how to read the bible
The best way to find out more about Jesus and strengthen your relationship with him is to read the Bible for yourself. Here are some resources and pointers that may be helpful for you.
WHERE SHOULD I START?
Try reading Mark, which is the most concise book that tells the story of Jesus, or Ephesians, which is a good summary of the Christian life. What next? A good way to read through your bible is to rotate between different parts of the Bible and just take it at your own pace. The important thing is that you are sampling all the different parts of the Bible, rather than just the parts that are comfortable to you. Here is a list of the books of the bible, divided into five categories. Try rotating through the five categories.
READ, THINK, PRAY
The Bible is not just a book of information, it is God’s Word which is “living and active…discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Heb. 4:15) So the best way to read the Bible is to first READ slowly, underlining important words and sentences. Then THINK about what you just read. What is the main point of the text? How does it fit in with the context and the book it is in? Write one or two summary sentences. Finally, PRAY through what you just read. What might God be trying to remind you of through this text? How does this text lead you to Jesus, and what he has done? Spend some time talking to God and laying before him your day.
GOT QUESTIONS ABOUT THE BIBLE?
As you’re reading through the bible, you will probably have some questions. The best thing you can do about this is to read the bible with a friend or a small group and discuss it. Also, here are some good resources that will help you:
The ESV Study Bible or The NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible: These are excellent study bibles that will give you detailed study notes on every book of the Bible.
“The Bible Project” Videos on Youtube: These short 5-10 minute videos summarize books of the bible and themes in the bible. Watch the video on the book you are reading and it will help you understand the big picture of it.
"Knowing the Bible" Bible Studies by Crossway: These guides come with study notes and questions to help you work through a book of the Bible individually or in a group.
“How to Read the Bible” Seminar: This is a seminar we held that walks you through the basics of how to read the Bible.
OTHER BIBLE READING PLANS
Here are some other bible reading plans:
Read through the Bible in a year with readings from 4 separate places: Discipleship Journal’s Four Part Bible Reading Plan
Read through the Bible in a year with readings 5 days a week: Five Day Bible Reading Plan
Read through the New Testament in a year: 5x5x5 New Testament Reading Plan