 
* Bible Map Introduction Welcome to the Bible Map feature of the Hiking the Trail of Truth website. This visual aide/written feature is designed to help you to better understand the chronology, or arrangement, of the 66 books of the Bible. This knowledge is, in itself, a vital key for correct interpretation of the sacred Scriptures. A lack of this particular knowledge has led and continues to lead many folks into errors in their understanding of both teachings and practices of Biblical concepts. Most importantly, a lack of knowledge regarding the point in time where New Testament precepts came into effect¹, can give birth to an incorrect handling of the New Testament Scriptures themselves, which can ultimately lead to a false understanding of the Biblical truths concerning the way to salvation (2nd Timothy 2:15). (¹ For more insight on Scripture divisions and on rightly handling the Word of Truth, hike to the The Covenants' Division junction on this trail) If you're carrying a Bible in your backpack, and I hope that you are, you'll want to pull it out and hold it in your hand to observe it for a moment... The fact that all the books of the Bible are bound together in one volume tends to obscure its origin. The Bible is in fact a library, and, like a library, did not come into existence at any one time or place. The 66 books of the Bible came into being separately, and under varying conditions. There is no other book like it in the entire history of the world. Of course that the Bible is like a library is implied whenever we use the word, Bible, derived from Biblia, meaning, "the books". But the Bible is no ordinary collection. It is a treasure-house of sacred books, which ultimately owes its origin to Him who is the Author of all things. Although about 40 different people of varying backgrounds, castes and cultures had a part in writing the Bible over a 1600 year period, it contains a remarkable unity of message and harmony of purpose. This harmony is no accident. These writers were guided by Divine Wisdom. Therefore, the Bible is the mind of God in human language.— You are holding in your hand a copy of the most priceless treasures on earth. You will do well to treat them as such. (1st Corinthians 2:12-13, Galatians 1:11-12, and 2nd Peter 1:20-21) Since the Bible is Gods' only written revelation to us, we owe it to ourselves to study it on a daily basis, for, when Jesus comes again, each of us will be judged by the contents of the Bible (Revelation 20:12). The Bible is the only book which reveals the truth about where mankind came from, our purpose while on the earth, and what we are to believe and do to live with God eternally. The Bible is also in perfect harmony with all known secular history.— I myself have learned through the years that it is the one and only completely accurate book on world history, archeology and geology. Even the geographical references to rivers, lakes, physical terrain and distances are absolutely correct. It is my plea that you will give yourself a chance to know more about this Book of Life. Hiking the Trail of Truth was created to guide you along this particularly profound trail of learning, and we are unconditionally at your service... The Bible today, as most everyone knows, is divided into two major parts, known as the Old and New Testaments. The basic structure of the Bible is connected to the fact that God has made two testaments, or covenants, with His people and that the second covenant has replaced the first (Hebrews 8:13).— In labeling this particular section of our website as Bible Map, I have given you one word that I believe best describes the entire Bible. It is indeed a map; a spiritual trail map, designed and drawn by the hand of God, according to His compass. You and I are its hikers. Like any hiker using a map to arrive at an ultimate destination, we will journey quite some distance and make many discoveries along the route to that destination. The way is narrow and there are many difficulties to encounter (Matthew 7:14). The Bible is Gods' step by step trail map to our ultimate salvation, and the only accurate map to eternal life... The bottom line is that Gods' map is specific. His trail to salvation and life everlasting is specific. Deviation from His map, or His route, will not allow you the truthful, meaningful, essential discoveries He intended for you to make along the way. It is important that you carve this truth into your hiking stick before you proceed along the Biblical trail; Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it (Matthew 7:14) . This carving will encourage you to keep your eyes wide open and your senses alert to your way as you face the ultimate challenge of pure reality; Hiking the Trail of Truth. You are indeed about to embark on a most illuminating journey!
There are twelve books of History, from Joshua to Esther. These books continue to record the history of the Israelite nation, including their settlement in the promised land of Canaan, their time under the judges and the kings, their years spent in Babylonian captivity, and their ultimate return from exile. These books continue to show us the despairing results of our human plight; our natural proneness to choose to wander from our Creator. The five books of Poetry, from Job to Song of Solomon, are usually known as poetical works. But these books, written by various authors, are also strong in moral emphasis and content. They can also give you great encouragement, wisdom, and much spiritual insight into the unique understanding you will need to make sense of your journey on life's difficult trail. The last seventeen Old Testament books, from Isaiah to Malachi, are books of Prophecy. These books are sometimes subdivided into five books of major prophets and twelve books of minor prophets. Isaiah, and other prophets like him, brought Gods' Word to their people and foretold the coming of the Messiah. Note: All Old Testament books point physically, spiritually and figuratively, in a most remarkable way, to Jesus the Christ, the Son of God and mediator (intercessor and judge) of the New Covenant. These books of prophecy can relate much to us too about our own spiritual condition and can give us revealing insights into understanding the depth of our individual depravity, which the majority of modern day people, generally speaking, are totally unaware of. Like any of the other literal or prophetic Biblical stories, their consideration and application is for the purpose of increasing our spiritual awareness and saving our lives.
1. They are the inspired, written accounts of the era just prior to the birth of Christianity, penned in the first century by certain God-inspired followers of Christ, and accepted as unquestionably¹ true. 2. They announce the good news of God, as found in Christ Jesus. ¹ (over 5000 worldwide, ancient manuscripts verify the authenticity of our modern New Testament translations) ACTS The Acts of the Apostles, also a book of history, relates the fulfilling of Old Testament prophecy regarding Gods' spiritual kingdom, through the miraculous birth of Christianity and the establishment of Christs' church, about A.D. 33, and it's early progress. A remarkably vivid account of the intense struggles, deep sorrows and radiant joys of early Christians, this book asks and answers the question for all generations, What must we (I) do to be saved? It also contains for us the only "live" historical examples of the New Birth. 21 Letters of Apostolic Teachings, written to Christians
REVELATION The last book, Revelation, is the one New Testament book of Prophecy, which portrays the continual struggle between the forces of good and evil. Thousands of books have been written suggesting a variety of interpretations for the meanings of the visions represented in this book. In reality, Revelation was written to seven churches of Christ, located within the province of Asia, during the latter part of the first century. It was intended as a message for those churches, a prophetic vision of the Apostle John, given to him by Jesus Christ, that he (John) was to share with those particular churches (See Revelation 1:1-11). It contains prophetic (figurative) descriptions of events that were to "shortly" come to pass. I believe that those 1st century Christians had the spiritual ability¹ to understand John's prophetic message. I also believe that the majority of those predicted events have already taken place. I would not speculate on what remains, with the exception of a few passages, lest I find myself to be teaching not as accurately as God would have me teach. ¹ (For more on the 1st century Christians' miraculous abilities, hike the New Birth trail to the Holy Spirit junction.) Personally, I trust in no 21st century interpretation of the writing. I do however believe that many parts, or sections, of the book can be more clearly understood through having a good degree of knowledge concerning the other sixty-five books of the Bible. Unfortunately, many folks today desire to and do read this book before attempting to study any of the others.— It can be compared to reading the very last chapter in a novel, first. It doesn't make much sense, does it? The heart of the story is then completely unknown, and, can be completely misinterpreted. Without a doubt the Revelation is the most difficult book of inspiration to understand. It is also an exceedingly beautiful book in content and style. As a trail guide, who is most concerned about your journey, I want you to understand that, in Revelation, we have an interpretation of history, not as man sees it, but as God sees it. In seeking to unravel the mystery of this perplexing book, we must always remember that obscure passages must be interpreted in the light of clear teachings from other Scriptures, not vice versa. Remember that God alone has the final word in interpreting prophecy. He alone gives the vision, He alone knows the true answer (2nd Peter 1:20-21). — We should then proceed to hike carefully through this book with a humility of spirit which is willing at times to say, frankly, "I don't know". Whether or not we ever master the interpretation of all its prophetic language and symbols, we will still be enriched beyond measure by a careful study of it. Again, like all New Testament books, as well as Old Testament books, the writings of Revelation are to be spiritually discerned (1st Corinthians 2:14).
The key to understanding much of the Scriptures is in having a reasonable mind, rightly trained to handle them correctly (2nd Timothy 2:15). Many today "wrestle" with the Scriptures, as some are indeed difficult to understand (2nd Peter 3:15-16). In ignorance, folks do twist and distort the Scriptures. Sometimes this ignorance is innocent. Other times it is not. We, here at Hiking the Trail of Truth, want you to know the Truth. Jesus has said that the Truth will indeed set you free (John 8:31-32). "Rightly dividing" the word of Truth then becomes extremely important... All of our lives we can be slaves to sin and slaves to the philosophies, ideas, teachings, or dictates of other people. Because of this fact, most of us don't know true freedom. Currently, in these United States, we probably know a little more of freedom here than anywhere else in this present world, and, only in death will we know physical freedom from life's difficulties. But Jesus was talking about the freedom that transcends all of these things. He was speaking of spiritual freedom; the only true freedom there is. This is the freedom that overcomes the world (1st John 5:4-5). This freedom can be yours with a clearer understanding of God; through the things He has made, and through a right handling of His written word. With these thoughts in mind, let us hike a little further here, shall we? Most folks consider the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John as part of the New Testament. They are indeed what is referred to as New Testament writings, but, it was not until the death of Christ on the cross, and the actual shedding of His blood, that the New Covenant itself came into effect (Colossians 2:14 and Hebrews 9:16-17). A better understanding of this "death" of the Old Covenant (testament) and ushering in of the New Covenant (testament) can be had by reading chapters 8, 9, and 10 of the New Testament book of Hebrews. Once that understanding is obtained, further Bible study can be rightly handled. A brief overview of some profound Biblical teachings, which with the understanding of this particular covenant division should become much clearer to your learning, are as follows... 1. The kingdom of God is spiritual in nature (Luke 17:21) and was miraculously ushered in and announced on the day of Pentecost, by the Holy Spirit, through the twelve apostles whom Jesus had appointed, ten days after He had ascended into heaven. The first Christians were born into the spiritual kingdom as a result of Peters' preaching on that day, when about 3000 received his word and were baptized (Acts 2:41). These were the very first converts to Christianity under the New Covenant. These were the first to experience the new birth. These were the first to enter the spiritual kingdom (or church) of God. (Acts 2:47, John 3:5, Colossians 1:13-14) 2. The Lord (our heavenly Father) saved men at His will, through His word, throughout the entire Old Covenant period. Under the New Covenant, Jesus was given all authority in heaven and on earth. (Matthew 28:18). He then delegated certain authority to those apostles whom He had beforehand chosen (Matthew 28:19-20). The plan of salvation and the teachings on Christian living are therefore available to us, having been delivered once for all time (Jude 3) under the New Covenant, through the teaching and writings of the apostles. This was the unique (once for all time) authority they were given through the Holy Spirit... According to Paul, anything other than what the apostles had originally proclaimed, through their teaching and writing, since the very beginning of Christianity at Pentecost, would be false teaching.— If they (the apostles) in any way perverted (with subtle corruption) what they themselves had previously taught, even if they changed their mind and taught something else, or more profoundly, even if an angel from heaven was to come down and teach something different, new or contrary—in either case or any case it would be false teaching (Galatians 3:6-9). The point is, again, the Faith had been delivered once for all; once for all people, once for all time. The will of Christ was complete through the authoritative teachings and writings of the apostles. It is not subject to change. It is to remain the same now as it was in the first century. We, as Christians, are to contend (strive, demand) for it to be that way! (again, Jude 3) Like the early Christians, we today are to continue steadfastly in the apostles' teachings. (Acts 2:42) 3. Peter was first given "the keys" to the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 16:19), and the authority to bind the New Covenant on earth. Again, the entrance (keys) into the kingdom of heaven was proclaimed by Peter on that day of Pentecost, and the apostles were appointed to spread and later record (bind) the good news throughout the world (Mark 16:15-16).— The answer to the universal, New Testament question, what must I do to be saved?, was asked and answered several times throughout the book of Acts. It was first answered under the new covenant by Peter in Acts 2:37-38; ...Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit... Thus, the way to salvation under the New Covenant was born. Entrance into the spiritual kingdom was manifest (clearly revealed). Peter had the spiritual "keys" (his Divinely inspired "first" sermon for Christianity), which unlocked the door. Jesus Himself is the door (John 10:7-9). He is the entrance¹ into the spiritual kingdom (or church) under the New Covenant; Those who have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ (Galatians 3:27) — If we want to become Christians by faith (not by feeling or diverse teaching) in our present day and age, then we must first hike through the book of Acts. We must, in all humility, do as Peter said, under the authority of Christ, and thus obey the teachings of the Lord in this matter (Romans 6:17). The apostles' writings alone, once again under the authority of Jesus himself, have pointed the way for us for all time. (Acts 2:42, Galatians 3:6-9, Jude 3) ¹ (For more on God's plan of salvation, hike the New Birth Trail) 4. Jesus now lives, rules, and reigns over a spiritual kingdom that has been in existence since His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension to His heavenly throne (Acts 2:30-36). It is not a physical kingdom and never will be (John 18:36). Through our salvation, our spirits are rescued from the domain of darkness and brought into this kingdom of Gods' Son (Colossians 1:13). Jesus will someday return on the clouds of heaven to meet with (in the air) and deliver His spiritual kingdom (we Christians) back to His Father (1st Corinthians 15:23-25). The Lord will not set foot back on this present earth¹ again, in spite of a myriad of current false teachings to the contrary (1st Thessalonians 4:13-18). Many religious people today are looking forward to and expecting Jesus to rule over a physical kingdom here, which, in the most wonderful reality, will never come to be on this present earth—Thank God ! ¹ (For more information regarding the end of the world, hike the Trail of Time to the Summit Trail junction) I pray now, that you have gained some rewarding insight, as we've hiked a little span into understanding more about the Covenants' Division... We're just about to take another hike into the Bible, and we'll be referring back to this particular trail junction on occasion. For now, put the Covenants' Division into your backpack and let's hike an upcoming junction, our final one on this trail, into understanding the Bible...
The Scriptures contain real events about real people who lived in a time remote to ours, under different political, social and economical conditions. The attitudes of those distant people are however exactly the same as the attitudes of today. They are our attitudes. When we hike our journey into the Bible and thru their time, we can discover much about ourselves, because attitudes never change. But, we can and do err frequently in our thinking about particular Biblical matters, because the times were different. Therefore, much of understanding the Bible requires an understanding of the ancient times, yet, we can bring the characters to life into recognizable times by a study of their attitudes. At the same time, again, we must be careful, due to the ancient times, not to interpret the Scriptures out of context. However, the Bible becomes absolutely relevant to all times in history, including our modern age, because it is a book of attitudes. There have been hundreds of books written and thousands of sermons preached on how to effectively read or study the Bible. Some are good methods, others are poor methods. No matter what method you choose or what method you may invent, adequate and proper preparations are essential. The knowledge then of just how to prepare is imperative.— Let me suggest, for your consideration, some "above average" ways in which to prepare for a productive Biblical journey... Like any difficult trail out there in Gods' creation, always expect the unexpected. Do not hike into the Bible with a preconceived idea of what you might find. You will learn something new every time you hike into the Bible, which will help you to hike thru it. The equipment you will need to stuff into your backpack for such a journey is as follows: 1. A clear understanding with regard to the time of the division between the Old and New Testaments (or covenants). I suggest hiking back up to and through the Covenants' Division trail junction for this preparation. This is a simple understanding, not hard for anyone of any degree of education to comprehend. Not having this most basic understanding continues to lead many astray. Not accepting this particular understanding will blind one to the truth. According to the Scriptures, God has used the most simple understandings to confound the wise (1st Corinthians 1:27). The most important truths of God are therefore labeled as "foolishness" by men. Of this you must be aware! 2. The ability to discern attitudes, to bring the Scriptures to life, as if you were actually there watching a play. The ability to create, in your mind, the surrounding scenery, to also see the number of actors involved, and to identify when possible their facial expressions and/or body language. Use your imagination! Most of us have seen enough movies or worked around or conversed with enough different people to picture these things in our mind. This is an exceptionally effective and rewarding tool for understanding the Bible, similar in a discerning way to a chisel in the hands of an experienced sculptor. 3. The desire to reason. People with preconceived ideas, or people with "built-in" religious beliefs, have a difficult time with reason, within both their daily personal life and their spiritual understanding. Having unknowingly seared (hardened) their heart or conscience through "one-way thinking", they are not open to change or correction. This is the reason for a myriad of false religions throughout the world.— If you forget to put the desire to reason into your backpack, you will have to turn around and hike back home, hunt for that desire until you find it, and then continue on your hike. There's a cliché here that absolutely, unconditionally applies... Don't leave home without it.— If you can't find it, don't start out in the first place. If you just can't seem to muster up the desire to reason, or acquire the ability to reason sincerely, no matter what, then pray that God will grant you that particular humility! Bottom line; you cannot hike through the Bible without it. (Note: The desire to reason is a greater attribute than the ability to reason, especially where Gods' Truth is concerned.) 4. You'll need Help. In the book of Acts there's a true story about a religious man from Ethiopia, who, after having worshipped at Jerusalem, was returning in his chariot and was reading from the Old Testament Scriptures as he journeyed. He was traveling the desert road toward his homeland when, all of a sudden, a Christian man named Philip, a stranger to the Ethiopian who seemed to him to come out of nowhere, literally ran up and joined him at his chariot.— (Are you picturing this in your mind? This is good practice for you.)— Philip heard the Ethiopian reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip then asked him, "Do you understand what you are reading?" What would you do in this situation?— In a remote place, a complete stranger approaches (runs up to you) and butts into your reading time, asking if you understand what you're reading about!— Most of us would tell the guy to take a hike, mind your own business, leave me alone or I'll call the police... Well, we know by description that the Ethiopian was "religious". He was very humble in his treatment and in his acceptance of this total stranger... "How can I understand what I am reading, unless someone guides me?", was the Ethiopians' response to Philips' question. He kindly invited Philip to come up and sit with him.— (Are you noting his attitude?) — Philip then explained the particular Old Testament Scripture to him by its relation to the person of Jesus. The Ethiopian shortly thereafter, having come to a body of water, was baptized by Philip and there became a Christian. (For more on this story, hike the New Birth Trail / New Testament Conversions junction, or read the story in Acts 8:26 thru 40.) God always provides a way for you to understand the Truth; if you are sincerely and diligently seeking the Truth. Not every religious person can teach you the Truth. But if he/she can point you to the Scriptures that explain the Scriptures you can't understand, and his/her reasoning considers the entire Bible, chances are you've found the right kind of help. You can't stuff a grown Christian into your backpack, but you can take a notepad along with you on your Biblical journey, you can jot down questions and discuss them later with your Christian helper, or you can send them to me when the opportunity presents itself. I promise I'll get back to you in a timely manner. You can ask questions through e-mail, or you can dial my phone number; 909-549-0068. Hiking The Trail of Truth is always at your service. ...Those are four essential things you will need on your journey into and thru the Bible... Again,
My favorite historical book of the Old Testament is the very first book, Genesis, however, all of the Old Testament books will educate you about your Creator and about yourself. You'll indeed over time have your favorites.— If you're deeply troubled, anxious, or need encouragement, Psalms is excellent. Searching for wisdom? Proverbs or Ecclesiastes stand out within the Old Testament. New Testament writings, for the most part, seem to be more widely read than those of the Old Testament. Luke and Acts are excellent accounts of Jesus earthly life, His ministry, His death, burial and resurrection, and the history of His Church. Both accounts were penned by a 1st century physician (Luke) who traveled with the Apostle Paul, and there is much detail present within his writings. Some enlightening attitude studies can be found there. The New Testament book of Romans however is truly the pinnacle of the entire Bible. Hebrews stands right up there along with it in weaving together Old and New Testament history. A grand, sweeping view of Old Testament history itself is found in the New Testament story of Stephen; Acts 6:8, thru the end of chapter seven.— If you just want to read about or learn how to deal with your personal life, or how to deal perhaps with illness and death, or you want to understand the truth about Christs' next appearance, life after death, the end of the world, or the coming of the new world... all of these things can be found within the pages of the New Testament. Most importantly, only Gods' Word, from both the Old and New Testaments, can give you the wisdom, understanding, and strength you'll truly need for your day by day walk on this earth. You may also want to invest in a Bible concordance. In this way, when researching any word or subject, you can find and read nearly every Scripture pertaining to that particular word or subject throughout the entire Bible. Crudens' Complete Concordance is an excellent one. As you hike thru any and all of the books of the Bible, you can gain an ever increasing insight into Gods' truth and His unique plan for your life.— He wrote this book for you. It is the Owners' Manual on His creation. You are of extremely great value to Him. You can be assured of this and comforted in that assurance through His great and precious promises (2nd Peter 1:2-4). Probably the most important aspect for this life is that God will bless you exceedingly as your effort continues. And, when your effort gets a little tired, or a lot tired, He has promised that He will pick you up again... and again. Blessed is the man (or woman) who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the road with sinners, nor sit in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree, rooted beside the streams of water, which yields its fruit in season. His leaf does not wither, and whatever he does shall prosper (Psalm 1:1-3).
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