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The Bible: structure and divisions — KCSE Christian Religious Education

KCSE Christian Religious Education · 40 practice questions · 4 syllabus objectives · 4 revision lessons

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Last updated · Aligned to the KNEC KCSE syllabus

What You'll Learn

Key learning outcomes for this topic, aligned to the KNEC KCSE syllabus.

State the divisions of the Bible (Old Testament and New Testament) and list the books in each division

Describe the major categories of books in the Bible (Law, History, Poetry/Wisdom, Prophets, Gospels, Epistles)

Explain how the Bible was written, compiled and accepted as the canon of scripture

The Bible: structure and divisions

Revision Notes

Concise lesson notes for The Bible: structure and divisions, written to the KCSE Christian Religious Education marking standard. Read the first lesson free below.

Divisions of the Bible

The Bible is divided into two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. Each division contains various books that hold significant religious teachings.

  1. Old Testament: This section comprises 39 books, which include:

    • Genesis
    • Exodus
    • Leviticus
    • Numbers
    • Deuteronomy
    • Joshua
    • Judges
    • Ruth
    • 1 Samuel
    • 2 Samuel
    • 1 Kings
    • 2 Kings
    • 1 Chronicles
    • 2 Chronicles
    • Ezra
    • Nehemiah
    • Esther
    • Job
    • Psalms
    • Proverbs
    • Ecclesiastes
    • Song of Solomon
    • Isaiah
    • Jeremiah
    • Lamentations
    • Ezekiel
    • Daniel
    • Hosea
    • Joel
    • Amos
    • Obadiah
    • Jonah
    • Micah
    • Nahum
    • Habakkuk
    • Zephaniah
    • Haggai
    • Zechariah
    • Malachi

  2. New Testament: This section comprises 27 books, including:

    • Matthew
    • Mark
    • Luke
    • John
    • Acts
    • Romans
    • 1 Corinthians
    • 2 Corinthians
    • Galatians
    • Ephesians
    • Philippians
    • Colossians
    • 1 Thessalonians
    • 2 Thessalonians
    • 1 Timothy
    • 2 Timothy
    • Titus
    • Philemon
    • Hebrews
    • James
    • 1 Peter
    • 2 Peter
    • 1 John
    • 2 John
    • 3 John
    • Jude
    • Revelation

Understanding these divisions helps in navigating the scriptures effectively.

Key points to remember

  • The Bible has two main divisions: Old Testament and New Testament.
  • Old Testament contains 39 books with various historical and poetic writings.
  • New Testament consists of 27 books focusing on Jesus' life and teachings.

Worked example

Question: List the divisions of the Bible and the number of books in each. Answer: The Bible is divided into Old Testament (39 books) and New Testament (27 books).

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Lesson 2: Major Categories of Books in the Bible

Objective: Describe the major categories of books in the Bible (Law, History, Poetry/Wisdom, Prophets, Gospels, Epistles)

The Bible is divided into several major categories, each serving a unique purpose:

  • Law: These are the first five books (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) that outline God's laws and the covenant with Israel.
  • History: This section narrates the history of Israel and the early church, including books like Joshua, Judges, and Acts.
  • Poetry/Wisdom: Books such as Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes fall under this category, offering poetic expressions and wise sayings.
  • Prophets: This includes the major (Isaiah, Jeremiah) and minor prophets (Hosea, Amos) who conveyed God’s messages to His people.
  • Gospels: These four books (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) recount the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
  • Epistles: Letters written by apostles (like Paul) to various churches or individuals, addressing theological issues and moral guidance.

Understanding these categories helps in grasping the overall message of the Bible and its relevance to Christian faith.

  • The Bible has six major categories of books.
  • Law books detail God's commandments and covenant.
  • History books document Israel's journey and early church.
  • Poetry/Wisdom books provide reflective and wise literature.
  • Gospels focus on Jesus' life and teachings.

Question: Name the major categories of books in the Bible. Answer:

  • Law: Genesis to Deuteronomy
  • History: Joshua to Acts
  • Poetry/Wisdom: Psalms, Proverbs
  • Prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah
  • Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John
  • Epistles: Letters by Paul and others
Lesson 3: Understanding the Bible's Compilation and Canonization

Objective: Explain how the Bible was written, compiled and accepted as the canon of scripture

The Bible is a collection of sacred texts divided into two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The writing of the Bible involved several stages:

  1. Authorship: Various authors, including prophets and apostles, wrote the texts over centuries, inspired by God.
  2. Compilation: These writings were collected and organized by early church leaders. This process included selecting texts that aligned with Christian beliefs and teachings.
  3. Acceptance: The canon of scripture refers to the books accepted as authoritative. Early church councils, such as the Council of Carthage (397 AD), played a crucial role in affirming the canon.

Key factors for acceptance included:

  • Apostolic origin: Texts linked to the apostles were prioritized.
  • Consistency of doctrine: Writings were evaluated for theological consistency.
  • Widespread usage: Texts widely read in churches were more likely to be accepted.

This careful process ensured that the Bible we have today is a reliable guide for Christian faith and practice.

  • The Bible is divided into Old and New Testaments.
  • Various authors wrote the texts over centuries.
  • Early church leaders compiled and organized the writings.
  • The canon was accepted through church councils.
  • Key factors for acceptance included apostolic origin and consistency.

Explain the process of how the Bible was compiled and accepted as canon.

  • The Bible was written by various authors inspired by God.
  • Early church leaders compiled the texts based on apostolic origin and consistency.
  • The canon was affirmed in church councils, ensuring authoritative texts.
Lesson 4: Understanding the Structure of the Bible

Objective: The Bible: structure and divisions

The Bible is divided into two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament contains 39 books and focuses on the creation, history, and laws of the Israelites. Key books include Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms. The New Testament consists of 27 books, detailing the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early church. Significant books include the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) and the Acts of the Apostles.

Each Testament is further divided into different genres:

  • Historical Books: Narrate events (e.g., Joshua, Acts).
  • Poetical Books: Include poetry and songs (e.g., Psalms, Song of Solomon).
  • Prophetical Books: Contain prophecies (e.g., Isaiah, Revelation).

Understanding these divisions helps in comprehending the themes and messages within the Bible. Each book serves a unique purpose and contributes to the overall narrative of faith and salvation in Christianity.

  • The Bible has two main sections: Old and New Testament.
  • Old Testament contains 39 books; New Testament has 27 books.
  • Books are categorized into historical, poetical, and prophetical genres.
  • Key books include Genesis, Psalms, and the Gospels.
  • Understanding divisions aids in grasping biblical themes.

Explain the structure of the Bible.

  • The Bible is divided into the Old Testament (39 books) and New Testament (27 books).
  • The Old Testament focuses on Israel's history; the New Testament emphasizes Jesus's life.

Sample Questions

Read 3 questions and answers free. Sign up to access all 40 questions with full KNEC-style marking schemes and a personalised study plan.

1
easySHORT ANSWER4 marks

List the divisions of the Bible and state the number of books in each division. (4 marks)

Answer & marking scheme

Part (a) — 4 marks
The Bible is divided into two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament (1 mk)
The Old Testament contains 39 books (1 mk)
The New Testament contains 27 books (1 mk)
Total number of books in the Bible is 66 (1 mk)
2
easySHORT ANSWER3 marks

Define the term 'Epistle' and state two characteristics of the Epistles in the New Testament. (3 marks)

Answer & marking scheme

Part (a) — 1 mark
An Epistle is a formal letter or written communication addressed to a person or group, (1 mk)
Part (b) — 2 marks
They were written by apostles to instruct, encourage, or correct early Christians (1 mk)
They often address specific issues or questions faced by the recipient church or individual (1 mk)
3
easySHORT ANSWER6 marks

Define the term 'Gospel' and outline the names of the four Gospels found in the New Testament.

Answer & marking scheme

Part (a) — 2 marks
A Gospel is a written account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. (2 mks)
Part (b) — 4 marks
Matthew (1 mk)
Mark (1 mk)
Luke (1 mk)
John (1 mk)
4

State three books found in the Old Testament and identify the Law and History category they belong to.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the KCSE Christian Religious Education topic "The Bible: structure and divisions" cover?

The Bible: structure and divisions covers State the divisions of the Bible (Old Testament and New Testament) and list the books in each division; Describe the major categories of books in the Bible (Law, History, Poetry/Wisdom, Prophets, Gospels, Epistles); Explain how the Bible was written, compiled and accepted as the canon of scripture, and more, all aligned to the official KNEC KCSE Christian Religious Education syllabus.

How many practice questions are available for The Bible: structure and divisions?

HighMarks has 40 The Bible: structure and divisions practice questions for KCSE Christian Religious Education, each with a full marking scheme. The first 3 are free; sign up to access the rest, plus all KCSE mock exams and past papers.

Are these aligned with the KNEC KCSE syllabus?

Yes. Every objective on this page is taken directly from the official KNEC KCSE Christian Religious Education syllabus. Practice questions match the KCSE exam format and are graded against the standard KNEC marking scheme.

How should I revise The Bible: structure and divisions for the KCSE exam?

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