The complete list of books of the Bible and their authors

God directed the human writers of the Bible such that, while using their writing styles and personalities, they still recorded what God intended them to write. God did not dictate the Bible but it was perfectly guided and inspired by Him. This article provides the complete list of books of the Bible and their authors.

Key takeaways about books of the Bible

• The Old Testament in Catholic Bible and other Christian Bibles (Protestant Bibles) are different.
• The Roman Catholic Bible has 73 books, while the Protestant Bibles have 66 books.
• The other Christian Bibles have 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament.
• The Catholic Bible has seven additional books in the Old Testament.
• These extra books are Tobit, Judith, 1-2 Maccabees, Sirach, Baruch, and Wisdom of Solomon.
• These books are collectively called the deuterocanonical books.

The complete list of books of the Bible and their authors

The 40 authors of the Bible were inspired by the Holy Spirit, meaning the Holy Spirit guided and influenced them in their writing, leading them to record God's word accurately. So, what are the 66 books of the Bible and their authors? Explore more below.

The books of the Old Testament and New Testament are not the same. While both Testaments are part of the Christian Bible, they contain distinct histories, narratives, and theological focuses.

The Old Testament primarily tells the story of the Jewish people and their covenant with God, while the New Testament focuses on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the early Church.

What are the 39 books of the Old Testament and their authors?

The Old Testament was written from around 1450 BC to just before 400 BC. It contains 39 books, divided into four categories: The Books of the Law (Pentateuch/Torah books), Historical, Poetical, and Prophetic books.

1. Genesis - Moses

This book was written around 1450-1410 BC by Moses. Genesis is the first five books of the Torah. It gives an account of the world's creation, the early history of humanity, and the Jewish people's origins.

2. Exodus - Moses

The book of Exodus illustrates how God saved Israelites from slavery in Egypt and their subsequent relationship as they journeyed through the wilderness to Canaan, the promised land. This book was also authored around 1450-1410 BC by Moses.

3. Leviticus - Moses

This book addresses the rules Israelites should adhere to and how they should present themselves before God as they worship Him. It was written around 1445-1444 BC.

4. Numbers - Moses

It mainly talks about the Israelites' failure to trust and obey God and how they wandered in the wilderness for 40 years due to their disobedience. This book was written around 1445-1405 BC.

5. Deuteronomy - Moses

The book of Deuteronomy revisits the promises of God and how He instructed the Israelites to obey Him in the promised land. It also contains the farewell speech from Moses to the people of Israel shortly before his death. It was written around 1407-1406 BC.

6. Joshua - Joshua and Phinehas

This book details how Joshua led the Israelites to conquer the promised land. It also gives more insight into how the land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel. It is the first Historical Book and was written around 1405-1383 BC.

7. Judges - Samuel

The book of Judges was written around 1086-1004 BC by Samuel. This book details how Israelites resorted to a cycle of sin. As a result, they suffered defeat and oppression, only to cry out to God for deliverance. God, in turn, sent them leaders (judges) to help them.

8. Ruth - Unknown

The book describes some of the darkest days in Israel's history and how God favored two widows, Ruth and Naomi. The author of this book is unknown, even though it was written around 1375-1050 BC.

9. 1 Samuel - Samuel, Nathan, and Gad

1 Samuel was written by three authors, Samuel, Nathan, and Gad, around 930 BC. It provides details of how Israelites rejected God's servant Samuel and demanded to be ruled by kings despite God warning them against this.

10. 2 Samuel - Unknown

The book describes the life and career of David and how he became king against all odds. It touches on his failures too. This book was written around 930 BC. Unfortunately, the author of this book is unknown.

11. 1 Kings - Unknown

1 Kings was written around 560-538 BC. It provides details of how Israel enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity under the reign of King Solomon. It further reveals how the Kingdom of Israel was later split in two. It is unclear who wrote the book.

12. 2 Kings - Unknown

This book explains how the kings of Israel and Judah rejected God and His prophets. As a result, both kingdoms became captives to other nations. The author of this book is unknown. However, it was authored around 560-538 BC.

13. 1 Chronicles - Ezra

It was written around 430 BC by Ezra. This book offered encouragement to the Israelites as they returned from Babylonian exile. It also talks about the history and genealogy of Israel, putting a lot of emphasis on King David.

14. 2 Chronicles - Ezra

This book focuses on King Solomon and the building of the temple. It also reveals how the Babylonians took the southern Israelites captive and destroyed the temple.

15. Ezra - Ezra

The book of Ezra was written around 450 BC. This book covers the fulfillment of God's promises, the Israelites' return from exile, and the temple rebuilding. It also reveals how Ezra taught the Israelites to obey God's law.

16. Nehemiah - Nehemiah

The book details how Nehemiah rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem amidst strong opposition. It was written around 445-432 BC by Nehemiah.

17. Esther - Unknown

The author of this book is unknown. However, it was written around 483-471 BC. It explains how Esther rescued the Israelites from the genocidal plot.

18. Job - Unknown

Job is the first book of Poetry. It was written around 2100-1800 BC. It explains how Satan attacked a wealthy man named Job, who also lived a holy life. He lost everything to Satan, but God restored to him more than what he lost. The author of this book is unknown.

19. Psalms - David, Asaph, King Solomon, Heman, and Moses

It was written around 1440-586 BC by different authors, including David, Solomon, and Moses. The book contains 150 chapters. It has a collection of prayers, poems, and hymns that focus the worshiper's thoughts on God.

20. Proverbs - King Solomon, Agur, and Lemuel

This book was authored around 970-930 BC by Solomon, Agur, and Lemuel. The book reveals God's divine wisdom to guide humanity in His ways.

21. Ecclesiastes - King Solomon

It was written around 935 BC by King Solomon. This book explains how Solomon realized that life without God was meaningless.

22. Song of Solomon - Solomon

This book is about a song of love between a husband and wife, depicting God's relationship with men. King Solomon wrote it around 970-930 BC.

23. Isaiah - Prophet Isaiah

This is the first of the major prophetic books of the Hebrew Bible and was written around 700-681 BC. It contains sobering accounts of Israel's sin and warnings of the coming judgment. The book also offers hope through the coming of the Messiah, who would establish God's Kingdom on Earth.

24. Jeremiah - Prophet Jeremiah

This book was written around 627-586 BC by Prophet Jeremiah. It shows how Israelites were called upon to repent and turn to God, or else Babylonians would take them captive.

25. Lamentations - Prophet Jeremiah

This book expresses deep sadness following the destruction of Jerusalem and the captivity of Israel by Babylonians. It was written around 586 BC by Prophet Jeremiah.

26. Ezekiel - Prophet Ezekiel

The book of Ezekiel pronounces judgment on both Israel and surrounding nations. It also presents a striking picture of the restoration of God's people and a return of God's glory to His dwelling place. It was written around 571 BC.

27. Daniel - Prophet Daniel

It explains how God favored Daniel in Babylon because of his wisdom and obedience to Him. He receives prophetic visions that are very crucial to Israel's future. The book was written around 535 BC by Daniel.

28. Hosea - Prophet Hosea

The book of Hosea was written around 715 BC. God instructs Hosea to marry a prostitute, which is meant to portray God's great love for an undeserving group of people.

29. Joel - Prophet Joel

The book shows how Joel warned Israelites to repent or else God's judgment would befall them. It was written around 835-796 BC by Joel.

30. Amos - Prophet Amos

Amos was written around 760-750 BC by Prophet Amos. It describes Amos as a shepherd who condemns the injustices of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. He also delivered God's prophecies faithfully to them.

31. Obadiah - Prophet Obadiah

It shows God's determination to protect His people. The book further reveals that the nation of Edom would face God's wrath for exploiting Jerusalem. Obadiah was written around 627-586 BC.

32. Jonah - Prophet Jonah

This book was authored around 785-760 BC. It talks about Jonah refusing to follow God's instruction to go to Nineveh. As a result, he was swallowed by fish, after which he obeyed and went to the city of Nineveh.

33. Micah - Prophet Micah

The book was written around 742-687 BC by the Prophet Micah. It talks about how Micah challenged the leaders of Israel and Judah to stop their injustices. He also prophesied the coming of the Messiah.

34. Nahum - Prophet Nahum

This book discloses how Nahum was sent to Nineveh to proclaim God's judgment upon the Assyrian city and empire. It was written around 663-654 BC by Nahum.

35. Habakkuk - Prophet Habakkuk

It was written around 612-589 BC. Habakkuk challenges God to eliminate injustices and violence rampant in Judah, but God shocked him with His response. God reveals to him that He plans to use more ruthless Babylonians to bring more violence and injustices in Judah because of their disobedience.

36. Zephaniah - Prophet Zephaniah

Through this book, God warns that He will judge Israel and the surrounding nations using the Babylonians. He also gives them hope by revealing that He will restore peace in Israel if they repent of their sins. It was written around 640-621 BC by Zephaniah.

37. Haggai - Prophet Haggai

This book was written around 520 BC by Haggai. It reveals that the Israelites were not keen on rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Hagai advises them to finish this work.

38. Zechariah - Prophet Zechariah

This book was authored around 520-480 BC by Zechariah. The book encourages God's remnants to return to Him. This was after the Israelites had been exiled to Babylon for 70 years.

39. Malachi - Prophet Malachi

This is the last book of the Old Testament. It records how Israelites declined to obey God's instruction. As a result, God sent Malachi to rebuke them. The book of Malachi was written around 430 BC.

What are the 27 books of the New Testament and their authors?

The New Testament was written between 35AD and 90AD, covering as far back as the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a collection of 27 books that revolve around the life, death, resurrection, and teachings of Jesus Christ.

40. Matthew - Apostle Matthew (Levi)

Matthew is the first book of the New Testament and one of the three synoptic Gospels. The book was written around AD 80-90 by Matthew. It tells how Jesus Christ came to his people (the Jews) but was rejected. On his resurrection, he sends the disciples to the Gentiles instead.

41. Mark - Apostles John and Mark

Mark is the shortest gospel. It tells of the ministry of Jesus Christ, from his baptism by John the Baptist to his death, burial, and the discovery of his empty tomb. The book was authored around AD 55-65 by John Mark.

42. Luke - Apostle Luke

The book of Luke tells of the origins, birth, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. Unlike the other Gospel writers, Luke was a Gentile who wrote an account of Jesus' life for those outside the Jewish faith.

43. John - Apostle John

John is the last book of the four Gospels. The book gives an account of Jesus' ministry that focuses on the deeper meaning of events surrounding Christ's life, death, and resurrection.

44. Acts - Apostle Luke

This book has 28 chapters and provides the history of the early church. It gives an account of how the gospel was spread to other nations, including the Gentiles. The book of Acts was written around AD 60-61 by Luke.

45. Romans - Apostle Paul

Romans is an epistle to the believers in Rome, which Paul planned to visit. It was written by Paul to explain that salvation is offered through the gospel of Jesus.

46. 1 Corinthians - Apostle Paul

1 Corinthians is the first of two letters from Paul to the believers in Corinth. Apostle Paul wrote the book in response to divisions and problems facing the early church.

47. 2 Corinthians - Apostle Paul

This is Paul's second and final letter to the church in Corinth. The book deals with persisting problems facing the believers in Corinth and warns against false teachers.

48. Galatians - Apostle Paul

Galatians is a letter from Paul to the church in Galatia. The book addresses the problem of Jewish legalism and the fullness of salvation found in Jesus. It was written around 49-50 AD by Paul.

49. Ephesians - Apostle Paul

Apostle Paul wrote the book of Ephesians to the church in Ephesus. The book hits on a wide range of moral and ethical behaviors designed to ensure believers are living up to a godly life.

50. Philippians - Apostle Paul

This book was written by Paul around AD 60-61 to the Philippians, thanking them for the gift they had sent him upon learning of his detention in Rome. He also uses that opportunity to encourage them to stand firm in the face of persecution.

51. Colossians - Apostle Paul

Colossians was written around AD 60-62 by Paul. The book emphasizes Christ's authority over all evil powers. It also reminds Christians to set their hearts on things above and not on earthly things.

52. 1 Thessalonians - Apostle Paul

1 Thessalonians was written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica. The book provides Christians with the clearest biblical passage on the rapture of the church, an event that will inaugurate the seven-year tribulation.

53. 2 Thessalonians - Apostle Paul

Paul wrote this book to encourage persecuted believers and correct a misunderstanding concerning the rapture of the church. Some believed that the rapture had already taken place.

54. 1 Timothy - Apostle Paul

The book was written by Paul around AD 62-64 to Timothy, instructing him to care for the church at Ephesus while he went on to Macedonia. He tells Timothy to lead the church with sound teaching and a godly example.

55. 2 Timothy - Apostle Paul

Paul is nearing the end of his life, so he writes to Timothy, encouraging him to continue preaching the word of God with boldness amid persecution.

56. Titus - Apostle Paul

Titus was written by the Apostle Paul, and it has three chapters. The believers on the island of Crete lacked leadership, and Paul relied on Titus to help bring them the truth.

57. Philemon - Apostle Paul

The book of Philemon was authored around AD 60-62 by Paul to Philemon, a leader in the Colossian church. He strongly recommends that Philemon accept his runaway slave as a brother.

58. Hebrews - Unknown

The author of Hebrews is unknown. However, some scholars believe Paul must have written this book. The theme of Hebrews is the absolute supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ as the mediator of God's grace.

59. James - Apostle James (The half-brother of Jesus)

The book of James is believed to have been written by James around AD 44-49. The book encourages Christians to live in ways that demonstrate their faith in action.

60. 1 Peter - Apostle Peter

Peter wrote this book around AD 64-65 to the early church. It touches on various doctrines and has much to say about Christian life and duties. The book encourages Christians to remain steadfast despite hardships.

61. 2 Peter - Apostle Peter

2 Peter was written by Peter to believers, reminding them about the truth of Jesus Christ and warning them against false teachers and evildoers in the church. He also instructs Christians on how to deal with persecution from outside the church.

62. 1 John - Apostle John

John wrote this letter to Christians, reminding them about keeping Jesus' commands and loving one another. He warns them against false apostles and assures them of salvation if they hold on to the faith.

63. 2 John - Apostle John

This book was written by Apostle John around AD 90-95. It also emphasizes the importance of walking in the truth and loving one another.

64. 3 John - Apostle John

John wrote this letter to highlight the need for Christians to support each other so that missionaries and evangelists don't depend on the support of non-believers. He commends a guy named Gaius for supporting the teachers of the gospel.

65. Jude - Apostle Jude (The brother of Jesus)

Jude is only one chapter and was written around AD 68-70 to warn the early church about certain immoral men who were perverting the grace of God. These men were trying to confuse believers by saying that being saved by grace gave them license to sin.

66. Revelation - Apostle John

The Book of Revelation is the final book of the New Testament. John wrote this book around AD 95 from his exile on the island of Patmos. He informs believers that the showdown between God and Satan is imminent.

Satan will increase his persecution of believers, but they must stand firm, even to death. The book ends with a reference to the second coming of Christ, where he will reward everyone according to what they have done.

Who wrote all the books in the Bible?

The Bible (Catholic/Protestant Bible) was written by over 40 authors of diverse backgrounds over 1500 years. While some books are traditionally attributed to specific individuals like Moses and the Evangelists, others may have been compiled or written by anonymous authors or groups.

How many Bible books are there in total?

The Catholic Bible contains 73 books while the other Christian Bibles (Protestant Bibles) has 66 books.

What are the 66 books of the Bible and their meaning?

The Bible's significance extends beyond its role as a religious text. Its impact lies in its ability to shape perspectives and provide guidance on various aspects of life, making it a cornerstone of faith and a lens through which individuals understand the world. Below is a list of the books of the Bible and their meaning:

Old Testament

The Old Testament or Hebrew Bible is considered the foundational scripture for Judaism and Christianity. It provides the historical and cultural context for the New Testament and offers insights into God's covenant relationship with humanity, revealing principles of morality, law, and prophecy. Below are the meanings of books found in the Old Testament:

Books of the Law (Pentateuch/Torah Books):

They include Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy (traditionally attributed to Moses). These books lay the foundation for God's covenant with humanity, including the creation story, God's laws, and the Israelites' journey.

Historical Books

They include Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. These books chronicle Israel's history from the conquest of Canaan to the exile.

Wisdom Literature

They include Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon. These poetic books explore themes of worship, wisdom, and human experiences, including perseverance through suffering and finding joy in God.

Prophetic Books

They include Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. These books deliver messages of judgment, warning, and hope, revealing God's plans for his people.

Note Below

Deuterocanonical (Catholic) Books

The Catholic Bible has extra books in the Old Testament which are called the Deuterocanonical (Catholic) Books. These books include Judith, Tobit, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, 1 & 2 Maccabees.

New Testament

The New Testament is central to Christianity, offering insights into the life, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the early development of the church. It serves as a primary source of Christian doctrine and guidance, and its teachings have shaped Christian beliefs and practices for centuries. Below are the meanings of books found in the New Testament:

Gospels

They include Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These books record the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Their significance lies in their portrayal of Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, and the Savior of humanity, offering a foundation for Christian belief and practice.

Acts

The Acts of the Apostles (traditionally attributed to Luke) chronicles the early church and the spread of the gospel. The book highlights the ministry of the apostles, the Holy Spirit's power, and the early church's faith, obedience, and zeal.

Pauline Epistles

They include Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. These letters provide guidance and encouragement to various churches and individuals.

General Epistles

They include Hebrews, James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, & 3 John, and Jude. These epistles offer practical advice and theological insights for Christians.

Revelation

Revelation (traditionally attributed to John) is a prophecy and revelation of God's plans, especially concerning the final conflict between good and evil. It paints a picture of judgment, the triumph of Christ, and a new heaven and earth, offering hope and encouragement to Christians facing persecution and hardship.

Who wrote the Deuterocanonical (Catholic) Books of the Bible?

The authors of the Deuterocanonical (Catholic) books are diverse and include historical figures like Baruch, Jesus Ben Sirach (also known as Sirach), and individuals associated with the Maccabean period.

Some books, like the First and Second Books of Maccabees, are attributed to anonymous authors or scribes who chronicled historical events. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the authors of the Deuterocanonical (Catholic) Books of the Bible:

Baruch - Baruch

Attributed to Jeremiah's servant, Baruch, the author of the Book of Baruch, which contains reflections on the exile of Judah and the rebuilding of the Temple.

The Book of Sirach - Jesus Ben Sirach

The author of the Book of Sirach (also known as Ecclesiasticus), wrote a book of wisdom and practical advice, reflecting the life and teachings of his time.

The Books of the Maccabees - Anonymous Authors/Scribes

The Books of the Maccabees, including 1 and 2 Maccabees, are often attributed to anonymous authors or scribes who compiled and recorded the events of the Maccabean Revolt and the subsequent Hasmonean period.

Book of Tobit and the Book of Judith - Anonymous Authors/Scribes

The Book of Tobit and the Book of Judith are attributed to anonymous authors.

Wisdom of Solomon - King Solomon

The Wisdom of Solomon is traditionally associated with King Solomon, though its authorship is debated.

What are the original 73 books of the Bible?

The Catholic Bible contains 73 books: 46 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. Here are the books of the Roman Catholic Bible in canonical Order:

• Genesis (The Old Testament begins)
• Exodus
• Leviticus
• Numbers
• Deuteronomy
• Joshua
• Judges
• Ruth
• 1 Samuel
• 2 Samuel
• 1 Kings
• 2 Kings
• 1 Chronicles
• 2 Chronicles
• Ezra
• Nehemiah
• Tobit
• Judith
• Esther
• 1 Maccabees
• 2 Maccabees
• Job
• Psalms
• Proverbs
• Ecclesiastes
• Song of Songs
• Wisdom
• Sirach
• Isaiah
• Jeremiah
• Lamentations
• Baruch
• Ezekiel
• Daniel
• Hosea
• Joel
• Amos
• Obadiah
• Jonah
• Micah
• Nahum
• Habakkuk
• Zephaniah
• Haggai
• Zechariah
• Malachi
• Matthew (The New Testament begins)
• 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

What are the 66 books of the Bible in order?

Divided into two parts, the Old Testament and the New Testament, the Bible contains a total of 66 books listed in the following order:

• Genesis (The Old Testament begins)
• Exodus
• Leviticus
• Numbers
• Deuteronomy
• Joshua
• Judges
• Ruth
• 1 Samuel
• 2 Samuel
• 1 Kings
• 2 Kings
• 1 Chronicles
• 2 Chronicles
• Ezra
• Nehemiah
• Esther
• Job
• Psalms (The middle of the Bible)
• Proverbs
• Ecclesiastes
• Song of Solomon
• Isaiah
• Jeremiah
• Lamentations
• Ezekiel
• Daniel
• Hosea
• Joel
• Amos
• Obadiah
• Jonah
• Micah
• Nahum
• Habakkuk
• Zephaniah
• Haggai
• Zechariah
• Malachi
• Matthew (The New Testament begins)
• 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

Who wrote 14 books of the Bible?

Out of the 27 books in the New Testament, 14 books are traditionally attributed to Apostle Paul. These books include Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, and Hebrews.

How many years did it take to write the Bible?

The Bible was written over 1,500 years, beginning with the world's creation in the Book of Genesis and ending with the Book of Revelation.

Understanding the books of the Bible and their authors can significantly enhance the reading experience and understanding of the text. Knowing the authors, their historical context, and the genres of the books can also provide valuable insights into the Bible's meaning and purpose.

Tuko.co.ke published an article about inspiring Bible verses. Christians have their reference book in all seasons and times. They turn to the scriptures for help when looking for faith and strength.

A Bible verse doesn't have to be long to impact your life. Some of the shortest verses come with the most long-lasting impact. After all, it only takes one short Bible verse to be reminded of God's presence in your life.

Source: TUKO.co.ke