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Grace and Anger: Praying the Imprecatory Psalms

Reed Dunn
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Grace and Anger: Praying the Imprecatory Psalms

When I tell people that I use the Psalms as a prayerbook, their first question always has to do with the imprecatory psalms — the ones that ask God for vengeance. People doubt that we should pray them considering what Jesus says about loving our enemies. They also wonder if our prayers shouldn’t rise above the conflict that marks our age.

I believe the imprecatory psalms are exactly what we need to love this fallen world. In fact, I suggest that these angry prayers might just hold the key to living out the teachings of Jesus. If we are going to love like God, then we need all the prayers that he’s given.

To best understand this, we simply need to look at the author of some of those angry prayers. David’s life story is a masterclass in forgiveness, but his prayers often called for God’s judgment. We can hardly reconcile his angry prayers and his forgiving spirit; therefore, we must conclude that one enabled the other.

David and the Imprecatory Psalms

Many of David’s imprecatory psalms come from the time he spent on the run. His enemies chased him, tried to kill him, and stole his crown. Those were lonely times, when his closest friends either betrayed him or were used as bait. His greatest friend in those darkest moments wasn’t Jonathan or Joab; it was God. He told God everything. He could be honest with God, more honest than with any other person. That’s why the imprecatory psalms are so brazen and raw, because they are the unvarnished truth.

First Samuel 19 describes just how precarious David’s life was. After Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear, Saul sent men to see where David would flee. They staked out David’s home so they could catch him when he visited his wife (1 Samuel 19:11). From our vantage point, the story sounds almost comical, because David always seems one step ahead of Saul. However, it was different for David. He was pushed to the brink, and his prayers reflect that. In that moment, he prayed,

For the cursing and lies that they utter,
    consume them in wrath;
    consume them till they are no more,
that they may know that God rules over Jacob
    to the ends of the earth.
Each evening they come back,
    howling like dogs
    and prowling about the city.
— Psalm 59:12b-14 (ESV)

The first thing to notice is that David prayed this prayer against his fellow Israelites. When people object to praying the imprecatory psalms, they sometimes say that these are Old Testament prayers against other nations. The thinking is that Christians live in a different time, one marked by God’s love for everyone. But David prays Psalm 59 against God’s chosen people. In other words, these prayers didn’t spring from some Old Testament attitude towards evil, but the timeless experience of fear, anger, and pain.

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Another thing to notice is that David’s attitude in prayer didn’t keep him from loving those very same people. Saul’s commander, Abner, was one of David’s primary enemies. Abner probably directed Saul’s men to stake out David’s house and he accompanied Saul when he went hunting for David (1 Samuel 26:7). Once David finally took the throne, Abner staged a coup and started a civil war (2 Samuel 2:8f). He simply wouldn’t acknowledge David as king. Abner was probably a target of several imprecatory prayers, not just Psalm 59.

Yet, when Abner finally came around, David welcomed him with open arms. He even threw a banquet in his honor. In fact, there is never a point where David went after all those people who tried to kill him. He prayed for judgment, but didn’t seek it. David’s men weren’t so forgiving. David’s commander killed Abner. David, in turn, cursed his own commander and wept at Abner’s grave (2 Samuel 3:32).

David prayed one way but acted another. He didn’t have to keep his anger burning, because his prayers had cleaned the slate. He had asked God to destroy people like Abner, so judgment was now God’s business. Because of the imprecatory psalms, David was free.

Vengeance is the Lord’s

David’s experience foreshadows the words of Paul, who tells us not to avenge ourselves. “But leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord’” (Romans 12:19 ESV). Vengeance isn’t our job. We know that, of course, but what do we do with all those vengeful thoughts? I’ve found no better way to identify and release them than praying the imprecatory psalms.

David did this all the time. Ahithophel was David’s trusted counselor who betrayed him when Absalom rose to power. David didn’t send someone to kill Ahithophel, he only sent a friend to defeat his counsel to Absalom (2 Samuel 15:34). David showed restraint, but he prayed like a killer. Many scholars believe Psalm 55 had to do with Ahithophel. 

Let death steal over them;
    let them go down to Sheol alive;
    for evil is in their dwelling place and in their heart.
— Psalm 55:15 (ESV)

The same goes for Shimei, who hurled curses and rocks at David. Shimei was from the same tribe as Saul and loved seeing David humiliated. David’s men could hardly bear it. One offered, “Let me go over and take off his head” (2 Samuel 16:10). Again, David showed mercy. He even pardoned Shimei when he got the chance (2 Samuel 19:23). That’s the kind of thing Jesus would do, right? But David’s angriest prayer possibly had to do with Shimei.

He loved to curse; let curses come upon him!
    He did not delight in blessing; may it be far from him!
He clothed himself with cursing as his coat;
    may it soak into his body like water,
    like oil into his bones!
— Psalm 109:17-18 (ESV)

David hurled as many curses as Shimei, but the difference is that David did it in prayer. That’s the proper place to deal with our anger and our resentment. Meanwhile, David’s kindness bewildered his companions. At one point they complain, saying, “you love those who hate you and hate those who love you” (2 Samuel 19:6). Again, that sounds like Jesus. The imprecatory psalms are not contrary to the New Testament ethic, they simply ask for vengeance from the one who has the right to perform it.

The Most Honest Prayer

Then there’s Absalom. He ran David out of Jerusalem and slept with all his concubines (2 Samuel 16). It’s easy to imagine David’s pain at watching his son rebel. Every parent can imagine loving a lost child. But can you imagine praying against them like David did? Psalm 63 is a prayer he prayed while on the run from Absalom. It’s beautiful, but it strikes an imprecatory note at the end.

But those who seek to destroy my life
    shall go down into the depths of the earth;
they shall be given over to the power of the sword;
    they shall be a portion for jackals.
— Psalm 63:9-10 (ESV)

Let’s make this extra clear: David prayed an imprecatory psalm against his very own son. He told his men to deal gently with Absalom (2 Samuel 18:5), but asked God to drag him into the depths of the earth. And here we come to the heart of the matter: David asked God to do things to Absalom that he didn’t really want to happen.

This is honest prayer. It’s the kind of prayer you can only pray if you know that God is forgiving, and that he will act with justice and mercy. It’s the kind of request that a child would make to his father, when that child feels completely safe.

We might sneer at the imprecatory psalms because they seem primitive and unrefined, but I believe they are some of the most sophisticated prayers in the Bible. They are also the most gracious. These angry prayers coax out our deepest, unspeakable feelings. God provided them to help us articulate our most private thoughts.

Using the Imprecatory Psalms

I started praying the Psalms because I was sick of my normal, shallow prayers. On a whim, I thought the Psalms could provide some depth. I had no idea how things would change — how I would change.

The imprecatory psalms recruited me to join the cosmic fight between good and evil. They reshaped how I perceived the world and engaged my heart in the struggle. Before praying the Psalms, I enjoyed my spot on the sidelines, observing the war that Christ waged. The imprecatory psalms got me off the sidelines and put me right in the middle of the action.

First, the imprecatory psalms have taught me how to pray against sin. I regularly use these prayers to pray against my sinful flesh. My flesh whispers lies, tries to control me, and seeks to destroy the work of God in me. It acts just like the evil people in the psalter. The New Testament is clear that we are at war with our flesh (Gal 5:17-18; 1Pet 2:7), and the imprecatory psalms may be our greatest ammunition. But it doesn’t stop there. We can actually use these prayers as intercession. I sometimes pray the imprecatory psalms against the sinful flesh of the people that I love. As strange as that sounds, it helps me love them more.

Imagine your friend or spouse is spiraling. Intercede for them with the imprecatory psalms and your perspective will change. You will see them as the victim of their sinful flesh. You will pray against their flesh that lies and controls, and you will help them fight with your prayer. I’ve seen these prayers be part of what heals a broken marriage.

Second, I pray these prayers against people who are doing evil things, whether it be world powers or a neighbor down the street. These prayers give words to those thoughts we are already thinking, but they lay the problem at the feet of the very one who can do something about it.

Lastly, and most obviously, I pray these psalms against the devil. If you are like me, you forget how evil true evil is. These prayers remind us that we aren’t just here to make a decent living and have a nice family. God is on the move and his church has a role in the fight (Revelation 12:11).

Grace and Anger

Praying the Psalms is an ancient practice that the modern Protestant Church has largely forgotten. Praying the Psalms means praying words that were designed by the very hand of God. He gave us these words to shape our spirituality. It’s no surprise, then, that neglecting them leaves us lacking. Too many times, we pray gentle prayers, while struggling with violent thoughts. Too many times, we use social media to let off steam, believing our prayers should be “godly.”

We live in an angry, combative time. Thankfully, God has given us prayers that are just as angry, and just as combative. Let’s use them. Let’s cry out to the Lord while the rest of the world shouts at each other.

The imprecatory psalms show us that prayer is the proper place to scream. If the imprecatory psalms teach us anything, they teach us that God can handle everything we can throw at him. They teach grace at a guttural level. There is nothing we need to hide, and nothing we need to clean. We can pray things we aren’t even sure we want to happen!

For that reason, the imprecatory psalms are liberating. Grace always is.

Cover of "When You Don't Have the Words" by Reed Dunn

With the Psalms, We Always Have Words to Pray

God wants to hear from us. So he gave us the Psalms.

In When You Don’t Have the Words: Praying the Psalms, Reed S. Dunn shows how the Psalms enrich our prayer lives. Dunn gives a deeply practical guide, relating to the challenges we face with praying the Psalms, and highlighting how they can reshape and enliven our prayer.

‘He Died for All’: Atonement Through Jesus Christ’s Death in 2 Corinthians 5

David E. Garland
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‘He Died for All’: Atonement Through Jesus Christ’s Death in 2 Corinthians 5

The psalmist says that God is “full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth” (Ps 86:15 KJV). For Paul, the supreme example of God’s mercy is not counting our sins against us (2 Cor 5:19) but acting through Christ’s death to redeem us and to create the opportunity for reconciliation with him.

God is not like the easily riled, vindictive deities that people tried to mollify with sacrifices. No sacrifice we might offer, however, could suffice to placate God’s holy wrath against sin. Thankfully, Christ is the sacrifice that humans could not offer themselves.

God’s grace is something that God has done for us through Christ.

It was God, not us, who “presented” Christ “as a sacrifice of atonement” (Rom 3:25–26; see Rom 5:6–10; 2 Cor 5:18–19, 21). What Paul writes in 2 Cor 5:14–21 is a majestic summary of this atoning sacrifice. He says three times (emphases mine) that “one [Christ] died for all” (5:14b); “he died for all,” defined as “those who [now] live” (5:15a); and he “died for them and was raised again” (5:15b).

The Threefold Significance of the Greek Preposition ‘Hyper’ in 2 Corinthians 5

The Greek preposition translated as “for” (hyper) can also mean “in place of,” “as a representative of,” or “for the benefit of” (“in the interest of”). Must one choose only one meaning for this preposition? It is possible that Paul “plays with the meaning” and “shifts back and forth between” the three meanings.[1]

1. Substitutionary Significance

First, the phrase that “one died for all” (5:14b) has a substitutionary significance. Christ died in place of all. Paul’s conclusion in 5:21, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for [hyper] us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God,” highlights this interchange in Christ (see also Gal 2:20; 3:13).[2] Christ has done something for others and had done it in their stead “to produce a salvific effect.”[3]

He died a death under the divine wrath that sinners deserve.[4]

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This interchange “is achieved, on the one hand, by Christ’s solidarity with mankind, on the other, by our solidarity with Christ.”[5] Why does God not just forgive sin and leave it at that? G. B. Caird answers, “To forgive sin by fiat would be to ignore it, to treat it as though it did not exist; like cancelling traffic offences by abolishing the rules of the road.”[6]

It is important to recognize that “Divine retribution for sin is real, and humans had better not discount the reality of God’s wrath against sin.”[7] But God does not just avert wrath through Christ’s becoming a sin offering; God also offers to restore a broken relationship caused by human sin.

God did not create the problem, “as if God were a cruel tyrant from whom humans rebelled. Human sinfulness created the problem, and this sinful condition had to be dealt with before there could be any reconciliation.”[8] In this case, God, the injured party, took action to resolve the falling out. The forgiveness of sins required Jesus to stand in for sinners to spare them from facing the supreme penalty for their rebellion against God. Christ’s vicarious sacrifice wipes the slate clean and paves the way for reconciliation with God.

2. Representative Significance

Second, Christ’s death has a representative significance. For instance, in 2 Cor 5:20 the preposition hyper has a representative sense. As Christ’s ambassador, Paul implores the Corinthians on Christ’s behalf (hyper), that is, as Christ’s representative.

The statement in 5:14c, “therefore all died,” also suggests this representative sense.[9] Moyer Hubbard reasons, “A substitute dies so that others do not, whereas a representative embodies the community as its delegate and so includes others in his/her sacrificial act (see Heb 7:9–10).”[10]

Hubbard continues: “Describing Christ as a representative whose story somehow affects the whole of humanity, the submerged analogy of Adam-Christ again becomes visible. First Corinthians 15:22 confirms this connection: ‘In Adam all die; in Christ all will be made alive’” (see also Rom 5:12–20).[11]

Udo Schnelle explains how this could be: “Because Christ is in no way affected by the realm where sin is dominant, he can represent us in becoming sin, in order thereby to effect our incorporation into the realm where he is Lord.”[12]

3. Beneficial Significance

Third, Christ’s death also is “for the benefit of” believers. Paul speaks of our resurrection earlier in chapter 5 (vv. 1–5) and contends elsewhere that Christ “was raised to life for our justification” (Rom 4:25) so that “we too may live a new life” (Rom 6:4).

Christ’s resurrection breaks the calamitous interconnection between sin and death that menaces humanity. Thus, all three connotations of the preposition hyper express what Paul understands Christ’s death for us means.

Obtaining Justice, Bestowing Uprightness

Paul concludes this unit in 2 Cor 5:21 by describing a mysterious exchange. Christ, who was sinless, is bonded to our sin and condemned as if he were a sinner. Being “in Christ” (5:17) bonds believers, who have no righteousness in themselves, to his righteousness. They “become the righteousness (dikaiosyne) of God” (5:21).

The word translated as “righteousness” can refer to “justice” — giving out rewards or punishments that a person is due — and to a person’s right standing before God. Paul knits the two meanings of this noun together: God obtained justice on the cross and gave believers the gift of uprightness.

What Paul says in 5:21 encapsulates what he affirms more fully in Rom 3:25–26: “God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood — to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished — he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.”[13]

The language of “righteousness” recurs throughout 2 Corinthians (3:9; 6:7, 14; 9:9-10; 11:15), and Isaiah’s use of “righteousness” (the root zedek appears eighty-one times in Isaiah) helps clarify what Paul means in this context. Paul appropriated from his theological reading of Isaiah, particularly Isa 46:13 and 51:5-8, the idea that the righteousness of God refers to “not counting people’s sins against them” (5:19). Christ’s becoming sin for us resulted in God blotting out our sins in the same way that Christ’s death for us swallowed up death and gave us the promise of resurrection (1 Cor 15:54; see Isa 25:8).

It is important to clarify the meaning that Christ’s death is “for all” in 5:14–15. It is potentially beneficial for all. However, it is only operative for those who “live by faith, not by sight” (5:7), who believe that Christ died for them and that God raised him from the dead, and who “no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them” (5:15). Those who reject the gospel are perishing (2:15–16).

Reconciliation With God Through Jesus Christ’s Death

Paul’s statement that as part of the process of reconciliation God did not count “people’s sins against them” assumes that human sin shatters the relationship with God. That relationship needs mending — but given our weak, sinful, and rebellious condition we can do nothing to restore that relationship on our own. We might make attempts to do so through sanctimonious supplications (contrast 2 Macc 1:5; 8:29), repeated attempts at repentance, and recurrent sacrificial offerings, but they are all futile. Paul’s assertion that “God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself” (2 Cor 5:19 ASV) means that God took the initiative in restoring the relation through what God did in Christ.

This concept would have been theologically stunning in Paul’s Hellenistic context. Instead of being on the receiving end of a sacrifice, God chose to be the sacrifice.[14] This reconciliation does not placate God’s enmity; it seeks to overcome our enmity through God’s sacrificial act of love (Rom 5:8).

Furthermore, this is not a matter of the divine judge letting us off the hook and wiping the slate clean. The divine judge is the One whom we have sinned against, and he does far more than forgiving our trespasses and letting us start again. Indeed, God offers himself to us in friendship through Christ and gives us the power to start again through the Holy Spirit.

God drew near to us through Christ and was involved in Christ’s death to create the possibility for “the world” (5:19) to enter an intimate relationship with God. “The world” (kosmos) does not refer to the cosmos in this context but to humankind (Rom 3:6, 19; 11:12). In this case it denotes ungodly, sinful humanity.

Cover of "2 Corinthians" commentary by David E. Garland

Adapted from David E. Garland’s 2 Corinthians, volume 8 in the New Word Biblical Themes series.

Theologians have not often mined 2 Corinthians for its theological gemstones, but careful reading of the letter uncovers significant, profound doctrinal insights into the Trinity, atonement, reconciliation, being in Christ, cruciform ministry, and the hope of the resurrection.

Footnotes

[1] Reimund Bieringer, “Dying and Being Raised For: Shifts in the Meaning of hyper in 2 Cor 5:14–15,” in Theologizing in the Corinthian Conflict: Studies in the Exegesis and Theology of 2 Corinthians, ed. Reimund Bieringer, Ma. Marilou S. Ibita, Dominika A. Kurek-Chomycz, and Thomas A. Vollmer, BTS 16 (Leuven, Belgium: Peeters, 2013), 175.

[2] See Morna D. Hooker, “Interchange and Atonement,” BJRL 60 (1978): 462–81, and Morna D. Hooker, “On Becoming the Righteousness of God: Another Look at 2 Cor 5:21,” NovT 50 (2008): 358–75.

[3] Udo Schnelle, Theology of the New Testament, trans. M. Eugene Boring (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2007), 249. Emphasis original.

[4] Rudolf Bultmann (The Second Letter to the Corinthians, trans. Roy A. Harrisville [Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1985], 165) argues, “The meaning is, just as believers are ‘just’ because God regards (‘reckons’) and treats them as such, though they are sinners, so Christ is regarded and treated by God as sinner . . . though he is sinless.”

The abundance of allusions to Isaiah in the context suggests that Paul paraphrases Isa 53:10, “Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand.” See B. J. Oropeza, “Reconciliation in ‘Light’ of Isaiah 8:22–9:7: Confirming Isaianic Influence on Paul’s Use of καταλλαγή in 2 Corinthians 5:17–21,” in Scriptures, Texts, and Tracings in 2 Corinthians and Philippians, ed. A. Andrew Das and B. J. Oropeza (Lanham / Boulder /New York / London: Lexington Books / Fortress Academic, 2022), 85–106.

[5] Hooker, “Interchange and Atonement,” 463.

[6] G. B. Caird, Theology of the New Testament, ed. L. D. Hurst (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1994), 146.

[7] David E. Garland, Romans: An Introduction and Commentary, TNTC (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2021), 149.

[8] David E. Garland, 2 Corinthians, CSC (Nashville: Holman Reference, 2021), 324.

[9] They do not literally die but are dead to sin when they are made alive in Christ and live for Christ. They no longer live for themselves, since living for oneself is the essence of sinning.

[10] Moyer V. Hubbard, “2 Corinthians,” in A Biblical Theology of the Holy Spirit, ed. Trevor J. Burke and Keith Warrington (London: SPCK, 2014), 172.

[11] Hubbard, “2 Corinthians,” 172.

[12] Schnelle, Theology of the New Testament, 255.

[13] Charles Lee Irons, “The Isaianic Judicial Background of ‘The Righteousness of God’ in 2 Cor 5:21,” in Scriptures, Texts, and Tracings in 2 Corinthians and Philippians, ed. A. Andrew Das and B. J. Oropeza (Lanham / Boulder /New York / London: Lexington Books / Fortress Academic, 2022), 107–20.

[14] Thomas C. Oden, The Word of Life: Systematic Theology: Volume Two (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1989), 370.

July 2025 Bible News Roundup

Bible Gateway
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July 2025 Bible News Roundup

Here it is, your source for all the latest Bible-related and Bible-adjacent news from the month of June 2025 — from archaeological discoveries and academic research to cultural events and conversations, developments in the global church, and more.

Week of July 26

  • August 1 — The Vatican has partnered with Italy to transform a 1,000-acre site near Rome into a solar farm, aiming to become the world’s first carbon-neutral state. The project, pending Italian parliamentary approval, will cost under €100 million and generate enough electricity for the entire state, with excess power benefiting the local community. The agreement ensures minimal environmental impact and preserves agricultural use of the land. (RNS)
  • August 1 — Spurgeon’s College, a historic Baptist institution in the UK founded in 1856 by Charles Spurgeon, announced its immediate closure due to “significant” financial challenges and declining student enrollment. Despite securing funding earlier this year, the sudden termination of financial support on July 21, 2025, left the college unable to sustain operations. Trustees expressed both grief and gratitude for the college’s legacy, and requested prayers for students and staff. (Christian Today)
  • August 1 — The Arise Leadership Summit 2025 concluded in Jakarta, Indonesia, with nearly 300 participants from 22 countries uniting to strategize the future of missions around guiding principles of Mindset, Mentorship, Modeling, Missional Living, and Mobilization. Leaders emphasized intergenerational collaboration, grassroots discipleship, sustainable mission ecosystems, and collective ownership. The summit was framed as a “commissioning,” not an endpoint, and will resume in Bangkok in 2026. (Christian Daily)
  • July 31 — A rare bronze coin from the Second Temple era, inscribed with “For the Redemption of Zion,” was discovered near the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, days before Tisha B’av, the annual Jewish commemoration of the destruction of the First and Second Temples. Minted just before Jerusalem’s fall (69-70 AD), the coin reflects the Jewish rebels’ shift from seeking “freedom” to yearning for “redemption.” Featuring a goblet, a lulav, and two etrogs, the coin symbolizes hope and connection to the Sukkot festival. (Jerusalem Post)
  • July 31 — Brent Leatherwood has resigned as president of the Southern Baptist Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC). His nine-year tenure included pro-life and religious liberty advocacy, while also earning criticism for stances on immigration and guns. Recently, 43% of SBC members sought to disband the ERLC. Yet trustees praised his Scripture-rooted integrity, conviction, and kindness. ERLC VP Miles Mullin will serve as acting president during the search for Leatherwood’s replacement. (Baptist Press and Christianity Today)
  • July 31 — Pope Leo XIV approved the declaration of St. John Henry Newman as 38th Doctor of the Church in recognition of his theological contributions and spiritual legacy. Newman, a 19th-century English cardinal, was a key figure in ecumenism and a prolific writer, known for works like Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine. Canonized in 2019, Newman’s motto, Cor ad cor loquitur (“Heart speaks to heart”), encapsulates his emphasis on personal faith and prayerful dialogue with God. (Vatican News)
  • July 30 — An ancient clay seal, inscribed with “Belonging to Yedayah (son of) Asayahu,” was discovered by the Temple Mount Sifting Project in Jerusalem. Dating to the late First Temple period (7th–6th century BC), the seal may link to King Josiah’s era, when a sacred scroll was found during Temple repairs. The seal, likely used by a high-ranking official, features a fingerprint and suggests its owner was involved in Temple or royal administration. (Jerusalem Post)
  • July 30 — A Pew Research Center report found a small decline in Christian-majority countries, dropping from 124 in 2010 to 120 in 2020. The shift is driven by rising religious disaffiliation, particularly in nations like the UK, Australia, France, and Uruguay. Globally, Christians remain the majority in 60% of countries but represent only 29% of the world’s population. Meanwhile, religiously unaffiliated majorities increased from seven to ten countries. (Pew Research Center)
  • July 30 — A first-century AD stone mug with cryptic inscriptions, discovered in Mount Zion, Jerusalem during a 2009 excavation, has finally been deciphered. The mug, found in a lavish home with a ritual bath, features approximately 100 letters resembling scripts from the Dead Sea Scrolls, with phrases like “Adonai, shabti” (“Lord, I have returned”). Scholars propose the mug was used for transporting water to the home’s mikveh, with the inscriptions serving as incantations or mnemonic aids for rituals. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
  • July 30 — A study by the Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life shows UK Christians experience greater mental and emotional well-being than non-believers. More Christians report having “few regrets” (41% vs. 26% of non-believers), feeling less overwhelmed (49% vs. 37%), and maintaining positivity during tough times (78% vs. 69%). Regular churchgoers showed even lower anxiety and despair levels. (Christian Today)
  • July 29 — Public trust in the church in the U.S. has risen to 36%, its first significant increase since 2020, according to Gallup. The rise is most notable among Republicans (from 49% to 64%) and younger Americans (18-37), from 26% to 32%. Despite the improvement, the church still ranks below institutions like small businesses and the military in public trust. Gallup notes that trust often aligns with political affiliation rather than institutional performance. (Christian Daily)
  • July 28 — A 5,500-year-old Canaanite blade workshop was discovered at Nahal Qomem near Kiryat Gat, Israel, the first intact site of its kind. The Early Bronze Age site contains hundreds of flint blades and cores, used primarily for agricultural tasks, as well as pits for food storage and a cache of unused blades, possibly a ritual offering. Excavations continue to explore the workshop’s regional significance. (Times of Israel)
  • July 28 — In 2025, Bible use among Americans rose to 41% of the population, with Millennials leading the increase (39%, up from 30% in 2024). Scripture engagement, which measures the Bible’s impact on decision-making and relationships, also saw its first rise since 2021, driven by Gen Z and Millennials. Most Americans (77%) own a Bible, and 66% access it digitally. Over half (51%) believe the Bible is inspired, but they disagree on how it should be interpreted. (Lifeway Research)
  • July 28 — Nearly 40 people were killed in a midnight attack on a Catholic church in eastern Congo. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamic State-backed rebel group, targeted worshipers during a vigil, killing 38 in the church, including nine children, and another five in a nearby village. The Congolese government condemned the attack, while the UN warned it worsens the region’s dire humanitarian crisis. (AP News)
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Week of July 20

  • July 25 — File under “swords into plowshares” (Is. 2:4): In Colombia, the National Coordinator of the Bolivarian Army (CNEB) has agreed to hand over 13.5 tons of weapons to the government for destruction by controlled detonation, facilitated by the Catholic Church and the United Nations. The agreement, signed on July 19, 2025, aims to build trust and address community concerns in conflict-affected regions following CNEB’s rejection of the 2016 Peace Agreement. (Catholic News Agency)
  • July 25 — The 2025 Black Church Leadership and Family Conference, held July 21–25 at Ridgecrest Conference Center, drew over 700 attendees for worship, Bible study, and 70 breakout sessions. Themed “Pursue the Prize” (Phil. 3:12-14), keynote speakers included Bartholomew Orr and Kerwin Lee, while sessions covered topics like AI in ministry and gender-specific challenges. (Baptist Press)
  • July 23 — Bible translation efforts are experiencing a transformative shift as global churches and translation organizations collaborate to bring Scripture to all languages. Decades of foundational work by organizations are now converging with the passion and cultural insight of local church leaders. This partnership is producing remarkable results, as seen in regions where pastors, inspired by personal faith journeys, are engaging their communities in translation efforts. (Christian Daily)
  • July 23 — The 129th Allianzkonferenz, Germany’s oldest Bible conference, will be held from July 30 to August 3, 2025 in Thuringia. Organized by the German Evangelical Alliance, the event focuses on the theme “Focus Jesus,” centered on the book of Colossians. Over 40 workshops will address topics like politics and pastoral care, alongside a family festival. Founded in 1886 by Anna von Weling, the conference emphasizes prayer, Bible study, unity, and evangelism. (Christian Daily)
  • July 23 — The Bible often uses “creative, succinct ways” such as nicknames and metaphors “to add color, character, and meaning” to the story, such as David’s descriptions of God as a “rock” and “shield” (Ps 18:2) and himself as God’s “turtledove” (Ps 74:19). Names often carry layered meanings, such as Deborah (“bee”) and Cushan-Rishathaim (likely “doubly wicked,” Jg 3:8), while metaphors like “crown of splendor” and “royal diadem” (Is 62:2–4) highlight Zion’s transformation. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
  • July 23 — U.S. Protestant pastors face unique challenges across traditions. Mainline pastors more often change churches, and are less likely to feel overwhelmed by ministry. Evangelical pastors report much less conflict over politics but instead face challenges when they propose changes. Black Protestant pastors feel especially high expectations, but experience less overall conflict. Among all groups, though, very few leave the pastorate altogether except to retire. (Lifeway Research)
  • July 22 — In Mozambique, solar-powered audio Bibles are transforming remote communities by providing access to Scripture in local languages. Distributed by Iris Global, led by missionaries Rolland and Heidi Baker, these devices are vital for areas with limited literacy, electricity, or infrastructure. The durable, portable Bibles allow even the most marginalized to hear God’s Word, fostering spiritual growth and hope in remote regions around the globe. (Religion Unplugged)
  • July 21 — The recent Israel-Iran conflict has disrupted biblical archaeology efforts, halting excavations across Israel during the peak dig season. Teams at sites like Tel Shikhin and Caesarea Maritima were forced to evacuate, while others, like Tel Shimron, canceled plans entirely. Some scholars are using this unexpected pause to analyze and publish findings from previous digs. Meanwhile, limited excavations continue with local teams in safer areas. (Christianity Today)
  • July 21 — Minno, a Christian streaming platform for children, is launching the first-ever American Sign Language (ASL) Bible series for kids, starting August 8, 2025. Partnering with Bridge Multimedia, the ASL adaptation of Laugh and Grow Bible for Kids aims to make the Gospel accessible to deaf children. Minno is also expanding its Spanish and Portuguese content, including a new bilingual preschool series, Guillermo & Will. (Christian Daily)

Week of July 13

  • July 18 — Often overlooked or misunderstood, the Song of Solomon offers profound spiritual insights beyond its celebration of marital love. The book was historically cherished by figures like Charles Spurgeon and Jonathan Edwards, who argued that it symbolizes the love between Christ and his church. By reading it through a Christ-centered lens, believers can deepen their understanding of divine love. (The Gospel Coalition)
  • July 18 — Recent research by Youth for Christ, the latest in the ongoing conversation around the “Quiet Revival” in the UK (see July 5 below), suggests growing spiritual interest among young people in the UK, with 52% identifying as Christian and 35% as followers of Jesus — a 12% increase over five years. The study highlights the openness of Gen Alpha (ages 11-18) to faith, with 53% willing to attend church if invited by a friend. (Christian Today)
  • July 17 — Bible-based TV continues to be having a moment. Currently streaming on Angel Studios, Testament sets the Book of Acts in a dystopian, modern Britain, blending ancient themes with contemporary visuals and emotional depth. Meanwhile, FOX’s The Faithful, which will premiere on Hulu next March, focuses on the women of Genesis, with Minnie Driver starring as Sarah in a drama exploring love, faith, and family. (Christianity Today and RELEVANT)
  • July 17 — On July 13, 92 individuals publicly declared their faith in Jesus through a mass baptism at Bournemouth Beach, England. Organized by five local churches, the event included worship, testimonies, and celebrations, drawing hundreds of onlookers. Participants shared powerful stories of transformation, including Hope, who found peace in Christ after a life of anxiety, and Jack, a former atheist moved by the evidence of Jesus’ life and sacrifice. (Christian Daily)
  • July 16 — The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) has launched the Acts 2 Movement, a global initiative aimed at uniting Baptists worldwide to advance mission, evangelism, and justice in preparation for the 2,000th anniversary of Pentecost in 2033. Announced at the 23rd Baptist World Congress in Australia, the movement focuses on five paths: Bible engagement, witness, care, neighborly outreach, and religious freedom (Christianity Daily)
  • July 16 — After six Americans were detained in South Korea for attempting to send Bibles, rice, and USB drives to North Korea via bottles launched into the sea, Christian groups have raised concerns that the incident could backfire, hindering efforts to reach North Koreans. While some organizations, like Voice of the Martyrs Korea, continue discreet Bible distribution, others urge more strategic collaboration with underground North Korean Christians. (Christianity Today)
  • July 15 — Is the Bible the “most dangerous book in the world“? A common target of authoritarian regimes, the Bible remains banned or restricted in 52 nations due to its transformative power. Open Doors, celebrating its 70th anniversary, reflects on the risks Christians take to access Scripture, from Soviet-era smuggling to modern digital distribution. In countries like North Korea and China, owning a Bible can lead to severe punishment, yet believers continue to treasure it as a source of life and hope. (Christian Today)
  • July 15 — Amid a ceasefire with Israel, Iran has intensified its persecution of Christians, arresting at least 21 believers and targeting house churches, according to Article 18. Converts from Islam face heightened scrutiny, with authorities accusing underground churches of Western ties. Religious freedom advocates highlight the regime’s broader crackdown on minorities, including forced Islamic indoctrination for Christian children. (Baptist Press)
  • July 14 — Archaeologists in Jordan have uncovered the ancient Christian settlement of Tharais. Guided by the ancient Madaba Map, the researchers located the remains of the Byzantine settlement, which had been abandoned by the 7th century due to trade shifts, earthquakes, and Islamic expansion. The discovery includes a basilica-style church with mosaic floors, an olive oil press, and inscriptions linked to Christian funerary practices. (Jerusalem Post)
  • July 14 — John MacArthur, beloved and influential pastor of Grace Community Church and voice of the “Grace to You” radio ministry, died age 86 of pneumonia. Renowned for his expository preaching and prolific writing, including the best-selling MacArthur Study Bible, he also drew controversy for his stances on gender roles, charismatic movements, and social justice. Yet the global impact of his decades-long ministry helped shape evangelicalism, and his passing marks the end of an era both celebrated and polarizing in American Christianity. (Christianity Today and RNS)
  • July 14 — A 2,000-year-old shipwreck was discovered off Adrasan, Turkey, containing hundreds of well-preserved ceramics still arranged in their original rows. Found 130 feet underwater, the cargo was protected by unbaked clay coatings, providing unprecedented insight into ancient shipping logistics around the time of Jesus’ birth. The artifacts will be displayed in Turkey’s upcoming Mediterranean Underwater Archaeology Museum. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
  • July 13 — Renowned New Testament scholar N.T. Wright challenged the common belief that early Christians, including Jesus and Paul, expected the world to end within a generation. Speaking on his podcast, Wright clarified that references to events “within a generation” in the NT pertain to the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD, not the end of the world. Quoting 2 Peter 3:8, Wright emphasized that early Christians anticipated a future renewal of creation by God. (Christianity Daily)

Week of July 6

  • July 11 — The latest chapter of the American Bible Society’s 2025 “State of the Bible” report affirms that reading Scripture surpasses common self-care activities like exercise, meditation, and socializing in reducing stress, anxiety, and loneliness while boosting hope. Those who volunteered in their local communities “put up the most positive numbers,” the researchers wrote. Additionally, 94% of daily readers felt reassured of God’s care during hardships. (Baptist Press and American Bible Society)
  • July 11 — A practice run of the ancient red heifer purification ceremony, described in Numbers 19, was held on July 1 in northern Israel. Organized by Rabbi Yitzchak Mamo and funded by Texas businessman Byron Stinson, the ritual involved burning a blemish-free red heifer, a step some believe could pave the way for rebuilding a Jewish temple in Jerusalem. The ceremony, tied to biblical prophecy (Rev. 11), aims to purify people in preparation for future sacrificial events. (RNS)
  • July 11 — The Catholic Church took 17 days to elect a new Pope — so why is the Church of England taking over a year to select a new Archbishop of Canterbury? Electors and candidates must confront major controversies such as whether to appoint the first female archbishop and how to handle same-sex marriage and abuse scandals. Many argue the role, which demands balancing spiritual leadership, state duties, and uniting a fractured church, has “become impossible.” (The Guardian)
  • July 10 — Christian leaders representing 80% of Australian church members are gathering in Brisbane for the Australian Evangelism Roundtable on July 11–12. Organized by the Baptist World Alliance, GO Movement, and Finishing the Task, the event aims to unite denominations for national evangelism. With Australia’s Christian population declining from 96.1% in 1901 to 44% in 2021, leaders see this as a “Kairos moment” for Australian revival. (Christian Daily)
  • June 9 — Nazareth, Jesus’ hometown, was a small fishing village in his day. Now, it is a diverse, multi-faith city of 80,000 — but its streets remain dense with biblical history. Sites include the Basilica of the Annunciation (Lk 1:26–38), and St. Joseph’s Church, once a carpenter’s shop. Visitors can also explore a recreated first-century settlement and landmarks like Mt. Precipice (Lk 4:28–30) and follow Christ’s footsteps on the Jesus Trail. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
  • June 9 — In 1999, U.S. Navy officer John Meyer single-handedly coded the Catholic Catechism into HTML, making it accessible online — a fact that only became known last month thanks to a viral Facebook post that begins, “You can just do things.” Frustrated by the lack of digital resources, Meyer scanned and meticulously digitized the Catechism over nine months, working evenings and weekends. He eventually received Vatican approval, and his work became a global resource. (Aleteia)
  • July 8 — It can be easy to lose sight of the good things happening around the world amid the regular news cycle. Gen Z’s faith is growing, with Bible engagement among men up 19% last year. Over a dozen African nations have eradicated local diseases, benefiting 1.6 billion people. Global extreme poverty hit a record low of 8% in 2024. Coral reefs are showing signs of recovery. And U.S. recidivism rates improved, with 62% of 2012 prison releases staying out after five years. (RELEVANT)
  • July 8 — Erton Köhler was elected the first South American president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, a global Protestant denomination with 23 million members across 200 countries. Köhler emphasized unity amidst political polarization and aims to engage youth, expand women’s leadership, and leverage technology for outreach. Known for promoting healthy living, Adventists advocate vegetarianism and abstinence from alcohol and tobacco. (RNS)
  • July 8 — The IRS clarified that the Johnson Amendment, which restricts nonprofits from endorsing political candidates, does not apply to religious services. Critics have long argued the law is unconstitutional, while supporters warn that weakening it could turn the church into a political tool and harm its witness. American Christians largely agree, with 70% believing clergy should not endorse political candidates. The IRS has only ever enforced the law once, in 1992. (RNS)
  • July 8 — In a heartbreaking story from the Texas floods, Catholic sisters Blair and Brooke Harber, 13 and 11, were found holding hands and clutching rosary beads, 15 miles downstream from the cabin where they were staying with their grandparents. Moved by their final moments, the sisters’ community is rallying around the grieving family with prayers and support — and the faith “that Christ has defeated death, and that eternal life is waiting for those who love Him.” (Aleteia)
  • July 6 — Flash floods in Texas have devastated Camp Mystic, a historic Christian girls’ camp, leaving at least 43 dead, including 15 children, and more still missing. Rescue efforts have saved over 850 people, but families remain anxious as search operations continue. The Southern Baptist Convention has deployed rescue teams while prayers arrive from all corners, including Christian author Beth Moore, pastor Franklin Graham, and Pope Leo XIV. (AP and Christian Today)

Week of June 29

  • July 5 — Some experts are calling into question the report of a “Quiet Revival” in England. Although a recent Bible Society report found a significant rise in church attendance, particularly among young men, from 2018 to 2024, attendance reports from the largest UK denominations (Anglican and Catholic) suggest about a 20% drop in attendance during that period — though attendance is gradually recovering from COVID-era lows. Only time will tell which statistics are correct. (Religion Unplugged)
  • July 3 — A volunteer at the American Baptist archive in Massachusetts accidentally discovered a 5-foot-long anti-slavery scroll signed by 116 New England Baptist ministers in 1847. “A Resolution and Protest Against Slavery” was found in pristine condition, untouched since the late 1800s. Adopted 2 years after the issue caused a schism between Northern and Southern Baptists, the document sheds light on pre-Civil War abolitionist debates and their impact on the history of American Christianity. (AP)
  • July 3 — A mass grave containing the bodies of eight Christian leaders was discovered in Calamar, Colombia. The victims, members of Evangelical Denominations of the Alliance of Colombia and the Foursquare Church, were conducting humanitarian work when they were abducted in April by FARC militants. Colombian President Gustavo Petro and international organizations condemned the murders. (Christian Daily)
  • July 2 — A survey of U.S. Catholics revealed they overwhelmingly define their faith through a “personal relationship with Jesus Christ.” Devotion to Mary, helping the poor, receiving the Eucharist, and Church marriage also ranked highly. The study also found that 47% of Americans have some connection to Catholicism, though only 20% are practicing. (Aleteia and Pew Research)
  • July 2 — In the latest in a string of legal victories for Christian schools in America, the Texas Supreme Court ruled that the United Methodist Church (UMC) can proceed with its lawsuit to retain governance over Southern Methodist University (SMU). The legal battle began in 2019 when UMC alleged breach of contract after SMU’s board of trustees amended its articles of incorporation to delete the phrase “to be forever owned, maintained and controlled” by the denomination. (The Christian Century)
  • June 30 — A new poll of U.S. adults reveals nuanced opinions about religion in public schools. While 58% support religious chaplains, only 44% favor teachers leading prayer. Most oppose mandatory prayer time, and opinions are split on taxpayer-funded vouchers for religious schools. In general, white evangelicals and non-white Protestants are more likely to support such activities, followed by Catholics, then mainline Protestants, while the religiously unaffiliated are (unsurprisingly) opposed. (Catholic News Agency)
  • June 29 — Two Brazilian nuns have become viral sensations after their breakdancing and beatboxing performance on a Catholic TV show captivated millions. Their song “Vocation,” a techno-pop track about God’s calling, has drawn global attention and inspired over 50 women to inquire about joining their congregation. The nuns aim to connect with youth and promote Christian faith, particularly in a time when Catholicism in Brazil faces declining numbers. (The New York Times)
  • June 29 — AI Bible characters take over social media. An all-ages Bible study video game. Commemorating the birthday of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and looking forward to more Bible TV. China forces Christians forced to sing communist anthems while Russia tortures Ukrainian evangelicals. How long was Jesus’ hair? And do atheists prefer religion to atheism? All this plus tons of Bible, church, and pastor statistics — catch up on the biggest, strangest, and most inspiring Bible and church news stories of June!

View news archives here.

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Look at the Book: James [Infographic]

Chris Fann
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Look at the Book: James [Infographic]

“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. Perhaps the earliest book in the New Testament, James’s letter was written by Jesus’s brother to encourage the fledgling church to not only hear Jesus’s teaching but to act on it.

Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.

Summary

James’s central theme is the need for believers to put their faith into action through good works. He also includes instruction on resisting temptation, maintaining faith, taming the tongue, and dealing with worldliness and oppression.

  • Category: Epistle
  • Theme: Authenticity
  • Timeline: Written around AD 46-49

Key Verse

“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” — James 2:17 (NIV)

Doers of the Word

With devotion to direct, poignant statements on wise living, James is similar to Proverbs. It has a practical emphasis, stressing not theoretical knowledge, but godly behavior.

Though James doesn’t speak at length about Jesus, the principles he outlines follow the model set forth by Jesus during his earthly ministry. By fixing our gaze and affections on Christ, we can be doers of the Word and not merely hearers only.

7 Day Reading Guide

Here’s a handy 7-day guide to the “catholic” epistles. (See 30-day reading guide below.)

Conversion Story

At first James, the brother of Jesus, did not believe Jesus was the Messiah and even challenged him. However, after Jesus appeared to him, he became a pillar of the church.

Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference. 

Infographic depicting major themes and content from James

Complete Guide to Biblical Genres [Chart]

Jacob Edson
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Complete Guide to Biblical Genres [Chart]

The Bible tells a unified story. But it does so through dozens of authors writing across 15 centuries — and in several different genres.

When you read or hear the word “genre” you might think of different types of books you’d find at a bookstore or library, e.g., fiction, memoir, poetry, etc. These are literary genres, but there are other kinds (or genres) of writing, too: for instance, letters, or even tax receipts.

The Bible, too, is a library — but an ancient one, so some of its genres are different from the ones we’re familiar with. Others, like letters, are similar, though their style and purpose might have changed over the past few millennia.

Like the Trinitarian God, the Bible speaks one Word in different voices. In English translation these voices can sometimes get flattened out (intentionally or unintentionally), but reading in the original languages they are much clearer. Since not all of us are going to go to seminary and learn to read Greek and Hebrew, understanding biblical genres is one of the best ways to grasp the diversity of voices speaking to us through the text.

Old Testament scholar John Walton has said that the Bible is written for us, but not to us. It was written to people who lived long ago, in a very different culture than ours. Knowing how to read each genre in the Bible the way its original audience would have read (or heard) it enriches our relationship to Scripture by helping us understand God’s purpose for each book or passage we encounter, and therefore how we can apply it in our lives.

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This article will give a brief overview of each of the major genres you can expect to find in the pages of your Bible, and which genre each book (mainly) belongs to. The Bible is big and complex, and most books contain several genres within their pages, so we won’t be able to touch on every detail here. But you will walk away with a better understanding of how to approach each book, so you aren’t looking for history in the psalms or prophecy in the epistles.

Chart of Bible Books and Their Genres

Our Bibles are typically organized according to genre, so it’s easy see the major types of writing we’re working with (even if it can also make it frustrating to discern the chronological order of events!).

Here’s a handy chart of every book in the Protestant canon with its main genre and some of its most prominent subgenres. Scroll down to the next section to learn more about each of them.

Keep in mind that the biblical writers seldom tell you what genre they’re writing. (There are exceptions, such as “this is the genealogy of so-and-so,” or “a letter from Paul to so-and-so.”) Scholars continue to debate not only how we should classify each book or passage, but also how to define each genre. But this will give you a good overview of the current consensus.

Chart listing every book of the Bible in order, its main genre, and its primary subgenres

Major Genres and Subgenres in the Bible

Now let’s take a closer look at the most important genres to know when you’re reading the Bible, including their different subgenres and some examples of where you might find each.

Remember, this list is somewhat subjective, as scholars continue to analyze and debate how we should understand and apply biblical genres in our reading.

Cosmogony

A cosmogony is an account of the creation or origins of the universe. You won’t find a ton of these in the Bible, but the ones that exist are absolutely critical to the entire biblical story. Ever since they were written, believers have intensely debated how literally or historically the Bible’s cosmogonic accounts should be taken. But what is beyond doubt is how clearly they communicate God’s sovereignty over every aspect of creation.

Examples in the Bible:

Genealogy

A genealogy is a simple list of the ancestry of a particular figure in the Bible. They often serve to connect important figures, such as Jesus to David, or to establish national lineages, such as the “Table of Nations” descending from Noah.

Examples in the Bible:

Law

Traditionally, the first five books of the Bible are called the Torah, Hebrew for “Law.” These are divine statutes, commandments, and legal codes governing covenant life for the Israelites. While there are many types of “codes” and instructions in these books — along with plenty of narrative and other material — the overall theme is the commandments God gives to establish covenantal relationship with his people.

There are many types of law found in the Old Testament. Here are a few of them.

  • The Ten Commandments: The core instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. (Exodus 20:1-17, Deuteronomy 5:4-21)
  • Building/Ritual Codes: Detailed instructions for constructing sacred spaces (such as the Tabernacle) or performing priestly rites. (Exodus 25-31, most of Leviticus and Deuteronomy)
  • Treaty/Land Grant: Standardized documents, common in the ancient Near East, that recorded and codified diplomatic agreements, especially of vassalage to a suzerain in return for protection. In the Bible, God typically takes the role of suzerain and Israel of vassal. (Genesis 12:1-3, Joshua 1:2-5)
  • Blessings and Curses: Formulaic pronouncements of blessing for obedience or curse for disobedience, also common in ancient Near Eastern literature. (Deuteronomy 28)

History/Narrative

The books of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, 1-2 Chronicles, Ezra-Nehemiah, and Esther are considered the historical/narrative books of the Bible. These are for the most part chronological, prose accounts of events in Israel’s history, along with short passages of other genres such as poetry, song, and prophecy.

In the New Testament, the book of Acts is a historical narrative, although it focuses much more narrowly on the acts of the apostles rather than an overarching national history.

  • Epic: In its traditional form, epics are grandiose, poetical stories of heroic adventures that often directly relate to a particular national identity. The Bible doesn’t contain epics in that sense, but some of the stories from Judges and of David in 1-2 Samuel bear resemblance to his genre.
  • Census: Enumerations of people (often by tribe or family) typically given as straightforward headcounts. (Numbers 1-4, 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21)
  • Conquest Account: A military campaign narrative describing battles, strategies, and outcomes of an ongoing conquest. Much of Joshua is a conquest account of Canaan.
  • Regnal Summary: A brief summary of a king’s reign, usually formulaic, including length of reign and main actions (e.g., “So-and-so reigned X years, did Y, and died”). These too were common across the ancient Near East and indeed much of the ancient world. Dozens of these can be found in 1-2 Kings and 1-2 Chronicles.
  • Memoir: A first-person autobiographical account or reflection of their own deeds. Most of Ezra and Nehemiah are in memoir form.

Story

Stories are short, straightforward, largely self-contained narratives (compared to the large, ongoing narrative of most of the Bible) that typically illustrate a specific point. These are often very similar in format to a short story today. Ruth, Esther, and Jonah are the primary examples of short stories found in the Bible, but they can also be found in Genesis, Judges, and elsewhere.

  • Court Tale: A dramatic story set in a royal court, often involving intrigue or clever action. (Much of Joseph’s story in Genesis 39-50; Esther)
  • Humor/Satire: Just like today, humorous satire employs irony, absurdity, or caricature to provoke laughter or critique. As scholar John Walton explains, “Satire exaggerates reality, but by its nature is based on reality…. The satire in the book of Jonah targets Jonah personally as a ludicrous example of how a prophet might behave.” Elements of satire can also be found in Numbers 22:21-35 and in Esther.

Wisdom

The genre of “wisdom literature” can be difficult to describe, in part because it’s largely defined after the fact by the books of the Bible that claim it under their heading: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs.

On first glance, these books have little in common with one another. But at their most basic, they all say something profound about the universal human condition.

  • Dialogue: A conversational (often dramatic) conversation between two or more characters, the dialogue was a popular way to deliver teachings across the ancient world. In the Bible, this genre is best exemplified by the book of Job, though you can also see it in much shorter form throughout the Gospels (e.g., John 3:1-21).
  • Proverb: The most traditional type of wisdom literature, these are short, pithy sayings expressing a general truth or moral principle. Found (obviously) in the book of Proverbs.
  • Personal Reflection: Not technically a genre per se, this is some scholars’ best attempt to define Ecclesiastes, a book with no obvious parallels either in the Bible or elsewhere in ancient literature.
  • Sermon: A formal speech of instruction or exhortation on religious/moral topics. (Deuteronomy 5-28, Matthew 5-7, Acts 13:16-41)
  • Parable: A short, usually allegorical, story conveying a moral or spiritual lesson, though its meaning is often mysterious and requires an astute teacher to interpret. This was Jesus’ preferred method of teaching (see Matthew 13 and Luke 12), but they can be found in the Old Testament as well (2 Samuel 12:1-7, Isaiah 5:1-7).
  • Fable: A short, allegorical tale similar to a parable, though generally more simplistic in format, and typically featuring plants or animals. (Judges 9:8-15)

Poetry

Unlike prose, poetry is written in verse (often metered), tends to be dense with imagery and emotion, and historically was often intended to be sung. Hebrew poetry didn’t typically rhyme but featured other literary techniques such as parallelism (repeated or contrasting phrases or themes), alliteration, and euphony (similar sounds that slide off the tongue).

By some counts, poetry accounts for over a third of the Old Testament.

Prophecy

At its most basic, prophecy is any divinely inspired message delivered by God through a person of his choosing. Often associated with predictions of the future — especially of cataclysm and doom — most prophecy in the Bible is actually an indictment of the status quo and a call to repentance to avoid a future cataclysm.

Prophecy can consist of spoken or written messages, apocalyptic visions, or even “symbolic actions” on the part of the prophet.

  • Oracle: By far the most common type of prophecy, these are messages from God, often portending destruction of Israel or its neighbors (Isaiah 13-19, Jeremiah 46-51), but sometimes promising deliverance or renewal (Isaiah 60-62, Jeremiah 30-33).
  • Symbolic Action Report: An overlooked aspect of prophecy, these are like parables acted out by a prophet, visually representing a message from God. They are often intended to be shocking and countercultural. (Jeremiah 13, 19; Ezekiel 4, Hosea 1)

Apocalypse/Vision

Similar to and often confused with prophecy, an “apocalypse” is a direct revelation of divine mysteries about cosmic events, often involving bizarre or even frightening visions or dreams. The term “apocalypse” has come to be associated with the end times, but it actually means an “unveiling” of hidden truths. In the Bible, these are occasionally given by God himself, but much more frequently are from “an angel of the Lord” instead.

Though containing profound truths about God and his plan and purpose for creation, apocalypses in (and out of) the Bible are extremely dense with strange, phantasmagoric, and often allegorical imagery that’s easy to misinterpret. Books like Ezekiel and Revelation almost didn’t make it into the Bible because of their potential to mislead and distract believers from living out the Law or the Gospel here and now. It’s important to approach such texts with humility and awe, rather than trying to force any particular interpretation upon them.

Examples of apocalyptic literature in the Bible include:

Gospel

The word “gospel” is an Old English translation of the Greek word euangelion — literally “good news.” As a genre, it is essentially unique to the Bible, combining a biographical account of someone’s (Jesus’) life with explanations of his teachings and reports of miracles he performed during his ministry.

  • Biography: A historical, chronological study of a person’s life. The framing method of all four gospels, especially Matthew and Luke.
  • Miracle Report: Description of a miraculous act (often by Jesus or the early church, though they are found in the Old Testament as well) intended to reveal God’s power, mostly through healing, resurrection, or casting out demons, but occasionally through other incredible feats (e.g., walking on water). These occur in all four gospels but are especially important to Mark and John. See also Exodus 14; 1 Kings 17:17-24, 18:17-40; Acts 3:1-10, 9:32-41).

Letter/Epistle

Just like today, a letter or “epistle” (simply another word for “letter”) was a written correspondence addressed to individuals or communities, usually with teaching and exhortation. The Roman empire contained not only a well-developed network of roads but also an advanced postal system, making letter delivery possible across great distances. Even so, given the risks to Christians in the time of Emperor Nero, many of the New Testament’s letters were smuggled by dedicated messengers from churches founded by Paul, Peter, or other early apostles.

One important difference between letters today and in New Testament times is that, while today most letters are addressed to an individual or perhaps a family, in the first century letters were more commonly addressed to an entire community. Since most people were illiterate, these letters were often read aloud during church gatherings. This is the case for most of the letters in the Bible, aside from 1-2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon.

  • Theology: Literally “the study of God,” theology appears in the Bible almost exclusively in the New Testament letters as explicit teaching or exposition about God, Christ, or other church doctrines. John’s gospel also contains theological passages of Jesus’ self-revelation to his disciples.
  • Advice: Just as it sounds, this is practical counsel for godly living, found throughout the letters from Paul, James, Peter, John, and Jude.

Conclusion: Understanding Biblical Genre

As this post has shown, there is a wide range of different genres in the Bible, and understanding the differences between them is essential to engaging with and interpreting each passage of Scripture. Being able to tell when you’re reading a symbolic action report, a land grant, a parable, or an apocalyptic vision will help you understand what message God is trying to convey in those sections, and immerse you more fully in his Word.

If you’re ready to dig even deeper, Bible Gateway Plus provides access to dozens of trusted study tools and commentaries that can help you explore genre, context, and meaning with greater depth and clarity. (Indeed — it’s where I did most of my research for this article.) Get started with a free trial today!

July 2025 Bible Verse Calendar

Bible Gateway
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July 2025 Bible Verse Calendar

Here’s your daily Bible Gateway verse calendar for the month of July! Click each link below to read the verse in your preferred translation — or download the image (or PDF) of all verse references.

God’s Word for July

Get the most out of your Bible reading — including each of the above verses — with a free trial of Bible Gateway Plus. Access dozens of Study Bibles, dictionaries, commentaries, and other resources to go deeper into every aspect of God’s Word. Try it today!

Calendar of Bible verses for July 2025

The Bible Shows How the Holy Spirit Speaks to Us in Dreams [FREE 5-Day Devotional]

Margaret Feinberg
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The Bible Shows How the Holy Spirit Speaks to Us in Dreams [FREE 5-Day Devotional]

One of the most common modern misperceptions about the Holy Spirit is that the ruach maintains office hours. We expect that when we pray, the Spirit is waiting to guide us. We believe that when we make our hearts attentive, the Spirit is ready to speak to us. We trust that the Spirit is working whenever we’re awake. But the moment our head hits the pillow and we sign off for the night, we assume the Spirit goes on break.

Yet the Spirit we meet throughout the Scriptures is a night owl. The ruach not only works during the day but is also nocturnal, wildly active after the sun goes down. The Spirit we encounter in the Bible often comes to us beneath beams of moonlight and whispers to us in those unguarded moments while we’re dreaming.

Consider King Solomon. He receives one of God’s most generous invitations through a dream: “Ask me what you wish, and I will give it to you.” Solomon asks for wisdom; when he wakes up, he receives divine insight and so much more (1 Kings 3:5–15). Then there’s the self-absorbed, power-hungry Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar. He receives a spate of dreams that remind him he’s not God. And let’s not forget Daniel, who interprets Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams and has a few of his own (Daniel 2; 4; 7:1–14).

A passage in the book of Joel provides another confirmation: When the Spirit is poured out, the aging will receive dreams and the youth will receive visions (Joel 2:28–32). Peter affirms this in the second chapter of Acts (Acts 2:17–18).

A celestial symphony of dreams adorns Christ’s birth, too. Joseph experiences multiple dreams: They assure him of Mary’s miraculous pregnancy, provide precise timing for the family’s escape to Egypt, and detail when and where to return home (Matthew 1:20–23; 2:13–14, 19–20, 22–23). A divine dream even directs the magi’s travels.

Near the end of Jesus’s life, Pilate’s wife receives a warning about Jesus’s innocence through a dream. She sends word to her husband: “Have nothing to do with him!” Pilate listens and can’t get off the judge’s seat fast enough, washing his hands of the matter once and for all (Matthew 27:19–24).

The theme recurs like the skipping of a warped vinyl record: God is at work, even as we sleep. The Bible contains a long history of people hearing from the Spirit while they were “sawing logs.” Often during the daylight hours, our bodies are busy and our minds are full. Perhaps the Spirit uses our slumber to say to us things we cannot receive as readily while we are awake. It makes sense that the Spirit would work in us during the hours when the noise of life hushes.

Download FREE “Night Whisperer” 5-Day Devotional

Whatever the reason, we’ve inherited a rich scriptural history of divine dreaming. But we often miss it, don’t we? Maybe we’re unaware of this important way the Spirit works because we’re simply not paying attention in our waking hours. Could it be that we don’t know how to respond? Or perhaps we’re just skeptical.

Joseph: The Bible’s Star Dreamer

One of the most notable dreamers in the Bible was a seventeen-year-old named Joseph, who enjoyed the lavish affection of his doting father, Jacob. As with any siblings, his brothers had a nose for parental favoritism and were repelled by its odiousness (Genesis 37; 39–50).

Whatever blinded Joseph to the severity of his situation — naiveté, self-absorption, or an underdeveloped prefrontal cortex — we’ll never know, but Joseph’s emotional intelligence left much to be desired. The teenager had a proclivity for being a tattletale, a know-it-all, and a boor when it came to other people’s feelings. Maybe he inherited some of those traits from his dad.

When Jacob gifts Joseph a high-end designer coat with a rainbow of embellishments, he wears it with swagger, failing to notice that his brothers are still dressed in hand-me-downs. No wonder his siblings want nothing to do with him.

But the Spirit does.

One night Joseph has a dream about gathering wheat in the fields. His bundle stands up, while those of his brothers take a long bow toward his. If Joseph had possessed a smidge more spiritual maturity, he might have tucked that dream away and waited to see how life unfolded. Alas, little Joe can’t help himself at breakfast the next morning. He blurts out the whole dream to his siblings, who are appropriately miffed.

Rembrandt's "Joseph Telling His Dreams" etching
“Joseph Telling His Dreams,” Rembrandt, 1638. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.

We might be more forgiving of Joseph’s tactlessness in handling this first dream if he didn’t become a repeat offender. A sleep or two later, the same theme echoes through yet another dream: the sun and moon and eleven stars bow down directly to Joseph. Unable to read the room, Joseph describes the dream’s images to his siblings with wild hand gestures and what feels to him like contagious enthusiasm, but he only fans the flames of jealousy and rage in their hearts. When his parents catch wind, even they are incredulous.

Joseph’s Education and Maturation

Sometimes I wonder how Joseph’s life might have turned out if he’d been more considerate or more prayerful or had asked for wisdom regarding his dreams. Perhaps the story unfolds as it does to encourage us that even when we fumble the interpretation or sharing of a dream, the Spirit can still fulfill it.

Joseph’s brothers soon plot his demise. They throw him into a pit, ready to walk away and leave him to die, until one of the brothers brainstorms an inventive side hustle: Selling Joseph to human traffickers will produce some coin. To hide their duplicity, they take their brother’s luxury jacket and splatter it with goat’s blood, then spin a tale to Jacob about wild hyenas chewing Joseph to bits.

The brothers never suspect those Spirit-infused dreams are making the long, grueling journey toward coming true. The traders bring Joseph to Egypt and resell the lad to Potiphar, a captain in Pharaoh’s guard. After unsolicited sexual advances and false accusations by Potiphar’s handsy wife, Joseph does some serious time behind bars.

During Joseph’s time in jail, we learn that in addition to giving him dreams, the Spirit has gifted him the ability to interpret them too. Joseph recognizes the symbolism of his fellow prisoners’ dreams as pretty straightforward, and the messages as a divine gift, even when one of them delivers hard news. Word of his dream interpretation skills soon spreads. So when Pharaoh has a pair of baffling dreams himself, he hears about this prisoner who can unravel their meanings. He calls for Joseph, who promptly changes out of his orange coveralls into something more fitting for a royal audience.

Standing before the most powerful leader of the Egyptian empire, Joseph explains that Pharaoh’s pair of dreams foretells the same future. In one dream, seven plump cows are devoured by seven skinny cows; in the other, seven lush heads of grain are swallowed by seven thin, dry heads of grain. Joseph elucidates the symbolic message with precision and clarity: Seven years of superabundance will be followed by seven years of famine. Pharaoh assigns Joseph to head up the Emergency Response Team, and before he knows it, the favored son of Jacob becomes Pharaoh’s right-hand man.

Joseph knows that God has been working in his life, but he’s not so sure about his brothers’ lives. During the colossal famine, Joseph’s starving siblings appear in Pharaoh’s court, desperate for help. Joseph devises a clever test for his brothers and discovers they’ve all grown up in their own ways. Perhaps no one has matured more than himself.

The once-insensitive Joseph now weeps. The once-a-tattletale son now emerges as the family protector and savior. The same Joseph who once grew excited over his brothers’ groveling now grants them pardon and provision. Not only is this the story of how the Hebrew people are rescued from famine and death, it’s also the story of how Joseph is saved from himself.

An Invitation to Transformation

The dreams that came to a seventeen-year-old boy long ago are fulfilled in ways that only God could have orchestrated. The wild saga makes me wonder if maybe, just maybe, when the Spirit speaks through a dream, it’s intended not just for information or confirmation, but as an invitation to transformation.

Maybe you’ve never considered the role the Spirit played in Joseph’s life and dreams, but the Spirit was certainly there hovering over the chaos the whole time. Ironically, the first person to notice the Spirit’s involvement is the most unlikely character of all. Awestruck by Joseph’s dream interpretation, Pharaoh declares:

“Can we find anyone like this man, in whom the Spirit of God abides?” (Genesis 41:38 BSB)

Though we don’t know all the details, somehow the ruach — yes, the Spirit — has been working in Joseph’s life through dreams and dream interpretation for most of his life. Scripture records only two of Joseph’s dreams, but I wonder if he had many more. Joseph is a person who assumes and expects that dreams are a normal means the Spirit uses to speak. By his readiness to interpret the dreams of his fellow prisoners and Pharaoh, Joseph reveals his belief that this isn’t the way the Spirit speaks only to him, but this is a way the Spirit speaks.

Could the Spirit Be Speaking to You?

When you hear these biblical accounts of dreaming, you may feel uncomfortable or strange. Perhaps you’ve never considered that the Spirit might whisper through a dream to you or to someone you know.

Maybe it’s time to start looking for a pattern, not just in Bible stories but perhaps in your own life as well. Consider that the Spirit might already have been speaking to you in the night hours. What could you be missing? And when you do dream, how can you tell whether the Spirit wants to speak to you through it?

Cover of "The God You Need to Know" by Margaret Feinberg

Adapted from The God You Need to Know: Experience the Holy Spirit’s Power and Presence Today by Margaret Feinberg.

Discover answers to your biggest questions about the Holy Spirit — and invite the Spirit to move in your life in powerful, real, tangible ways.

Look at the Book: Hebrews [Infographic]

Chris Fann
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Look at the Book: Hebrews [Infographic]

“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. It has long been a mystery who wrote the Letter to the Hebrews, but it was clearly someone very well-educated in both Greek oratory and the Hebrew Bible.

Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.

Summary

The need of all mankind was for a perfect priest and a perfect sacrifice that would once and for all actually remove sin. God’s provision for that perfect priest and sacrifice in Christ is the central message.

  • Category: Epistle
  • Theme: Superiority
  • Timeline: Written around AD 67-70

Key Verse

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.” — Hebrews 4:14 (NIV)

Warning!

Exhortations designed to stir the readers into action are found throughout the text. Those exhortations are given in the form of 6 warnings:

  • Drifting from “what we heard”
  • Slipping from “the teaching about Christ”
  • Devaluing “the grace of God”
  • Not believing “the voice of God”
  • Despising “the knowledge of the truth”
  • Leaving “him who is speaking”

7 Day Reading Guide

(See 30-day guide below.)

Who Wrote Hebrews?

It is clear the writer was well known to the recipients, and the fact he was well versed in the Old Testament has led many to believe he was either Barnabas or Apollos, a Jewish Christian known to have notable intellectual and oratorical abilities.

Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference. 

Infographic depicting major themes and content from Hebrews

Understanding the Story of the Bible Changes Everything

Zach Windahl
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Understanding the Story of the Bible Changes Everything

Do you remember sitting in Sunday School as a kid, watching the volunteer teacher place flannel graph cutouts on a board, explaining different Bible stories?  

We had Noah’s Ark, Adam and Eve, baby Jesus, Jonah in the whale, Daniel with a smiling lion, story after story, each one teaching us a little something about God. They were really helpful at the moment, wouldn’t you agree?

Then, if you’re like me, as you grew up in Church, you were encouraged to memorize verse after verse, to get the Word buried deep in our hearts. I wasn’t exactly gifted at memorizing, so my mom had to incentivize me with Dairy Queen Blizzards for every verse I got to stick. It was a win-win situation, a pretty sweet deal.  

So by the time I was a teenager, I knew a ton of Bible stories and random memory verses. But even with all that knowledge, something still felt disconnected. The Bible was still overwhelming. It was a massive book with tiny words, weird names, and cultural things that I didn’t understand. 

But as a Christian I was supposed to fall in love with reading it. Right?  

I just didn’t know how. And it wasn’t until my mid-twenties when I hit a low spot in my life (and in my faith) that I reached to the Bible again — but this time for answers. 

I joined a Bible training program in Australia where we studied Scripture for 12 hours a day, 6 days a week, for 9 months straight. We read through the Bible five times, and essentially wrote our own commentary on the entirety of Scripture. 

That experience changed everything for me. Because for the first time, I realized what I had been missing: the bigger picture. 

Yes, I knew stories.  

Yes, I memorized verses.  

But I was missing the full storyline that tied all of the stories and verses together. 

When I finally saw the Bible as one unified narrative — the story of God, His people, and His plan to redeem and restore all things, with Jesus at the center — everything clicked. 

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Can you relate? Maybe you grew up in Church and had a similar knowledge of Scripture as I did. Maybe you want to read the entire Bible, but it’s a little big and confusing and you don’t know where to begin. I understand where you’re coming from. I’ve been there. 

But here’s the thing: once you zoom out and learn the story, it will make everything else come alive. You’ll see the Bible differently. You’ll enjoy reading it more. And you’ll even see how your story fits into God’s story. 

Here are three ways understanding the full story of the Bible will change the way you read it forever:  

1. You Don’t Just Learn About God — You Fall in Love With Him

As Christians, we can’t approach the Bible the same as we do any other book. We believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, meaning that His heart is behind every word written within it. Yes, the Bible is a history book, full of wisdom and inspiring stories, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a revelation of God’s heart. And we would be doing ourselves and Him a major disservice if we only allow our Bible time to build up our knowledge of Scripture, instead of allowing it to make an impact on our hearts.  

The story of the Bible reveals a faithful God who is in pursuit of His creation and wants to partner with them in redeeming the world. It’s a love letter and a divine rescue plan that we get to be a part of. 

God is not just all-powerful and all-knowing (though He is). 

He’s also deeply personal and loving and compassionate and consistent and full of grace.  

The God of the Universe is inviting us, mere humans, into a relationship. I think that can be overlooked sometimes, especially if you grew up in the Church, but that’s a major deal. And His Word is the main place we look to understand His heart and fall more in love with Him. 

The more you read the story, the more you will trust the Author. You will stop seeing him as a distant God that is detached from our reality, and start seeing Him as the faithful Father that is inviting you into something beautiful. 

2. You Start to See Jesus on Every Page

A lot of us spend the majority of our time reading the New Testament, because that’s where Jesus shows up — or so we think. But did you know that he is also the thread through the entire Bible? You can find hints and shadows of Jesus in every single book of the Bible, even thousands of years before he came to earth as an infant. He is the Passover lamb in Exodus, the substitute in Genesis 22, the suffering servant in Isaiah, the fulfillment of the Temple in Exodus. 

A few examples: 

  • Exodus 12: Just as the Israelites were commanded to put the blood of a spotless lamb on their doorposts to protect them from God’s judgment, Jesus is our spotless lamb whose blood saves us from sin and death. 
  • Genesis 22: Just as Abraham was willing to offer his son as a sacrifice and God provided a ram as a substitute, God offered His son for us with Jesus being our substitute. 
  • Isaiah 53: Isaiah prophesied 700 years before the crucifixion about a man who would bear our iniquities. At a time when they expected the messiah to only be a political figure like King David, this prophecy wouldn’t have even made sense to them, because why would the messiah be a suffering servant?  
  • Exodus 25-31: Jesus was the fulfillment of the Temple. He said, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it in three days” (John 2:19-21). And now through the Holy Spirit, every Christian is somewhat of a new “temple”, the place where heaven and earth collide. 

From Genesis to Revelation, the story is pointing to one name: Jesus.  

Reading the Bible from front to back is a great thing, but the first few times we will miss out on so many mysteries. The more you study, the more you dig deep, the more you will realize God’s intentionality with Scripture and be blown away by how He places hidden treasures everywhere, like the thread of Jesus in every book. 

3. You Begin to See Where You Are in the Story

Not only is the Bible a story about God’s relationship with humanity, but it also talks about what our role on earth is, how we are now new creations that have been given a task to make disciples and be used to spread the kingdom of God here on earth. 

The Bible begins in a Garden and it ends in a Garden City. But right now we are in this in-between period: Jesus already resurrected and yet we are still waiting for his return to finish what he started. That’s where we come into the picture.  

We’ve been invited into the restoration of all things. We’ve been given the Holy Spirit, and now we carry the mission of Jesus into our neighborhoods, our jobs, and our families. So what does that look like practically? 

We should be loving our neighbors, bringing peace to chaos, displaying forgiveness, enacting justice, showing mercy, providing for the needy, comforting the broken, expecting to be used in miraculous ways. We should be looking at the life of Jesus and doing everything in our regard to be transformed into his likeness.  

The more we understand the story, the more it helps us live out our purpose. We were made for such a time as this, and we’ve been given a part to play. 

Jesus is our goal. We’ll never get there, but he gives us something to aim for!  

So whether you’ve been reading the Bible for years or you’re just picking it up for the first time, here’s my encouragement:  

Zoom out and learn the entire storyline of scripture, from beginning to end, because when you understand the story of the Bible as whole, it will change everything about how you read it. 

Cover of "The Bible, Simplified" by Zach Windahl

And if you need help, I wrote The Bible, Simplified to walk you through it. It’s 40 short chapters, bringing you through the entire storyline of Scripture, to help build your foundation and see how it all connects.  

Once you learn the story, you’ll know how to live the story, too.

Go from feeling lost with the Bible to becoming confident in your faith. Get your copy of Zach’s book, The Bible, Simplified today! Then, take the next step with The Bible, Simplified Study Guide, an easy-to-follow, eight-week program with streaming video to help you learn and live the story of the Bible. 

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