The Old Testament is the first part of the Bible, which tells the story of God's relationship with his chosen people, the Israelites. It covers a long period of history, from the creation of the world to the return of the exiles from Babylon.
The Old Testament can be divided into four main sections: the Pentateuch, the Historical Books, the Poetic Books, and the Prophetic Books.
- The Pentateuch (Genesis to Deuteronomy) contains the stories of the creation, the fall, the flood, the patriarchs, the exodus, the law, and the wilderness wanderings.
- The Historical Books (Joshua to Esther) narrate the conquest of Canaan, the period of the judges, the monarchy, the division of the kingdom, the exile, and the restoration.
- The Poetic Books (Job to Song of Solomon) include wisdom literature, psalms, and love poetry.
- The Prophetic Books (Isaiah to Malachi) record the messages of God's spokesmen who warned, comforted, and instructed his people.
The Old Testament reveals God's character and his promises to his people. It also prepares the way for the coming of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and the prophets.
