TheBiblein90Days

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Bible in 90 Days

Week 1

Genesis 1 - 16

Genesis 17 - 28:19

Genesis 28:20 –40:11

Genesis 40:12 – 50

Exodus 1:1 –15:18

Exodus 15:19 -28:43

Exodus 29:1 –40:39

Are the names and genealogy hard?

Don't try and enunciate every name correctly!

Read as a story and don’t get hung up on details.

Genesis Overview

Genesis is the book of beginnings and sets the stage for everything that follows in the Bible. It establishes God as the creator of all that is – in heaven, on earth, and beyond. It focuses on the essential relationship of humanity, the relationship between God and the people he created. In Genesis we see Satan entice Adam and Eve to disobey God, which establishes the central conflict of human history. The remainder of the Bible is the story of how God resolves that loss of relationship throughout human history.

Exodus Overview

Exodus is not only the story of Israel’s departure from the land of Egypt, it is the story of Israel’s departure from the lifestyle of Egypt. It is not merely a journey of time and distance, it is a journey of the heart as a holy God prepares his chosen people to live the life he offers in the land he has provided. What a journey it is as God reveals himself and invites his people into relationship with him!

Week 2

Leviticus 1-14:32

Leviticus 14:33 -26:26

Leviticus 26:27-Numbers 8:15

Numbers 8:15-21:7

Numbers 21:8 – 32:19

Numbers 32:20 – Duet. 7

Deuteronomy 8 - 23

At least once during this week, try breaking your daily reading routine into two or more sessions.

Leviticus Overview

Leviticus is essentially the rule book for Israel’s priests. All of the laws spring from God’s covenant with his chosen people. The Hebrews had grown up in slavery, so these laws are part of the process God used to mold them into the people they needed to be before they entered the Promised Land. These laws are about relationships: the relationships they were to have with one another and the relationship they were to have with their God. As you read, notice the unchanging character of God and our human need for forgiveness and a restored relationship with God. Leviticus helps us understand why we need to be holy and why it was necessary for Jesus to stand in our place and die for our sins.

Numbers Overview

The Hebrew name of the book of Numbers means “in the desert.” And that’s what Numbers is all about. As the Israelites approach the Promised Land of Canaan, they must choose whether or not to trust their God. Notice what happens when they focus on circumstances and feelings rather than on what God promises to do for them. After denying God’s character and promises, they face his judgment – thirty-eight more years in the wilderness.

Deuteronomy Overview

While reading Deuteronomy, you’ll experience your first dose of extended repetition in the Bible. Although it can make for tedious reading, embrace the repetition as an opportunity or order biblical events more firmly in your mind. This book is important because it greatly influenced Judah and Israel’s prophets, who in turn influenced key New Testament characters such as Paul and Jesus. As you read, notice the emphasis on worshiping God and God alone. Note how often Moses mentions that God will fulfill his promise to Abraham and give the Israelites the Promised Land.

Week 3

Deut. 23:12 – 34:12

Joshua 1 - 14

Joshua 15-Judges 3:27

Judges 3:28 – 15:12

Judges 15:13 – 1 Sam 2:29

1 Samuel 2:30 - 15

1 Sam 16 – 28:19

If you are behind in your reading, catch up by reading on Sunday as long as necessary. Don’t get discouraged!

Deuteronomy Overview

In this final section of Deuteronomy, pay attention to the predictions God instructs Moses to give concerning Israel. Imagine what it would have been like to be camped on the east side of the Jordan River, poised to enter Canaan, and to hear these words from Moses. Notice the choice Joshua and Moses urged the people to make so that God would bless them with a full, productive, and meaningful life (Deut. 30:19-20; 32:44-47)

Joshua Overview

Here we see God fulfill his promises to the early patriarchs and the Israelites as they enter and settle in the Promised Land. Take note of Joshua’s faithfulness to God as he leads Israel in conquering the Canaanites, which is one of the high points of Israel’s history. Joshua’s faithful leadership brings great reward to the nations, but even so, Israel is not entirely faithful in obeying God’s commands.

Judges Overview

Here you’ll see how quickly Israel forgets about God and rejects his kingship. Note the strengths and weaknesses of the various judges – including Deborah, Gideon, and Samson – whom God sent to assist Israel during critical times. Consider also the cycle that begins during this time periods: Israel breaks its covenant with God, God sends foreign oppressors to punish his people, they cry out for help, he faithfully delivers them, and then they disobey again.

Ruth Overview

In many ways the book of Ruth portrays the promise of a life far beyond one’s expectations. As you read this book, which reads like a short story, take note of the themes of faithful love and redemption that prevails as events unfold for an Israelite family.

1 Samuel Overview

The events of 1 Samuel take place during a time of political, social and spiritual turmoil. Observe how Israel refuses to listen to God and makes the rough transition from the time of the judges to the reign of Saul, Israel’s first earthly king. Notice the ups and downs David, the great warrior, faces before he becomes Israel’s next king

Week 4

1 Samuel 28:20- 2 Samuel 12:10

2 Samuel 12:11 – 2 Samuel 22:18

2 Samuel 22:19 – 1 Kings 7:37

1 Kings 7:38 – 1 Kings 16:20

1 Kings 16:21 – 2 Kings 4:37

2 Kings 4:38 – 2 Kings 15:26

2 Kings 15:27 – end of 2 Kings

Remember your mission: “To read the bible as a story in 90 days”

This is God’s letter to YOU!

2 Samuel Overview

A record of David’s reign as king through his old age, 2 Samuel depicts the most magnificent high points as well as the low points of David’s life and that of his family. David’s affair with Bathsheba – an ugly story of lust, abuse of power, deceit, and murder – is but a preview of what follows. In fulfillment of Nathan’s prophecy that David’s sin with Bathsheba would split the house of David, we see the consequences unfold, bringing division and suffering not only to David’s family but to the entire nation of Israel.

1 Kings Overview

First Kings picks up where 2 Samuel left off. After Solomon’s death, watch for the brutal causes and results as Israel splits into two kingdoms. It can be challenging to keep it all straight, but you will see a succession of kings of both kingdoms. Pay attention to which kings of Israel (north) and Judah (south) do “right in the eyes of the Lord” and which ones don’t. Notice how God responds.

2 Kings Overview

As you read the continuing story of the two kingdoms, imagine what it was like for God’s people who repeatedly compromised with evil until they faced God’s judgment. Notice how the prophets Elijah and Elisha respond as they try to guide the people toward God. Watch for the destruction of Jerusalem, which is the climax of the Old Testament’s plot.

Week 5

1 Chronicles1:1 – 9:44

1 Chronicles 10:1 – 23:32

1 Chronicles 24:1 – 2 Chronicles 7:10

2 Chronicles 7:11 –23:15

2 Chronicles 23:16 – 35:15

2 Chronicles 35:16 – Ezra 10:44

Nehemiah1:1 – 13:14

If you need a little variation, try reading at a different time of day

or in a different place.

1 Chronicles Overview

Written for the exiles who had returned to rebuild Jerusalem under Ezra and Nehemiah, 1 Chronicles traces the genealogy and interprets the history of God’s people (primarily from 1-2 Samuel and 1-2 Kings.). You will notice an emphasis on the political and spiritual events of David’ reign and the covenant promises God was keeping by establishing David as Israel’s king.

2 Chronicles Overview

This book records the deeds of all the kings of Judah who came after Solomon. Pay attention to how often the phrases “was fully committed to the Lord” (15:17) or “did evil in the eyes of the Lord” (21:6) appear because they illustrate what really matters to God (and should matter to us as well.)

Ezra Overview

Both Ezra and Nehemiah tell about the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Notice how God uses Ezra – a priest and scribe – to resort Israel’s identity among the Jewish exiles. He challenges the people – who have spent decades in Persian society disregarding God’s law and mixing worship of the God of the covenant with worship of foreign gods – to fully uphold God’s law.

Nehemiah Overview

In this book you’ll see how God used Nehemiah’s prayers, plans, and passion to accomplish great things. He not only led the people in rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem, he helped restore Jewish tradition and faithfulness to God in the community.

To reach Jerusalem from Persian’s winter capital of Susa, about 200 miles east of Babylon, Nehemiah traveled about 1,100 miles – quite a distance even today!

Week 6

Nehemiah 13:15 – Job 7

Job 8:1 – Job 24

Job 25:1 – Job 41

Job 42 – Psalm 24

Psalm 25:1 – Psalm 45:14

Psalm 45:15 – Psalm 68:21

Psalm 29:22 – 89:13

Remember, don’t get bogged down trying to understand everything you read.

Press on and pay attention to what you do understand.

Esther Overview

As you read the story of Esther, try putting yourself in her position. Watch her faith in God grow, and notice how God uses her courageous actions and those of Mordecai to save the Jews from annihilation. Consider, too, that Esther lived in Persia about thirty years before the events recorded in Nehemiah. How might her actions have affected what occurred during Nehemiah’s time?

Job Overview

Pay close attention to the scenario set up in this book, which probably took place during the time of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. As you read, reflect on the insights into the nature of suffering and faith, who God is and how deeply he values righteousness, and the unseen spiritual conflicts between God’s kingdom and Satan’s kingdom.

Psalms Overview

While reading the poetic prayers and hymns in this book, note those that especially connect with you. You’ll want to return to them for further reading at a later date. Pay close attention to what the psalms reveal about faith, godliness, hope, justice, and God being at the center of life.

Did you know?

God commanded King Saul to execute the Amalekites and their evil king Agag because the Amalekites were the first people to attack the Israelites after their departure from Egypt. But Saul disobeyed God and spared Agag. As it turns out, Haman probably was a descendant of Agag (Est. 3:1)! Using Haman, Satan again tried to destroy God’s people and his unfolding plans.
Job referred to his time as a healthy man (ch. 29) when he took his seat at “the gate of the city.” This means that Job had been an influential leader in his community. During those times, city elders presided over the most important legal cases and administrative business at the city gate also known as city hall.

The book of Psalms was collected during the time of David to Ezra. Many a thousands of years before Jesus’ birth, but point to Jesus. The New Testament refers to Psalms and Christ coming at least 17 times.

Week 7

Psalm 89:14 – 108

Psalm 109 – 134

Psalm 135- Proverbs 6

Proverbs 7 – 20:21

Proverbs 20:22 – Ecclesiastes 2

Ecclesiastes 3 – 12

Isaiah 1 - 13

Read attentively and build on the broad overview of Bible history

you are gaining through your reading.

Psalms Overview

Continue to note the particular psalms that especially connect with you. Consider the many ways the psalmists praise God for who he is and what he has done. Take note of references in the psalms to events about which you already have read (Israel’s time in the wilderness described in Psalms 95:10, for example).

Proverbs Overview

As you read this book of short sayings that illustrate general principles for making wise choices in life, notice the repetition of various themes – family relationships, fruitful labor, fidelity, reverence for and trust in the Creator God, ways and consequences of folly, responsibilities, and so on. Compare what Proverbs says about wisdom to what many people today would say about it.

Ecclesiastes Overview

As you ponder this exploration into the meaning and futility of life. Don’t miss the subtle theme that somehow – despite the confusion, uncertainty, and pain – there is a God who has placed eternity in our hearts, who desires our love and reverence, who offers us hope in himself. Although much of the book expresses the futility of life lived without God, notice the book’s concluding statement of hope.

Song of Songs Overview

This book’s celebration of love is often interpreted in several ways – as an allegory, wisdom literature, a love song, or a combination thereof. As you read, reflect on the images of sexual love, marital fidelity, and the couple’s shameless enjoyment of their God-given sexuality.

Did you know?

The “sachet of myrrh” mentioned in Song of Songs 1:13 was an aromatic gum derived from balsam trees in India, Ethiopia, and Arabia. Used as a perfume, this gum was also an ingredient in holy anointing oil. The wise men brought myrrh to Jesus as a gift (Matthew 2:2, 11).

Week 8

Isaiah 14-28

Isaiah 29-41:18

Isaiah 41:19 – 52:12

Isaiah 52:13 – 66:18

Isaiah 66:19 – Jeremiah 10:13

Jeremiah 10:14 – Jeremiah 23:8

Jeremiah 23:9 – 33:22

When reading the books of the prophets, it is helpful to remember to whom the prophet is writing, when the prophet is writing, and the circumstances of the prophet’s audience.

Isaiah Overview

The strong warnings of destruction continue, but as the book progresses you will discover a message of comfort, encouragement, and a future hope. Pay attention to the praise Isaiah offers to God, the beautiful poetry in chapters 36-39, and the powerful imagery Isaiah uses.

Jeremiah Overview

Imagine what it must have been like to rail against the sin of God’s people for forty years! While Jeremiah was not popular among his contemporaries, he is the prophet Jesus must often quoted. As you read, notice how often Jeremiah warns the kingdom of Judah to stop committing adultery, using perverted worship practices, and in general turning away from God. Notice how the people respond to Jeremiah as he keeps to his mission and the hard questions Jeremiah keeps asking.

Did you know?

The Old Testament prophet’s primary role was not to give people a glimpse of a blueprint of future events, but to encourage people to live now in the way that God wanted, a way that reflected the fact of their relationship to him. Prophets were responsible to speak out clearly the things God had given them to say. However, listeners had responsibilities too. They were, of course, responsible to hear and heed the things said to them; to turn their faith into action; to live out the justice and holiness and love of their God. They were also responsible for assessing whether or not the prophet was really speaking from God, responsible for being honest with themselves and with God and in particular for not trying to bribe the prophet to give nice warm messages that only ever contained the things they wanted to hear.
At the time Isaiah prophesied against the city of Babylon, its beautiful temples and palaces were world renowned. In fact, the hanging gardens of King Nebuchadnezzar were one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. The city boasted incredible canals, numerous monuments, a staged temple tower 295’ high, and city walls wide enough that four-horse chariot could turn around on top of them. After the fall and disrepair of Babylon after 330BC Revelation 18:2 describes the ruined Babylon as a home for demons and evil spirits.

Week 9

Jeremiah 33:23 – 47

Jeremiah 48- Lamentations 1

Lamentations 2 – Ezekiel 12:20

Ezekiel 12:21 – 23:40

Ezekiel 23:41 – 35

Ezekiel 36 – 47:12

Ezekiel 47:13 – Daniel 8

Remember, don’t expect to understand everything you read. Pay attention to what you do understand, and don’t worry about the rest.

Jeremiah Overview

Jeremiah’s persecution and suffering increases as God’s judgment approaches; he is actually in chains when the Babylonians take over Jerusalem. Take special notice of Jeremiah’s ongoing role as God’s messenger to the remnant of Judah that is not taken away to Babylon. Consider what happens to them and how God responds to the nations that have battled his people.

Lamentations Overview

As you read this poetic book of laments over Jerusalem’s destruction in 586 BC and descriptions of devastation and slaughter, try to imagine the Jews’ deep loss. Not only have their city and temple been destroyed, they have been exiled from the homeland God had given them. Although God ordained their punishment, notice the hope, love, faithfulness, and salvation he continues to offer.

Ezekiel Overview

Although parts of Ezekiel can be difficult to understand, pay attention to the constant theme that God is sovereign over nations, people, history, and all creation. As you read, consider why God repeats variations of: “Then they will know that I am the LORD.” Notice, too, the theme of holiness and what Ezekiel predicts concerning God’s design of redemption that will unfold in the New Testament.

Daniel Overview

From the first pages of this book, Daniel stands out as a leader – spiritually and politically. Take note of the qualities of Daniel’s relationship with God: his faithfulness, his faith in God, and his commitment to prayer. Consider also the repeating theme of God’s sovereignty over all people (Daniel 4;17; 5:21).

Did you know?

The phrase “son of man” is used 93 times in the book of Ezekiel to emphasize Ezekiel’s humanity, but the phrase is used as a proper title only in the book of Daniel. In Daniel’s vision (Dan. 7:13-14), he saw the son of main as a heavenly figure whom God entrusts with glory, authority, and sovereign power during the end times and whose kingdom will last forever. A few centuries later Jesus used this term 81 times to describe himself, thus showing that he was the eschatological figure of whom Daniel spoke.

Week 10

Daniel 9 – Hosea 13:6

Hosea 13:7 – Amos 9:10

Amos 9:11 – Nahum 3

Habakkuk 1 – Zechariah 10

Zechariah 11 – Matthew 4

Matthew 5 – 15

Matthew 16 – 26:56

If you are behind in your reading, set aside extra time this week to catch up.

When reading the books of the prophets, it is helpful to remember to whom the prophet is writing, when the prophet is writing, and the circumstances of the prophet’s audience. Refer to the chart on the back. It is a great help.

Did you know?

Although he exiled them from their Promised Land because of their long-term disobedience, God never abandoned his covenant people. Interestingly, God continued to call his exiled people by the name “Israel” – their covenant name. Even during their captivity, he continued to unfold his redemptive plan.
Herod’s temple, where the Jews of Jesus’ day worshiped, towered high above the surrounding countryside and was built on the same site as the temples built by Solomon and Zerubbabel. Its Holy Place and Most Holy Place had the same floor dimensions as the temple Solomon built. Construction of the fifteen-story temple began in 20 BC, and the Romans tore it down in AD 70 after the great Jewish revolt erupted in AD 66.
The star of Bethlehem that pinpointed Jesus’ location had newly appeared, traveled slowly, and “stood over” Bethlehem. According to scholars, only a comet with a long tail could satisfy these criteria. The Chinese, who closely watched stars and comets, observed a spectacular comet that appeared in 5 BC and remained visible for more than 70 days. Data from Chinese records indicates that the Magi would first have seen this comet in the east, just as Matthew described.
Mathew included nine proof texts that occur only in his gospel to show that Jesus Christ fulfilled the Old Testament Scriptures: see verses 1:22-23; ;2:15; 2:17-18; :14-16; 8:17; 12:17-21; 13:35; 27:-10. Matthew also focused on Jesus; role as “Son of David” in such verses as 1:1; 9:27; 12:23; 15:22; and 20:30-31. These help show that Jesus fulfilled the covenant God made with Abraham - (Gen. 12:2-3; 15:9-21)

Week 11

Matthew 26:57 – Mark 9:13

Mark 9:14 – Luke 1

Luke 2 – 9

Luke 10 – 20:19

Luke 20:20 – John 5

John 6 – 15:17

John 15:18 – Act 6:7

You will experience some repetition in your reading this week.

Pay attention to the similarities and differences in the various author’s accounts.

Mathew Overview

Matthew, the tax collector called to be a disciple, was a Jew who wrote his gospel to other Jews around AD 60 in order to proclaim Jesus as the promised Messiah, the King of the Jews. He shows how Jesus came to fulfill the Old Testament, but also to judge the Jews for their unfaithfulness (it’s the gospel that most strongly condemns the hypocritical Pharisees). Although many stories and events recorded in Matthew are found only here in the gospels, most noted is Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (5-7)

Mark Overview

Mark, the same John Mark of Acts and the New Testament letters who accompanied the apostle Paul on missionary journeys, was a Roman who wrote his gospel to other Romans around AD 55 to proclaim Jesus as a man of action. His account moves rapidly from one episode in Jesus’ life and ministry to another, emphasizing more what he did than what he said. He emphasizes how Jesus taught his disciples that the ‘son of man” must suffer and be rejected, and that they must be prepared to walk the same path.

Luke Overview

Luke, a physician who also authored the book of Acts, was a Greek who wrote his gospel to other Greeks around AD 58 in order to proclaim Jesus as the perfect man. Presenting the works and teachings of Jesus most essential for understanding the way of salvation, Luke focuses on the grace of God revealed in Jesus and given to those – for example, prostitutes and tax collectors – who seem least worthy to receive it.

John Overview

John, called “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (13:23 and elsewhere) wrote his gospel to all people around aD 85 in order to proclaim Jesus as the Son of God, operating with his Father’s full authority. The most unique of the gospel accounts, John’s gospel goes deepest theologically, touching on issues such as the incarnation (ch 1) and the ministry of the Holy Spirit (14-16). Also look for Jesus’ seven “I am” statements here: the bread of life; the light of the world; the gate for the sheep; the good shepherd; the resurrection and the life; the way, truth, and life; and the true vine.

Acts Overview

Written by Luke, the book of Acts begins with the post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to his disciples, then fast-forwards to his dramatic ascension to heaven and the day of Pentecost. Form that point on, the fledgling church takes up its call to be Jesus’ witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth”

Week 12

Acts 6:8 – 16:37

Acts 16:38 – 28:16

Acts 28:17 – Romans 14

Romans 15 – 1 Corinthians 14

1 Corinthians 15 – Galatians 3:25

Galatians 3:26 – Colossians 4

1 Thessalonians 1 – Philemon 1

This week you’ll read all of Paul’s letters to various churches and disciples, which is among the most personal and distinctive writing in all Scripture. Enjoy it!

One way to gain a picture of the whole of Scripture is to think of it this way: the Old Testament – a record of God the Father; the Gospels – a record of the God the Son; and Acts through Revelation – a record of God the Spirit.

Acts Overview

In this sequel to the gospel of Luke, notice the powerful work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christ’s followers as they fulfill Christ’s command to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth.

Romans through Philemon Overview

Notice the predominant theme(s) in each of Paul’s letters. Pay attention to how often he emphasized the fundamentals of Christian belief, especially that faith in Christ’s death and resurrection is the only ground for salvation by God. Also take note of his personal and distinctive style of writing and the practical guidance and advice he offered his readers – including us today.

Did you know?

Looking back to last week: When Jesus taught, he often used images familiar to his audience. For example, while in Jerusalem during the Feast of Shelters, he identified himself as “the light of the world.” This was meaningful because at dusk feast participants held a ceremony in which four golden candelabra were lit. These symbolized the pillar of fire God used to guide his people through the desert wilderness at night.
The early Christians, believing that the long-awaited coming for Jesus fulfilled ancient Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah, viewed themselves as participants in the ongoing story of God’s dealings with humankind. Jesus – God in human form – had come to earth personally to rescue all of humanity from sinful rebellion. No wonder these Christians studied the Old Testament diligently! No wonder they joyously proclaimed his message to people everywhere so that the news spread throughout the world No wonder they rejoiced in the eternal life they would one day receive.

Week 13

Hebrews 1 – James 3:12

James 3:13 – 3 John

Jude 1 – Revelation 17

Revelation 18 – end

Good news … you have only 4 days to read this week! So if you are a few pages behind, you have a great opportunity to catch up and complete your commitment to reading the entire Bible.

Hebrews Overview

As you read Hebrews, which some view as a condensation of the entire Bible, pay close attention to the themes relating to Jesus’ identity and accomplishments. Note his position as our “great high priest,” the new covenant he established, and the call to follow him faithfully. Carefully observe the many Old Testament references the writer uses.

James Overview

One of the earliest books of the New Testament, James includes practical teaching about putting faith into action. It includes instruction on temptations, faith, taming the tongue, worldliness, and oppression.

1-2 Peter Overview

As you read, look for what God may want to reveal to you about living wholeheartedly for him, particularly in the areas of personal holiness, submission to authority, and humility. Consider, too, Peter’s warnings about false teachers and being prepared for the second coming of Christ.

1,2,3 John Overview

Keep in mind that John, an apostle in Jesus’ inner circle, was writing to believers who were confronting heretical Gnostic teaching. Notice the powerful themes of God’s love and the faith that lead to obedience.

Jude Overview

In this short book of encouragement to preserve in faith, warnings against false teachers are prominent.

Revelation Overview

Written to encourage God’s faithful people during a time of increasing persecution, this book presents a look at the triumph that is to come. Notice, among such end-time themes as Christ’s return and Satan’s doom, the increasing urgency of God’s call to repentance.