Books

The book of Matthew begins with the genealogy of Jesus Christ, followed by his birth, baptism, and temptation in the wilderness. Jesus then begins his ministry, preaching repentance and the kingdom of heaven, and calling his first disciples. He teaches about the characteristics of those who will inherit the kingdom of heaven, the importance of fulfilling the law, and the need to love one's enemies. Jesus also performs various miracles, including healing the sick, casting out demons, and feeding large crowds. He teaches about the dangers of hypocrisy, the importance of forgiveness, and the need to become humble like a child to enter the kingdom of heaven. Jesus predicts his own death and resurrection, and warns his disciples about the coming tribulation and the need to be prepared for his return. The book concludes with Jesus' betrayal, arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection, and his final instructions to his disciples to teach and baptize all nations in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Jesus' ministry began with his baptism by John the Baptist and his temptation in the wilderness. He then preached the gospel of the kingdom of God, calling his first disciples and performing various miracles, including healing a paralytic man, a man with a withered hand, and a blind man. Jesus also taught using parables, such as the parable of the sower, and explained that true defilement comes from within, not from external actions. He fed large crowds of people with minimal food, walked on water, and healed many others, including a Syrophenician woman's daughter and a deaf and mute man. Jesus predicted his own death and resurrection, and taught his disciples about the importance of humility and service. He was eventually betrayed by Judas, arrested, and crucified, but after his death, he was buried and then rose from the dead on the third day, appearing to his disciples and commissioning them to preach the gospel to all creatures.

Jesus' birth was announced by the angel Gabriel to the virgin Mary and to Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist. Jesus grew up, was baptized by John, and began his ministry, preaching the kingdom of God and performing miracles. He chose twelve apostles and taught them about the importance of love, forgiveness, and humility. Jesus also warned against hypocrisy, materialism, and the dangers of wealth, using parables to illustrate his points. He predicted his own death and resurrection, and was eventually arrested, tried, and crucified. After his death, Jesus was buried, but on the third day, he rose from the dead, appearing to his disciples and commissioning them to preach repentance and remission of sins in his name.

The book of John tells the story of Jesus' life, ministry, death, and resurrection. It begins with Jesus as the Word, who is God, and his creation of all things, and then describes his incarnation as a human being. Jesus gathers disciples, including Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael, and performs many miracles, including turning water into wine, healing a blind man, and raising Lazarus from the dead. Jesus teaches about the kingdom of God, the importance of faith, and the need for people to be born again. He also claims to be the door to salvation, the good shepherd, and the bread of life. As Jesus' popularity grows, the Pharisees and other Jewish leaders become increasingly hostile towards him, and eventually plot to kill him. Jesus is betrayed by Judas, arrested, and put on trial, where he is sentenced to death by crucifixion. After his death, Jesus is buried, but on the third day, he rises from the dead and appears to his disciples, giving them the Holy Spirit and instructing them to spread his teachings. The book concludes with Jesus' final appearances to his disciples, including a meal with them and instructions to Peter to feed his sheep.

The book of Acts begins with Jesus' ascension into heaven and the apostles' return to Jerusalem, where they prayed and chose a replacement for Judas. The Holy Spirit descended on the disciples on the day of Pentecost, and Peter preached about Jesus, resulting in the conversion of about 3,000 people. The apostles continued to perform miracles and preach about Jesus, leading to the growth of the church. However, they also faced persecution, and Stephen was stoned to death after delivering a speech about the history of Israel and the coming of Jesus. Saul, who had been persecuting the disciples, was converted on the road to Damascus and became a key figure in the spread of Christianity. The apostles, including Peter and Paul, traveled to various cities, preaching about Jesus and performing miracles, despite facing opposition and persecution. The church in Jerusalem sent a letter to the Gentile churches, stating that they did not need to be circumcised or keep the law of Moses to be saved. Paul and his companions traveled to various cities, preaching and establishing churches, and Paul was eventually arrested and put on trial, but he continued to preach about Jesus and was eventually sent to Rome, where he was allowed to live under house arrest and preach about the kingdom of God.

The book of Romans begins with Paul introducing himself and expressing his desire to visit the Romans, stating that the gospel is the power of God for salvation and that God's wrath is revealed against humanity's ungodliness. He explains that God's judgment is based on truth and that true circumcision is of the heart, not just outward physical appearance. Paul argues that all people, both Jews and Gentiles, are under sin and have fallen short of God's glory, but that God's righteousness is revealed through faith in Jesus Christ. He uses the example of Abraham to illustrate that faith is counted as righteousness, not works, and that this promise is available to all who have faith like Abraham's. Paul explains that believers have peace with God and access to His grace, and that Christ's death has reconciled believers to God. He also discusses the relationship between the law and sin, stating that believers are dead to the law through Christ's death and are now free to serve God in a new way. Paul expresses his sorrow for his fellow Israelites who have not accepted Christ and argues that God's election is not based on human works or merit, but rather on His sovereign will. He concludes by discussing the importance of living a life of love and harmony with one another, submitting to governing authorities, and not judging one another over matters of personal conviction.

The Corinthian church is rebuked for its divisions, immaturity, and toleration of sinful behaviors, including a man who has taken his father's wife. Paul emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and reverence, and instructs the church to resolve disputes among themselves rather than taking them to secular courts. He also addresses issues of marriage, food offered to idols, and the proper use of spiritual gifts, emphasizing that knowledge and gifts are not as important as love and humility. Paul defends his right to receive financial support but chooses not to exercise it, and uses the Israelites' experiences in the wilderness as examples for believers to avoid idolatry and other sinful behaviors. He also discusses the relationship between men and women in the church, the importance of unity during the Lord's Supper, and the value of charity and spiritual gifts. The book concludes with Paul's instructions on setting aside a collection for the saints and his plans to visit the Corinthians.

The apostle Paul writes to the Corinthian church, expressing gratitude for God's comfort in their tribulations and sharing his experience of suffering and consolation. He defends his integrity and sincerity in his ministry, stating that his word is reliable and consistent with God's promises. Paul urges the Corinthians to forgive a certain individual who caused grief and to comfort him, and he expresses his confidence in the Corinthians' obedience and sincerity in their faith. He explains that the power of the gospel is not from himself, but from God, and that his sufferings serve to manifest the life of Jesus in his body. Paul also emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving to those in need, and he commends the churches of Macedonia for their remarkable generosity. He defends his apostleship and ministry, pointing out that he has performed signs and wonders among the Corinthians, and he expresses his love for the Corinthians and his desire to edify them. Paul concludes by urging the Corinthians to examine themselves to see if they are truly in the faith and expressing his trust that they will recognize his own authenticity.

The apostle Paul writes to the churches of Galatia, expressing concern that they are turning away from the true gospel and towards the law. He shares his personal history, including his conversion through a revelation of Jesus Christ, and emphasizes that his gospel is from Christ, not men. Paul recounts his visit to Jerusalem, where he was given the right hands of fellowship to preach to the Gentiles, and confronts Peter for withdrawing from eating with Gentiles. The Galatians are rebuked for turning away from faith in Christ and towards the law, and Paul explains that Christ has redeemed believers from the curse of the law. He uses the allegory of Abraham's two sons to illustrate the two covenants, and asserts that believers are children of the promise, not of the bondwoman. Paul urges the Galatians to live by faith and walk in the Spirit, producing love, joy, and other virtues, and warns against returning to bondage by trying to follow the law. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of spiritual restoration, bearing one another's burdens, and fulfilling the law of Christ.

The book of Ephesians begins with Paul expressing gratitude for the faith of the saints at Ephesus and explaining that God chose them before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless. He explains that salvation is a gift from God, not earned through works, and that Gentiles are now brought near to God through the blood of Christ. Paul was given the task of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, revealing a mystery that was previously unknown, and he asks that the Ephesians be strengthened by God's Spirit. The book emphasizes the importance of unity and living a life worthy of one's calling, characterized by humility, meekness, and love, and highlights the diversity of gifts given by Christ to the church. Believers are called to walk in love, avoid sin, and live as children of light, and are given instructions on how to live in marriage, as children, servants, and masters. The book concludes with a request for prayer and the sending of Tychicus to inform the Ephesians of the author's affairs, and a call to be strong in the Lord and put on the armor of God to withstand spiritual attacks.

The book of Philippians is a letter from Paul expressing his gratitude to the Philippians for their partnership in the gospel and his confidence in God's continued work in them. He emphasizes the importance of unity, humility, and love among believers, encouraging them to have the same mind as Christ. Paul also warns against false teachers and trusting in one's own righteousness, instead emphasizing the importance of worshiping God in the spirit and rejoicing in Christ Jesus. Throughout the letter, Paul shares his own experiences and encourages the Philippians to stand firm in the Lord, rejoice in Him always, and make their requests known to God through prayer and thanksgiving. He also expresses gratitude for their care and generosity, assuring them that God will supply all their needs according to His riches in glory.

The book of Colossians begins with Paul expressing gratitude for the faith of the Colossians and praying for their spiritual growth, describing Jesus as the image of God and the head of the church. He warns them against deception by human traditions and philosophy, emphasizing that all wisdom and knowledge are found in Christ. Paul reminds them that they are complete in Christ and forgiven from sin, and cautions against being judged by others for their observance of rituals. He instructs believers to focus on heavenly things, put to death sinful behaviors, and live in harmony with one another, guided by the peace of God and the word of Christ. The book concludes with instructions for masters to treat their servants fairly, encouragement to continue in prayer and watchfulness, and greetings from fellow workers, with a final reminder to fulfill one's ministry and a personal salutation from Paul.

The apostle Paul expresses gratitude to God for the Thessalonian church's faith, labor of love, and patience in the Lord Jesus Christ, noting that their faith has spread throughout Macedonia and Achaia. Paul reminds the Thessalonians of his genuine ministry among them, preaching the gospel despite persecution and hardship, and expresses his longing to see them again. He sent Timothy to establish and comfort them in their faith, and was comforted by Timothy's report of their faith and charity. Paul exhorts the Thessalonians to live a life pleasing to God, abstaining from fornication and treating others with respect and honesty, and to increase in brotherly love. He comforts them regarding those who have died, assuring them that God will bring them with Him when He returns. Paul also warns the Thessalonians to be watchful and sober, living in faith, love, and hope, and to live in a way that is pleasing to God, abstaining from evil and being sanctified wholly.

The Thessalonians' faith and charity are growing despite persecution, which is a sign that they will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God. God will recompense those who trouble them and they will find rest when the Lord Jesus is revealed. However, before Christ's return, a great falling away from the faith will occur and the man of sin will be revealed, deceiving many with false signs and wonders. Believers are chosen by God for salvation and are called to stand firm in their faith. The apostle asks for prayer for the spread of the word of the Lord and for deliverance from wicked men, commanding the brethren to withdraw from disorderly brothers who do not follow tradition, and reminding them that those who are unwilling to work should not eat.

Paul writes to Timothy, his spiritual son, to correct false teachings and promote sound doctrine in Ephesus. He emphasizes the importance of love, a pure heart, and sincere faith, and notes that the law is for the lawless, not the righteous. Paul also provides instructions for worship, including the behavior of men and women in the church, and outlines the qualifications for bishops and deacons. He warns against departing from the faith and emphasizes the importance of nourishing oneself in the words of faith and good doctrine. The passage also provides guidance on how to treat various members of the church, including elders, widows, and servants, and emphasizes the importance of respecting church leaders and pursuing righteousness and godliness.

Paul expresses gratitude for Timothy's faith and reminds him to stir up the gift of God within him, not being ashamed of the gospel. He shares his own suffering for the gospel and asks Timothy to hold fast to sound words and keep the good thing committed to him by the Holy Ghost. Paul instructs Timothy to be strong in the grace of Christ, endure hardship, and strive lawfully, remembering Jesus Christ's resurrection and the power of the word of God. He warns of perilous times with self-centered individuals who deny the power of godliness, and emphasizes the importance of scripture for doctrine and instruction in righteousness. Paul charges Timothy to preach the word, reprove, and exhort, and reflects on his own life, stating he has fought a good fight and is ready to be offered, asking Timothy to come to him soon and warning him about Alexander the coppersmith.

Paul writes to Titus, instructing him to set things in order in Crete, including ordaining elders who are blameless and hold to sound doctrine. He warns Titus about unruly individuals and instructs him to rebuke them sharply. Paul also provides guidance on the behavior of aged men and women, young men, and servants, emphasizing the importance of living soberly, righteously, and godly. He reminds Titus that the grace of God teaches people to live in this manner, looking forward to the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ.

Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, writes to Philemon expressing gratitude for his faith and love, and asks him to receive Onesimus, a former servant who has become a brother in Christ, and to forgive any wrongs he may have committed, offering to repay any debt on his own account.

The book of Hebrews emphasizes the superiority of Jesus Christ over the angels and the old covenant, highlighting his role as the creator of the worlds, the heir of all things, and the express image of God's person. The author stresses the importance of paying attention to the message of salvation and warns against neglecting it, as Jesus' death and resurrection have destroyed the power of death and the devil. The book also explores the concept of rest, emphasizing that believers must hold fast to their hope and confidence in Christ to avoid being hardened by sin. The author critiques the recipients for being dull of hearing and needing to be taught again the first principles of God's oracles, urging them to move beyond the basics of the Christian faith and strive for spiritual maturity. The book also discusses the priesthood of Melchisedec and Jesus, highlighting the superiority of Jesus' priesthood and the new covenant he established. The author encourages believers to persevere in their faith, looking to Jesus as their example, and to pursue peace and holiness, serving God with reverence and godly fear.

The book of James emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity and growth through trials, and encourages believers to ask God for wisdom in faith. It warns against favoritism and emphasizes that faith without works is dead, citing examples of Abraham and Rahab. The book also stresses the power of the tongue and the need for true wisdom from above, characterized by purity, peace, and mercy. It notes that conflicts arise from worldly desires and encourages humility and submission to God's will. The book condemns the rich for their corruption and mistreatment of the poor, and encourages believers to be patient and wait for the Lord's return, living a righteous life through honesty, prayer, and confession of faults.

The book of 1 Peter is a letter to scattered believers, reminding them of their salvation through Jesus Christ and their inheritance reserved in heaven. They are exhorted to live holy lives, laying aside malice and vices, and instead desiring the pure word of God to grow spiritually. Believers are called to live honest lives, submit to authority, and honor all people, with the example of Christ's suffering as a model to follow. The letter also provides guidance on relationships, including marriage, and encourages believers to live in harmony with one another, not rendering evil for evil. It reminds them that following what is good and suffering for righteousness' sake is considered happy, and that they should be prepared to give an answer for the hope that is in them. The letter concludes with exhortations to elders to care for God's flock, to younger individuals to submit to their elders, and to all believers to cast their cares on God and resist the devil steadfastly in faith.

The apostle Peter writes to believers, emphasizing the importance of growing in faith through knowledge of God and Jesus Christ, and adding virtues such as virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. He warns of false teachers who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, denying the Lord and bringing destruction upon themselves, and reminds believers to recall the words of the prophets and the apostles, warning them of scoffers who will question the promise of Christ's return. Peter encourages believers to live holy lives, looking forward to the coming of the day of God, when the heavens and earth will be dissolved and replaced with new heavens and a new earth, and to be diligent to be found in peace, without spot, and blameless, continuing to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

The apostles declare their personal witness to the life of Jesus Christ and their fellowship with the Father and the Son, which they share with others to bring full joy. True fellowship with God requires walking in the light and acknowledging sin, which is forgiven and cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. The writer emphasizes the importance of not sinning, but if one does, Jesus Christ is the advocate with the Father, and true knowledge of God is demonstrated by keeping His word. The writer warns against loving the world and its desires, and against false teachers who deny Jesus Christ, while encouraging believers to abide in Christ and love one another, demonstrating the love of God by laying down one's life for others.

The elder expresses love for the elect lady and her children, greeting them with a blessing from God and Jesus Christ. He commends her children for walking in truth and exhorts her to continue loving one another as commanded. The elder warns against deceivers who deny Jesus Christ and advises against receiving or supporting those who do not bring the doctrine of Christ.

The writer expresses love and well-wishes for Gaius, commending his faithfulness and charity, while warning against Diotrephes who refuses to receive brethren and speaks maliciously. The writer encourages Gaius to follow what is good and commends Demetrius for his good report, before expressing a desire to see Gaius soon and greeting their friends.

Jude urges believers to defend their faith against ungodly men who have infiltrated the church, using God's grace as an excuse for immorality and denying Jesus Christ. He reminds them of God's past judgments on unbelievers, including the Israelites and angels, and warns against false teachers who speak evil and live immoral lives. Jude encourages believers to build their faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, and remain in God's love.

The book of Revelation begins with Jesus Christ giving John a vision of the events that will soon occur, including letters to the seven churches in Asia, commending their faithfulness and rebuking them for their shortcomings. The Lord then reveals a series of judgments upon the earth, including the opening of seven seals, the sounding of seven trumpets, and the pouring out of seven vials of God's wrath. The faithful are encouraged to remain steadfast and keep God's commandments, while the wicked are warned of the consequences of their actions. The book also describes the fall of Babylon, the rise of the beast and the false prophet, and the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ over evil. The final chapters describe the binding of Satan, the reign of Christ, the judgment of the dead, and the creation of a new heaven and a new earth, where God dwells with his people and there is no more suffering or death.