Learning the Gospel

Lesson 1

Understanding the Bible

Learn what the Bible is, how it is organized, and how to find a passage. Read at your own pace, then take the 10-question practice quiz.

Start with the basics

The Bible may look like one large book, but it is a collection of books that tell one connected story about God, people, sin, rescue, and hope.

1

What is the Bible?

The Bible is God’s Word. God used human writers to record His truth. It teaches us who God is, what He has done, and how He wants us to live.

2 Timothy 3:16–17

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

King James Version (KJV)
2

One Bible, two parts

The Bible has 66 books divided into two main parts:

  • Old Testament: 39 books
  • New Testament: 27 books
3

The Old Testament

The Old Testament begins with creation and follows God’s relationship with Israel. It contains Law, History, Poetry and Wisdom, and the Prophets.

The first five books are Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

4

The New Testament

The New Testament begins with Jesus Christ. The four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—tell about His life, teaching, death, and resurrection.

Acts tells about the early church. The Letters teach believers, and Revelation points to Christ’s final victory.

5

How to find Scripture

A Bible reference has a book, chapter, and verse. In John 3:16, John is the book, 3 is the chapter, and 16 is the verse.

A dash gives a range. John 3:16–18 means chapter 3, verses 16 through 18.

6

The Bible’s main message

God created us and loves us. Sin separates people from God. Jesus died for our sins and rose again. Everyone who turns to Him and believes receives forgiveness and eternal life.

John 3:16

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

King James Version (KJV)
Romans 3:23

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

King James Version (KJV)
Romans 6:23

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

King James Version (KJV)

Remember these six things

  • The Bible is God’s Word.
  • It contains 66 books.
  • The Old Testament has 39 books.
  • The New Testament has 27 books.
  • A reference tells you the book, chapter, and verse.
  • The whole Bible points to God’s plan of salvation through Jesus.

Lesson 1 Practice

Question 1 of 10