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Overview of the Old Testament

The Hebrew canon, or Old Testament, refers to the collection of Hebrew (and some Aramaic) books that were recognized as Scripture in ancient Israel. The traditional order we're talking about is referred to as “TaNaK.” The TaNaK is an acronym for the names of the three large subcollections of the Hebrew Bible: Torah, Nevi’im, and Ketuvim. See how the whole order of the Old testament is actually much different than you may think, and is the same order Jesus would have read them in.

Genesis: Part 1

Translated as 'origin' from the Greek word, the Book of Genesis tells us how everything began from humanity's history to the world we know today. One could call this the 'problem statement' for humanity, one the rest of the Bible will be answering. It reveals a dramatic prologue of God's love for us, the tragedies of sin and the human race, and God initiating a brilliant plan to win us back from the clutches of darkness. He does this by passing down a covenant blessing through Abraham and his family, including Isaac, Jacob, and other individuals, in order to bless all the families of the earth. These descendants will become the foundation for the Nation of Israel and Jesus the Messiah who will bring salvation for all of humanity.

Genesis: Part 2

God makes a promise that He will bless all nations through Abraham's family. But with aging husbands, impatient matriarchs, blessing-stealing children, and jealous siblings who keep mucking things up, how will God's promise prevail?

Exodus: Part 1

Filled with memorable miracles, Chapters 1-18 in the Book of Exodus hold much more purpose than simple entertainment. They contain historical accounts with tangible truths that still apply to the present. The story begins in Egypt where Genesis leaves off but reveals a much darker picture: Abraham's descendants have indeed grown as numerous as the stars, but are now oppressed in slavery by a Pharaoh who has forgotten the kindness his predecessor showed to Joseph's family. Hearing their prayers, God confronts Pharaoh's stubbornness and delivers the Israelites from bondage. He sends Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh as agents that usher in a multitude of signs and wonders, and display God's glory in a land of idols. God also establishes the first Passover, a turnkey event for the founding of Israel and Christ's sacrifice. Themes of redemption, rebellion and The Blessing continue to play out for individuals and nations in this section.