Christianity is based on the teachings and beliefs outlined in the Bible, particularly the Old and New Testaments. Here are some fundamental Christian Bible basics:
- The Bible: The Christian Bible consists of two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament contains religious texts and scriptures shared with Judaism, while the New Testament contains writings about the life, teachings, and followers of Jesus Christ.
- God: Christians believe in the existence of one God who is triune, often referred to as the Holy Trinity. The Trinity consists of God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit.
- Jesus Christ: Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. His life, teachings, death, and resurrection are central to the Christian faith. They believe that through faith in Christ, one can have forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
- Salvation: Christians believe that salvation is a gift from God, granted through faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation is often described as the forgiveness of sins and the assurance of eternal life with God.
- Church: The Christian community comes together in churches, where they worship, learn, and fellowship. The church is often seen as the body of Christ, and Christians are encouraged to be part of a local congregation.
- Prayer: Prayer is a fundamental practice in Christianity. Christians communicate with God through prayer, seeking guidance, offering thanksgiving, and making requests.
- Baptism: Baptism is a common sacrament in Christianity, signifying a believer’s acceptance of Jesus Christ and entry into the Christian community. It may involve water immersion, pouring, or sprinkling, depending on the denomination.
- Communion: Many Christian denominations celebrate the Lord’s Supper, in which bread and wine (or grape juice) symbolize the body and blood of Christ. This is a remembrance of Jesus’ Last Supper and his sacrificial death.
- The Ten Commandments: The Ten Commandments, as found in the Old Testament, are fundamental moral and ethical guidelines for Christian living. They are seen as God’s law for humanity.
- Love and Compassion: A central theme in the Bible is the call to love one another and to show compassion and kindness to those in need. This is often summarized in the command to “love your neighbor as yourself.”
- The Resurrection: The belief in the resurrection of Jesus is a key element of Christian faith. Christians believe that Jesus rose from the dead, conquering sin and death.
- The Second Coming: Many Christians believe in the return of Jesus Christ at the end of time to judge the living and the dead.
The Old Testament and the New Testament are the two main sections of the Christian Bible, and they contain different sets of books, teachings, and historical contexts. Here are the key differences between the Old and New Testaments:
- Historical Period:
- Old Testament: The Old Testament primarily covers the period before the life of Jesus Christ, dating back to the creation of the world, the patriarchs, the exodus from Egypt, the establishment of the Israelite nation, and the prophetic writings, among other events. It spans from the book of Genesis to Malachi.
- New Testament: The New Testament focuses on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Christian church. It begins with the birth of Jesus and extends to the first century AD. The New Testament consists of the Gospels, Acts, the Epistles (letters), and the Book of Revelation.
- Covenant and Law:
- Old Testament: The Old Testament contains the Old Covenant (or Mosaic Covenant) established between God and the people of Israel through Moses. It includes the Ten Commandments and numerous laws and regulations for religious practices, sacrifices, and civil life.
- New Testament: The New Testament introduces the New Covenant, which Christians believe was instituted by Jesus Christ. This covenant emphasizes faith in Christ, love, and forgiveness as central principles.
- Religious Focus:
- Old Testament: The Old Testament primarily focuses on the history of the Jewish people, their relationship with God, and the prophetic messages that pointed to the coming of the Messiah.
- New Testament: The New Testament centers on the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the teachings and writings of early Christian leaders. It is the foundation of Christian theology and practice.
- Books and Divisions:
- Old Testament: The Old Testament includes 39 books, which are divided into several categories, including the Torah (the first five books, also known as the Pentateuch), historical books, wisdom literature, and the prophetic books.
- New Testament: The New Testament contains 27 books, including the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), the Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles (letters), and the Book of Revelation.
- Language:
- Old Testament: The Old Testament was primarily written in Hebrew, with some portions in Aramaic.
- New Testament: The New Testament was written in Greek.
- Fulfillment of Prophecies:
- The New Testament is seen by Christians as the fulfillment of numerous prophecies and promises made in the Old Testament, particularly regarding the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
While the Old and New Testaments are distinct, they are also connected. The New Testament often references and builds upon the teachings and history found in the Old Testament. Together, they form the foundation of the Christian faith, with the Old Testament providing historical and prophetic context and the New Testament focusing on the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Christian church.
How should I study the Word of God?
Find a quite place.
If this is your first time, I suggest starting with the book of John found in the New Testament
Join the BibleManDan community for tips or to discuss your journey
Journal what God is speaking to you though the Scriptures. You will find as time passes, you will see growth.
Pray before you start that God will open your eyes to his Word.
Remember where you are at in the Bible, The Old or New Testament, that God’s grace is a common theme.