Discover the first part of the Bible and the story of God's covenant with His people.
What Is the Old Testament?
The Old Testament tells the story of creation, God's covenant with Israel, the rise and fall of kings, the words of the prophets, and the hope of restoration.
Its 39 books prepare us for Jesus by revealing God's character, His promises, and His faithful plan to redeem the world.
The Old Testament in Historical Sequence
The Old Testament is arranged by literary category rather than strict historical sequence. The timeline below shows an approximate chronological order to help you see how the books fit into the larger story of God's covenant, Israel's history, exile, and restoration.
The Five Sections of the Old Testament
The Law
Genesis–Deuteronomy
The foundation of God's covenant, His people, and His ways.
History
Joshua–Esther
Israel's story in the land, through kingship, exile, and return.
Poetry & Wisdom
Job–Song of Songs
Prayers, songs, questions, and wisdom for everyday life.
Major Prophets
Isaiah–Daniel
Big voices calling God's people back to faithfulness and hope.
Minor Prophets
Hosea–Malachi
Twelve shorter books with a powerful message of judgment and restoration.
How the Old Testament points to Jesus
The Old Testament is not a separate story. It is the beginning of the same story fulfilled in Jesus—God dwelling with His people and making all things new.
"Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself."
Luke 24:27
Keep exploring
As you read, look for God's promises, His faithfulness, and the ways each book points forward to Jesus.
