Chronological Bible

 by Macy Johnson

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.”

(John 1:1 NIV)

 

During a Bible study Zoom meeting the participants discussed how nice it would be to read about Jesus’ life sequentially, as it unfolded. I discovered a chronological Bible exists, complete with historical and other archaeological data.

 

The Chronological Bible was compiled “to acquire a sense of the flow of the Bible’s story will put flesh and blood on its message. Readers who study the Chronological Bible will return to their traditional Bibles better equipped to read them.” (The Chronological Study Bible Introduction, Thomas Nelson, publishers)

 

I obtained a copy to methodically read through as part of my morning devotions. Every morning I learn something new and exciting about biblical times and God’s people who were chosen to serve in His kingdom here on earth. 

 

Epoch is defined by Merriam-Webster as “an event or a time that begins a new period or development.” The Chronological Study Bible is divided into nine epochs:

-      Time before Abraham and the Patriarchs

-      Time of Abraham and his descendants as slaves in Egypt

-      Time of the Exodus from Egypt

-      Time of the twelve tribes becoming a nation

-      Time of the divided monarchy in Israel

-      Time of the Jewish exile and return to Israel

-      Time between the Old and New Testaments

-      Time of the Messiah: His birth, life, death, and resurrection

-      Time of the church age

 

An interesting fact I learned is Abraham lived 2000 B.C. (before Christ) while we live A.D. (anno Domini) 2000. New information helps me obtain a bigger picture of all time and eternity so I can better understand God’s plans and purposes.

 

I will seek to learn more about the perfect timings in our Lord’s kingdom. I hope you will, too!