Category: Bible Basics

Bible Basics

Acts

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Author

The book was written by Luke, who was an associate of the Apostle Paul, traveling with him often. Luke was a Gentile (non-Jew), and a physician by trade. The book of Acts is Luke’s sequel to the gospel which bears his name (Acts 1:1).

Date

It is impossible to get an exact date for the writing of Luke and Acts, however, if we look at the content of Luke’s writings, he does not include any references to major events which took place after 64A.D., including Nero’s persecution of Christians, the fall of Jerusalem (70A.D.), or even to Paul’s letters, many of which were written from prison in Rome. Even the book of Acts ends without resolving what happened to Paul, leading to speculation that at the time of Luke’s writing, Paul was still alive in prison. For these reasons, the early 60s seems likely.

Other scholars, however, based on the idea that Mark’s gospel had already been widely distributed and read by the time Luke was writing, put the date later; possibly into the early 80s.

Audience and Purpose

As is the book of Luke, Acts is addressed to “Theophilus” (Acts 1:1), whom most historians believe to be Luke’s patron (meaning he funded Luke’s work and published his writings.) Some, however, have speculated that Theophilus was not a real person. Instead, as the Green name means “God-lover,” they believe it was a sneaky way for Luke to write the book for any believer who would read the book.

The book of Acts is Luke’s continued account of the ministry of Jesus, after His ascension, through Spirit-empowered men and women. The goal is to show that not only did Jesus rise from the dead, but His work did not stop (Acts 1:1-5). Containing the stories that followed Jesus’ ascension, including the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, through the gospel’s spread throughout the Roman empire, the book of Acts is the first book of church history ever written.

Major Themes

  • The Activity of the Holy Spirit, especially regarding His filling men and women with gifts for ministry.
  • The Church. 
  • Global Missions/Evangelism. The book of Acts shows that the gospel did not remain among the Jews. Once the Holy Spirit launched the church at Pentecost, the door to grace was open to the gentiles and God sent missionaries throughout the Roman empire.
  • Prophecy Fulfilled. See for example Joel 2:28-29 and Acts 2:16.

Key Scriptures

  • Acts 1:8 — “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
  • Acts 2:2-4 — “And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
  • Acts 28:28 — “Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”

Outline

  • Acts 1:1-3 — Luke’s Introduction
  • Acts 1:4-6:7 — The Acts of the Holy Spirit in the Church at Jerusalem
  • Acts 6:8-9:31 — The Acts of the Holy Spirit through Religious Persecution and Dispersion
  • Acts 9:32–12:25 — The Acts of the Holy Spirit through Peter
  • Acts 13:1–28:31 — The Acts of the Holy Spirit through Paul
    • Acts 13:1-14:28 — Paul’s First Missionary Journey
    • Acts 15:1-35 — Apostolic Council in Jerusalem
    • Acts 15:36-18:22 — Paul’s Second Missionary Journey
    • Acts 18:23-21:16 — Paul’s Third Missionary Journey
    • Acts 21:17-28:31 — Paul’s Arrest, Trials, and Imprisonment at Rome

Gospel Summary

Whereas the four gospels show the price that Jesus paid to establish the gospel and His Kingdom, the book of Acts shows us how, through the power of the Holy Spirit, God began to flood the world with the good news of salvation. Everywhere Jesus’ disciples went the gospel was proclaimed, people were saved, the church was established, and the Holy Spirit testified with signs, wonders, and miracles. 

It is through the book of Acts that we get our first glimpse of the power of the gospel at work in the world. This is because the preaching of the gospel is central to the book of Acts. In fact, the Greek word “euangelizo,” where we get the term “evangelize,” is used more in the book of Acts than any other book of the New Testament. The book records sermons preached by Peter, Paul, and others, as the good news was shared.

It is also in the book of Acts where we see that the Kingdom of God would not be limited to the nation of Israel; nor would earthly powers be able to withstand its spread. Throughout the book, we see the church established as an embassy of God’s eternal Kingdom “on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10).

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© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

John Big

John

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Author

Clarity on who, exactly, wrote the book of John is quite limited. The first and most common view leans toward John, the son of Zebedee, who is attested to be the author by most ancient church writers, beginning with Ireneus (circa 180A.D.). This would make the author one of the 12 apostles and one of the three in Jesus’ inner circle.

More recently, however, some scholars have said a different John is more likely. A second possibility is another disciple of Jesus who was not one of the 12 apostles, identified as “John the Elder” by Papias. 

Whoever wrote the gospel of John is likely the author of First, Second, and Third John. Since that writer calls himself “the Elder,” then this later John is a possibility.

Within the book itself, John, the son of Zebedee is called “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” If he was not the writer of the book, it is clear that he was an influence on the person who was (see John 21:24) and earned this title after his death. 

Still, since tradition records that both John the son of Zebedee and the man known as John the Elder are buried in Ephesus, some have concluded they were likely the same man.

Date

Dating the book is troublesome, but most scholars agree that late in the first century (between 70A.D. and 100A.D.) is likely. Some of the book’s references, such as Christians being excluded from Jewish synagogues (John 9:22), would lead to a date in the 90s when tensions between Jews and Christians were high.

Audience and Purpose

Though John writes in such a way to be accessible by the Greek culture, his gospel is almost undisputedly written with those from a Jewish background in mind. We can safely assume that John’s primary audience was the Jewish-Christian community, especially those living in and around Ephesus.

Near the end of the gospel, John states that his purpose in writing was to offer proof that Jesus was the Messiah and Savior, “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:30-31).

Major Themes

  • Gospel.
  • Jesus as Savior.
  • The Activity of the Holy Spirit.
  • Eternal Life. See John 1:34, 49; 3:18; 5:25; 10:36; 11:4, 27; 19:7; 20:31.

Key Scriptures

  • John 1:1 — “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.”
  • John 1:14 — “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
  • John 3:16 — “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
  • John 14:6 — “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Outline

  • John 1:1-18 — Prologue: Opening Hymn
  • John 1:19-11:57 — The Signs of the Messiah
  • John 12:1-17:26 — The Final Teachings of Jesus
  • John 18:1-21:23 — The Arrest, Death, Burial and Resurrection of Jesus

Gospel Summary

As with the other gospels, it is difficult to give a gospel summary of John since the book itself is a “gospel” and a summary of the life of Jesus Christ. 

However, the focus and style of John’s gospel set it apart from the other three (called the synoptic gospels). Clement of Alexandria called it “the spiritual gospel,” and John definitely shows a deeper understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ life and ministry than the synoptic writers (John 3:3-9; 4:10–15, 21–24; 7:37–39; 14:16–17, 26; 15:26; 16:7–11, 13–15; 20:22).

John’s larger focus seems to be on the various proofs of the gospel, including four witnesses, listed in John 5:31-40), as well as the miracle “signs” which Jesus performed (John 20:30-31). In fact, the narrative of John’s gospel flows through 7 distinct miracle “signs” that point fo Jesus as the promised Messiah. This has earned the book the title of “The Book of Signs” by some Christian scholars. These signs are: 

  • John 2:1-11 — Changing Water into Wine
  • John 4:46-54 — Healing the Official’s Son
  • John 5:1-15 — Healing the Paralytic
  • John 6:5-14 — Feeding the 5000
  • John 6:16-24 — Walking on Water
  • John 9:1-7 — Healing the Blind Man
  • John 11:1-45 — Raising Lazarus from the Dead

Some scholars add that Jesus’ resurrection should be considered the 8th miracle sign, to which all the others point.

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© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Bible Basics

Luke

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Author

The book was written by Luke, who was an associate of the Apostle Paul, traveling with him often. Luke was a Gentile (non-Jew), and a physician by trade. Luke is also the author of the book of Acts.

Date

It is impossible to get an exact date for the writing of Luke and Acts, however, if we look at the content of Luke’s writings, he does not include any references to major events which took place after 64A.D., including Nero’s persecution of Christians, the fall of Jerusalem (70A.D.), or even to Paul’s letters, many of which were written from prison in Rome. Even the book of Acts ends without resolving what happened to Paul, leading to speculation that at the time of Luke’s writing, Paul was still alive in prison. For these reasons, the early 60s seems likely.

Other scholars, however, based on the idea that Mark’s gospel had already been widely distributed and read by the time Luke was writing, put the date later; possibly into the early 80s.

Audience and Purpose

The book is addressed to “Theophilus” (Luke 1:3), whom most historians believe to be Luke’s patron (meaning he funded Luke’s work and published his writings.) Some, however, have speculated that Theophilus was not a real person. Instead, as the Greek name means “God-lover,” they believe it was a sneaky way for Luke to address the writing to any believer who would read the book.

Luke’s goal in writing was to gather a complete account of Jesus’ life and ministry by interviewing as many living witnesses as possible (Luke 1:1-2). 

The book is one of the synoptic gospels (with Matthew and Mark), in that the three books have a very similar structure and recount many of the same stories. It is likely that Luke had read Mark’s gospel and used it as one of the witnesses for his own writing. In fact, St. Augustine wrote that Luke was the last of the synoptic gospels and that he used both, Matthew and Mark, in his writings.

Major Themes

  • Gospel
  • Jesus as Savior. See Luke 19:10.
  • God’s Sovereignty. See Luke 1:14–17, 31–35, 46–55, 68–79; 2:9–14, 30–32, 34–35; 4:16–30; 13:31–35; 24:25–27, 44–49.
  • The Activity of the Holy Spirit. Luke points out, many times, that the Holy Spirit was at work in the life of Jesus (Luke 1:32-35, 41-45; 2:25-32, 36-38; 3:21-22; 4:1, 14, 18). This theme sets the foundation for Acts, when the Holy Spirit would become prominent in the life of the church, as well.
  • Discipleship and Heart Transformation.

Key Scriptures

  • Luke 4:18 —“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
  • Luke 9:23 — “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.’”
  • Luke 19:10 — “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Outline

  • Luke 1:1-4 — Luke’s Introduction
  • Luke 1:5-2:52 — Jesus’ Birth
  • Luke 3:1-4:15 — Jesus’ Preparation for Ministry
  • Luke 4:16-9:50 — Jesus’ Ministry Around Galilee
  • Luke 9:51-19:27 — Jesus’ Journey to Jerusalem
  • Luke 19:28-21:38 — Jesus’ Ministry in Jerusalem
  • Luke 22:1-23:56 — Jesus’ Trial and Crucifixion
  • Luke 24:1-53 — Jesus’ Resurrection and Ascension

Gospel Summary

As with Matthew and Mark, it is difficult to give a gospel summary of Luke, as the book itself is a “gospel” and a summary of the life of Jesus Christ. 

A key difference is that Luke’s style of writing imitated other Greek writing of the day, and seems to target even those who may not have a Jewish understanding of the Old Testament. Whereas Matthew goes in-depth to show that Jesus was the fulfillment of Old Testament, Jewish prophecy, Luke focuses instead on the inward heart change that comes to anyone who choose to follow Jesus as Lord.

If you’re enjoying the content I produce, a little caffeine to keep me going would be appreciated!



© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Bible Basics

Mark

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Author

John Mark, a fellow missionary with Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 12:25), is generally considered to be the writer based on a very strong early Christian tradition. He is seen throughout the book of Acts, using this combined name (Acts 12:12, 25 and Acts 15:37) or either of the individual names (Acts 13:5, 13 and Acts 15:39). 

We do not know much about his life before ministry, except that he was likely from Jerusalem and that his mother was well known within the Christian community, and also a close friend of Peter and the Apostles (Acts 12:12). In 1 Peter 5:13, the Apostle Peter claims that Mark was his spiritual son. Although Mark traveled with the Apostle Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary voyage, it was this relationship with the Apostle Peter that seems to have had the greatest impact on his gospel.

Though it was already widely known that Mark penned the book, some early church fathers, such as Justin, Tertullian, Irenaeus, and Jerome desired to demonstrate a clear Apostolic authority in the book, and therefore presented it as being the gospel of Peter, with Mark simply acting as a scribe. Eusebius, also, points to the writings of Papius, “a hearer of John and companion of Polycarp,” as saying that Mark was “the interpreter of Peter.” 

Other scholars point to Mark’s use of Aramaic in his writings as likely a direct influence from his time with Peter, since Paul would have used proper Hebrew and Greek as a highly educated Jew and a Roman citizen.

Little is known regarding Mark’s life and ministry after his departure from Paul and Barnabas (Acts 13:13 and 15:38).  However, it is clear that he remained a faithful minister to the gospel as Paul requests his help during his imprisonment in Rome (2 Timothy 4:11 and Colossians 4:10). Eusebius later writes that “Mark was the first that was sent to Egypt, and that he proclaimed the Gospel which he had written, and first established churches in Alexandria.”

Date

Mark likely wrote sometime between 55-65AD, and evidence suggests that Mark was the earliest of the gospel writers. The gospel would have been written sometime after Mark’s missionary travels with Paul. Some church historians, such as Eusebius, put the writing after Peter’s death, around 64AD, others simply suggest Mark was inspired to write after Peter’s arrest by the Romans. 

The book was certainly written before the fall of Jerusalem in 70AD, as Mark 13:2 records Jesus’ prediction of the soon-coming destruction of the Temple, without the author noting that the fulfillment of the prophecy had taken place.

Audience and Purpose

Mark’s primary audience was Roman believers. He translates Hebrew/Aramaic words into Greek and takes time to explain Jewish customs which would only be necessary for those unfamiliar with the Old Testament.

It seems that Mark’s primary purpose was to affirm Jesus’ role as the promised Messiah and then to encourage the Roman believers to be transformed according to Jesus’ image, rather than conforming to Jewish customs and traditions.

Papius’ writings (again quoted by Eusebius), tell us that Mark’s primary goal, having not walked with nor heard Jesus speaking for himself, became the interpreter for Peter and “wrote down accurately everything that he remembered, without, however recording in order what was either said or done by Christ” The point being that although Mark attempted to recall all the stories and teachings of Jesus he had learned from Peter, the chronological order was not always clear, and it leaves gaps that would be filled by other gospel writers (see Luke 1:1-4).

Major Themes

  • Gospel.
  • Jesus as Messiah. (See Mark 1:1)
  • Prophecy Fulfilled.

Key Scriptures

  • Mark 8:29 — “And he asked them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered him, ‘You are the Christ.’”
  • Mark 15:39 — “And when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, ‘Truly this man was the Son of God!’”

Outline

  • Mark 1:1-15 — Introduction
  • Mark 1:16-8:26 — The Presentation of Jesus as the Messiah
    • Mark 1:14-3:25 — Jesus’ Announcement of God’s Kingdom
    • Mark 4:1-34 — Jesus’ Teachings (Parables) of God’s Kingdom
    • Mark 5:1-8:26 — Jesus’ Demonstrations of God’s Kingdom (Miracles)
  • Mark 8:27-16:20 — The Testing of Jesus as the Messiah
    • Mark 8:27-10:52 — Jesus’ Journey to Jerusalem
    • Mark 11:1-15:20 — Jesus’ “Passion Week”
    • Mark 15:21-47 — Jesus’ Death and Burial
    • Mark 16:1-20 — Jesus’ Resurrection and Commission of the Church

Gospel Summary

As with our look at Matthew, it is difficult to write a “gospel summary” of a book, which itself is a summarization of the gospel. As Heinrich August Wilhelm Meyer writes, “Like all the canonical Gospels, [Mark’s] also has the destined purpose of historically proving the Messiahship of Jesus: it seeks to accomplish this especially by setting forth the deeds of Jesus, but in doing so does not bear any special dogmatic colour.”1 The implication is that Mark’s goal was to show that Jesus was the Messiah through the sharing of the testimonies and teachings he had learned from the Apostle Peter. He does not go out of his way to make his own opinions known. 

If you’re enjoying the content I produce, a little caffeine to keep me going would be appreciated!



© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Endnotes

1Heinrich August Wilhelm Meyer, Critical and Exegetical Handbook to the Gospels of Mark and Luke, ed. William P. Dickson, trans. Robert Ernest Wallis, vol. 1, Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1883), 8.

Bible Basics

Matthew

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Author

Matthew the Apostle is unanimously considered to be the author of the book, although the book itself does not contain any author attribution. Matthew was a tax collector prior to his coming to Jesus (see Matthew 9:9-13), and is a great, personal example of how the grace he writes about truly contains the power to change lives.

In the gospels of Mark and Luke, Matthew is called Levi (see Mark 2:13-17 and Luke 5:27-32).

Date

Some believe that Matthew wrote his gospel sometime after the destruction of the Temple in 70AD, but many other scholars contest this view. It is possible that he wrote as early as 55AD

Audience and Purpose

It is believed that Matthew was writing specifically to the Jewish nation, as a connecting point between the promise of the Old Testament and its fulfillment in Christ. It is traditionally believed that Matthew originally wrote his gospel in the Hebrew language, which was later translated into Greek (though some modern scholars disagree with this assessment due to Matthew’s Greek usage lacking some of the common difficulties and clarity issues caused by a Hebrew to Greek translation). The earliest evidence of this comes from Eusebius who quoted Irenaeus as saying, “Matthew published his gospel among the Hebrews in their own language, while Peter and Paul in Rome were preaching and founding the church” (Eusebius, Historia Ecclesiastica III. 24.5–6 and V. 8, 2.)

In writing to the Jewish audience, Matthew quotes from the Old Testament more than any other New Testament book, in order to demonstrate that Jesus was the fulfillment of all Messianic prophecies and is the Christ.

Matthews’s purpose in writing was to give a biographical history of Jesus’ life and ministry, as well as to recall all the teachings and commandments Jesus gave, clearly intending to fulfill the commission he records from Jesus in Matthew 28:20. This book contains more of Jesus’ teachings than any other gospel, as well as containing historical accounts not present in other gospels. For examples, see the visit of the wise men from the East at Jesus’ birth (Matthew 2:1-12) or the Parable of the Wheat and Tares (Matthew 13:24-30).

Major Themes

  • Gospel. Matthew is the first book in the New Testament, and shows that Jesus is the promised prophet, priest, and King who would bring God’s Kingdom into the world.
  • Jesus as Messiah.
  • The Kingdom of God.
  • Prophecy Fulfilled.

Key Scriptures

  • Matthew 4:17 — “From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”
  • Matthew 28:18-20 — “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’”

Outline

  • Matthew 1:1-2:23 — Jesus’ Early Life
    • Matthew 1:1-17 — Jesus’ Genealogy
    • Matthew 1:18-25 — Jesus’ Birth
    • Matthew 2:1-12 — Visit of the Wise Men
    • Matthew 2:12-23 — Escape to Egypt and Move to Nazareth
  • Matthew 3:1-4:12 — Jesus’ Preparation for Public Ministry
    • Matthew 3:1-17 — Jesus’ Baptism
    • Matthew 4:1-12 — Jesus’ Temptation in the Wilderness
  • Matthew 4:13-8:38 — Jesus Reveals the Kingdom of God
    • Matthew 4:13-25 — Jesus Begins Ministry and Calls First Disciples
    • Matthew 5:1-7:29 — Jesus Teaches about Life in God’s Kingdom
    • Matthew 8:1-9:38 — Jesus Demonstrates the Power of God’s Kingdom
  • Matthew 10:1-13:58 — Jesus Commissions Others for Kingdom Ministry
    • Matthew 10:1-42 — Commissioning of the 12 Apostles
    • Matthew 11:1-19 — Recognition of John the Baptizer’s Ministry
    • Matthew 11:20-30 — Prophetic Call on Cities to Repent and Follow Him
    • Matthew 12:1-50 — Jesus Again Demonstrations the Power of God’s Kingdom
    • Matthew 13:1-58 — Jesus Teaches Parables Concerning Access to God’s Kingdom
  • Matthew 14:1-16:12 — Jesus’ Ministry Gains Widespread Recognition
    • Matthew 14:1-12 — Herod Hears About Jesus
    • Matthew 14:12-16:12 — Jesus Ministers to Massive Crowds While Defending Against Religious Opposition
  • Matthew 16:13-25:46 — Jesus Revealed as the Christ (Messiah)
    • Matthew 16:13-28 — Jesus Proclaimed as Christ (Messiah) among the Disciples
    • Matthew 17:1-13 — Transfiguration: Jesus Recognized as Christ (Messiah) by Moses, Elijah, and the Voice of God
    • Matthew 17:14-20:34 — Jesus Defines the Life of a Christ-Follower
    • Matthew 21:1-25:46 — Jesus Asserts His Authority as the Christ
  • Matthew 26:1-28:20 — Jesus’ Final Days on Earth
    • Matthew 26:1-25 — The Plot to Kill Jesus
    • Matthew 26:26-30 — The Last Supper
    • Matthew 26:31-46 — Final Time with the Disciples
    • Matthew 26:47-27:23 — Jesus’ Arrest and Trial
    • Matthew 27:24-66 — Jesus’ Crucifixion
    • Matthew 28:1-15 — Jesus’ Resurrection
    • Matthew 28:16-20 — Jesus’ Great Commission on His Disciples Then and Now.

Gospel Summary

It is difficult to give a gospel summary of Matthew, as the book itself is a “gospel” and a summary of the life of Jesus Christ.

The book begins with His supernatural birth and follows through as His life fulfills all Old Testament predictions of who the Messiah would be and how He would live. Although Jesus was rejected by the religious elite at the time, due to the preconceived notions they had as to how the Messiah would free them from pagan (Roman) occupation and rule, when compared to the scriptural prophecies Matthew shares, it becomes clear that Jesus did fulfill both the biblical expectations of the Messiah, as well as proving Himself to be the Son of God by the power and supernatural events occurring throughout His life.

To those “with ears to hear” what the Spirit says through the gospel writer, there will be little doubt that Old Testament prophecy points to Jesus.

If you’re enjoying the content I produce, a little caffeine to keep me going would be appreciated!



© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Bible Basics

Malachi

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Author

The book was written by “Malachi,” though there are differing opinions as to whether this was in fact the prophet’s name, or simply a title, as the word means “my messenger.” The Hebrew word is used in two distinct ways in the book. The first acts as the by-line for the book in 1:1. However, in 3:1 the same word, “Malachi” is used to point to a future messenger, which could be either in reference to John the Baptizer or to Jesus Himself.

If the book is written by a man named Malachi, we do not know anything more about his personal life or background that this.

Date

The exact date of Malachi’s writings is another point on contention among biblical scholars. At least 4 dates are offered:

  • Before Nehemiah. Malachi uses the word ‘governor’ in 1:8, which some scholars take to mean that an Assyrian governor was still in control, and Nehemiah has not yet been commissioned by the King to take this post (see Nehemiah 4:14). He also does not speak on the issue of keeping the Sabbath; an issue which also arose later in Nehemiah’s time (see Nehemiah 13:15-22).
  • Before Ezra (but after the initial work on rebuilding the Temple had taken place). Sacrifices are being performed in the Temple incorrectly (1:7-10). Some scholars believe that Malachi’s condemnation of sin and incorrect worship practices predates Ezra’s reading of the law, since the people respond in repentance to Ezra’s proclamation.
  • Contemporary of Nehemiah: There is a similarity in the way both men were attempting to reform life and reestablish the faith in Israel, including the issues of tithing and intermarrying with foreigners.
  • During Nehemiah’s Absence (see Nehemiah 13:6). This idea is used to reconcile the use of the word ‘governor,’ as another would have taken the place of Nehemiah’s during his absence, with the similarities of focus between Malachi and Nehemiah.

Audience and Purpose

Despite the lack of an exact date, scholars all tend to agree the Malachi was writing during the time of Persian rule, to the returnees in the land. This would put him clearly within a generation of the work of Nehemiah and Ezra, if not a contemporary minister. His focus, then would be similar to that of other writers at the time: Ezra/Nehemiah, Haggai,  and Zechariah. His call is to restore true worship and holiness among God’s people, yet Malachi also focuses heavily on future prophecy as well, including many insights into the coming Messiah.

Major Themes

  • Covenant. Malachi puts a great emphasis on restoring God’s people to covenant relationship with God, through the keeping of the law.
  • Repentance and Correct Worship. Specifically, Malachi speaks to the issues of sacrifices, tithes, intermarriage, and divorce.
  • Messianic Prophecy.
  • God’s Glory and the Nations.

Key Scriptures

  • Malachi 1:11 — “For from the rising of the sun to its setting my name will be great among the nations, and in every place incense will be offered to my name, and a pure offering. For my name will be great among the nations, says the Lord of hosts.”
  • Malachi 3:1 — “Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts.”
  • Malachi 4:2a — “But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings.”

Outline

  • Malachi 1:1-5 — God’s First dispute: Concerning Edom
  • Malachi 1:6-2:9 — God’s Second dispute: Concerning the Priests
  • Malachi 2:10-16 —God’s Third dispute: Concerning Unfaithfulness
  • Malachi 2:17-3:5 — God’s Fourth dispute: Concerning the Messenger of the Lord
  • Malachi 3:6-12 — God’s Fifth dispute: Concerning Tithes
  • Malachi 3:13-4:3 — God’s Sixth dispute: Concerning the Day of Yahweh
  • Malachi 4:4-6 — Summary and Final Prophecy

Gospel Summary

The gospel message can clearly be seen in Malachi in verses 2:17 to 3:5. He begins by pointing out that sin is the norm among the people, and it is exhausting to God to see His people neglect their diving calling and destiny: 

“You have wearied the Lord with your words. But you say, “How have we wearied him?” By saying, “Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the Lord, and he delights in them.” Or by asking, “Where is the God of justice?”

Malachi 2:17

This one verse summarizes everything Malachi has been calling out up to this point, in the sins of the priests and the unfaithfulness of the people (1:6-2:16). However, he immediately begins promising another “Malachi” (“my messenger”) who will come and fully restore God’s covenant with the people.

“For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, and they will bring offerings in righteousness to the Lord.”

Malachi 2:2b-3

The book finishes by identifying this coming “Malachi” to another Elijah, who will not only preach the law, as all prophets before Him, but who would actually restore the hearts of mankind to God and reestablish right relationship among men (see 4:2-6).

In the Protestant cannon of scripture, Malachi is the last minor prophet in the Old Testament. His words are followed by 400 years of silence, until the next words we hear in scripture is “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham,” as the gospel writer proclaims that God’s final messenger — the promised Messiah — had come (Matthew 1:1).

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© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Bible Basics

Zechariah

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Author

Most scholars believe the first eight chapters of the book were written by the prophet Zechariah. However, chapters 9-12 shift focus to the future of Israel. As they do not contain any direct dates or by-lines, some believe another prophet possibly added these chapters at another time. Many scholars, however, argue that ancient textual witnesses, geographical and historical references in these chapters, and continuity of writing themes should be enough to determine a single author of the book as a whole.

Zechariah’s name means “The Lord Remembers.” This name is common in the Old Testament (more than 30 times), and many scholars have linked this prophet Zechariah with others, often leading to much confusion. What we do know is that the book of Zechariah and Ezra both link him to his grandfather, “Iddo,” (though Ezra says only “son of”). Many scholars believe this to be the same Iddo who returned with Zerubbabel and Joshua in Nehemiah 12:4 and 16, making Zechariah a descendant of the priestly line.

Date

Reading the superscriptions given in chapters 1:1,7 and 7:1, we know for sure that the first eight chapters of the book were written between October 520B.C. and December 518B.C. Zechariah was a contemporary and likely direct companion of the prophet Haggai. (See my commentary on Haggai for more on the situation surrounding these writings.) However, we do not know, with any certainty, the writing dates for chapters 9-14.

Audience and Purpose

Zechariah was most likely a returnee from Babylonian captivity and was prophesying to other returnees living in Jerusalem. The first eight chapters align with the book of Haggai, calling them to finish the rebuilding of God’s temple. (See my commentary on Haggai for more  information on this work.) Many of Zechariah’s prophetic dreams are extremely complicated to understand and are interpreted by the presence of an angel, though others are left without clear interpretation or clarity.

Chapters 9-14 shift focus to prophesying against the nation of Syria, its cities, Damascus, Tyre, and Sidon, and against Philistia. The promise of destruction and cleansing is also scattered with promises of a new King-Priest coming to Jerusalem, riding on a donkey, and reigning over the nations in power and in peace. In this section of the book, the author’s focus on the temple is greatly minimized, as the rise of this coming King-Priest becomes the primary focus of Jewish life and in God’s Kingdom work.

Major Themes

  • God’s Promise of Restoration
  • God’s Faithfulness
  • God’s Glory and the Salvation of Nations. This is seen especially in Zechariah 14.
  • Messianic Prophecy. Zechariah has a lot to say about the coming Messiah, including being the first Old Testament prophet to link the promise of a Davidic-line King with a High Priest (see Zechariah 6:11-15). Zechariah 9-14 is the most quoted section of any Old Testament prophet by the New Testament.

Key Scriptures

  • Zechariah 9:9 — “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
  • Zechariah 13:1 — “On that day there shall be a fountain opened for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and uncleanness.”

Outline

  • Zechariah 1:1-6 — Prophecy Calling God’s People to Repentance
  • Zechariah 1:7-6:15 — Eight Night Visions and A Sign
  • Zechariah 7:1-8:23 — Four Prophecies Calling God’s People to Justice
  • Zechariah 9:1-14:21 — Two Prophecies Concerning Salvation and a King

Gospel Summary

Though the first eight chapters of Zechariah deal with the immediate needs of rebuilding the temple and right worship of God in Israel, there is a shift in chapters 9-11, which brings the reign of Messiah into focus. Though the nations would attack the people of God, the coming King-Priest whom God raises up will be victorious over them. God will bring restoration to His people.

In chapters 12-13, many other prophetic declarations are made, pointing to Jesus, including:

  • The House of David mourning over “the one who is pierced” (12:10-14).
  • A fountain being opened to cleans the people of sin and uncleanliness (13:1-6).
  • The “shepherd” who is struck down, as his sheep scatter (13:7-9). Jesus Himself quotes this passage regarding His death in Matthew 26:31 and Mark 14:27.

The book ends with an eschatological view of the New Jerusalem and the last days, as the Kingdom of God if fully established on the earth. 

The New Testament writers make clear that they viewed Jesus as the fulfillment of Zechariah’s prophecy.

If you’re enjoying the content I produce, a little caffeine to keep me going would be appreciated!



© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Bible Basics

Haggai

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Author

The book is written by “Haggai the prophet” (1:1). Beyond this simple introduction, not much is know about the man.  There is no description of Haggai’s family line, geographic association, or other information about him personally. 

His name means “festal.”

According to Jewish tradition, Haggai is listed amongst the last of God’s prophetic witnesses (1 Maccabees 9:27). According to some early Christian writers, Haggai came from a priestly bloodline, although there is no evidence for this claim.

Some textual traditions have also linked Haggai as either the author or co-author of Psalms 111, 125-16, and 145-148, though not all of these traditions agree to which ones Haggai may have been part of writing. All the evidence linking him to the Psalms is questionable. The link was likely made at a later date based on popular traditions at the time.

Date

Haggai was a post-exile prophet, preaching about God’s restored glory to Israel after the release of captivity, after Babylon had fallen to the Persians in 539B.C. The first Jews returned to their homeland under the edict given by King Cyrus (see Isaiah 45). Those early returnees began the reconstruction of God’s temple under the leadership of Ezra (Ezra 6:3-5), however the work was no complete. The work is halted when Darius the Great takes the throne.

It is at this time that Haggai comes on to the scene. He specifically begins his prophesy in August of 520B.C. (specific date given in Haggai 1:1). His book is completed by December of the same year (see 2:10 and 2:20).

Audience and Purpose

Haggai was writing to the retuned Jews living in Jerusalem who, though they were rebuilding their own homes and restoring life in the land, they were ignoring God’s temple, and by implication, the full return to faith and worship (1:2-11).

Contrary to the way God’s people usually responded to Old Testament prophets, the people do obey Haggai, and rebuilt the temple (1:12-15). Haggai goes on to prophesy the return of God’s glory to the temple, greater than before (2:9), a renewed peace in the land, and God’s blessing on the people.

This rebuilt temple would be dedicated in 516B.C; exactly 70 years after Solomon’s temple was destroyed (see Ezra 6:15 and 2 Chronicles 36:21).

Major Themes

  • God’s Promise of Restoration.
  • God’s Faithfulness.
  • Fulfilled Prophecy. Seventy years for the land to rest was prophesied by Jeremiah (2 Chronicles 26:21). The rebuilt temple marks the completion of this period, from the destruction of Solomon’s temple, to the dedication of the new temple.
  • God’s Glory and the Nations. Haggai does not end his book by simply prophesying God’s glory to Israel, but that all the nations would share in in (2:7).

Key Scriptures

  • Haggai 2:6-7 — “For thus says the LORD of hosts: Yet once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land. And I will shake all nations, so that the treasures of all nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of hosts.”

Outline

  • Haggai 1:1-11 — Prophecy Concerning the Rebuilding of God’s Temple
  • Haggai 1:12-15 — People’s Response to the Prophecy
  • Haggai 2:1-9 — Prophecy Concerning the Latter Glory of the Temple
  • Haggai 2:10-19 — Prophecy Concerning Holiness, Repentance, and Blessing
  • Haggai 2:20-23 — Prophecy Concerning Zerubbabel

Gospel Summary

The destruction of the temple in Jerusalem was the lowest point in Israel’s history, as all of life centered on temple worship. However, with the reconstruction of a new temple, and a promise of God’s glory, greater than before, there is hope. People are pulled out of passivity and restored to a passion for worship and faith.

Jesus would stir pall the emotions Israel felt in the destruction and rebuilding of this temple when He would speak of Himself in hidden language: “Jesus answered them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ The Jews then said, ‘It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?’ But he was speaking about the temple of his body. When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken” (John 2:19-22).

Haggai’s promise that the latter glory would be greater than the former (2:9) finds its fulfillment in Christ and His people, who are the true temple of the Holy Spirit, where the glory of God dwells on earth.

Haggai prophesied that God would restore Israel’s glory, shaking the nations and that all people would worship in the restored temple. We see the true fulfillment of this promise when Simeon holds the baby Jesus in Luke 2:32, and sees in him “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”

If you’re enjoying the content I produce, a little caffeine to keep me going would be appreciated!



© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Bible Basics

Zephaniah

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Author

The prophecies in the book were written by Zephaniah, whose name means “he whom the Lord protects or hides.” Some speculate that the book may have been compiled together at a later date. Some also believe that 3:14-20 were added during or post-exile. The entire book is written in the form of Hebrew poetry.

Zephaniah introduces himself with a genealogy, which is unusual for the Old Testament prophets. Some believe the reference is to show himself as the great-great-grandson of Judah’s King Hezekiah (1:1). Others who do not believe this to be the case argue that there is no historical evidence, or later Jewish tradition to confirm this. Some believe  the prophet included the genealogy to show that he was a full-blooded Jewish man, due to the fact that his father’s name, “Cushi,” can be mistaken to mean he was Ethiopian.

Some scholars have tried to make a connection between the prophet Zephaniah and the priest named Zephaniah who was killed during the Babylonian invasions in 2 Kings 25:18–21 and Jeremiah 52:24–27. This connection, however, cannot be confirmed.

Date

The book’s introduction states that Zephaniah ministered during the reign of King Josiah (1:1), who ruled Judah from 640-609BC, and who sought to reform Judah back to a godly nation. This makes him a contemporary of Jeremiah, Nahum, and Habakkuk.

Due to the book’s beginning by condemning the sins of Judah and Jerusalem in “bowing down” to Assyria (1:5),  which was the way of life under King Mannaseh, some believe that Zephanaiah’s prophetic ministry began before Josiah became King; though this is uncertain. His prophetic decrees include predicting the complete downfall of Nineveh (Assyria) to the Babylonians (2:13-15), which happened in 612BC, though, again, the exact date of his prediction is also uncertain.

Audience and Purpose

Zephaniah was writing to the southern kingdom of Judah, although his prophecies also involve the surrounding nations, declaring both God’s impending judgement (which would come in 587BC) and promising a hope for future restoration.

Major Themes

  • Prophecy.
  • God’s Sovereignty over the Nations. Zephaniah’s prophecy specifically includes reference to  God’s judgement on people from all corners of the map. From Judah, Philisia (2:5-7) is to the west, Moab and Amon (2:8-11) are to the east, Cush (2:12) is to the south and Assyria (2:13-15) is to the north.
  • Sin and Judgement. As do the prophets, Zephaniah speaks about “The Day of the Lord.”
  • God’s Promise of Salvation and Restoration.

Key Scriptures

  • 3:16-17 — “On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: “Fear not, O Zion; let not your hands grow weak. The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”

Outline

  • Zephaniah 1:1-3:8 — Prophecy Concerning The Day of the Lord
    • Zephaniah 1:1-2:3 — Prophecy of God’s Judgment on Judah and Jerusalem
    • Zephaniah 2:4-3:8 — Prophecy of God’s Judgement on the Nations
  • Zephaniah 3:9–20 — Promise of Global Salvation

Gospel Summary

Though Zephaniah is one of the final voices declaring the downfall of Judah and Jerusalem to the Babylonians and “the Day of the Lord,” the gospel hope is found in the final section of his writing where the Lord promises many things to come after His judgement: He would purify the speech of all people to worship Him (3:9). He would bless those who “humble” themselves and trust Him (3:11-12). He would establish Himself as King over Israel (3:15); and He would gather His people from the exile where they were being sent, and establish them among the nations (3:20).

Though the immediate hope of the people would have been that these things would come after their time in exile in Babylon, we now know that these promises would not be fulfilled until the coming of Christ who offers salvation to those who humble themselves and trust Him as Savior. Those of us who believe in Him are now awaiting the fulfillment of these promises at Christ’ final return in power, as Messiah-King.

If you’re enjoying the content I produce, a little caffeine to keep me going would be appreciated!



© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

Hab

Habakkuk

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Author

The book was written by Habakkuk, who is identified as a prophet (1:1). Although not much is known about Habakkuk’s personal life, some have speculated that his in-depth knowledge of the Temple ministry could only come from working as a priest. Others have proposed that Habakkuk may have been a member of the Temple musicians, as chapter 3 of the book is written as a victory hymn.

Although many throughout history have tried to connect Habakkuk with the Habakkuk in the apocryphal book of Bel and the Dragon, who delivered porridge to Daniel in the lion’s den, this connection is chronologically impossible.

Date

Although a range of dates are proposed, it is clear that the book was composed after the Babylonians successfully overthrew Assyrian rule in 625B.C; and likely before the death of King Josiah in 612. Still, some scholars put the writing date even later, following the Babylonian defeat of the Egyptians in 605. It is clear from the prophetic content being produced that the book was finished well before the fall of Jerusalem to Nebuchadnezzar in 587. 

This timeframe would make Habakkuk a contemporary of Jeremiah, Zephaniah, and Nahum.

Audience and Purpose

Although the book would have been published for the people of Judah, living at the time of the writing, to prophesy the Word of the Lord about Judah’s coming destruction, the book itself seems to be the prophet’s personal prayer journal as he dialogues with the Lord, and also records his own song of praise for God’s righteousness.

Major Themes

  • Prophecy
  • God’s Righteousness
  • Human Evil
  • Sin and Judgement
  • Sovereignty of God. Although Habakkuk does not understand God’s ways, the book shows a great need to trust Him and His control of all things.

Key Scriptures

  • Habakkuk 2:4 — “Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.

Outline

  • Habakkuk 1:1-4 — Habakkuk’s First Complaint
  • Habakkuk 1:5-11 — God’s First Response
  • Habakkuk 1:12-2:1 — Habakkuk’ Second Complaint
  • Habakkuk 2:2-20 — God’s Second Response
  • Habakkuk 3:1-19) —Habakkuk’s Prayer (Psalm)

Gospel Summary

As Habakkuk lives in a time when even the remnant of God’s people in Judah are living in sin, the prophet cries out for God’s justice. However, when the Lord declares He will use the Babylonians (Chaldeans) to bring judgement on Judah, just as the Assyrians brought judgement on Israel, Habakkuk’s theology is challenged. How can God use one unrighteous people to bring judgement on another, and especially a faithless pagan nation such as Babylon to bring judgement on His chosen people?

In His grace, God responds to Habakkuk’s questions by declaring His own righteousness and sovereignty, which go far beyond human comprehension. Much like God’s response to Job in Job 32-41, the Lord does not demonstrate a need to explain Himself to Habakkuk. And in the same way as Job, Habakkuk’s only possible response is to humble himself and worship the Lord.

As Habakkuk ends the book by declaring God’s judgement on the Babylonians (and by implication, on all ungodly nations), it stirs in us the faith that God will keep His word, judge the evil in the world, and sustain the righteous, “who live by faith” in Him (2:4). This, of course, points to the Messianic promises made throughout the Old Testament, and fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

If you’re enjoying the content I produce, a little caffeine to keep me going would be appreciated!



© Anthony Scott Ingram 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Please note that I do get a small kickback from Amazon for any purchases made using the links on this post. Should you choose to purchase from them, I just want to say thank you for further supporting my work in ministry!

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