A library, not one genre
The Bible is often bound as one volume, but it contains many different kinds of writing. There are family stories, laws for ancient Israel, songs of praise and grief, wise sayings, prophetic warnings, accounts of Jesus’ life, and letters sent to young churches. Luke says he carefully investigated the events he recorded, while Paul wrote to the divided believers in Corinth about a very practical conflict (Luke 1:1-4; 1 Corinthians 1:10-13).
That variety makes reading more interesting, and it also matters for understanding. A proverb gives wise guidance, but it is not phrased like a promise in a letter. A psalm is prayer and poetry. Revelation uses vivid visions. Let each book speak in its own voice.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Some memorable numbers
The book of Psalms has 150 psalms. Psalm 117 has only two verses, making it the Bible’s shortest chapter. Yet its brief call for all nations to praise God carries a very large vision (Psalm 117:1-2).
Psalm 119 sits at the other end of the scale with 176 verses, making it the longest chapter. Its length is not accidental. The writer returns again and again to God’s word, commandments, judgments and promises, showing a person learning to love God through sustained attention (Psalm 119:1-4).
O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord.
A Hebrew poem with a pattern
Psalm 119 is more than a long poem. In the original Hebrew, it is an alphabetic poem, or acrostic. Hebrew has 22 letters, and the psalm has 22 sections of eight verses. Within each section, each line begins with the same Hebrew letter. Most English Bibles show the letter names as headings, though English cannot fully recreate the effect.
Its ordered form fits its message. The poet asks God for understanding, seeks help to keep going, and finally admits he has wandered like a lost sheep (Psalm 119:169-173; Psalm 119:174-176). This is not dry information about Scripture. It is honest prayer from someone who needs God.
One story leading to Jesus
The Bible was written in different places and times by people facing very different situations. David sang in danger and delight. Prophets spoke to kings and nations. Paul wrote while travelling and while imprisoned. Still, Jesus told his disciples that the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms all pointed towards him (Luke 24:44).
That is why Christians read both Testaments together. The Bible opens with God creating the heavens and the earth, and it closes with God’s promise to make all things new (Genesis 1:1; Revelation 21:5). If you’re not sure where to begin, read one Gospel slowly. Notice Jesus’ words, his compassion, and the people he draws near to.
And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.