The basics of the Bible : Origin, Composition and Transmission

Chapter 1: What is the Bible?

1. Definition and Composition

   • Definition of the Bible
   • Division into Old and New Testaments
   • Number of books in each Testament (39 in the Old, 27 in the New)

2. Language and Translation

   • Original languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek
   • Importance of translations: Septuagint, Vulgate, and modern translations

Chapter 2: How the Bible Became the Bible

1. Formation of the Canon

   • Definition of “canon”
   • Criteria for inclusion of books
   • Process of canonization for Old and New Testaments

2. Historical Milestones

   • Key councils and decisions (Council of Nicea, Council of Carthage)
   • Role of early church leaders and scholars

3. The Apocrypha

   • Explanation of the Apocryphal books
   • Differences in Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox canons

Chapter 3: How People Wrote the Bible

1. Inspiration and Revelation

   • Concept of divine inspiration
   • Role of the Holy Spirit in guiding authors

2. Authors and Writing Styles

   • Various authors: prophets, apostles, historians
   • Different literary genres: law, history, poetry, prophecy, epistles

3. Transmission and Preservation

   • Ancient manuscript traditions: Dead Sea Scrolls, Masoretic Text
   • Scribes and the meticulous copying process

Chapter 4: What Makes the Bible Special?

1. Divine Authority

   • Belief in the Bible as the Word of God
   • Its unique role in revealing God’s will and character

2. Historical Reliability

   • Archaeological evidence supporting biblical accounts
   • Consistency and preservation over centuries

3. Transformative Power

   • Impact on individuals and societies
   • Testimonies of life changes and moral guidance