Foundations of the Bible and Christian Faith

Understanding the Bible and Its Origins

What is the Bible and its Books?

The Bible is not a history book nor a scientific one; it is a religious book written by many authors (many of whom are anonymous) inspired by God. For believers, it is the Word of God put in writing, where one finds answers to many of life's questions.

How God Revealed Himself in History

God revealed himself throughout history as:

• A God-Liberator: He saves His people, for example, from slavery.
• A Near God: He is concerned about the needs of His people and gives hope in hard times with the promise of a Savior.
• A God-Savior: He brings salvation through people like Abraham and Moses.

Society and Faith in the Time of Jesus

The Jewish Faith and Its Foundations

• One God: Yahweh.
• A People: The belief that Israel was God's chosen people.
• A Law: Through which God reveals His will.

Jewish Rules and Festivals

• Religious Law: The Law shaped their lives and represented the will of God.
• Saturday (Sabbath): A day of rest to praise God.
• Easter (Passover): Lasted eight days and commemorated the liberation of Israel from slavery.
• Pentecost: A time for thanksgiving.
• Feast of Tabernacles: Family huts set up in memory of Israel's journey in the desert.

Religious Centers and the Gospels

Religious life centered around temples and synagogues.

The Meaning of the Gospel

"Gospel" means Good News, which is Jesus Christ—His life, His message, and His salvation. While they contain echoes and events of His life, they are not strictly biographies; they are testimonials of believers that proclaim Jesus.

Characteristics of the Christian Faith

What It Means to Be a Christian

To believe in Jesus is to follow Him. Following Jesus transforms the believer, who begins to reflect the life and message of Jesus in their own life.

The Path of Following Jesus

• To Be: Putting His message into practice and adopting His attitudes.
• Mission: Feeling sent on a mission to build a world that is more just and more humane.

One God in Three Persons: The Holy Trinity

In the public life of Jesus, three persons are featured:

• Jesus of Nazareth (God the Son): Present among men, full of the Spirit, and loved by the Father.
• God the Father: Sends His Son to the world with a mission.
• God the Holy Spirit: A force that fills Jesus, guides Him, and leads Him.

These three are an indivisible unity, known as the Holy Trinity.