Bible Basics: What Is The Christian Faith All About?

by Stephen J. Nichols

Are you looking for a great overview of everything you need to know about the Bible?

This book offers some Bible basics as the foundation for discipleship and doctrine. Here you will find an overview of the biblical books, places, and events. We’ll look at the big picture of the Bible by exploring the idea of the covenant. You’ll find some key biblical passages to meditate upon and memorize, as well as prayers from the Bible. You’ll also find some key ideas from the centuries of church history. Together we’ll walk through some basic doctrines in order to have a better grasp on what the Bible teaches. You’ll even find some hymns.

These basics provide a foundation upon which to build a solid faith. In fact, all of us, no matter where we find ourselves in our Christian walk, need these fundamentals. We need to go back to the basics. Repeat. Repeat again.

Stephen J. Nichols, President of Reformation Bible College in Sanford, Florida, covers a wide range of topics, from the different genres found in the Bible to the benefits we can glean from creeds and catechisms; the primary Christian doctrines to how to apply biblical wisdom.

The Books of the BibleThe Big Picture of the BibleThe CovenantRomans and the GospelBiblical EventsBiblical PlacesBible MemorizationThe Lord’s Prayer & Biblical PrayersThe Ten Commandments & The Great CommandmentBiblical WisdomRiches from Church HistoryBasic An Introduction to DoctrineThe ChurchHymnsWorshipEach of these short chapters contain a wealth of information. A fantastic tool for anyone looking to understand the overall picture of the Bible, and the fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith.

96 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2024

About the author

Stephen J. Nichols (PhD, Westminster Theological Seminary) is president of Reformation Bible College and chief academic officer of Ligonier Ministries. Previously, he served as research professor of Christianity and culture at Lancaster Bible College. He is an editor (with Justin Taylor) of the Theologians on the Christian Life series and is the author of several books, including The Reformation, For Us and for Our Salvation, The Church History ABCs, and Bonhoeffer on the Christian Life.

Reviews

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Bible Basics, Stephen J. Nichols shares what the Christian faith is all about. This book offers an excellent overview of everything you need to know about the Bible.

My favorite chapter was on Romans and the Gospel. Nichols breaks down the Romans Road in a simple and clear way—starting with the wrath of God, moving to the righteousness of God in Christ, and culminating in peace with God.

I was especially pleased to read the chapter on Biblical Events. Nichols highlights the Assyrian captivity of Israel, the Babylonian captivity of Judah, the exile, and the return and rebuilding. I wish I had this book when I first began reading the Bible.

Fundamentals of the Faith

The second half of the book includes a chapter on Basic Beliefs: An Introduction to Doctrine, which reads wonderfully as a succinct systematic theology. The book concludes with a focus on hymns and worship, emphasizing the role of music in the church and in the lives we live for the Lord.

This book is perfect for seekers, new believers, and young Christians. It will take you back to the fundamentals of the faith and ground you in God’s Word.

I received a media copy of Bible Basics and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep

[Tim Franks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great primer on the Bible from a very respected pastor and author. Lots of in depth looks at aspects of the Bible and how God's Word helps us to grow in our theology and doxology. This would be a good work to give out to church people, especially new believers.

[Matthew Rawlings · Rating 3 out of 5]

Looked at this for use in my church's youth group. It has most of the basics down in fairly simple form but I would argue as a minister in Appalachia that it could be even simpler. Still solid.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent short book. Perfect for new Christians or young people.