Twelve historical books comprise about one-sixth of
a one year read-through of the Bible. While reading, put the
background, theme, and outline of these books into your own words
and memorize..
Historical dates given here are approximate.
JOSHUA
Background
During the time of the Judges an eyewitness records the events
of Joshua, successor to Moses.
Theme
The LORD is faithful in giving Canaan to the
Israelites.
Outline
The Conquest and Settlement of the land of
Canaan.
JUDGES
Background
During the lifetime of Samuel the events of the Judges were
recorded.
Theme
Cycles of Israel's unfaithfulness and the LORD's
faithfulness.
Outline
Introduction, 6 cycles, and moral decay.
RUTH
Background
Events took place during the time of the Judges and were
recorded possibly during the reign of King David.
Theme
The particular mercies of God through the
Kinsman Redeemer.
Outline
Departure and return, Ruth's work, the kinsman's redemption.
FIRST SAMUEL
Background
Written shortly after the reign of David, perhaps using earlier
records and eyewitness accounts. Samuels and Kings are a
continuous record.
Theme
The institution of the Monarchy and Prophets.
Outline
Samuel, Saul, and pre-king David.
SECOND SAMUEL
Background
Written shortly after the reign of David, perhaps using earlier
records and eyewitness accounts. Samuels and Kings are a
continuous record.
Theme
King David's reign.
Outline
David King in Hebron, Jerusalem, and the later years.
FIRST KINGS
Background
Probably written during the Exile using historical records.
Theme
God's faithfulness in dealing with Israel and Judah.
Outline
Reign of Solomon and the Early Divided Kingdoms.
SECOND KINGS
Background
Probably written during the Exile using historical records.
Theme
Events leading to the Exile.
Outline
Late Divided Kingdoms and Solitary Kingdom.
FIRST CHRONICLES
Background
Written after the Exile and Return, around 400 BC.
Theme
The establishment of the Davidic (eternal) Kingship.
Outline
Geneology from Creation to Exile and the Kingship of David.
SECOND CHRONICLES
Background
Written after the Exile and Return, around 400 BC.
Theme
Continuance of Davidic Kingship and Temple Worship.
Outline
Solomon�s Reign and Judah�s Kings.
EZRA
Background
Ezra records returns from exile of 538 and 458 BC.
Theme
The LORD restores a remnant of Israel.
Outline
Returns under Zerubbabel and Ezra.
NEHEMIAH
Background
Record of a third return under Nehemiah, 444-425 BC.
Theme
God establishes the returns from exile.
Outline
Restoration of the Wall and Restoration of the People.
ESTHER
Background
Events 483-473 BC during life of Esther, Jewish Queen of Persia.