Understanding the 7 Types of Biblical Literature
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Did you know the Bible consists of 66 different books? The Old Testament contains 39 books and the New Testament comprises 27 books. The Bible was written over the course of roughly 1,500-1,600 years. The oldest parts of the Bible, like Genesis and Job, date back to around 1500-1400 BC; and the most recent books date back to the late first century AD, ending with the book of Revelation, commonly believed to be written around 95 AD.
When we approach our times of Bible-reading and study, it’s important to recognize the various genres included in the Bible. Not every book of the BIble sounds the same, or was intended to be approached in the same manner. Below is an overview of the 7 types of biblical literature and ways to engage with these types of scripture.
1. Historical Narratives:
These books focus on specific events and people, telling stories of God's relationship with humanity. When we read these books of the Bible, we are gaining a greater understanding of historical context and learning lessons about God, His will, and the human condition.
Here are some of the books that are historical narratives:
- Genesis
- Exodus
- Joshua
- Judges
- 1 and 2 Kings
- 1 and 2 Chronicles
- Ruth
- Esther
2. Poetry and Wisdom Literature:
These books consist of poetry and proverbs, and express the full range of human emotions as well as themes of faith, doubt, joy, suffering, wisdom and foolishness. When we read these books of the Bible, we are given language from which to pray and worship the Lord through the highs and lows of life, as well as gain wisdom for life.
Here are the list of books that are poetry and wisdom literature:
- Job
- Psalms
- Proverbs
- Ecclesiastes
- Song of Solomon (or Song of Songs)
- Lamentations
3. Prophetic Literature:
These books contain prophetic messages from God to his people, calling for a repentance from idolatry and injustice, and containing warnings of judgment and declarations of hope. When we read them, we discover God’s character and will, and are called to personal and corporate repentance from sin and greater devotion to the Lord.
Here are some of the books that are prophetic literature:
- Isaiah
- Jeremiah
- Ezekiel
- Daniel
- Hosea
- Joel
- Amos
- Obadiah
- Jonah
- Micah
- Nahum
- Malachi
4. Law and Legal Codes (Pentateuch):
These books contain God's commands and instructions for his people. When we read these books, we gain knowledge of right and wrong, understand what the Lord requires of us, and learn the ways of His Kingdom.
Here are the list of books that are laws and legal codes:
- Genesis
- Exodus
- Leviticus
- Numbers
- Deuteronomy
5. Gospels:
The word gospel means “good news”, and these books of the New Testament tell the good news of Jesus' life, ministry, death, and resurrection. We read them to learn about Jesus and his teachings, and what it means to follow Him as His disciples.
Here are the Gospels:
- Matthew
- Mark
- Luke
- John
6. Letters (Epistles):
These New Testament books are letters written by apostles and other early church leaders to local churches and individuals, offering spiritual oversight, practical guidance and timely encouragement. When we read these letters we gain theological insight and wisdom for Christian living.
Here are the Epistles:
- Romans
- 1 and 2 Corinthians
- Galatians
- Ephesians
- Philippians
- Colossians
- 1 and 2 Thessalonians
- 1 and 2 Timothy
- Titus
- Philemon
- Hebrews
- James
- 1 and 2 Peter
- 1, 2, and 3 John
- Jude
7. Apocalyptic Literature:
This genre consists of one book, the last book of the Bible: the book of Revelation. Revelation uses symbolic language and imagery to describe future events and the ultimate triumph of God over evil and darkness. When we read this book, we search for spiritual truths that call us to repentance while bringing hope and perseverance to our faith.
*We’ve created a journal specifically for your daily reflections from your time reading the Bible! Learn more and order your Seek First Journal here.