THE BIBLE: Getting to know the Author of life

Who is the author of the Bible?

How many of us have read the Bible? Sure, we are all familiar with certain verses or stories but how many of us have truly read the Bible in its fullness?  The Bible is God’s love letter to us in written words.  It is written for us to get to know who He is and what He has done for us. By reading God’s words it will help us have a deeper connection and relationship with Him. 

But reading the Bible can be intimidating; there are so many books and so many pages. How can we possibly keep track of all the characters and their names?  I can barely remember the names of people I see on a daily basis!  However, like every worthwhile relationship, it isn’t supposed to be easy, it takes time, it takes work and it takes dedication.  

Old Testament vs. New Testament

To start, the Bible is divided into two “parts”: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The word testament in the Bible means agreement, or covenant. So, the Old covenant and the New covenant. The Old Testament is a collection of books that describes the covenant between God, and our Jewish ancestors. It covers creation and many instances of God’s saving love.  It also foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, in the New Testament. The Old Testament has some awesome teachings on God, and of wisdom and human life over many decades. The New Testament is the fulfillment of the covenant in the Old Testament between God and God‘s people, through God’s only Son, Jesus Christ. The New Testament follows Jesus’ actions, life, teachings, passion and resurrection. The four gospels are the principle source of life and teachings of Jesus Christ. 

Understanding the History of the Bible

The books in the Bible were compiled and written over a period of 1000 years, from 900 BC to 100 AD. The stories in the Old Testament were originally passed on orally before transitioning from spoken to written word. This transition process took place over the course of centuries.  During that time God inspired human authors to write down the sacred scripture.  With His guidance they documented His saving truth. The New Testament was written by the end of the first century.  Authors of the New Testament such as Matthew, John, Peter and Jude were apostles of Jesus. After Jesus ascended, they were able to share all that Jesus had said and done.  Other authors like Mark, Luke, James, Paul, were either associated with the apostles or had direct encounters with Jesus.  

Christians read the Old Testament in the light of Jesus’ death and resurrection. The Old Testament is unveiled in the New Testament. Together, the Old and New Testaments form a unified story of God’s covenant with humanity.  

So, after all that information, what is next? 

How to Study the Bible  

Years ago (I won’t mention how many) I had the privilege to study and receive a degree from the Archdiocese of Chicago in Advanced Biblical Studies from the Chicago Catholic Scripture School. During this time, I learned that it is ideal to start a Read the Bible journey with the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). Hopefully, these should be most familiar. The four gospels are about the words and life of Jesus, as they were remembered, and handed down in the early generations of the church.  They tell of his life, miracles, passion and death.  And what that death meant in the light of his resurrection.  

There are some thoughts on which order to read the gospels. Traditionally, it would be to read them in order (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John). However, some scholars believe that Mark was written first, then Matthew, then Luke and then John, so to start with Mark.  Each gospel has their own perspective so pick what feels right for you. After the Gospels the suggestion would be to finish the New Testament.  Then after the New Testament make your way through the Old Testament.  

Of course, you may prefer to have more structure to your reading. There are countless Bible study materials available. You may choose to buy a Catholic study Bible.  These materials can be very helpful as you progress through the books of the Bible so that you can take notes and reflect on the words you have read.   

So, challenge yourself. Make a plan to start reading the Bible. Even if it is just a chapter a day. It is a start.  Get to know the greatest AUTHOR, the AUTHOR of life!