What is the Bible?
The Bible is a unique book. It is made up of 66 separate books, starting with the book of Genesis, and ending with the Book of Revelation. The 66 books are divided into 2 groups; the Old Testament which contains 39 books, and the New Testament which contains 27 books. It was written by men from all walks of life, from a fisherman to a king.
The Bible is unique for many reasons
- The Bible was written over a 1,500-year span.
- It was written over 40 generations.
- Written by more than 40 authors from every walk of life including – kings; a prime minister; a doctor; poets; statesmen; a military general; scholars; shepherds; fishermen; and peasants.
- Written in several different places – a desert; a prison; a palace; and a dungeon.
- Written in times of war and times of peace.
- Written in different moods, from the heights of joy and also from the depths of sorrow and despair.
- Written on three continents – Asia; Africa; and Europe.
- Written in three languages – Hebrew; Aramaic; and Greek.
- The Bible, unlike any other book, includes hundreds of prophecies that have all been fulfilled and many more foretelling the future.
- Its subject matter includes hundreds of different topics.
Who wrote the Bible
At least 36 men had a part in writing the bible. Approx 1600 years elapsed from the time the 1st man wrote until the last man finished.
The Bible is inspired by God
This means that men wrote under the direct control of God. The following verses from the Bible clearly teach us that the writers were inspired by God. “No prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.” 2 Peter 1:21. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be adequate, prepared for revert good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17. The Bible is the only written communication or Revelation that God has given to men. In the last chapter of the Bible, God warns us that we should not add anything or take away anything from the prophecy of the book. Revelation 22 18-19.
What is the main subject of the Bible?
The Bible tells us about Jesus Christ. The Old Testament told of many things that would happen when Christ would come, of his birth, life, and death. The New Testament tells us about what did happen when christ came into the world, and future events yet to happen.
Conclusion
The following is what someone has said about the Bible. “This book contains the mind of God, the condition of man, the way of salvation, the judgment of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its teachings are holy, its laws are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are unchangeable.
Read it to be wise, believe it to be saved, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. Christ is its grand subject. Our good is its design. The Glory of God is its end. Read it slowly, read it often, read it prayerfully. It is a Book of books. It is the way God makes himself known to man.