How do I know the Bible is true?
September 1, 2025
Why Are There Things in the Bible That Are Hard to Understand?
September 1, 2025
Two Parts, One Story
The Bible is made up of two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. While they are distinct in content and focus, they are deeply connected and tell one unified story of God’s love and redemption.
The Old Testament: God’s Covenant with Israel
The Old Testament, sometimes called the Hebrew Bible, contains 39 books (in most Christian traditions). It includes:
- The Law (Torah) – the first five books (Genesis–Deuteronomy), which explain creation, God’s covenant with Israel, and His commandments.
- Historical Books – telling the story of Israel’s journey, struggles, and victories.
- Wisdom & Poetry – like Psalms, Proverbs, and Job, offering prayers, wisdom, and reflections on life.
- Prophets – calling people back to God, warning of judgment, and promising hope through the coming Messiah.
The Old Testament shows us God’s holiness, humanity’s need for salvation, and the promise of a Savior.
The New Testament: God’s Covenant through Christ
The New Testament contains 27 books and centers on the fulfillment of God’s promises in Jesus Christ.
- The Gospels (Matthew–John) – accounts of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
- Acts – the story of the early Church and the spread of the Gospel.
- Letters (Epistles) – written by apostles like Paul and Peter, teaching believers how to live out their faith.
- Revelation – a vision of Christ’s final victory and God’s eternal kingdom.
The NT reveals how Jesus is the Messiah promised in the Old Testament, bringing forgiveness, salvation, and a new covenant for all people.
The Connection Between the Two
Think of the Old Testament as promise and the New Testament as fulfillment. The Old Testament points forward to a Savior; the New Testament shows us that Savior in Jesus.
As St. Augustine once said, “The New is in the Old concealed; the Old is in the New revealed.”
Why This Matters for Us
Understanding both parts of the Bible helps us see the big picture of God’s plan. The Old Testament roots us in history and shows our need for salvation. The New Testament gives us the good news of Jesus and the hope of eternal life. Together, they reveal God’s consistent love and faithfulness.
✅ Key Takeaway: The Old Testament sets the stage; the New Testament shows the fulfillment. Both are essential for knowing who God is and how He works in our lives.
✨ Still Have a Question?
If you didn’t find your answer here, don’t worry — you’re not alone. You can send your question directly through the Ask a Bible Question page and I’ll do my best to respond with guidance from God’s Word.
You can also leave your questions on my YouTube channel where I regularly share Bible verses, encouragement, and answers to common questions.
