Literary styles of the Bible
The Bible is made up of a collection of books with different types of literature. It is important to recognise the different genres as they have to be read according to its literary style. For example, you would not read a narrative (story) in the same way that you read poetry.
- History or Narrative (Story)
- The Law
- Poetry & Songs
- Wisdom
- Prophecy & Apocalyptic
- Gospel
- Parables
- Letters
Here’s a 6-minute video that introduces the genres.
Over 40% of the Bible is made up of stories. It is the backbone upon which most of the other literature sits on.
For example, the Psalms (poetry) were written over a period of a thousand years. 1 and 2 Samuel provide the historical context in which David wrote many of the Psalms.
The book of Acts contain the story of the movement of the Gospel. They provide the context in which the apostle Paul wrote his letters (epistles).