Day 2: A Kingdom Without End

This book provides a thorough and accessible introduction to the New Testament, covering its historical background, literary characteristics, and theological themes. It is tailored for students and includes detailed explanations and analyses to facilitate a deeper understanding of the New Testament texts.

The Gospel of Luke is the third Gospel in the New Testament and provides a detailed account of Jesus Christ's life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Luke, who was not an eyewitness to Jesus' ministry but carefully investigated everything from the beginning, wrote this Gospel to give believers an accurate and chronological understanding of Jesus' life. The book emphasizes Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost (Lk 19:10) and highlights his interactions with various groups, including the poor, outcasts, and marginalized. It also situates Jesus' life within the broader context of the Roman Empire, contrasting Jesus with the Roman Emperor Augustus to emphasize Jesus' role as the true savior of the world.

The Book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament and serves as a sequel to the Gospel of Luke. It chronicles the history of the early Christian church, beginning with the ascension of Jesus Christ and ending with Paul's imprisonment in Rome. The book is divided into two main sections: the first focuses on the ministry of Peter in Jerusalem and Samaria (Acts 1–12), and the second follows Paul's missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire (Acts 13–28). It highlights the transition of the gospel message from a Jewish audience to the Gentiles, the empowerment of believers by the Holy Spirit, and the growth of the church despite persecutions. The book also explores the relationship between Christians and the Roman Empire, showing how Christians could obey both God and the civil authorities.

The Old Testament is composed of several distinct sections: the Pentateuch (the first five books), the Historical Books, the Wisdom Books, and the Prophetic Books. It includes accounts of creation, the early history of humanity, the covenant between God and the Israelites, and the history of the Israelites from their conquest of Canaan to their exile in Babylon. The books were written over several centuries and include various genres such as history, poetry, wisdom literature, and prophecy.