Journey through the Old Testament
The Books of
Genesis to Malachi
Genesis to Malachi is the story of God’s creation, humanity’s fall, and His promise to send a Saviour; told through history, laws, poetry, and prophecy, all preparing the way for Jesus.
39 BOOKS
The Law
Genesis - Deuteronomy
These books tell how God created the world, chose Israel as His people, gave them His law, and led them toward the promised land.
Genesis
Genesis is the first book of the Bible. Its name means “beginning.” It tells how God created the world, humanity, and His plan to bless the world through one chosen family. Genesis is the foundation for understanding the whole Bible. It explains where we came from, why the world is broken, and how God began His rescue plan. Gensis helps us see God’s power, His purpose for humanity, and His love in making a way to bring us back to Him. Genesis has 50 chapters and was written by Moses. Understanding this book helps you understand the rest of the Bible.
Exodus
The Book of Exodus, which signifies the word 'exit' or 'departure,' recounts the Almighty God's unfathomable power in saving His people, the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and establishing them as His covenant people, resulting from a promise of His enduring relationship with Israel and His desire for His people to worship and obey only Him. The book of Exodus helps us understand that God is both powerful and personal. Just like how He freed Israel from slavery, He also frees us from sin through Jesus.
Leviticus
The book of Leviticus was written right after God rescued Israel from Egypt and gave them the Ten Commandments. It explains how God’s people should worship Him and live holy lives. Leviticus was also given to explain how God’s people can stay close to Him. This is important to us because even though we don’t follow all the Old Testament laws, Leviticus helps us see how serious sin is and how amazing Jesus’ sacrifice is. He makes us holy and gives us access to God.
Numbers
The book of Numbers tells us the story of Israel’s 40 year journey, wandering through the wilderness between Egypt and the Promise Land. The book actually got its name from the 2 times Israelites were censused, first at the beginning of the book and second near the end of the book. Numbers teaches us about trusting God in hard times. We face choices, we could either complain and doubt, or believe in God and move forward with Him. Through Jesus, God gives us the strength to follow Him faithfully.
Deuteronomy
The book of Deuteronomy means “second law,” because it is Moses’ final message to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. It repeats and explains God’s law, reminding the people to stay faithful to Him. Deuteronomy shows us that following God isn’t about empty rituals, but about a real relationship with Him. Challenging us to love God with our whole lives and trust His promises.
History
Joshua - Esther
These books record Israel’s entrance into the promised land, their kings, their successes, failures, exile, and return.
Joshua
The book of Joshua tells us the story of how God’s people, entered and took possession of the Promised Land after Moses died. At this time, Joshua, Moses’ right hand man, had become their new leader. The book of Joshua was written to show us that God keeps His promises, that victory comes from trusting and obeying God, and that God wants His people to be strong, courageous, and faithful. This teaches us that you can trust God to keep His word in your life. You are called to choose Jesus daily and walk in faith.
Judges
The book of Judges is about a time after Israel entered the Promise Lands but before they had kings. During these times God did not raise up one ruler yet, but judges (leaders and delivered), to rescue Israel when they fell into trouble. The book of Judges shows us what happens when God’s people chose to follow sin instead of Him and how it was His mercy to raise up leaders to save His people. It even shows us how much they needed a faithful King who could lead them to follow God fully, this also points towards Jesus.
Ruth
The book of Ruth is a story about hope and redemption. Even through Ruths’ loss God brings blessings. This is a beautiful story about how a Moabite woman who was married to an Israelite man and he passed away, chose to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi choosing to stay with her and follow God,“Your people will be my people, and your God my God.”. Ruth shows us how God works quietly and faithfully in the lives of everyday people. Showing us that Jesus came for all people, and through Him, anyone can be redeemed and brought into God’s family.
1 Samuel
The book of 1 Samuel is about Israel’s transition from being led by judges to being ruled by kings. Introducing us to 3 key figures in Israel’s history: Samuel, a prophet, Saul, the first king, and David, who would be considered the greatest king. 1 Samuel shows us that God is the true King of Israel and that He choses leaders based on the heart, humble, obedient people to accomplish His will. 1 Samuel challenges us to focus on what God values: a heart that loves and obeys Him, 1 Samuel also points to Jesus, the perfect King who leads with humility and faithfulness.
2 Samuel
The book of 2 Samuel tells us the story of Davids’ reign, about both his victories and failures. It also talks about how repentant David was when he faltered. This shows us that even the best human king is imperfect and points to the need of the perfect king, Jesus. Like David there are times when we might stumble but God’s promises remain sure and His grace is greater than any of our failures.
1 Kings
The book of 1 Kings continues off after Davids reign, focusing on the Kings of Israel and Judah. The first half of the book focuses on David’s son Solomon’s and his reign. About how he asked God for wisdom, and God making him the wisest man on earth and Solomon building of the Temple. It also goes on to share towards the end of Solomon life how he disobeys God by following foreign gods, his heart had turned away. The second half of this book focuses on how after Solomon death the kingdom split into two. The story of how many kings rose, most wicked and leading people to sin. Also talks about how God has sent prophets like Elijah and Elisha to call people back to Him. 1 Kings teaches us to guard our hearts and that the people around us influence us.
2 Kings
The book of 2 Kings tells us the history of the kings of Israel and Judah and how they both fell as they repeatedly turned away from God despite the many warnings and Gods prophets calls for the people to come back to obedience. The book starts with Elijah being taken to heaven and his successor, Elisha performs many miracles to show God’s power and how much He cares. 2 Kings reminds us that sin has consequences but God has never given up on His people.
The Chronicles
The Chronicles were written by scholars who used annals, books, and records. The historians were meticulous on the details. They were return after the people returned from exile. It was written to remind them of their history, both the good and the bad. The stories often mirroring the books of Samuel and Kings.
1 Chronicles
The book of 1 Chronicles focuses on David’s reign, mirroring parts of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings, 1 Chronicles goes more into details about the genealogies, as well as David preparing for worship in the Temple. 1 Chronicles teaches us to put God first, just like how David made worship central to Israel. He worshiped and honoured God with his leadership. Also showing us the genealogy of Jesus, showing us God’s faithfulness through every generation, fulfilled the promise to David.
2 Chronicles
The book of 2 Chronicles starts with Solomon’s reign and continues on to share about the kings of Judah, the line of kings descended from David. While many of the kings of Judah turned to Idols and led the nation into sing. Some kings such as, Asa, Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, and Josiah, led people back to God. 2 Chronicles ends on a story of hope. God had moved the Persian king Cyrus to allow the Jews to go back to the Promise land and rebuild the Temple. This book reminds us to keep God at the center of your life.
Ezra
The book of Ezra is about the time after God’s people returned from exile in Babylon, how they rebuilt the Temple in Jerusalem, restoring their worship to God. When Persia defeated the Babylonians King Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem. The first group that cam back and started to rebuild but the enemy opposed them building the temple. God helped them finish the temple and the people celebrated with Joy. Then along came Ezra, a priest, took another wave back to Jerusalem and He teaches the people God’s Word and calls them to repent. The people confessed their wrongs and turn back to God. Renewing their covenant with Him. The book of Ezra reminds us that no matter how far we may drift away, God welcomes us back, that we are to repent and make God’s Word and worship the center to our life.
Nehemiah
The book of Nehemiah happens around the same time as the book of Ezra. While the book of Ezra focuses on rebuilding the Temple and restoring worship, Nehemiah focuses on rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and restoring community. The story of Nehemiah shows that God protects and proves for His people when they trust Him. No matter how broken things may seem, God can rebuild and restore all. Nehemiah also shows us that through the power of prayer, perseverance, and working together as God’s people
Esther
The book of Esther is a story about how God used a Jewish woman, Esther, to save her people from persecution and destruction while they were living in Persia. The story of Esther shows us how God is always working being the scenes to protect His people and accomplish His plan. An important part to take away from Esther is that God has called each and every one of us for a specific reason and we have been given gifts to honour the call. If we chose not to honour the call God will raise someone else up and they will receive the reward instead. Esther encourages us to have courage and stand for what is right and to trust in God’s timing because He already knows what will happen.
Poetry & Wisdom
Job to Song of Solomon
These books give praise to God, wrestle with life’s big questions, and offer practical wisdom.
Job
The book of Job share the story about Job, who goes through a lot of suffering and wrestling with the big questions about God, life, and pain. Job’s life shows us that suffering isn’t always punishment and we don’t always see the whole picture but God does. Reminding us to trust God when life doesn’t make sense and that we are okay to bring your pain and questions to Him, knowing He cares.Through it all even when struggling it is important to deepen your faith and draw closer to God.
Psalm
The book of Psalms is a collection 150 poems, songs and prayers. This is the longest book in the Bible and has been used as a songbook and prayer book for God’s people. Psalms teaches us that worship isn’t only for the good times in our lives but also during every situation and emotional feeling. Psalms shows us to talk to God and be vulnerable with Him. He wants to be all encompassing in our lives, when we are filled with joy or sorrow, fear or anger, or thanksgiving. The book of Psalms is a great way to learn how to pray, praise and trust God in every situation.
Proverbs
The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and teachings. Think of Proverbs as an instruction manual to living wisely, teaching us practical truths about relationships, work, money, speech, choices, and how to live in a way that honours God. The book of Proverbs teaches us that wisdom isn’t just about being smart , it is also living God’s way. Showing us how to make wise choices in our daily lives.
Ecclesiastes
The book of Ecclesiastes we believe was written by King Solomon at the end of his life, looking back at his own mistakes with regret. Ecclesiastes points us towards a better and simpler life by living in God’s embrace. He does this by answering and asking: what is the meaning of life? Why are we here? What is the point of everything if life is short? The point of Ecclesiastes if to remind us not to chase after success, money or pleasure only. As these things do fade but when you pursue God and stay with Him, He will give you purpose and joy that will last forever.
Song of Solomon
The book of Song of Solomon, also known as Song of Songs is a collection of love poems linked to King Solomon. Celebrating love, marriage, and intimacy as God’s gift. Not only does it share with us romantic love between a married couple but also points us to the greater love between God and His people. Song of Solomon teaches us to value love and relationships the same way God does. God’s faithful love is our foundation and that it is to be full of joy, faithfulness, and honour.
The Prophets
Isaiah to Malacchi
Prophets warned Israel to turn back to God, foretold judgment, and promised hope through the coming Messiah.
Isaiah
The book of Isaiah lived 700 years before Jesus and God had called him to deliver a message. Messages of warning, hope, and salvation to His people. Isaiah is has multiple prophecies about the coming of the Messiah, Jesus. Showing us how God is holy and merciful, while He judges sing He also promises to save His people. Isaiah teaches us that no matter how broken the world seems God has a plan for redemption. Isaiah spoke of a Saviour who will bring hope, forgiveness, and eternal life, His name is Jesus.
Jeremiah
The book of Jermiah was written during hard time in Israel’s history as it was just before and during the fall of Jerusalem. Jermiah often spoke with great sadness as he talked about people’s sin and the destruction that was coming. The main point of Jermiah was that God’s love brings hope and that sin brings judgement and that through the promise of the New Covenant, which Jesus has given us forgiveness. Through this New Covenant that is promised to the people that they may have a personal, lasting relationship with God.
Lamentations
The book of Lamentations was written after the destruction of Jerusalem, sharing with us the grief and sorrow of God’s people after their city and temple were destroyed. Lamentations is a very emotional book and it teaches us that God welcomes our tears, questions, and struggles, while pointing us back to having hope in His love. Following God doesn’t always mean life will be easy but it does reassure us that even when the going gets tough, you can cry out to God and cling to His mercy because His love never fails.
Ezekiel
The book of Ezekiel was written during the time when God’s people were taken into exile in Babylon by Ezekiel was both a priest and a prophet. Ezekiel’s sharing helps us to understand God’s holiness, His judgment of sin, and His power to bring hope and restoration. God has never abandoned His people, even in their lowest moments and we need to remember that God can take whatever makes you feel dead or broken in your life and breathe His Spirit into your life, making you new in Christ.
Daniel
The book of Daniel is a story about how a young man who was taken from his home in Jerusalem to live in Babylon after they were conquered. Even though he was surrounded by idol worship, Daniel was faithful to God. The book of Daniel is part story and part prophetic and the stories encourage us to trust God in everyday struggles, while still pointing us towards God’s ultimate victory through Jesus Christ.
Hosea
The book of Hosea is interesting because God asked Hosea to marry a woman who would be unfaithful to him. This is like a symbolism of Israel’s unfaithful to God. Just like how Hosea continued to love his wife, God continues to love His people, even when they wandered from Him. Hosea shows us that God loves us personally and deeply, even when we stumble or feel distant for Him. God is ready to forgive and restore him, His love is unconditional.
Joel
The book of Joel focuses on a disasters that hit Israel, a locusts plague that destroyed the land and how this event points to something bigger. The coming judgement of God but also the promise of His blessing. Joel teaches us that God can use hard times to call people back to Him. Joel shared one of the most famous prophecies about the Holy Spirit, which is fulfilled at Pentecost in Acts 2.
Amos
The book of Amos was a shepherd and a farmer who God called him deliver a message from God. Amos warned the people of Israel that although they looked religious their hearts were far from God. The people were guilty of greed, injustice, and ignoring the poor. This reminds us that God does not care about worship in the church but He cares also about we live in our everyday life. Jesus isn’t about church attendance or rituals but about living with integrity, showing compassion, and reflecting God’s justice in your daily life.
Obadiah
The book of Obadiah is about Edom, they are relatives of the people of Israel, being descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother. Edom mistreated Israel in their times of need. God sees injustices, pride, and cruelty and He judged those who harmed others, showing how God protects His people and will one day restore them, to trust in God’s justice and stay humble. Obadiah gives us hope that that no matter what happens in the world, God’s kingdom is secure, and you are part of it through Jesus.
Jonah
The book of Jonah reveals God’s compassion and mercy, showing us God’s love is not just for Israel but for all nations, even for people who seemed like enemies. Showing us how God works patiently in His servants, even when they resist Him. Jonah story is not just a man and a big fish but how big God’s heart is. Jonah challenges us to shared God’s love with others especially when it is difficult.
Micah
The book of Micah was both for the God’s people in the north and the south, Israel and Judah, warning them and giving them hope. Micah warned them of the judgement against sin but also shared Gods promises of peace, restoration and of the Messiah. Micah prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem and shepherd His people. The book of Micah ends with showing the people what God really wants. He wants His people to live in humility, justice and mercy. That even though they have signed God will forgive and show mercy.
Nahum
The book of Nahum is a beautiful book that balances two truths about God. That He is good and caring for His people, but He is also holy and will judge evil. The word Nahum translates to the word comfort because the book brings solace to Judah, an oppressed nation. Nahum reminds us that even when the world seems unfair and evil goes unpunished, God sees everything. He will bring justice in His time, and we can take refuge in His care.
Habakkuk
The book of Habakkuk is a conversation with God. Habakkuk asks big questions like, “Why does God allow evil and injustice to continue?” its a very raw and honest conversation filled with faith lessons for those of us who have wrestled with the hard questions about life. This teaches us that it’s okay to bring our fears, doubts, and questions to God.
Zephaniah
The book of Zephaniah reminds us that God is holy and takes sin seriously. Mainly speaking about the “Day of the Lord”, this is the time when God would bring judgment on sin but also bring salvation and blessing for His people. Zephaniah reminds us that we don’t just escape judgement, we are welcomed into God’s love and delight. He takes joy in us as His child.
Haggai
The book of Haggai was written during the time the Jews returned from exile in Babylon. Haggai message was “Put God first by rebuilding His temple.” This is important because when they returned to their land the people first started building their own house and God’s temple was in ruin. Haggai reminded them and now us that honouring God must come first. When God is first, everything else falls into place.
Zechariah
The book of Zechariah was about hope and encouragement, that He has a plan for His people, then and now. Zechariah encouraged the people to rebuild the temple and to look forward to God’s future promises especially the coming of the Messiah. In the Old Testament, Zechariah shares some of the clearest prophecies about Jesus Christ. Reminding us to trust in God’s promises even when things feel uncertain God is working out His plan.
Malachi
The book of Malachi is the last book in the Old Testament and was written 400 years before Jesus. Malachi’s name means “my messenger” and is written like conversation between God and His people. Warning His people against empty religion and unfaithfulness but points forward with hope to the coming of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. Malachi connects the Old Testament with the New Testament showing us how Jesus is the fulfilment of God’s promise.