The Text of the Bible

Sections of the Bible

The Old Testament covers the period of time before Christ (approximately 2500 BC to 430 BC). The New Testament covers the life of Christ and the early church (approximately AD 6 to AD 95). Each testament is divided into books. Each book typically has a single author. Each book has been divided into chapters and verses. Therefore, John 3:16 refers to the book of John, chapter 3, verse 16.

Authors of the Bible

We believe the Bible to be the errorless, inspired Word of God. The men who wrote the books did so by divine inspiration. That is, God moved the men who wrote the Bible, putting into their minds the very thoughts and words which they wrote. We believe this for the following reasons:

• Christ testified that it is so.
• Biblical prophecy has been fulfilled.
• The Bible proves its divine power in our hearts.

Moses and the prophets wrote the Old Testament in Hebrew. The apostles and evangelists (missionaries) wrote the New Testament in Greek. You may view a list of the books of the Bible and their authors.

Related Bible Passages

• All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16
• [Jesus said]... this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled. Matthew 26:56
• [Jesus said]... for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Matthew 10:20
• You must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:20-21
• For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12