OVERVIEW AND SUMMARY OF THE BIBLE This document was created by Rev.Ken Byerly in 2009-2010 with much help from Dr. H.L. Willmington’s book “Willmington’s Guide to the Bible.” This document’s purpose is to give you a general layout of the Bible’s content in regard to dates, people involved, major events that occurred, and the books of the Bible that cover each period. My hope and prayer is that it helps you to understand God’s Word better which in turn will lead you closer to God by seeing His devotion to those who follow Him, His willingness to ALWAYS be true to His covenant promises, and His longsuffering but eventual punishment for those who deliberately turn from Him. I. Compartmentalization A. Old Testament Stages 1. Creation 2. Patriarchal 3. Exodus 4. Conquest 5. Judges 6. United Kingdom 7. Chaotic Kingdom 8. Captivity 9. Return 10. Intertestamental B. New Testament Stages 1. Gospel 2. Early Church 3. Epistle II. Context A. Old Testament Stages 1. Creation Stage (4004BC - 2165BC) a. Books of the Bible • Genesis 1-11 b. Main People Chapters • Adam 2 • Cain and Abel 4 • Enoch, Methuselah 5 • Noah 6 • Noah’s sons (Shem, Ham, Japheth) 9 c. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 1839 years (4004 BC – 2165 BC) • Period begins with creation and ends with Terah (Abraham’s father) leaving Ur of the Chaldeans • There are four distinct periods of time in this stage: the creation of all things (Gen. 1-2), the corruption of all things (Gen. 3-5), the condemnation of all things (Gen. 6-9), and the confusion of all things (Gen. 10-11). • Three Heavens of creation: the first heaven is clouds and atmosphere (Dan. 4:12; Matt. 6:26), the second heaven is the stars and planets (Psalm 19:1), and the third heaven is Heaven itself (2 Cor. 12:2). • Creation involved six days of work (the main punishment to men for Adam’s sin), God rested for a day (rest is important to the mind, body, and spirit of man). • Corruption involved Satan, pride of man, redemption of God, martyrdom of Abel, and the ministry of Enoch. 4004BC - 2165BC 2165BC - 1804BC 1804BC - 1405BC 1405BC - 1382BC 1382BC - 1043BC 1043BC - 931BC 931BC - 605BC 605BC - 539BC 539BC - 400BC 400BC - 6BC 6BC - 30AD 30AD - 68AD 48AD - 95AD (5) Special characteristics are assigned to the three sons of Noah. Noah. during. Elihu) c. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 361 years (2165 BC – 1804 BC) • The period begins with God calling Abram and ends with the death of Joseph in • • • Egypt. fallout) (before. (5) Inevitable sorrow and disappointment in life. Peter. (4) Loss of the garden in Eden as a dwelling place and light occupation changed to heavy burden of work because of a cursed earth. The first three covenants between God and man are established: 1. 8:22. and suffering and pain in motherhood. (2) The first promise of a redeemer. Rev. Abraham is considered to be the second of the seven greatest men to ever live (Adam. and Paul). Shem. 2. is now allowed to eat meat. exercising dominion over the animals. and the origin of the nations. salvation through the flood. Isaac. Patriarchal Stage (2165 . the judgment of God. and Japheth.1804BC) a. judgment) 1-2 3-5 6-9 10-11 2. John the Baptist. 12:9. Bildad. 2 Cor. 9:2). but also includes great peoples in the line of Ishmael and Abraham's others sons. man) (fall. Main People • Abraham 12-25 • Isaac 25-26 • Jacob 27-36 • Joseph 37-50 • Job • Job’s friends (Eliphaz. Abraham. Books of the Bible • Genesis 12-50 • Job b. Main Events • Creation • Fall of Man • Flood • Tower of Babel (world. Issuance of the first covenant from God to man: the Edenic Covenant—man is charged with responsibility for propagating the race. Issuance of the second covenant from God to man: the Adamic Covenant—(1) A curse on the serpent: Gen 3:14. caring for the garden in Eden. (3) Man's relationship to the animals and to nature is confirmed (Gen. presumably a vegetarian before the flood. 3. d.14. Issuance of the third covenant from God to man: the Noahic Covenant—(1) Sanctity of all human life established. Confusion involved the arrogance of man. (3) A changed state of woman including bondage and subservience to man's headship. . 11:3. Jacob. (2) A Promise that another universal flood will not occur and the ground will not be cursed further. Abraham. Messiah would come in the line of Seth. and refraining from eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 16:20. (6) Shortened life span and tragedy of death. David. The first mentioning of Jerusalem (a type of Heaven) and Egypt ( a type of the world) in the Bible. Judah and David. (4) Man. and the tragedy after the flood (Noah and his sons’ sin).• • • Condemnation involved conditions before the flood (universal wickedness). Zophar. Moses. Issuance of the fourth covenant from God to man: the Abrahamic Covenant— (1) God gave Abraham the promise of a great nation---primarily meaning Israel. Man responsible to protect life. even to capital punishment. Shem. Rom. after) (family. Ham. subduing the earth. had eight sons. • Issuance of the sixth covenant between God and man: Palestinian Covenant—this partly conditional covenant has several parts: (1) dispersion of the Jews was to be a consequence of disobedience. (2) Future repentance will be accomplished by God. to be personally honored.In all Abraham. Blessings on the nations are to come through Abraham. 29. Exodus Stage (1804BC . (3) God will regather his scattered people and restore them to the land. (2) Abraham was chosen to be the father of numerous descendants. the right of the Jews to live in the land is conditional upon their behavior. 25:3). See also Deut. six through his second wife Keturah after Sarah died. (4) Reaffirmation of the promise of a Messiah was made by God to Abraham. Aaron’s son. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 399 years (1804 BC – 1405 BC) • Period begins with the Israelites suffering oppression in Egypt (birth of a savior—Moses) and ends with Moses dying on the banks of the Jordan (just shy of Canaan—the Promised Land). to be blessed personally. Main People • Moses (God’s chosen vessel for the deliverance of Israel) • Aaron (first High Priest of the Levites and Moses’ brother) • Pharaoh • Caleb • Joshua • Miriam (Moses and Aaron’s sister) • Eleazer (second High Priest of Israel." and a heavenly group (the true church) "as numerous as the stars in the heavens. d. (4) The people of Israel will be brought to the Lord as a nation. Main Events • Giving of the Abrahamic Covenant • Beginnings of the Hebrew Nation • Jews Move To Egypt • God Allows Satan To Test Job 12 21 46 1 3. Books of the Bible • Exodus • Leviticus • Numbers • Deuteronomy b. Two peoples descended from Abraham are named specially. Exodus 1-14 Exodus 13:21-22 Exodus 16:14 d." These two "family trees" form the subject of the mainstream of redemptive history in the Bible. Main Events • Deliverance from Egypt • Appearance of Shekinah (“settling”) Glory Cloud • Appearance of Manna (means “What is it?”) . to give them the Sabbath as a permanent reminder of the Mosaic Covenant. Because of this covenant.1405BC) a. to be a channel of blessing to others. • Issuance of the fifth covenant between God and man: Mosaic Covenant—a conditional covenant between God and the Israelites (Exodus 19-24) where God promises to make Israel His chosen nation of people among all people if they obey Him and His commandments. They are an earthly group (Israel) "as numerous as the grains of sand on the seashore. to make them a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. and involves the issuance of the Ten Commandments. Phinehas’ father) • Phinehas (third High Priest of Israel) c. 28. (5) The enemies and oppressors of Israel will be punished. (Gen. (6) Future national prosperity and preeminence is guaranteed. (3) Those who bless Abraham are to be blessed and those who curse him will be cursed. reviews their history. The Spies 3. Books of the Bible • Judges • Ruth • 1 Samuel 1-7 b. Falling Walls 6:20 2. ½ tribe of Manasseh to the east of Jordan 2. Caleb from Judah) say “yes” (Num. the falling of the wall of Jericho. Deut. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 23 years (1405 BC – 1382 BC) • Period begins with Joshua’s commission as leader of Israel (three days later they enter Canaan) and ends with Joshua’s death and the burying of Joseph’s bones which they had carried from Egypt to Canaan).• • • • • • • Institution of the Sabbath Exodus 16:23-30 Giving of the Law Exodus 20:3-17 Building of the Tabernacle Exodus 40 The Failure at Kadesh-Barnea (Num. 3:15-17. The Visitor 5:13-15 • Subjection (conquest) of the Land 6-12 1. Judges Stage (1382BC . Books of the Bible • Joshua (opposite of Exodus) b. 13:30-33). Main People • Gideon—warrior called by God to lead Israel. 20:7-13. 5. begot 71 sons of which Abimelech was one. 1:22). warns them of disobedience. and the standing of the sun (Josh. Main People • Joshua • Caleb • Rahab c. Failure is due to man’s will and not God’s (Duet. The majority rules (14:1-3) and God punishes (14:29-37). Rahab 4. 14:33-34 The Sin and Death of Moses Num. Main Events • Invasion of the Land 1-5 1. • Three miracles in 25 years: parting of the Jordan River. is best known as the one who sought to know the surety of his faith by the testing of fleece (Judges 6:36-40). The Circumcision 5:3 5. Aimless Wondering Num. The rest on the west of Jordan River 3. The Crossing of the Jordan 2. Final words from Joshua—Joshua reminds the Israelites of God’s goodness. Standing Sun 10:12-14 • Division of the Land 13-24 1. an extremely wicked man. d. 27:15-23. would kill all but one of his brothers. 13-14). and would be killed by . Reuben. overthrew the altar of Baal and its sacred surrounding grove and erected in its place a new altar naming it Jahveh-Shalom (Jehovah gives peace).1043BC) a.1382BC) a. later Abimelech. 34:9 4. • God parts the River Jordan to bring His people into the Promised Land. Deut. 6:20. Gad. ruled as judge for 40 years. Judges 6:17-24. Conquest Stage (1405BC . Unbelief results in missed opportunity and punishment. Forty days pass and the 12 return: 10 say “no” while 2 (Joshua from Ephraim. would be made king of Shechem. 34:5-8 The Choice of Joshua as Leader Num. 10:12-14). He parted the Red Sea earlier in order to bring them out of captivity. and challenges them to serve God. • Samuel – last of the judges and first of the prophets. Canaanites Midian Yrs of Opp. 18:1. after returning to Judah with Naomi in order to fulfill her duty she married Boaz. Naomi returned to Bethlehem with her Moabite daughter-in-law (Ruth). anointed David as king. which lasted 335 years. 8 18 ? 20 20 7 40 40 40 Yrs of Peace 40 80 ? . a prophetess. Each time God provided deliverance from oppression through a godly and chosen judge. 4th son of Aaron. 1. met Hannah when she came to the temple to pray for her son. Each time Israel was guilty of compromising (not doing what God told her to do—that is. • Boaz – well to do Hebrew from Bethlehem • Eli – from the family of Ithamar. here is an outline of the judges of Israel during this period. Judge Othniel Ehud Shamgar Deborah Barak Gideon Bible Verses 3: 7-11 3: 12-30 3:31 4-5 4-5 6-8 Oppressing Nation Meopotamia Moab Philistia Canaanites N. drive out her enemy) and apostasy (doing what God told her not to do—worship the gods of her enemies). 20 of those times are in the Judges stage. 19:1. • Ruth— a widow. Eli. 4. Samuel. • Naomi—a woman from Bethlehem who lost her husband and two sons after a sojourn to Moab to escape famine. the Bible verses that cover him or her. • Counting Eli. • This stage involves seven apostasies (a renunciation of one’s faith or belief) by Israel. d. 9:1-57). 6. • 80 times in the OT an “angel of the Lord” is mentioned (Christophony). 5. whose decision to conform to the Isrealite customs made her a servant of her dead husbands family. c. and the years of peace Israel enjoyed after God relieved them of their oppression through each judges leadership. this marriage made her the great-grandmother of King David and heir to the Messiah. • The darkest period of Israel’s history • Joshua dies and no one is available for God to choose as leader (Judges 17:6. burying himself and a multitude of Philistines when he moved two pillars from their foundation causing a building to fall. 21:25). 3. his great power was not his but God’s. a woman hired by the Philistines to find the source of his strength. the years Israel spent in oppression against that nation. had two wicked sons. who was born from a barren womb to Eli. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 339 years (1382 BC – 1043 BC) • Period begins with Israel electing a judge rather than a leader and ends with Samuel as judge. • Samson—last judge of Israel before Samuel. listed in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews. Samson died in a martyr’s death. his power was taken through the craftiness of Delilah. 2. a Nazirite chosen by God before birth to deliver Israel out of the hands of the Philistines. which she did through enticement and deceit. almost blind. the oppressing nation during their reign as judge. son of Hannah who upon birth presented her son. Eli fell off his seat and died of a broken neck • Deborah – 4th and greatest of Isreals judges. seven servitudes to seven heathen nations. and seven deliverances.his armor bearer after having a millstone dropped on his head by a woman (Judges 8:31. it would not be returned until generations later when King David returned). there were 15 judges in all. This is the single most contributing factor to Israel’s rebellion against God—this dark stage. who acted as both judge and high priest in Isreal. Main Events: Instead of main events. and Deborah (only woman). after hearing the news of the slaughter of his sons and the taking of the Arc of the Covenant(this is a major event in the judges state in which the Philistines stole the Arc from the Isrealites. later advising her to marry Boaz and subsequently nursed Ruth’s child. he is listed in the Hall of Faith (Hebrews 11). these judges were more military reformers than legal experts. 9:17) c.7. 18:11. 12. He is possessed by an evil spirit (1 Sam. His leadership is confirmed at Jabesh-Gilead (1 Sam. 1 Chron. David is anointed as king of Israel on three separate occasions • 1 Sam. United Kingdom Stage (1043BC . 20:31) g.931BC) a. 15. and will go down in history as the greatest king Israel will ever see. 16:17-23). David is God’s choice. Saul is chosen by Samuel at God’s command (1 Sam. 2. Rise a. He attempts to kill David (1 Sam. He slaughters 85 priests of God at Nob (1 Sam. Fall a. 14. 23. He orders the death of his own son (1 Sam. 14:44-45) c. The Singer 1 Samuel 16:14-23 a. 2:1-4 By men of Judah in Hebron • 2 Sam. as compared to Saul who was the people’s choice. . 10. 15. 15:11) e. 22:17-19) i. 8. 1 Chronicles 11-29 1. 19:9). Israel demands a king (1 Sam. 10. 25. 19:1. Abimelech Tola Jair Jephthah Ibzan Elon Abdon Samson 13-16 Samuel 9 Considered by many as an outlaw and not a judge 10:1-2 ? ? 23 10: 3-5 ? ? 22 10:6-12:7 Ammon 18 12:8-10 ? ? 7 12:11-12 ? ? 10 12:13-15 ? ? 8 Philistia 40 20 1 Sam. He is rejected by God (1 Sam. 18:10. He is slain on a battlefield (1 Sam. 15:1-9) d. 11. 13. The Shepherd 1 Samuel 16:1-3 a. that is until Jesus returns. 21. 1-7 Philistia (1 Sam 7:13) ? ? 6 6. 8:19-20) b. He spares Agag of Amalek. 18:10. David is plucked from the sheep pasture. He goes to the witch of En Dor (1 Sam. Main People • Saul 1 Samuel 8-15 1. Saul is anointed by Samuel (1 Sam. He offers a burnt offering (1 Sam 13:8-14) b. 16:13 By Samuel • 2 Sam. b. 16:14. b. David soothes Saul’s troubled heart with harp music (1 Sam. Books of the Bible • 1 Samuel 8-31 • 2 Samuel • 1 Kings 1-11 • 1 Chronicles • 2 Chronicles 1-9 • Psalms • Proverbs • Ecclesiastes • Song of Solomon b. 31) • David 1 Samuel 16 – 2 Samuel 31. 10:1) d.000 troops from the 12 tribes of Israel. 19:9) f. c.11-12) 2. 12:23-40 Three day celebration that included 400. God’s enemy (1 Sam. 9. 16:14-16. 5:1-5. Samuel ignores his physical appearance as compared to his brothers and anoints him king of Israel as commanded by God. From this point until his death King Saul is troubled by a evil spirit (1 Sam. 28:7-25) j. He curses and attempts to kill his own son (1 Sam 20:30-33) h. 17:4). 24:1-15) • 1 Sam. not David. 1 Chron. David begins his lifelong friendship with Jonathan b. 1 Chron. David brings the Arc of the Covenant back to Israel (2 Sam. 21:1-9. 18:1 • Carried to battle/captured by Philistines 1 Sam. The Sought 1 Samuel 18-31 a. 13:1-14. and predicts Saul’s demise the following day. Saul’s increase rage of jealousy results in the slaughter of 85 priests simply because Ahimelech offers some bread to David (1 Sam. Saul visits witch at Endor in attempt to gain advice from Samuel’s spirit concerning military threat from the Philistine army (1 Sam. 15:1-16:43). The reason—God will choose who builds the temple. This is a time of blessing where God blesses David and his kingdom. 26:1-16 i. 10:13). The Soldier 1 Samuel 17:1-58 a. because of God and not the witch. Goliath taunts Israel’s army for 40 days (1 Sam. 7:8-17). 25:10-22 • Carried through the desert for 40 years • Set up in Shiloh/1st Israelite capitol Jos. 19:10 • 1 Sam. Israel flourishes by defeating enemies at the hand of God. 4:11 • It was passed among Philistines cities 1 Sam. The Sinner 2 Samuel 11 a. David backslides twice (1 Sam. David desires to build a temple for the Arc but God denies his request (2 Sam. 1 Sam. 7:1-17. 5:6-16) c. David captures Jerusalem (2 Sam. 31:1-7). The Sovereign 2 Samuel 1-10. 27:1-6) g. fails and then demotes David from general to captain (1 Samuel 18. 28:1-11. 19:12 e. 24:1-15 • 1 Sam. 17) c. 5. David kills Goliath in the name of the Lord with a stone and a shepherd’s sling (1 Sam.3. And besides. 17). Israel verses the Philistines (Amalekites were just destroyed) b. The following is a history of the Arc to this point: • Moses makes the Arc Ex. • David’s house. It promises: • David will have a child who will succeed him • This son (Solomon) will build the temple • David throne will be established forever • The throne will not be taken away from Solomon even though his sins will justify it. 6. David spares Saul’s life in the cave (1 Sam. 18:11 • 1 Sam. Saul’s attempts to kill David • 1 Sam. 6:19 • Brought to Kirjath-jearim/stayed 20 yrs. 5 • Brought to Bethshemesh/caused plague 1 Sam. 18:19 • 1 Sam. b. throne. David lusts after and lies with Bathsheba . e. 7:1-2 d. David marries multiple wives and concubines and has many children that would bring him much grief later in his life. 22:12-19) h. God chose David to lead His people. not to build God a temple to dwell in. Samuel appears.11-13) d. The Davidic Covenant is given (2 Sam. 4. 6:1-19. David is made commander-in-chief of Saul’s armies c. Jonathan warns David of Saul’s renewed attempt to kill him f. Saul and David’s beloved friend Jonathan are slain in battle (1 Sam. j. and kingdom will be established forever. Saul attempts to kill David. Jonathan is killed and Saul commits suicide. 1 Chron. 1 Chronicles 11-19 a. c. and David is forced to leave Jerusalem because of the support Absalom had from all of Judah and Israel (2 Sam. Joab hears that Absalom is hung up in an oak tree and orders young Absalom killed. lack of faith) b. 1 Sam. King Saul’s cousin. Uriah is hurried from battled to be with his wife in order to make it appear Uriah was the father of the child. 13:14) • Absalom. Joab had also killed Abner. a fleet of ninety days from his enemies. in desperation. who stole from a poor farmer his only lamb. God requires the fourfold payback from David.7. David wrote 77 of the 150 Psalms. The Sage 1 Kings 2 Wives and Children of King David (1 Chronicles 3:9. Joab was the obedient captain David order to send Uriah the Hittite into battle knowing it would lead to his death. b. his nephew and captain of his army. Nathan declares David to be that man. David vows to have the man pay back fourfold for his sin. 23:1-3 a. David numbers Israel which is an act of sin (pride. 15:12-14). In Joshua 9 the Israelites had made a covenant with the Gibeonites which God was now issuing punishment for. David is 70 and at 37 he had determined to build the Temple for the Lord. d. Three-year plague settles on Israel. David’s eldest son. b. 8. 12:18) • Amnon. 11. rapes his half-sister Tamar (2 Sam. who had befriended David. c. 9. Joab was obedient to David but his acts of disobedience were spanned from his own desire to maintain rank in the army and to reestablish David’s reign as king. 10. b. this fails and so David. The Statesman 2 Samuel 21:1-14 a. begins plotting the murder of Amnon and kills him 2 years later (2 Sam. 1 Chronicles 20-21 a. David marries Bathsheba The Sorrowful 2 Samuel 12-21. 12. to be gentle with Absalom. the Cherethites and Pelethites. b.000 men die d. 13:29) • Absalom plots a revolt against his father David. Ahinoam the Jezreelitess (David rescued her and Abigal at the same time. Nathan reports to David a story of a rich man. David calls for a special dedication ceremony The Scribe 2 Samuel 22:1. Bathsheba becomes pregnant. It was: • The death of his son (2 Sam. 18) . The results: 70. David chooses the third. Mikal (Michal) (Saul’s daughter—her bitterness toward David caused her to be barren (2 Samuel 6:18-27). This is accomplished. c. He never did but was allowed to lead in the preparations of it that Solomon his son will later build. sends Uriah to the front lines of battle with a sealed letter—the very letter containing his fate c. the full brother of Tamar and son of David and Maachah. David repents and God offers a choice of three punishments: seven years of famine. 2 Samuel 5:14) Wives (besides concubines) 1. or a three-day pestilence. The Statistician 2 Samuel 24 a. 2. David negotiates with the Gibeonite leaders who demand the lives of seven of Saul’s sons in exchange for the previous Gibeonite massacre. into battle at the woods of Ephraim and gives specific instructions to Joab. David sends his troops. The plague is lifted as David pleas with God’s death angel The Sponsor 1 Chronicles 22-29 a. 30:5. slaughtered and ate it. David immediately repents. David is told it is because of Saul’s bloody deeds. Children (besides children born from concubines) 1. Solomon. Too much silver and gold (1 Kings 10:14-27) b. 10. Nepheg 16. Eliphelet Solomon 1 Kings 1-11. Abigal the Carmelelitess Maachah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur Haggith Abital Eglah Bathsheba—she bore David 5 sons. Solomon was blessed by God and was righteous at first. He was warned about any future transgressions on his part: a. Wisdom c. Shephatiah (6) 6. Power b. Too many horses (1 Kings 4:26) c. but he allowed his riches. The great privilege of building the Temple 2. 1:6. Bathsheba tells David. From David: • First (1 Chron. Luke 3:31). Nogah 15. Nathan (8) helped David secure Solomon’s reign as king at David’s deathbed. and that Israel would be a divided kingdom after Solomon’s death simply because of the sin of Solomon. Ibhar (mothers 11-19 unknown) 12. is blessed by God with the following: a. Elishama 13. all of which he ignored. Elishama 18. Nathan. Shobab (8) 9. and Solomon. the first one dying after birth due to David’s sin— Shammuah. 5. Japhia 17. and his wives pagan idol-worshipping practices to divert his attention toward sin. Adonijah (5) Tried to usurp the kingdom from David. Ithream (7) 7. 13:1) so we assume Maachah was Tamar’s mother 4. Tamar was his sister (2 Sam. His sin was: a. Absalom (4). Facts Concerning This Period • . Too many wives and concubines (1 Kings 11:3) 4. Compare this to David who was punished by God for both his sin as well as Saul’s. 7. 17:14-17). Daniel (Chileab) (3) 3. 6. This was a direct violation of God’s warnings (Deut. 22:13) • Last (1 Kings 2:3) b. 4. From God: • First (1 Kings 3:14) • Second (1 Kings 9:6-7) • Last (1 Kings 11:11) c. 8. Shobab. Nathan and Solomon are direct descendents of Jesus Christ (Matt. Eliada 19. murdered by Absalom 2. 40 years of peace and prosperity e.3. 2 Chronicles 1-9 1. Solomon (8) 11. because of David’s righteousness. Solomon has him killed (1 Kings 2:25). 3. Abundant riches d. 5. his elevated status as leader. Shammuah (8) 8. Amnon (2). Eliphelet 14. and for sixty years (892-832 BC) held the office of "prophet in Israel" (2 Kings 5:8). raised the dead. He preformed many miracles with God’s help including parting the waters of the Jordan (2 Kings 2:14) and raising a dead boy back to life (2 Kings 4:18-21. brought fire from sky. Main People • Elijah (“Yahweh is God. Main Events • Most of Israel’s songs and proverbs were written during this period • Period begins with selection of a ruler (1 Samuel 9) and ends with the rejection of a ruler (1 Kings 12). • The Threefold Anointing of David: In Bethlehem by Samuel (1 Sam. d. • The Ark of the Covenant is carried into Jerusalem twice.” prophet to Israel in 9th century BC). according to his own request. royal authority in the line of David). Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 326 years (931 BC – 605 BC) • Period begins with revolt for power over the kingdom of Israel’s (following Solomon’s death) and ends with the fall of the kingdom of Judah to the Babylonians. Hosea. he became the attendant and disciple of Elijah (1 Kings 19:16-19). Zephaniah. Habakkuk) • 19 Northern Rulers • 20 Southern Rulers c. He possessed. he was accepted as the leader of the sons of the prophets. 15:14. Nahum. Jeremiah) • Minor Prophets (Obadiah. • Elisha: the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah. • The Capture of Jerusalem By David (2 Samuel 5:6-10) • The Giving of the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7) • The Construction of the First Temple (1 Kings 5-8. • Major Prophets (Isaiah. "a double portion" of Elijah's spirit (2 Kings 2:9). Micah. In Hebron By Two Tribes (2 Sam. Most prosperous and peaceful time ever for the nation of Israel Issuance of the seventh covenant between God and man: the Davidic covenant includes the following promises—(1) a temple in Israel. and (5) the promise of Messiah in the line of David. 2:1-4). Joel.e. Amos. 16:13). (4) chastisement on the sons of disobedience. 2 Chron. Chaotic Kingdom Stage (931BC .605BC) a. . Jonah. 12 represents the wages of sin while the second (1 Kings 3) points out the wisdom of Solomon. (3) a throne (i. ascended into Heaven in whirlwind accompanied by chariots (2 Kings 2:11). • Two babies are noted as dying: 2 Sam. 24-25). and he is thought by Mormons to have returned in 1836 to visit Joseph Smith. In Hebron By Twelve Tribes (2 Sam. Books of the Bible • 1 Kings 12-22 Isaiah • 2 Kings Micah • 2 Chronicles 10-36 Nahum • Obadiah Zephaniah • Joel Jeremiah • Jonah Habakkuk • Amos Lamentations • Hosea b. 6:15..• • • • Period covers approximately 112 years (1043 BC – 931 BC) Period begins with Israel requesting a king rather than a judge and ends with Solomon’s death. once representing celebration (2 Sam. 3-5). (2) an everlasting kingdom. and became noted in Israel. he appears with Moses during the transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus and John the Baptist are both compared to him and sometimes thought to be him. returned from Heaven before Christ’s second coming prophesy of Messiah Malachi coming 4:5. 2-7) 7. 32-47). 17) and once representing revolution (2 Sam. and after Elijah was taken up in a fiery chariot into the whirlwind. In fact. Judah (Southern Kingdom) Israel (Northern Kingdom) Rehoboam 17 Jeroboam 22 Abijam 3 Nadab 2 *Asa 41 Baasha 24 *Jehoshaphat 25 Elah 2 Jehoram 8 Zimri 7 days Ahaziah 1 Omri 12 Athaliah 6 Ahab 22 **Joash 40 Ahaziah 2 **Amaziah 29 Jehoram 12 Uzziah 52 Jehu 28 *Jotham 16 Jehoahaz 17 Ahaz 16 Jehoash 16 *Hezekiah 29 Jeroboam II 41 Manasseh 55 Zechariah 6 months Amon 2 Shallum 1 month *Josiah 31 Menahem 10 Jehoahaz 3 months Pekahiah 2 Jehoiakim 11 Pekah 20 Jehoiachin 3 months Hoshea 9 Zedekiah 11 • Prophets during this period and the destination of their prophecies: Obadiah 850 – 840 Edom Jonah 785 – 750 Nineveh Nahum 650 – 620 Nineveh Amos 760 – 753 North Hosea 760 – 700 North Joel 841 – 834 South Isaiah 739 – 681 South Micah 735 – 700 South Zephaniah 640 – 620 South Habakkuk 609 – 606 South Jeremiah 627 – 575 South Lamentations 586 South d. Also. hence 210 year existence) was ruled by 19 rulers. captured by the Babylonians in 606 BC. hence 325 year history) was ruled by 20 rulers. of which none were righteous Judah (southern kingdom.• • • • • Israel (northern kingdom. Interesting to note here is that the Assyrians wanted to progress further south and conquer the Southern Kingdom of Judah and Egypt. They prevailed in conquering Egypt. • The Capture of the Northern Kingdom by the Assyrians (721 BC)—God warned them numerous times to turn back to Him but they failed to heed His warnings from the prophets. many of the Kingdom rulers were killed by the opposing ruler and his army. the number out from each name represents how long (in years) they reigned. captured by the Assyrians in 721 BC. marked with a double asterisk **). 2 of which were only good in the beginning of their reign. Main Events • Israel’s Tragic Civil War (1 Kings 12. 2 Kings 17. the sad irony of Judah’s future is that they would suffer the same fate and the . of which 7 were righteous (only 5 were really good) Israel (capitol was Samaria) consisted of 10 tribes Judah (capitol was Jerusalem) consisted of 2 tribes (Judah and Benjamin) Vast majority of all rulers were predominantly evil (good ones marked with an asterisk *. 25)—Northern and Southern Kingdoms of Israel continuously feud against each other throughout this entire period. However. but God supernaturally protected Judah (2 Chronicles 32). God finally had enough and He lifted His sovereign protection from Israel and the Assyrians finally prevailed. and sometimes referred to as Ephraim. mercy. Books of the Bible • Daniel • Ezekiel b. and he would have been in his late 60’s at that point. witnessed a hand writing an encrypted message on the wall which when translated means “Thou art weighed in the balance and art found wanting” (Daniel 5:1-4)." at a young age. Cyrus the Great. The Salvation of Jerusalem From the Assyrians (2 Chronicles 32:22)—Sennacherib was king of Assyria. God miraculously saved Jerusalem from the Assyrians but 135 years later would refuse to grant them a similar pardon for their unrepentant sins. unlike the Old (Mosaic) Covenant (Ex. The Great Preaching Ministry of the Oral Prophets—Elijah. held the empire at its peak which including Egypt and parts of Greece. it is the foundation of Israel’s future regeneration. The time and circumstances of Daniel's death have not been recorded. is credited with the construction of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.• • • • • same result as their sister Israel (Northern Kingdom) 135 years later. having been brought to Babylon when he was in his teens. through His infinite grace. Daniel 1) • Belshazzar (the last king of Babylon who. • Darius (550 – 486 BC): Persian king. However. Main People • Daniel: means "God is my judge. was instrumental in getting the Temple of Jerusalem rebuilt. The Giving of the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31): it will be immutable. though indirectly. He. Xerxes I. also known as Darius the Great. retained his high position there and had influence in the decision to restore the Jews to their homeland.539BC) a. • Cyrus of Persia (Cyrus the Great): ruler of Persia from 559 BC – 530 BC. refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s idol. the beauty of it all is that God did not fully destroy them or forget them. unconditional. 1 & 2 Chronicles. sent the Jews into exile. and dispersed. is featured extensively in Jeremiah and Daniel. God orchestrated it all. Elisha The Great Preaching Ministry of the Writing Prophets (Listed above starting with Obadiah). and is also mentioned in several other books of the Bible (2 Kings. Daniel was carried off to Babylon where he was trained in the service of the court under the authority of Ashpenaz. Daniel was still alive in the third year of Cyrus according to Daniel 10:1. Meshach. after requesting gold goblets from the Jerusalem temple to be presented to him and drinking wine from them. love and promise. and Ezekiel). annihilated. • Shadrach. it ensures the everlasting nature of Israel as a nation (Romans 11). 19:5-8)—it will be entirely based on grace and the sacrificial blood of Christ. Ezra. However. Abednego (three dudes in the furnace. frees the Israelites and even gives them a massive amount of money to return to their homeland and rebuild. and encourage them concerning God’s future blessings) • Nebuchadnezzar: ruler of Babylon from 605 BC – 562 BC. only to a different army (Babylonians). Further irony occurs when the Persian army defeats the Babylonian army and the Persian army’s ruler. conquered Judah and Jerusalem. Esther. Captivity Stage (605BC . The Capture of the Southern Kingdom by the Babylonians: this is perhaps the saddest moment in Israel’s history—God’s chosen people and nation completely destroyed. the decay and downfall of the empire commenced with his death and the coronation of his son. and salvation. • Ezekiel (ministry was twofold: remind exiles of their sins. restored Israel through a Remnant of the Captivity (a small band of pure blooded Israelites that returned from Babylon and restored Jerusalem and the nation of Israel—see next stage). by issuing a . Christianity regards Daniel as a saint and a prophet. Nehemiah. 8. and eternal. restoration. became famous for interpreting dreams and rose to become one of the most important figures in the court and lived well into the reign of the Persian conquerors. Philistia. the rise of Esther (1-2). known as the edit of Cyrus. 11:12-13. and Visitations of the Prince (9-14). and purification of Israel. 2:1-9. 3:8. the tribulation upon the nations. 597 BC (Ezekiel along with many others are carried off—2 Kings 24:10-16). • Captivity occurred in three stages • Complete destruction of Jerusalem and Solomon’s Temple in 586 BC (Ezekiel 4-34) d. • Personal Deliverance of Daniel and His Friends (Daniel 3) • Destruction of the First Temple • Ezekiel’s Vision of the Temple (Ezekiel 8-11)—this occurred in 592 BC. Return Stage (539BC . Nehemiah is an autobiographical book concerning his dealings with getting the wall rebuilt. and shown. Egypt (Ezekiel 25-32. book has more Messianic prophecies than any other minor prophet (seven: 3:8. Books of the Bible • Haggai (520): partner to Zechariah in getting the construction of the Temple accomplished under Zerubbabel. and the prize of faith (6-10). • Esther (478-464): takes place in Persia. city is destroyed through fire. • Description of the Future Millennial Temple (Ezekiel 40-48) • A Panorama of Gentile World Powers and Their Condemnation—Ammon. Vanities of the People (7-8). Main Events • Captivity Occurs in Three Stages: 605 BC (Daniel and friends are carried off to Babylon—2 Chronicles 36:6-7). including Solomon’s elaborate Temple— 2 Kings 25:1-7). There are 10 visions and two visits (1st and 2nd Comings of Christ). period of 60 years between chapters 6 & 7 no biblical record • Nehemiah (445): last historical book of the OT. period under Ezra (7-10). 2:20-23) with three messages [perform (1:1-11). Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 66 years (605 BC – 539 BC) • Period begins with the fall of Judah and the first wave of exiles to Babylon and ends with the Decree from Cyrus the Great (this decree frees the Israelites from bondage in Babylon) after his army defeats the Babylonians. Moab. or another way of stating it might be: God’s love stated. • Malachi (435-396): a miniature summary of the entire OT (the selection. 35) • A Preview of Israel’s Future Restoration (Ezekiel 37-38) • The Fall of Babylon (539 BC) 9. patience (2:1-9). the lies of Haman (3-5). Book is divided into four sermons (1:1-11. 14:3-8). • Zechariah (520): was of priestly descent.decree. 9:9. Ezekiel was transported to Jerusalem as he witnessed the horrible false worshipping and defiling of the Temple that was taking place at that time. Tyre. • Ezra (445):Period under Zerubbabel (1-6). c. illustrates the providence (God will take care of us) of God. b. 2:1019. ponder (2:1—23)]. and the manifestation of the Messiah). Sidon. scorned. and 586 BC (Zedekiah taken along with the rest of the noble citizens of Judah. Edom. or edict. 12:10. transgression. in which he allowed the Israelites permission to rebuild the Temple and even sent them home with a considerable amount of money. Main People • Cyrus • Joshua (High Priest) • Zerubbabel (Governor) • Ezra • Ahasuerus • Esther • Mordecai • Haman • Nehemiah • Artaxerxes . Book is divided as follows: Visions of the Prophet (1-6). 13:7. slain in the Temple (Josephus tells us this).400BC) a. makes Esther his queen). 455 (Ezra). New Testament Stages 1. Darius the Great (520-486. Ahasuerus (486-465. d. not referred to in OT). Books of the Bible • None • The Apocrypha b.• Sanballat c. and Artaxerxes (465-424. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 138 years (539 – 400 BC) • Period begins with the release of the Jews from Babylon and ends with the Messianic prophecies from Malachi. Cambyses (530-522. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 400 years (400 BC – 6 BC): lasted from Malachi (last OT prophet) to the birth of Jesus • Silence from God (similar in nature. 597 (Ezekial). stops work on the Temple). • Restoration of the Feast of Tabernacles (Nehemiah 8:13-18) • The institution of the Feast of Purim (Esther 9:20-32) • This period included six Perisan kings: Cyrus the Great (539-530. allows work on the Temple to continue). and length of time to the 400 years of silence between Joseph (Genesis 50) and Moses (Exodus 1). and 445 (Nehemiah) BC. Moses would lead the Israelites out of the bondage of the Egyptians. Intertestamental Stage (400BC .6BC/a period of silence from God) a. Gospel Stage (6BC – 30AD) . Main Events • The Decree of Cyrus: releases Jews from captivity • The Construction of the Second Temple (Ezra 6): this was a rebuilding project that was completed in 515 BC • The Rebuilding of the Walls of Jerusalem • The Deliverance of the Jews in Persia 10. 536 (Zerubbabel). allows Ezra and Nehemiah to return). d. Main Events • Alexander the Great defeats the Persians 331 BC • Alexander the Great dies 323 BC • The translation of the Septuagint (Greek OT) 260 BC • The Great Wall of China begun 214 BC • Apocryphal literature completed 175 BC • Epiphanes defiles the Temple 169 BC • The revolt of the Maccabees 166 BC • The cleansing of the Temple 165 BC • Pompey conquers Jerusalem 63 BC • Julius Caesar is assassinated 44 BC • Herod is appointed governor of Jerusalem 37 BC • The rebuilding and enlargement of the Temple 20 BC B. Smerdis (522-520. • Three return trips correspond to three captivity trips: 606 (Daniel). conquers Babylon and issues return decree). while Jesus would lead the people out of the bondage of sin. Main People • Alexander the Great • Epiphanes • The Maccabees • Pompey • Julius Caesar • Herod c. and 586 (Zedekiah) BC. purpose. Issuance of the eighth covenant between God and man: the New Covenant—an everlasting. unconditional covenant imparting a renewed mind and heart to the recipients. five days later crucified as a criminal) • The Lord’s Supper • The Prayers of Christ (19 in all) • The Predictions of Christ (45 in all) • The Sermons of Christ (16 in all) • Our Savior’s Words (36 dialogues. and ascension of Jesus Christ • Joseph and Mary’s flight to Egypt • Wise men visit the Messiah • Jesus wilderness temptation • The birth and ministry of John the Baptist • Choosing of the 12 disciples • Cleansing of the Temple by Christ • Salvation of a Pharisee (Nicodemus) • Upper room events • Trials and death of Christ • Jesus teaching in the Temple • Introduction of the Lamb of God by John the Baptist • Baptism of Jesus Christ • Multitudes of miracles preformed by Jesus (36 recorded in all) • Sermon on the Mount • The Lord’s Prayer • Transfiguration of Christ • Raising of Lazarus from the dead • The Parables of Christ (38 in all) • Messiah’s triumphal entry (entered as a king. Main People • The Twelve Disciples • Mary and Joseph (Jesus’ parents—his biological birth mother and step father) • Mary and Martha • Pilate. Main Events • Birth. restored favor and blessing for Israel. Herod. the Son of the Living God .27a). 16 OT references. complete and final forgiveness and removal of sins. and 22 OT quotes) • Prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane • The crucifixion of Christ. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 36 years (6 BC – 30 AD) • Period begins with the birth of John the Baptist and ends with the ascension of • Christ. 37:26.a. a rebuilt temple in Israel (Ezek. d. and cessation of war and institution of world peace. indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Ananias • Barabbas • Two thieves on crosses • John the Baptist • Nicodemus • Lazarus • Mary Magdalene • Pharisees • Samaritan woman at the well • The woman caught in adultery c. death. Books of the Bible • Matthew • Mark • Luke • John b. resurrection. life. the sixth and seventh greatest men to have ever lived (Adam. and fellowship with Him. John the Baptist.• • • The resurrection of Christ Jesus prayer (John 17. comfort. David. Main People • Peter • Philip • Stephen • Paul • Barnabas • Silas • James c. Books of the Bible • Acts b. and • Paul)? Cities visited by Paul and their corresponding missionary journey: Paphos in Cyrus 1 Antioch in Pisidia 1. • The Holy Spirit comes and brings tremendous power. 2 Antioch in Syria 1 Troas 2. and martyrdom of Stephen (Acts 6-7) • The Church is persecuted and scattered. Peter. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 38 years (30 AD – 68 AD) • Period begins with the choosing of Matthias as a twelfth disciple to replace Judas Iscariot and ends with Paul preaching the Gospel in Rome. speech. 3 Philippi 2 Thessalonica 2 Berea 2 Athens 2 Corinth 2 Ephesus 2. Abraham. Main Events • Choosing of a twelfth disciple—Matthias (Acts 1) • Pentecost (Acts 2) • Peter’s simple sermon encouraging his listeners to repent and be saved. 2 Iconium 1 Lystra 1. which resulted in 3000 salvations in one day (Acts 2:41)! • The early Church spends tremendous amounts of time together (Acts 2:42 – 47) • The healing miracles of the Apostles • The persecutions of the Apostles • The persecutions of Paul • The choosing of the seven deacons (Acts 6) • The arrest. • The Holy Spirit fills both the Jew and Gentile heart • Where would the Church be without Peter and Paul. but survives (Acts 8) • Philip preaches and in his travels leads the Ethiopian eunuch to Christ (Acts 8) . Early Church Stage (30AD – 68AD) a. Moses. 3 Miletus 3 Tyre 3 Caesarea 3 d. second longest prayer in the Bible) Ascension of Christ to Heaven 2. c. Gentile. tall. He does the same today with those whose heart is bent toward Him and have a heart to obey and trust in Him. male and female) to accomplish His purposes and His will. Epistle Stage (48AD – 95AD) a. the list of authors above. Facts Concerning This Period • Period covers approximately 47 years (48 AD – 95 AD) . and eaten by worms (Acts 12) Barnabas and Saul are sent by the Holy Spirit—this is Paul’s first of three missionary journeys (Acts 13 . Festus. Main People • Paul. The important thing to remember here is that God used various people throughout history (Jew. short. where he remained approximately three years (Acts 19) Paul goes to Jerusalem and is arrested (Acts 21) Paul is transferred to Caesarea (Acts 23) Paul appears before Felix (Acts 24). and a host of other people we cannot name here. Barnabas takes Mark and Paul takes Silas—this is Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 15 – 18) Timothy joins Paul and Silas (Acts 16) The conversion of Lydia in Philippi (Acts 16) Paul and Silas are imprisoned. their dreams.15) Barnabas and Paul split up. they miraculously escape. Books of the Bible • Romans • 1 Corinthians • 2 Corinthians • Galatians • Ephesians • Philippians • Colossians • 1 Thessalonians • 2 Thessalonians • 1 Timothy • 2 Timothy • Titus • Philemon • Hebrews • James • 1 Peter • 2 Peter • 1 John • 2 John • 3 John • Revelation b.26) Paul sails for Rome and is shipwrecked on Malta where he performs many healing miracles (Acts 27 . and the purpose of it all (to show Peter that God’s grace extends to all people—both Jew and Gentile) Acts 10 The criticism of Peter from the Jews (Acts 11) The church in Antioch is established and Barnabas is sent to them (Acts 11) Peter miraculously escapes from prison (Acts 12) Herod is killed by an angel of the Lord. jailer is converted (Acts 16) Paul’ third missionary journey (Acts 18 – 21) Paul in Ephesus.• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Saul’s salvation—later became Paul (Acts 9) Paul’s commission from the Lord (Acts 9) Peter’s divine encounter with Cornelius. and King Agrippa (Acts 25 .28) Paul arrives and stays in Rome preaching from his rented house to all who would listen (Acts 28) 3. take root. sovereign. and produce spiritual fruit for the kingdom of God. Peter. He proposes His will and accomplishes it through those He chooses. leading Him to pour out wrath and punishment upon those who continually neglect. and long to please Him. under God’s inspiration. sprout. . • Five writers (Paul. kind. because it is for Him and for the hope of spiritual fruit being produced that it was created and made available to all. 22 letters. but remember that the main event in this period was the continuous preaching of the Gospel to the Gentiles. He wants nothing more than to communicate with His people and for them to love Him with all their heart. merciful. • C. He is also slow to anger but does get angry. loving.Period begins with Paul writing Galatians (? = some believe 1 Thessalonians) and ends with John writing Revelation around 95 AD. When they do. My prayer is that you will see what I have seen: that God is faithful. which I so much enjoyed putting together. they are those who love Him. John. believe in Him. Usually. and righteous. deny. He is gracious to abundantly bless and prosper those who do. longsuffering. May God receive all the glory for this paper. Jude) wrote. • Paul’s epistles in written order and the missionary journey or imprisonment at the time of the writing: Galatians 1st Missionary Journey 1 Thessalonians 2nd Missionary Journey 2 Thessalonians 2nd Missionary Journey 1 Corinthians 3rd Missionary Journey 2 Corinthians 3rd Missionary Journey Romans 3rd Missionary Journey Hebrews (? = unknown author) 3rd Missionary Journey Ephesians 1st Imprisonment Colossians 1st Imprisonment Philemon 1st Imprisonment Philippians 1st Imprisonment 1 Timothy 2nd Imprisonment Titus 2nd Imprisonment 2 Timothy 3rd Imprisonment d. jealous. Closing Comments It is my prayer and most heartfelt desire that this writing. holy. will fall on fertile ground. Main Events • Too numerous to mention. My prayer is that one of those people is you. something that has still to this day not fully been accomplished. or avoid Him. James. and that the early Church continued to grow despite unbelievable odds against them and the persecutions they endured for the cause of the Christ and the furtherance of the Gospel.