When we get a long-winded memo from the CEO at work, I'll sometimes ask one of the administrative assistants what it says. I want the short version, and they'll always give it to me. But they'll also add, "You'd better read it for yourself." Good advice.

In a similar vein, I'll convey to you some of the Bible's most important points and teachings, but don't let my summary be a substitute for reading it yourself. Here you go:

 

1. WHAT IS THE GOSPEL?
The gospel is the summary explanation of who Jesus Christ is, what he did, why he did it, what it means to us. If you only read one chapter, make it this one.

2. WHAT IS CHRISTIAN?
This additionally addresses what is righteousness, and explains the purpose of God-given laws. In one sense, this is an abbreviated version of "What is the gospel?" with some short, bulleted points.

3. WHAT IS THE BIBLE ALL ABOUT?
This is an overview of the Old and New Testaments. The sacrificial system is also explained which will greatly help one understand what Jesus accomplished by dying on the cross.

4. WHAT IS FAITH?
The Bible tells us that we are "saved by faith"; thus the importance of knowing just what is faith. Then, if you haven't already, read "What is the gospel?"

5. DOES JESUS FULFILL THE MESSIANIC PROPHECIES?
Prophecy is one of the proofs God offers humanity as a testament to his existence, characteristics, and integrity. Prophecy is also that by which Jesus' contemporaries were to identify his coming. Hang in there, this is the first of a long three-part chapter.

6. WAS JESUS RESURRECTED FROM THE DEAD?
For this reason followers of Christ started worshipping on Sunday. For this reason our calendar years are measured from this event. For this reason a handful of men and women turned a barbaric world upside down. It will give you confidence to know this all happened for a very good reason. (First of eight chapters.)

7. CREATION SCIENCE
A subject less important than the gospel, the study of human origins is nevertheless important. We are so inundated with eighteenth century Darwinism that it infuriates even anti-Christian anti-Darwinists like Sir Fred Hoyle. Find out why. (The last of ten chapters with a plethora of links.)

8. THE AUTHORITY OF THE BIBLE
The authority of the Bible is the authority of God. The entire division on authority hopefully makes this case, of which this particular chapter comprises only one part.

9. JESUS IS LORD
A summary of the major proofs for the Lordship of Jesus Christ (not comprehensive).