Do you want to read and learn how to read the Bible? This article will give you some practical tips to get started.
The Bible is a key text for culture and, more importantly, for our spiritual lives. It’s the word of God, revealing what he wants us to know about him and how to live in this world. But reading the Bible can be tough, especially if you're a beginner. So, this article will provide steps to help you start your Bible reading journey with confidence.
Here are some steps you can take as you begin to read.
First, choose a good Bible translation.
Many popular translations combine accuracy and readability. Good options include the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), New International Version (NIV), English Standard Version (ESV), and New Living Translation (NLT). Focus on readability and your reading purpose when choosing a translation. A good study Bible with introductions to each book and explanatory notes can also be helpful. I recommend the CSB Study Bible.
There are many digital options too, like the ESV Bible or YouVersion.
Second, understand the basics of the Bible's structure.
When you open the Bible, you'll see it’s not just one book but a collection of books. The two main sections are the Old Testament, also known as the Hebrew Scriptures, and the New Testament.
The Old Testament consists of historical books (Genesis to Esther), poetry and wisdom literature (Job to Song of Solomon), and prophetic books (Isaiah to Malachi).
The New Testament contains the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), the Acts of the Apostles, epistles or letters (Romans through Jude), and the Book of Revelation.
The Bible covers thousands of years and includes various literary forms such as poetry, prophecy, and letters.
- History recounts God's dealings with humanity over centuries;
- Poetry uses literary devices to convey truth and emotion;
- Prophecy uses symbolism to address historical events;
- Epistles address specific congregations and their needs;
- Apocalyptic literature uses symbolism to communicate important truths.
Don’t get overwhelmed. You can always keep learning as you go. Keep your eye on these basics so you can begin to understand what you're reading.
Third, decide where to start reading.
For beginners, there are many great starting points:
- The Gospel of John introduces Jesus and core Christian beliefs.
- Genesis lays the foundation for biblical narratives.
- Psalms offer devotional poetry and prayer that express our feelings and teach us how to talk to God.
- Proverbs provides practical wisdom for daily life.
- You might also consider different reading approaches like chronological readings, topical plans, or book-by-book methods. There are various timeframes, too—30-day, 90-day, or year-long plans. If you're busy, a two-year plan might suit you better.
Fourth, create effective reading habits.
Set aside dedicated time for consistent reading in a comfortable environment free from distractions. Pray for guidance before you read. Set realistic goals that fit your schedule and track your progress to stay motivated. It's normal to fall behind sometimes; just keep going.
Fifth, take notes and ask questions as you read.
Highlight and take notes as you read. Don’t be afraid to mark up your Bible or journal your insights and questions. Observe what you're reading by asking what it reveals about God and humanity. Read and reread passages, paying attention to details, and pray for understanding.
When you encounter difficult passages, don't get overwhelmed. You don't need to understand everything right away. Use study Bibles or commentaries (like this free online series) for deeper insights, and balance your understanding with scholars' insights.
Finally, move from reading to application.
Reflect on what you read and how it applies to your life by asking what it reveals about God and humanity. Consider memorizing key passages that help you and share your insights with others. Seek help from a trusted pastor when needed.
Remember that Bible reading is an ongoing journey developing a lifelong relationship with Scripture.
If you want more information, consider reading other helpful books like How to Read the Bible for All its Worth or A Short Guide to Reading the Bible Better. My book, 8 Habits for Growth, also contains information on how to read Scripture, along with a companion online resource.
Bible reading is worth it despite its challenges because its rewards are enormous—it can change your life as you absorb it over time. Don't get discouraged when it's hard; living according to God's word is invaluable.
