Are you brand-new to the Bible? Buckle up, it's a fascinating read authored over about 1,500 years. It contains history, poetry, spiritual guidance, and stories of villains, heroes, the poor, the powerful, and one particularly divine person unique in human history. Some people like to jump right into the Bible and see what stirs for them. Some like to have some more experienced company along the way, either through discussions with others or guidance from a trusted author or website. If you're just starting out, we thought you might like to bite into the Bible - in nine short nibbles!
Just keep scrolling down for our mini Biblical buffet. And if you're interested in learning more about this best-selling book of all time, click on over to our online resources page for some other jumping-off points.
The Bible in Nine Nibbles
For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4 (NRSV)
During the Eastertide season, people become curious about Christian traditions. We thought this might be a great time for a mini introduction (or refresher) to the Bible! Here, we'll share quotes, information, verses and even Bible trivia if you'd like to play along!
Of note: For these posts, we'll be using the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, the NRSV, and the King James Version for its beautiful and poetic language.
As always, we're here to answer any questions you may have! St.Clement's Church also offers various Bible Study groups, in person and online, if you want to participate! Click HERE or on the link above for our Bible Study group pages.
What is the Bible?
Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 1 Timothy 4:13(KJV)
The Bible is the holy scripture, telling the history of the Earth from its earliest creation to the spread of Christianity in the first century A.D. It is used as a religious reference for many religions and contains lessons, parables, and guidelines for living.
Do you remember the first time you heard about the Bible or perhaps read from it yourself? Do you remember your first Bible? Leave a message on our social media to join the discussion!
TRIVIA: Who wrote the first five books of the Old Testament (Torah)?
See the next post for the answer!
What's in the Old Testament?
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Psalm 23 (KJV)
You may be familiar with the passage above.
This is an example of some of the wonderful language and peaceful direction used in the Old Testament part of the Bible, specifically the Psalms.
Do you remember the first Bible verse you heard or memorised? Share your reflections on our social media pages to join the conversation!
TRIVIA: Between which two books are the Psalms located?
Look at the next post for the answer!
Previous Answer: Moses!
What are some parts of the Old Testament?
Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. Exodus 20:12. (KJV)
You may be familiar with the Ten Commandments found in Exodus 20. It is a list of rules to live by which God gave to Moses to share with the people, specifically a covenant between God and the Hebrew people. For example:
Which is one of the Ten Commandments you are familiar with? Where did you learn it? (It's ok if you say Charlton Heston!) Share your reflections on our social media pages to join the conversation!
TRIVIA: In what language(s) was the Old Testament written?
(A more difficult question: How many Commandments are there? 10, 24, 613?)
Look at the next post for the answers!
Previous Answer: The Book of Psalms is located between Job and Proverbs!
What is the New Testament About?
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7 (KJV)
You are probably familiar with Christmas! This is the time of year when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the Star of the New Testament. The New Testament covers the time just before, during and after Jesus’ death and rising to new life.
Were you introduced to the Bible through the Old or New Testament? Do you remember which part? Was it the Birth of the baby Jesus? Share your reflections on our social media pages to join the conversation!
TRIVIA: Where did Jesus turn water into wine?
Previous Answer: 1) The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and Aramaic. 2) 613!
What is an Epistle?
Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given me by the working of his power. Ephesians 3:7 (NRSV)
An "epistle" (from Greek epistolḗ) is a formal letter written for the purpose of instruction, and was a common form of communication in the world at the time. It could be written to one person or a group of people. There are twenty-one epistles in the New Testament, offering lessons and encouragement to individuals or communities.
Thirteen of the epistles are attributed to Paul; he wrote four while being held captive.
Do you have a question for us about Paul? Share your reflections on our social media pages to join the conversation!
TRIVIA: What was Paul's Jewish name?
Find your answer in the next post!
Previous Answer: Jesus turned water into wine at the wedding at Cana.
Which Part of the Bible Should I Read First?
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 (New International Version)
While there is no one correct way to read the Bible, some parts may interest you more than others. If you are keen to read about Jesus, the Gospels are a great place to start! Are you feeling sceptical? Why not begin with Luke, a physician fascinated by the miracles that Jesus performed?
David Suchet (of Agatha Christie, BBC, Hercule Poirot fame) converted to Christianity after reading the Epistle to the Romans. Chris Pratt (Guardians of the Galaxy and The Lego Movie) often quotes the Psalms on his social media.
Where will you begin? Or where did you start? Share your reflections on our social media pages to join the conversation!
TRIVIA: How many books are in the New Testament?
Check the next post for the answer!
Previous Answer: Saul!
How should I read the Bible?
But he answered, ‘It is written, “One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’ Matthew 4:4 (NRSV)
Many people read the Bible daily or follow along with an app such as: TheDailyPrayerApp Some people read or hear the Bible only in Church on Sunday and some only during the big holy days (holidays) such as Christmas and Easter.
While reading the Bible itself is all you need to do, whether online or in your hand, there are many different types of Bibles (for example, a First Nations Version) and even Bible comic books or story books for the very young.
What is your favourite way to read the Bible? Do you have a favourite Bible #podcast? Share your reflections on our social media pages to join the conversation!
TRIVIA: What was Simon Peter's profession before following Jesus?
Check the next post for the answer!
Previous Answer: 27!
Did you know?
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13(NRSV)
The Bible is not only the Word of God but also a very interesting historical document, with information about ancient cultures and peoples. People can study the Bible for their entire lives and only come to know a fraction of its meaning and importance. One of its special characteristics and a way that God reaches us is by making the Bible relevant to our modern lives. God offers us hope and friendship, stability in uncertain times, and redemption and reconciliation.
What has the Bible taught you? Have you ever asked God a question and found the answer you sought in the Bible? Share your reflections on our social media pages to join the conversation!
If you enjoyed this mini introduction to the Bible, we'd love to hear about it! Is there something else you’d like us to tackle? Let us know!
TRIVIA: How many posts were in this mini Bible introduction?
Answer 9 - you're right!
Previous Answer: Simon was a fisherman!
