Ever since the beginning of the universe, the Almighty One who created all things has been searching for something.

Does it seem strange that He who is complete in power should desire something? But there are some things which cannot be created, and one of these is true love. He who is infinite in wisdom could have created us pre-programmed to love Him, but what value is that if there was no free choice involved? What He desires are free, intelligent beings who love Him - not because we are commanded to, or because we fear the alternative, or even because He makes us do it. He wants us to enter into this relationship with Him because we choose to out of admiration, respect and trust. This cannot be pre-programmed, and even the angels were given a choice. For this reason, our Father speaks to us, as He has done all through the ages.

The purpose of this Bible Study Series is to provide readers with an overview of the timeline of Bible history. We will spend the earlier sections examining the "time past" mentioned in Hebrews, when Yahweh spoke to us by means of prophets and mighty signs. We will follow the history of the people He called to know Him and teach Him to others. We will see the stage set for the coming of His Son, and then we will follow this new revelation down to the present day - and beyond.

This Series is designed with new Bible students in mind. Without placing too much emphasis on the deeper matters of doctrine, (there are "supplementary studies" associated with each segment for those interested in more detailed theological matters) the aim of the author is to facilitate a general familiarity with the Scriptures. Also, with each major section, a graphical chart is added which contains interesting dates for the period being discussed.

How wonderful it will be if a reader can open the Bible to any given Book and say, for example: "Ah, Esther! These events took place after many Jews returned from exile to rebuild Jerusalem, but this is the story of those who stayed behind during the time of the Persians." If we see the Bible as an antiquated, intimidating or (Heaven forbid) boring Book, we will never come to truly enjoy reading one of our Father's greatest gifts to us.

If we feel comfortable in the strange environment with which we become involved: kings and traitors, giants and angels, heroes and cowardly fools, and one bright Being who has been calling to us all along, we may indeed begin to admire, respect and trust this Divine Person who has been watching over us with love and anxious concern. It is the ultimate aim of this set of studies, by familiarizing students with the chronological setting of the events in the sacred Scriptures, to help bring this about.

David.