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The word Genesis means origin or beginning, and the book of Genesis is a book of beginnings. This book sets forth the Creation of the earth and all life thereon, the Fall of Adam and Eve and the introduction of sin into this world, the origin of the house of Israel, and the establishment of covenants by a merciful Father in Heaven for the salvation of His children.
Listen Here …. Genesis
The word Exodus means “exit” or “departure.” The book of Exodus provides an account of Israel’s departure from bondage in Egypt and their preparation to inherit the promised land as the Lord’s covenant people. Israel’s departure from bondage and journey through the wilderness can symbolize our journey through a fallen world and back to the presence of God.
Listen Here …. Exodus
The word Leviticus is a Latin word that has reference to the Levites—one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The Levites held the lesser priesthood and were given the responsibility to officiate in the tabernacle and later at the temple in Jerusalem. The book of Leviticus contains instructions on performing priesthood duties, such as animal sacrifice and other rituals that would help teach the children of Israel about Jesus Christ and His Atonement. The Lord revealed a primary purpose for the instructions He gave in the book of Leviticus: “Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy”
Listen Here …. Leviticus
The book of Numbers is named for the Lord’s instruction to Moses to number, or count, all the Israelite males “from twenty years old and upward, all that are able to go forth to war” (Numbers 1:3). Moses counted the Israelite males twice, once at Mount Sinai and later in the plains of Moab near Jericho (see Numbers 26). This book also records the Israelites’ faithful experiences and rebellions as they wandered in the wilderness for 40 years.
Listen Here …. Numbers
The book of Deuteronomy contains Moses’s final words to the children of Israel before they entered the land of Canaan with Joshua as their leader. The book’s title means “second law” or “repetition of the law” (see Bible Dictionary, “Deuteronomy”), for in these final sermons, Moses repeated to the Israelites many of the laws and commandments that were part of their covenant with the Lord. Moses also exhorted the Israelites to remember and keep their covenant as he taught them the consequences of either obeying or disobeying the Lord’s laws and commandments.
Listen Here …. Deuteronomy
The book of Joshua recounts the Israelites’ entrance into the promised land under the leadership of the prophet Joshua.
Listen Here …. Joshua
The book of Judges is named for the various rulers, called “judges” (Judges 2:16–19), who are the book’s central figures. These judges were generally military leaders and fighters more than preachers of righteousness (see Bible Dictionary, “Judges, the”). The book describes the deeds of many of these leaders, some of whom helped deliver the Israelites from the effects of their sinful behavior.
Listen Here …. Joshua
In the book of Ruth we read a tender story of conversion, courage, determination, loyalty, and faithfulness. The compassion and love shared by Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth can inspire those who study this book to consider their relationships with others both inside and outside of their families.
Listen Here …. Ruth
The book of 1 Samuel recounts the ministry of the prophet Samuel, who “restored law and order and regular religious worship in the land” (Bible Dictionary, “Samuel”) after the Israelites had forgotten the Lord and worshipped idols many times throughout the reign of the judges. One of the major themes of 1 Samuel is the importance of honoring the Lord. In 1 Samuel 2:30 we read, “Them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed” (see also 1 Samuel 2:9). In other words, the Lord will bless those who honor Him and keep His commandments, and those who do not will not receive His blessings.
Several accounts in 1 Samuel reflect this theme. Hannah honored the Lord and requested a child, and the Lord blessed Hannah with a son. Samuel, Hannah’s son, also was blessed because he listened to the Spirit and obeyed the Lord. Saul did not continue to honor the Lord, so the Lord appointed David to replace him as king. As a youth, David exercised faith in the Lord, who blessed him to be able to slay Goliath.
Listen Here …. 1 Samuel
The book of 2 Samuel begins by narrating David’s rise and reign as king of Israel, illustrating the Lord’s generosity and kindness to those who are faithful to Him. However, in recounting the sins of David and his sons Amnon and Absalom, this book also shows the sorrow and tragedy that accompany violations of the Lord’s commandments.
Listen Here …. 2 Samuel
The book of 1 Kings provides an account of the death of David, the reign of his son Solomon, and the decline and division of the Kingdom of Israel after Solomon and many of his successors turned to idol worship. It also recounts the ministry of the prophet Elijah among the northern ten tribes of Israel.
Listen Here …. 1 Kings
The book of 2 Kings describes the history of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah, focusing on the spiritual successes and failures of each kingdom. The book also explains why Israel and Judah lost the Lord’s protection and were conquered.
Listen Here …. 2 Kings
A chronicle is an account of historical events presented in the order in which they occurred. 1 and 2 Chronicles shows the overarching history of God’s ancient people from the time of Adam to the time of King Cyrus of Persia.
Listen Here …. 1 Chronicles
A chronicle is an account of historical events presented in the order in which they occurred. 1 and 2 Chronicles shows the overarching history of God’s ancient people from the time of Adam to the time of King Cyrus of Persia.
Listen Here …. 2 Chronicles
The book of Ezra provides an account of the return of two groups of Jews from Babylon to Jerusalem, where they rebuilt the temple and their community. The book of Ezra shows how the Lord enables His people to overcome opposition and accomplish His will. It also shwos the importance of not repeating the sins of previous generations.
Listen Here …. Ezra
The book of Nehemiah provides an account of Nehemiah, a leader of the Jews who had returned to Jerusalem. Under his direction, the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt. However, “Nehemiah was not satisfied with simply building physical structures; he wanted his people to be edified spiritually as well,” and he helped the Jews “take control of their lives, land, and destiny as the people of God”. He also exemplified many righteous qualities. “He was humble, self-motivated, confident in the will of God, willing to take the lead, full of faith, fearless, an organizer, obedient, and just”
Listen Here …. Nehemiah
The book of Esther provides an excellent illustration of the power and influence for good that one person can have. As an exiled Jew in Persia, Esther rose to the position of the queen of Persia and then faced the possibility of being executed along with the rest of her people. This book shows the importance of acting courageously in frightening situations, and they can learn how to develop trust in the Lord.
Listen Here …. Esther
One of the most basic questions any person of faith must wrestle with is why bad things happen to good people. The book of Job gives an account of a righteous man who faithfully responded to difficult trials. Job’s experience invites us to ponder difficult questions about the causes of suffering, the frailty of human existence, and the reasons to trust in God, even when life seems unfair. Throughout all of his trials, Job retained his integrity and his trust in God even when another suggested that he “curse God, and die” (Job 2:9). The book of Job offers a poignant analysis of some of life’s most difficult questions.
Listen Here …. Job
Psalms has been a source of inspiration for worship since ancient times and continues to be cherished for worship and study by both Jews and Christians. As a collection of ancient Israel’s poetic hymns, petitions, and praises, the book of Psalms can resonate with students as they consider the ways they worship the Lord, plead for His deliverance, and thank Him for His help.
Listen Here …. Psalms
The book of Proverbs contains many brief but wise statements about how to live a godly life. Although the book was written in ancient Israel, its messages remain applicable in the modern world.
Listen Here …. Proverbs
The name Ecclesiastes is a translation of the Hebrew word koheleth, which means “one who convenes an assembly” or simply a preacher (see Bible Dictionary, “Ecclesiastes”). Throughout this book, the writer presents a series of questions in search of the purpose of life. His questions and subsequent conclusions illustrate his own journey of seeking to understand why we are here on the earth.
Listen Here …. Ecclesiastes
The Song of Songs is unique in its celebration of sexual love. It gives “the voices of two lovers, praising each other, yearning for each other, proffering invitations to enjoy”. The two each desire the other and rejoice in their sexual intimacy. The “daughters of Jerusalem” form a chorus to the lovers, functioning as an audience whose participation in the lovers’ erotic encounters facilitates the participation of the reader. Jewish tradition reads it as an allegory of the relationship between God and Israel.
Listen Here …. Song of Solomon
The book of Isaiah was written during a time of great wickedness and apostasy, and it addresses both events of Isaiah’s era and events that would occur in the future. Perhaps the most important part of the book of Isaiah is Isaiah’s testimony and witness that Jesus is the Christ, the Holy One of Israel, and the promised Messiah.
Listen Here …. Isaiah
The book of Jeremiah contains the prophecies, warnings, and teachings that were part of the prophet Jeremiah’s ministry to the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Because many of Jerusalem’s leaders and people rejected Jeremiah and other prophets and continued to sin, Jerusalem was destroyed and many Jews were taken captive to Babylon. This book illustrates that the covenant between God and Israel does not make God’s people invincible. If they do not fulfill their part of the covenant and heed the Lord’s word, they withdraw themselves from God’s care and protection.
Listen Here …. Jeremiah
The book of Lamentations reveals Judah’s pathetic condition following the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem, which occurred as a result of the people’s sins and disregard for prophetic warnings. Lamentations shows insight into the sorrow, remorse, and consequences that can accompany sin.
Listen Here …. Lamentations
The book of Ezekiel contains the visions and prophecies of Ezekiel, whom the Lord called to minister to the Jewish captives in Babylon. The book shows that the Lord is mindful of His people wherever they are.
Listen Here …. Ezekiel
The book of Daniel provides an account of the experiences of Daniel and other faithful Jews who were taken captive to Babylon. The book of Daniel shows the importance of remaining faithful to God and qualifying to receive the blessings He gives to those who are faithful to Him. It also contains the interpretation of an important dream that King Nebuchadnezzar had about the kingdom of God in the last days.
Listen Here …. Daniel
One of the central messages of the book of Hosea is that Jehovah loves His people even when they are unfaithful to Him, and He will mercifully offer them reconciliation. The book of Hosea shows that although there are consequences for our unfaithfulness, the Lord desires that all of His people return to Him and renew their covenant with Him.
Listen Here …. Hossea
The book of Joel teaches about the power of the combined prayers and fasting of God’s people during a time of great difficulty in Israel’s history. “Joel assured the people that through repentance they would again receive the blessings of God”.
The book also contains many prophecies about the coming “day of the Lord” (Joel 1:15). These prophecies have been quoted by several prophets and have relevance to multiple generations, especially those living in the last days
Listen Here …. Joel
The book of Amos records some of the prophecies and teachings that the prophet Amos delivered to the kingdom of Israel during the reign of King Jeroboam II. The people rejected Amos’s warnings and teachings and wished he would take his forceful message elsewhere. The book shows the critical role prophets perform in the Lord’s work and a greater appreciation for the calling of prophets in our day.
Listen Here …. Amos
The Book of Obadiah shows the importance of brotherhood and the dangers and consequences of forsaking the commandment to love others. Obadiah delivered his prophecies to the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother (see Genesis 25:30), and lived in the territory south of Judah. Although the Edomites were not of the house of Israel, they still belonged to the family of Abraham. Unfortunately, the relationship between Judah and Edom was contentious, and each nation viewed the other as an enemy. When Jerusalem was captured, the people of Edom refused to help the people of Judah, gloated over their misfortune, looted the goods they had left behind, and betrayed them to the Babylonians (see Obadiah 1:11–14). Obadiah foretold of the doom that awaited the people of Edom because of their cruelty toward Judah. He also prophesied of the future restoration of Zion and the importance of latter-day temple work, describing those who would participate in it as “saviours”
Listen Here …. Obadiah
After Jonah attempted to avoid preaching repentance to the people of Nineveh, he learned the futility of trying to flee from Jehovah. Jonah’s miraculous deliverance from a “great fish” (Jonah 1:17) can teach us that the Lord extends His mercy to us when we repent. Jonah’s second opportunity to preach the gospel and do as God asked can reassure students that the gospel of Jesus Christ offers second chances for all who humble themselves and repent, as Jonah did.
Listen Here …. Jonah
Micah’s writings address the themes of judgment and hope. For example, Micah taught that the sins of the leaders of Israel would result in the destruction of Jerusalem (see Micah 3:5–12). However, Micah also eloquently stated that Heavenly Father hears the prayers of His children and that Jesus Christ is an advocate for and a light unto all (see Micah 7:7–9). Micah further praised God, saying that Jehovah “pardoneth iniquity” and “retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy” (Micah 7:18).
Listen Here …. Micah
The book of Nahum contains a prophecy that Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, would be destroyed because of its people’s wickedness. The Assyrians had brutally conquered and terrorized large areas of the Near East in the eighth century B.C., destroying the Northern Kingdom of Israel and deporting its inhabitants in approximately 721 B.C. and later laying siege to Jerusalem in 701 B.C.
Nahum addressed a significant portion of his prophecy to the people of Nineveh. These people were not the same as those who had repented of their sins after Jonah had preached in Nineveh more than a century earlier. The people of Nineveh in Nahum’s time had returned to wickedness, and their actions led to their destruction. The destruction of Assyria can be likened to the destruction of the wicked in the last days
Listen Here …. Nahum
Habakkuk is unusual as a prophetic book. It never addresses the people of Judah directly. Rather it is a dialogue between the prophet and God. The prophet Habakkuk was probably a contemporary of Zephaniah and Jeremiah, and possibly even of Ezekiel and Daniel. He probably prophesied no later than the end of Josiah’s reign.
Listen Here …. Habakkuk
Zephaniah prophesied of “the day of the Lord” (Zephaniah 1:7, 8, 14, 18; 2:2, 3), or the Lord’s impending judgment upon Judah and other nations. Zephaniah explained that on this day God would punish the proud and mighty and reward the righteous. Zephaniah pleaded, “Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth … ; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger” (Zephaniah 2:3).
Listen Here …. Zephaniah
The book of Haggai affirms that a temple will again be built in Jerusalem and that peace will finally come to Jerusalem. The book of Haggai shows the urgency and importance of building temples and worshiping in the temple
Listen Here …. Haggai
The book of Zechariah contains descriptions of visions concerning the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple, the gathering of scattered Israel, and the triumph of Israel over its enemies. The book culminates in prophecies of the Savior’s mortal ministry and final return in glory. The book of Zechariah shows the Lord’s love for His people and His desire to cleanse and redeem them if they repent and keep their covenants.
Listen Here …. Zechariah
A century after the Jews returned to their homeland, many of them had become complacent and less devoted to the Lord. Through the prophet Malachi, the Lord addressed the Jews’ declining commitment to God. The Lord instructed His covenant people to return to Him by bringing Him their tithes and offerings with greater faithfulness, and He promised to bless and protect those who did so (see Malachi 3:7–12).
Listen Here …. Malachi
Matthew was probably written in the late 50s or early 60s A.D. Matthew (also called Levi), the former tax collector who became Jesus’ disciple, is the author. The original audience may have been the church in Antioch of Syria. Its members included Jewish and Gentile Christians.
Matthew tells the story of Jesus of Nazareth, the long-expected Messiah who brought the kingdom of God to earth.
Listen Here …. Matthew
The apostle Peter passed on reports of the words and deeds of Jesus to his attendant, John Mark, who wrote this Gospel for the wider church as the record of Peter’s apostolic testimony. The book was likely written from Rome during the mid- to late-50s A.D. (though the mid- or late-60s is also possible). Mark’s audience, largely unfamiliar with Jewish customs, needed to become familiar with such customs in order to understand the coming of Jesus as the culmination of God’s work with Israel and the entire world, so Mark explains them.
The ultimate purpose and theme of Mark’s Gospel is to present and defend Jesus’ universal call to discipleship.
Listen Here …. Mark
Luke was a physician (Col. 4:14) and a travel companion of the apostle Paul. He wrote this Gospel and its sequel, the book of Acts. The earliest possible date of Luke–Acts is immediately after the events that Luke recorded in Acts 28, which would have been c. A.D. 62. Both Luke and Acts are addressed to “Theophilus” (Luke 1:3; Acts 1:1), about whom nothing more is known. Luke’s broader audience consisted primarily of Gentile Christians like Theophilus who had already “been taught” (Luke 1:4) about Jesus.
Listen Here …. Luke
John the son of Zebedee wrote this Gospel. He was a Palestinian Jew, one of the 12 disciples, and a member of Jesus’ inner apostolic circle. He was referred to as the disciple “whom Jesus loved” (13:23). John also wrote 1–3 John and Revelation. He likely wrote his Gospel account between A.D. 70 (the date of the destruction of the temple) and A.D. 100 (the reputed end of John’s life). It was likely written from Ephesus in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire at the time. His original audience consisted of Jews and Gentiles living in the larger Greco-Roman world in Ephesus and beyond, toward the close of the first century A.D.
The theme of John’s Gospel is that Jesus is the long-awaited, promised Messiah and Son of God. By believing in Jesus, people have eternal life
Listen Here …. John
Acts is a sequel to the Gospel of Luke. Both were written by Luke, a physician who traveled with the apostle Paul. Acts ends with Paul under house arrest, awaiting trial before Caesar, c. A.D. 62. Many scholars assume Acts was written then because it does not record Paul’s defense, release, and further gospel preaching.
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to declare the gospel among both Jews and Gentiles. In doing so they establish the church. The church is the fulfillment of God’s promises from the beginning of time.
Listen Here …. Acts
The apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in Rome. He probably did this while he was in Corinth on his third missionary journey, in A.D. 57 (Acts 20:2–3).
In the cross of Christ, God judges sin and at the same time shows his saving mercy.
Listen Here …. Romans
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Corinthian church in the spring of A.D. 53, 54, or 55. This was near the end of his three-year ministry in Ephesus. Altogether Paul wrote four letters to this church: (1) the previous letter mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5:9; (2) 1 Corinthians; (3) the tearful, severe letter mentioned in 2 Corinthians 2:3–4; and (4) 2 Corinthians. Only 1 and 2 Corinthians have survived.
The Corinthian church, divided because of the arrogance of its more powerful members, should work together for the advancement of the gospel. They should repent of their rivalries, build up the faith of those who are weak, and witness effectively to unbelievers.
Listen Here …. 1 Corinthians
The apostle Paul wrote 2 Corinthians from Macedonia around A.D. 55/56. This was approximately a year after he wrote 1 Corinthians and a year before he wrote his letter to the Romans. This is the fourth letter he had written to the Corinthian church (in addition to 1 Corinthians, see the letters mentioned in 1 Cor. 5:9 and 2 Cor. 2:3–4).
The central theme of 2 Corinthians is the relationship between suffering and the power of the Spirit in Paul’s apostolic life, ministry, and message. Paul’s opponents had questioned his motives and his personal courage. They argued that he had suffered too much to be a Spirit-filled apostle of the risen Christ. But Paul argues that his suffering is the means God uses to reveal his glory (1:3–4, 11, 20).
Listen Here …. 2 Corinthians
The apostle Paul wrote this letter about A.D. 48. The Galatians are probably believers in the churches of the southern region of the Roman province of Galatia. Paul is more critical of his audience here than in any of his other letters.
False teachers have convinced the Galatians that they are required to be circumcised. The result is division within their church (5:15). Paul gives numerous reasons why they should return to the simple truth of the gospel.
Listen Here …. Galatians
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the churches in Ephesus and the surrounding region c. A.D. 62 while imprisoned in Rome (Acts 28). During this time he also wrote Colossians and Philemon. All three letters were sent with Tychicus and Onesimus.
There are three main themes of Ephesians: (1) Christ has reconciled all creation to himself and to God; (2) Christ has united people from all nations to himself and to one another in his church; and (3) Christians must live as new people.
Listen Here …. Ephesians
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Philippi, probably from Rome c. A.D. 62.
Paul encourages the Philippians to live as citizens of a heavenly city, growing in their commitment to serve God and one another. Jesus is the supreme example of this way of life. Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus try to be good examples as well.
Paul wrote to the Philippians from prison. He had several purposes in mind: (1) to tell them that Epaphroditus had recovered from a serious illness; (2) to encourage them in their faith; (3) to assure them that he was still in good spirits; and (4) to thank them for their continued support.
Listen Here …. Philippians
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to Christians living in the small city of Colossae. It was probably written c. A.D. 62, while Paul was in prison in Rome (Acts 27–28). This was about the same time he wrote Ephesians and Philemon. All three letters were sent with Tychicus and Onesimus.
A dangerous teaching was threatening the church at Colossae, one that lessened Christ’s role and undermined the new identity of believers “in Christ” (1:2, 28). Paul wrote to warn against this false teaching and to encourage the believers in their growth toward Christian maturity. He emphasizes Christ’s authority over all evil powers. Christians are united with the risen Christ, and therefore they share in his power and authority. Paul also encourages these believers to fight against sin, pursue holiness, and live as distinctively Christian households.
Listen Here …. Colossians
Paul wrote this letter to the church in Thessalonica. He probably wrote in A.D. 49–51 from Corinth during his second missionary journey (Acts 18:1–18).
The main theme is Jesus’ second coming. When he returns, the dead who have believed in Christ will rise and will join the living to meet the Lord in the air (4:15–17). Unbelievers will experience God’s wrath, while believers will inherit salvation (1:10; 5:2–4, 9–10). In preparation for that great day, Christians are called to be holy and blameless (3:11–4:8; 5:23). God, who is faithful, will produce in them the holiness he requires (5:24).
Listen Here …. 1 Thessalonians
Shortly after writing 1 Thessalonians, the apostle Paul received a report (2 Thess. 3:11) that the Thessalonian church had accepted the strange claim that “the day of the Lord has come” (2:1–2). Paul sent them a second letter in A.D. 49–51. He was probably in Corinth at the time.
The letter’s main theme is Jesus’ second coming. Jesus’ return will be preceded by an “apostasy” (or rebellion) and by the appearance of the “man of lawlessness,” the Antichrist (2:3). When Jesus comes, he will defeat this rebellious world ruler (2:8). He will bring justice to oppressed Christians and wrath to unbelievers (1:5–10; 2:9–15).
Listen Here …. 2 Thessalonians
The apostle Paul probably wrote this letter to Timothy in the mid-60s A.D., during a mission trip not recorded in Scripture. This trip took place after the events described in Acts, between Paul’s first and final Roman imprisonments.
The letter’s theme is that the gospel leads to practical, visible change in believers’ lives. The true gospel, in contrast to false teaching, must and will always lead to godliness.
Listen Here …. 1 Timothy
Paul wrote this second letter to Timothy during his second imprisonment in Rome, shortly before his death. This imprisonment was after the one recorded in Acts 28. He probably wrote it in A.D. 64–65, though some would place it as late as 67. Paul gives Timothy a bold, clear call to continue in the gospel despite suffering.
Listen Here …. 2 Timothy
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to his coworker Titus. The letter was probably written in the mid-60s A.D. between Paul’s first imprisonment (Acts 28) and his second imprisonment, which is not mentioned in Acts.
The letter’s theme is the unbreakable link between faith and practice, belief and behavior. This truth is the basis for Paul’s criticism of false teaching, his instruction in Christian living, and standards he sets for church leaders.
Listen Here …. Titus
This is a personal letter from the apostle Paul to Philemon, a wealthy Christian from Colossae. It was also intended for reading to the entire church that met in Philemon’s home. It was probably written c. A.D. 62, while Paul was in prison following his voyage to Rome (Acts 27–28).
The theme of Paul’s letter is the power of the gospel to transform individual lives (v. 11) and human relationships (v. 16). Onesimus had experienced that transforming power in his life (“formerly he was useless” but “now he is indeed useful”; v. 11). Paul therefore urged his friend Philemon to form a new relationship with Onesimus, his runaway slave.
Listen Here …. Philemon
The author of Hebrews is unknown. He knew Timothy (13:23). He was not an eyewitness of Jesus (see 2:1, 3). The letter was probably written before A.D. 70. Early manuscripts bear the title “To the Hebrews,” which reflects the ancient assumption that it was written to Jewish Christians as well as Gentile Christians who previously had been drawn to the Jewish religion. The author knew his readers and wanted to see them again (13:19).
Jesus Christ is greater than any angel, priest, or old covenant practice. Christians must not forsake the great salvation that Jesus has brought about. They must hold on by faith to the true rest found in Christ, and they must encourage others in the church to do the same.
Listen Here …. Hebrews
This letter was written by James, the brother of Jesus (Matt. 13:55) and leader of the Jerusalem church (Acts 15). It was probably written about A.D. 40–45 to Jewish Christians living outside Palestine.
Christians must live out their faith. They should be doers, not just hearers, of God’s Word.
Listen Here …. James
The apostle Peter wrote this letter (1:1). He was once a fisherman but now was a disciple, a “witness of the sufferings of Christ” (5:1). He probably wrote the letter from Rome (see 5:13; “Babylon” almost certainly refers to Rome) around A.D. 62–63 during Nero’s reign. The letter is addressed to Christians scattered in “Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia” (1:1). This is an area north of the Taurus Mountains in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). These territories had been impacted by Greco-Roman culture and had been under Roman control from the mid-first century B.C.
Those who persevere in faith while suffering persecution should be full of hope. They will certainly enjoy end-time salvation, since they already enjoy God’s saving promises through Christ’s death and resurrection.
Listen Here …. 1 Peter
Peter identifies himself as an “apostle of Jesus Christ” (1:1). He specifically mentions that he was an eyewitness of the transfiguration (1:16–18; see Matt. 17:1–8). Peter probably wrote this letter from prison in Rome (see 2 Pet. 1:12–15) not too long before his death by execution, sometime during A.D. 64–67. It is impossible to identify with certainty the churches Peter addresses. He may have been writing to the churches of Asia Minor, because Peter mentions that this is his second letter to these same people (3:1; see 1 Pet. 1:1–2). (On the similarities between 2 Peter 2 and Jude, see Introduction to Jude.)
God’s grace in Christ truly transforms and empowers Christians to live righteously, despite opposition. This grace, introduced in 1:2–4, serves as the foundation for the whole book. The indwelling Holy Spirit produces virtuous qualities in followers of Christ (1:8–12). This results in fruitful lives.
Listen Here …. 2 Peter
John the son of Zebedee probably wrote his three NT letters no later than the 90s A.D. He wrote from Ephesus (in present-day western Turkey), perhaps to churches like those mentioned in Rev. 2:8–3:22. John also wrote the Fourth Gospel and the book of Revelation.
First John calls readers back to the three basics of Christian life: true doctrine, obedient living, and faithful devotion. Because “God is light” (1:5), Christ’s followers overcome wicked people who oppose them. God’s Son lives in and among them. He is greater than the spirit of “the antichrist” now in the world (4:3–4). Those who believe in the Son of God have assurance of eternal life (5:13).
Listen Here …. 1 John
John the son of Zebedee probably wrote his three NT letters no later than the 90s A.D. He wrote from Ephesus (in present-day western Turkey), perhaps to churches like those mentioned in Rev. 2:8–3:22. John also wrote the Fourth Gospel and the book of Revelation.
The focus of 2 John is living in God’s love according to the truth of Jesus Christ. This love extends not only to God but to others as well. It is also wise; it does not “go on ahead” of biblical revelation (v. 9). It does not aid enemies of the gospel (vv. 10–11). Instead, Christ’s followers “walk according to his commandments” (v. 6). Through faith they “win a full reward” (v. 8).
Listen Here …. 2 John
John the son of Zebedee probably wrote his three NT letters no later than the 90s A.D. He wrote from Ephesus (in present-day western Turkey), perhaps to churches like those mentioned in Rev. 2:8–3:22. John also wrote the Fourth Gospel and the book of Revelation.
The theme of 3 John is faithfulness despite opposition. The man who received the letter, Gaius, faces a troublemaker named Diotrephes. By “walking in the truth” (vv. 3, 4), Christians can live out the message that John teaches in all his letters.
Listen Here …. 3 John
The book was written by Jude, the brother of James and Jesus (see Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3, where “Judas” is the same in Greek as “Jude”). Jude was probably written in the mid-60s A.D. Considering the letter’s apparent Jewish perspective, Jude’s audience was probably Jewish Christians, or a mixture of Jewish and Gentile readers where the Gentiles were familiar with Jewish traditions.
Since Jude addresses a situation similar to the one addressed by 2 Peter and exhibits a literary relationship to ch. 2 of that letter (Jude may have been a source for 2 Peter), the two letters are commonly dated in fairly close proximity, even though evidence for the date of writing within the book of Jude is sparse.
Listen Here …. Jude
Jesus Christ is the divine author of this “revelation” (1:1). He describes coming events to his servant John. John, son of Zebedee, was the “beloved disciple” who also wrote the Fourth Gospel and 1, 2 and 3 John. Most scholars believe John recorded these visions while imprisoned on the island of Patmos in the mid-90s A.D. Revelation is addressed specifically to seven first-century churches in the Roman province of Asia (now western Turkey), but the message is for all churches everywhere.
Listen Here …. Revelations
Ang Magandang Balita ayon kay Mateo ay naglalahad na si Jesus ang katuparan ng ipinangakong pagliligtas ng Diyos sa mga aklat ng Lumang Tipan. Sa pamamagitan ng paggamit ng maraming talatang hango sa Lumang Tipan, binigyang-diin ng sumulat ng aklat na ito na si Jesus na taga-Nazaret ang hinihintay na Manunubos ng bansang Israel, ang bayang hinirang ng Diyos. Subalit kahit na si Jesus ay isinilang at namuhay sa lupain ng mga Judio, ang Magandang Balitang ito ay hindi lamang para sa kanila kundi para sa lahat ng tao.
Maingat na inilalahad sa aklat ni Mateo ang mga pangyayari sa buhay ni Jesus: ang pagsilang, ang pagbautismo at ang pagtukso sa kanya, ang kanyang pangangaral, pagtuturo, at pagpapagaling ng mga tao sa Galilea at sa iba pang mga lugar. Inilalahad din dito ang paglalakbay ni Jesus mula sa Galilea hanggang sa Jerusalem at ang mga pangyayari sa loob ng huling linggo ng kanyang buhay dito sa lupa. Ito’y nagtatapos sa kanyang pagkapako sa krus, muling pagkabuhay, at pagsusugo sa kanyang mga alagad.
Listen Here …. Mateo
Ang aklat ni Marcos ay nagsasalaysay ng ministeryo, kamatayan, at Pagbabayad-sala ni Jesucristo sa isang mabilis na daloy na madalas na nakatuon sa mga makapangyarihang ginawa ng Tagapagligtas. Nangunguna sa mga ito ang Pagbabayad-sala, na binigyang-diin ni Marcos bilang pinakamahalagang bahagi ng misyon ni Jesus bilang Mesiyas na ipinangakong darating noon pa man.
Listen Here …. Marcos
Ang aklat ni Lucas ay nagbibigay ng karagdagang patotoo sa maraming katotohanang itinala nina Mateo at Marcos at mayroon ding mga natatanging nilalaman. Ang Ebanghelyo Ayon kay Lucas ay magpapakita ng mga turo ni Jesucristo at makatutulong sa lahat na mas lubos na mapahalagahan ang Kanyang pagmamahal at habag para sa buong sangkatauhan, na nakita sa Kanyang ministeryo sa buhay na ito at sa pamamagitan ng Kanyang walang hanggang Pagbabayad-sala.
Listen Here …. Lukas
Noong panahon ng matinding pag-uusig sa mga Kristiyano, paglaganap ng apostasiya, at pagtatalo tungkol sa likas na katangian ni Jesucristo, itinala ni Apostol Juan ang kanyang patotoo sa Tagapagligtas.
Listen Here …. Juan
Idinurugtong ng ang Mga Gawa ng mga Apostol ang tala ng buhay at ang mga turo ni Jesucristo sa apat na Ebanghelyo sa mga isinulat at ginawa ng Kanyang mga Apostol. Inilalarawan ng aklat ng Mga Gawa kung paano patuloy na pinamamahalaan ng Tagapagligtas ang Kanyang Simbahan sa pamamagitan ng inspirasyon ng Espiritu Santo sa mga mayhawak ng mga susi ng priesthood. Inihayag ng Espiritu Santo ang katotohanan sa mga Apostol, na namumuno at nagtuturo naman sa Simbahan. Gumawa rin ng mga himala ang mga Apostol sa pangalan ni Jesucristo
Listen Here …. Mga Gawa
Ang Sulat sa Mga Taga Roma ang pinakamahaba sa mga sulat ni Apostol Pablo at itinuturing ng maraming tao na pinakamaganda sa kanyang mga isinulat. Ipinaliwanag niya nang lubos sa sulat na ito ang doktrina ng pagbibigay-katwiran sa pamamagitan ng pananampalataya kay Jesucristo sa halip na sa pagtupad sa batas ni Moises. Naglalaman ito ng maraming turo tungkol sa mga doktrina ng kaligtasan at ng praktikal na pagsasabuhay ng mga doktrinang iyon sa araw-araw.
Listen Here …. Mga Taga Roma
Ang mga miyembro ng Simbahan noong araw na naninirahan sa Corinto ay nakaranas ng maraming problema na makikita rin ngayon sa mundo, tulad ng kawalan ng pagkakaisa, maling mga turo, at imoralidad. Sa I Mga Taga Corinto, nalaman natin na itinuro ni Apostol Pablo sa mga Banal na ito kung paano magkaisa sa Simbahan, paano malaman ang mga bagay ng Diyos, ang ginagampanan ng pisikal na katawan bilang templo para sa Espiritu Santo, ang katangian ng mga espirituwal na kaloob, ang kahalagahan ng pagiging karapat-dapat sa pagtanggap ng sakramento, at ang katotohanan ng Pagkabuhay na Mag-uli. Sa pag-aaral mo ng mga turo ni Pablo na nakatala sa I Mga Taga Corinto, maaari mong matutuhan ang mga doktrina at alituntuning tutulong sa iyo na mamuhay nang matwid sa kabila ng anumang kasamaang makakaharap mo.
Listen Here …. Mga Taga 1 Corinto
Ang sulat na ito ni Apostol Pablo sa mga miyembro ng Simbahan sa Corinto ay kilala dahil sa mga tema na tinatalakay nito tungkol sa kapanatagan sa gitna ng paghihirap, lakas sa kabila ng kahinaan (tulad mismo ng ipinakita ni Pablo), at pag-alam kung ang isang guro ay totoo o bulaan. Ang halimbawa at mga turo ni Pablo na nakatala sa II Mga Taga Corinto ay makahihikayat sa iyo na manatiling tunay at tapat sa walang-hanggang tipan na ginawa mo sa Diyos, ang Walang Hanggang Ama, ano pa man ang mga sitwasyon o bunga nito.
Listen Here …. Mga Taga 2 Corinto
Ang Sulat ni Apostol Pablo sa mga Taga Galacia ay para sa mga Kristiyanong Judio na nalilihis mula sa Panginoon dahil sa muling pag-asa sa mga gawang ayon sa batas ni Moises. Hinangad ni Apostol Pablo na itama ang problemang ito sa pagbibigay-diin sa pagkakaiba ng mabigat na “pamatok” ng batas ng Moises, na humahantong sa espirituwal na pagkaalipin, at ng ebanghelyo ni Jesucristo, na humahantong sa espirituwal na kalayaan.
Listen Here …. Mga Taga Galatia
ang Mga Taga Efeso ay isang sulat para sa buong mundo, para sa mga Judio at Gentil, para sa mag-asawa, para sa magulang at anak, para sa panginoon at tagapaglingkod. Ito ang kaisipan at kalooban ng Diyos sa panahon ni Pablo; ito ang tinig ng inspirasyon sa ating panahon; ito ay sulat na mapahahalagahan at maipamumuhay ng lahat ng tao.
Listen Here …. Mga Taga Efeso
Sa kanyang Sulat sa Mga Taga Filipos, pinalakas ni Apostol Pablo ang loob ng mga Banal sa Filipos at hinikayat sila na matibay na magkaisa at magtulungan sa pagtatanggol ng kanilang pananampalataya. Marahil ang isa sa pinakamahahalagang alituntunin na itinuro ni Pablo sa mga taga Filipos ay na nagdudulot ang pagdarasal sa Diyos at pagtitiwala sa Kanya ng “kapayapaan ng Dios, na di masayod ng pagiisip” (Mga Taga Filipos 4:7).
Listen Here …. Mga Taga Filipos
Isinulat ni Apostol Pablo ang kanyang Sulat sa mga Taga Colosas dahil sa balitang sila ay nagsisimulang gumawa ng malalaking pagkakamali (tingnan sa Gabay sa mga Banal na Kasulatan, “Sulat ni Pablo, Mga”). Ang mga maling turo at gawain sa Colosas ay nakaimpluwensya sa mga Banal doon at naglagay sa panganib sa kanilang pananampalataya. Ang gayon ding sitwasyon ay humahamon sa mga miyembro ng Simbahan ngayon. Bahagi ng kahalagahan ng sulat na ito ay makikita sa kung paano nito natukoy at nailantad ang mga kasinungalingan habang binibigyang-diin ang kabanalan at nakapagliligtas na gawain ni Jesucristo.
Listen Here …. Mga Taga Colosas
Ang Unang Sulat sa Mga Taga Tesalonica ay pinaniniwalaang pinakauna sa mga sulat ni Apostol Pablo at marahil ang pinakalumang aklat sa Bagong Tipan. Ang mga turo ni Pablo sa sulat na ito ay nakatuon una sa lahat sa Ikalawang Pagparito ni Jesucristo, pati na sa mga paghihirap na daranasin ng mga tagasunod ni Jesucristo bago ang Kanyang pagbabalik (tingnan sa I Mga Taga Tesalonica 3:3), ang Pagkabuhay na Mag-uli ng mga Kristiyano sa Ikalawang Pagparito (tingnan sa I Mga Taga Tesalonica 4:13–14), at ang panahon ng pagdating ni Cristo (tingnan sa I Mga Taga Tesalonica 5:1–2).
Listen Here …. Mga Taga 1 Tesalonica
Sa kanyang Ikalawang Sulat sa mga Taga Tesalonica, nagpayo si Pablo at nilinaw ang maling pagkaunawa ng mga miyembro ng Simbahan sa ilang aspeto tungkol sa Ikalawang Pagparito ni Jesucristo. Pinapakita ng sulat ang katangian ng apostasiya na nangyari na noon at kung paano angkop na maghahanda sa pagbabalik ng Panginoon.
Listen Here …. Mga Taga 2 Tesalonica
Mababasa natin sa I Kay Timoteo na pinayuhan ni Apostol Pablo si Timoteo, isang lider ng Simbahan sa Efeso, na tiyakin na naituturo ang totoong doktrina at huwag hayaang makagulo sa mga turo ng ebanghelyo ang laganap na kasinungalingan. Itinuro niya kay Timoteo ang tungkol sa mga katungkulan ng bishop at deacon at tinalakay ang mga kwalipikasyon para sa mga taong naglilingkod sa mga katungkulang ito. Ipinahayag din ni Pablo ang kanyang taos-pusong pasasalamat na kinahabagan siya ni Jesucristo noong siya ay magbalik-loob.
Listen Here …. 1 Timoteo
Binigyang-diin sa Ikalawang Sulat ni Pablo kay Timoteo ang kapangyarihang nagmumula sa pagkakaroon ng patotoo kay Jesucristo (tingnan sa II Kay Timoteo 1:7–8). Naglalaman din ito ng propesiya tungkol sa “mga panahong mapanganib” na mangyayari sa kapanahunan nina Pablo at Timoteo gayon din sa mga huling araw (tingnan sa II Kay Timoteo 3:1–7). Upang tulungan si Timoteo sa mga hamong nakaharap niya, hinikayat siya ni Pablo na magtiwala sa mga banal na kasulatan at sa mga lider ng Simbahan (tingnan sa II Kay Timoteo 3:14–17) at umasa sa totoong doktrina (tingnan sa II Kay Timoteo 4:2).
Listen Here …. 2 Timoteo
Ang sulat ni Pablo kay Tito, tulad ng kanyang mga sulat kay Timoteo, ay naglalaman ng walang-hanggang payo ni Apostol Pablo sa isang lokal na lider ng Simbahan. Isinulat ni Pablo na ang “pagasa sa buhay na walang hanggan” ay unang ipinangako ng Diyos sa buhay bago rito sa mundo “buhat pa ng mga panahong walang hanggan” (Kay Tito 1:2). Itinuro niya na dapat asamin ng mga Banal ang “yaong mapalad na pagasa” ng kadakilaan at ang Ikalawang Pagparito (Kay Tito 2:13). Isinulat din ni Pablo kay Tito ang tungkol sa “paghuhugas sa muling kapanganakan” at sa “pagbabago sa Espiritu Santo” (Kay Tito 3:5), na tumutukoy sa ordenansa ng binyag at nakadadalisay na epekto ng pagtanggap ng kaloob na Espiritu Santo, na kapwa paghahanda sa pagiging “tagapagmana … ayon sa pagasa sa buhay na walang hanggan” (Tito 3:7).
Listen Here …. Tito
Ang Sulat Kay Filemon ay naglalaman ng personal na payo mula kay Apostol Pablo hinggil sa sitwasyon ng alipin ni Filemon na si Onesimo.
Listen Here …. Filemon
Ang Sulat Sa Mga Hebreo ay nagpapatotoo sa pagiging higit na makapangyarihan ni Jesucristo. Siya ay mas dakila kaysa mga anghel at may mas mabuting pangalan at mas mataas na katungkulan. Mga tagapaglingkod ng Diyos ang mga anghel, ngunit si Jesucristo ay Kanyang Anak. Itinuturo rin ng aklat na ito na mas dakila si Jesus kaysa kay Moises at ang Kanyang ministeryo ay nagdala ng bagong tipan na nakahihigit sa lumang tipan sa ilalim ng batas ni Moises. Bilang Dakilang Mataas na Saserdote ng Pagkasaserdote ni Melquisedec, mas mataas ang Kanyang pagkasaserdote o priesthood kaysa sa mga mataas na saserdote sa ilalim ng batas ni Moises.
Bagamat puno ang mga banal na kasulatan ng mga talatang tumutukoy sa nagbabayad-salang sakripisyo ni Jesucristo, sa Kanyang Pagkabuhay na Mag-uli, at sa Kanyang Pag-akyat sa langit, ang Sa Mga Hebreo ay nagbibigay-diin sa patuloy na patnubay ng Manunubos sa buhay ng lahat ng sumusunod at sumasampalataya sa Kanya.
Listen Here …. Mga Hebreo
Ang Pangkalahatang Sulat ni Santiago ay kilalang-kilala ng mga miyembro ng Ang Simbahan ni Jesucristo ng mga Banal sa mga Huling Araw dahil sa mahalagang talata sa Santiago 1:5 na naghikayat sa batang Joseph Smith na maghangad ng katotohanan mula sa Diyos. Sa buong sulat niya, binigyang-diin ni Santiago na maging “tagatupad [tayo] ng salita, at huwag tagapakinig lamang” (Santiago 1:22).
Listen Here …. Santiago
Ang tema na matatagpuan sa buong Unang Pangkalahatang Sulat ni Pedro ay na sa pamamagitan ng Pagbabayad-sala ni Jesucristo, tapat na makapagtitiis at makatutugon sa mga pagdurusa at pag-uusig ang mga disipulo ng Tagapagligtas. Naglalahad ang bawat kabanata ng I Ni Pedro ng mga pagsubok o pagdurusa, at itinuro ni Pedro na ang matiyagang pagtitiis sa mga pagsubok ay “lalong mahalaga kay sa ginto” at makatutulong sa mga nananalig na magtamo ng “pagkaligtas ng [kanilang] mga kaluluwa” (I Ni Pedro 1:7, 9). Ipinaalala rin ni Pedro sa mga Banal ang pagkakakilanlan sa kanila bilang “isang lahing hirang, isang makaharing pagkasaserdote, bansang banal, bayang pagaaring sarili ng Dios” (I Ni Pedro 2:9).
Listen Here …. 1 Pedro
Bilang saksi ng Pagbabagong-anyo ni Jesucristo (tingnan sa II Ni Pedro 1:16–18), hinikayat ni Pedro ang kanyang mga mambabasa na mas kilalanin pa si Jesucristo at hangaring magtaglay ng mabubuting pag-uugali para makabahagi sila sa “kabanalang mula sa Dios” (tingnan sa II Ni Pedro 1:4–8). Tiniyak ni Pedro sa kanyang mga mambabasa na ang espirituwal na pag-unlad na ito ay makatutulong sa kanila na “mangapanatag sa pagkatawag at pagkahirang” (II Ni Pedro 1:10). “Tiniyak muli ni Pedro na darating ang Panginoon mula sa langit na may dakilang kaluwalhatian at kahatulan sa lupa”
Listen Here …. 2 Pedro
Tinalakay ni Apostol Juan sa sulat na ito ang tungkol sa mapanganib na paglaganap ng impluwensya sa Simbahan ng mga nag-apostasiya. Binalaan niya ang mga Banal na huwag makipag-ugnayan sa kadiliman at manatili sa kaligtasan ng liwanag ng ebanghelyo
Listen Here …. 1 Juan
Sa kanyang ikalawang sulat, nagpahayag si Apostol Juan ng pag-aalala tungkol sa impluwensya sa Simbahan ng mga nag-apostasiya. Gayon din, nagpahayag din siya ng kagalakan para sa mga miyembro ng Simbahan na nanatiling matatag at matapat sa ebanghelyo (tingnan sa II Ni John 1:4). Ang kanyang mga salita ay nagpapakita ng kagalakan at pasasalamat na nadarama ng mga lider ng Simbahan para sa mga nanatiling tapat sa Panginoon.
Listen Here …. 2 Juan
Sa maikling sulat na ito, pinuri ni Apostol Juan si Gayo, isang miyembro ng Simbahan na tapat sa panahong may paghihimagsik laban sa mga lider ng Simbahan. Pinapakita ng sulat na mas maunawaan ang apostasiya na nangyari sa Simbahan sa Bagong Tipan at maghihikayat sa iyo na manatiling tapat sa mga lider ng Simbahan sa kabila ng oposisyon.
Listen Here …. 3 Juan
Ang Pangkalahatang Sulat ni Judas ay naglalarawan sa puwersa ng apostasiya na lumaganap na sa sinaunang Simbahan. Pinapakita kung paano makikilala ang mga naghahangad na iligaw ang mga disipulo ni Jesucristo mula sa pananampalataya. Madarama rin ang kahalagahan ng masikap na pakikipaglaban para sa pananampalataya at pananatiling tapat dito.
Listen Here …. Judas
Bilang “ang Apocalipsis ni Jesucristo” (Revelation 1:1), ang Apocalipsis ay mula sa salitang Griyego na ang ibig sabihin ay paghahayag, pagsisiwalat, o paglalantad ng mga nakatago (tingnan sa Gabay sa mga Banal na Kasulatan, “Apocalipsis”). Ang aklat ay pagsisiwalat ng tungkol sa Panginoong Jesucristo at paghahayag ng Kanyang awtoridad, kapangyarihan, at mahalagang tungkuling ginagampanan sa plano ng kaligtasan ng Ama. Naghahayag din ang aklat ng maraming mahahalagang impormasyon tungkol sa mga pangyayaring hahantong sa Ikalawang Pagparito at sa Milenyo.
Listen Here …. Pahayag