deliverer.

Deuteronomy

This book is important because it explores God's greatness, especially in regard to future generations.

Joshua

Joshua presents a historical account of the Israelites and the division of the tribes.

Judges

Judges provides the history of Israel. The book examines God's power and forgiveness.

Ruth

Ruth shows us the importance of faith in God through Ruth and Naomi's relationship. God's grace is important as well.

I Samuel

This book is the history of Samuel, a judge. Also covered is Saul's time in power, leading up to the time of David.

II Samuel

This book covers the significance of David, demonstrating how valuable a leader can be when he follows God's direction.

I Kings

This book continues from Samuel, covering David's reign and the collapse of Israel.

II Kings

This book show us what can happen when people choose not to follow God's instruction.

I Chronicles

An order of events for Israel. David's reign is also covered.

II Chronicles

Chronicles covers the reign of Solomon and the union of Israel.

Ezra

A continuation of Israel's history and their return to the Holy Land.

Nehemiah

This book covers the history of Nehemiah's in Jerusalem and his attempt to rebuild the city walls.

Esther

This book shows how Esther became the queen of Xerxes.

Job

The book demonstrates faith during suffering, emphasized through Job's tribulations.

Psalms

A book of poems, written primarily by David in praise of God.

Proverbs

A book of wisdom, often regarded as an instruction manual for a Godly life.

Ecclesiastes

A book intended to help readers avoid painful situations of life experienced by Solomon.

Song of Solomon

This book is about love the sanctity of marriage.

Isaiah

A book about judgment and comfort, written by Isaiah.

Jeremiah

A book of repentance, written by Jeremiah.

Lamentations

A book of poems that grieve Israel's ruin.

Ezekiel

This book is a history of the fall of Jerusalem and God's judgment.

Daniel

A history of Daniel's banishment in Babylon.

Hosea

This book illustrates God's love for his people. Hosea's wife cheated on him Hosea drew closer to God because of it.

Joel

This book urges God's people to do right. Locusts are an example of punishment.

Amos

This book is about the judgment for Israel's sin. It also encourages people to resist sin.

Obadiah

A book about pride and justice.

Jonah

Jonah is about God's grace and salvation.