The Old Testament can feel confusing, strange, or intimidating at first. These stories weren’t written as simple history lessons or moral shortcuts. They were shaped to help real people make sense of God, suffering, hope, and faith in their world. This guide helps you read them with clarity, curiosity, and confidence.
Your Guide to Old Testament Bible Stories
This page is a starting point for anyone who wants to understand the Old Testament through its most important stories.
How to Use This Guide
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Start at the beginning to read the story in order
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Jump to a story you’ve heard about but never understood
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Pick the story that matches what you’re walking through right now
The Beginning
The Creation Story
What exactly is this story in Genesis 1 telling us? Is it a science textbook, a history lesson, or something else entirely?
The Fall
What does an ancient story about forbidden fruit and a talking snake have to do with our lives today?
New to the Bible? This guide explains how to read these stories without feeling lost.
Egypt and Exodus
Joseph and the Coat of Many Colors
What does an ancient story about a colorful coat and family drama have to do with your life today?
Moses and the Burning Bush
What does an ancient story about a royal-turned-shepherd and a miraculous brush fire have to do with your life today?
Miriam and the Exodus
What does an ancient story about a protective sister, a floating basket, and a victory song have to do with your life today?
Judges and Kings
Samson and Delilah
What does an ancient story of a long-haired super-soldier have to do with your life today?
Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz
What does an ancient story about widows, wheat fields, and a very complicated family reunion have to do with your life today?
David and Goliath
What does an ancient story about a slingshot, a giant, and oversized armor have to do with your life today?
David and Bathsheba
What does an ancient story about pride, desire, secrecy, and consequences have to do with your life today?