Biblical Testaments: Key Books and Their Messages

New Testament Foundations

The New Testament begins with the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, which recount the life of Jesus Christ. Following these is the book of Acts of the Apostles, describing the beginning of the Christian Church after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The first three Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) are called "Synoptic Gospels" because they follow a similar structure and share many similarities. The Gospel of John differs from the others in its form and content. However, the four together present one unified Gospel, the "Good News." The New Testament is understood as the fulfillment of all promises made in the Old Testament.

Old Testament Cornerstones

The first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Pentateuch, were traditionally attributed to Moses. The first book is Genesis, meaning "origin" or "beginning." It is foundational as it introduces God and humanity, and explains how sin, suffering, and death entered the world. Genesis also narrates the stories of Creation, the Flood, and the origins of Israel.

Following Genesis are the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These books tell how God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, established a covenant with them through Moses, and gave them the Promised Land of Canaan (Israel).

The book of Job addresses the suffering of a righteous man, prompting deep reflections on divine justice and the nature of God's governance in the world. The Psalms are a collection of songs and poems addressing spiritual themes such as happiness, depression, elation, and sadness. The book of Proverbs contains abundant wisdom and practical advice for living wisely before God. Finally, the prophetic books, including Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, announce the desolation and exile of the Jewish people, as well as their eventual restoration with the establishment of God's kingdom on earth.

The Gospel of Mark

Written for Gentile Christians (those of non-Jewish origin) and composed between 65 and 70 AD, Mark is the shortest Gospel. It aims to lead readers to discover that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God. The Gospel is divided into two main parts: the first prompts reflection on Jesus' identity, and the second follows Him through His Passion.

The Gospel of Matthew

Composed around 80 AD, Matthew was primarily addressed to Jewish Christians. It seeks to demonstrate through the Old Testament Scriptures that Jesus is the Messiah awaited by Israel. Matthew organizes its material into seven sections: a prologue detailing the Lord's childhood, an epilogue covering the events of Easter, and five intermediate sections.

The Gospel of Luke

Also composed around 80 AD, Luke emphasizes the universal mission of the Gospel, particularly to the Gentiles, highlighting themes of mercy and forgiveness. All are invited to participate in the Kingdom of God, announced and initiated by Jesus.

The Gospel of John

Composed around 95 AD, John follows a different structure than the Synoptic Gospels. It is a profound theological reflection on the mystery of the person and mission of Jesus Christ. This Gospel is often seen as divided into two main parts: the first, the "Book of Signs," revolves around seven key miracles performed by Jesus. The second part, the "Book of Glory," brings us to the "hour" of Jesus, the time when He would manifest His "glory" through His death and resurrection.

The Acts of the Apostles

The Acts of the Apostles serves as a historical narrative of the early Christian Church. In this work, Luke, its traditional author, traces a linear account of Christian origins, detailing the spread of the Gospel after Jesus' ascension.