Embarking on a journey through the Bible can feel like standing at the foot of a mountain range. The sheer size and depth of this sacred text, composed of 66 books filled with diverse stories, poems, letters, and prophecies, might seem overwhelming, especially if you’re new to it. Just like my brother who, in a moment of profound personal struggle, reached for the Bible seeking solace and direction but felt lost and unsure of where to begin, many others share this sentiment. The question echoes: where do you even start reading in the Bible?
Before we delve into the ‘where’ and ‘how’, it’s crucial to understand the ‘why’.
Why Begin Reading the Bible?
1. Discovering God and His Redemptive Story
From the very first verse of Genesis, the Bible unveils a grand narrative of a loving and sovereign Creator God reaching out to humanity. It’s not just a collection of historical accounts; it is the living word of God (2 Timothy 3:16), offering truth and guidance that resonates through time. Reading the Bible allows you to witness God’s character unfold – His mercy, justice, love, and unwavering faithfulness.
Moreover, the Bible acts as a mirror, reflecting our own human condition against the backdrop of God’s holiness. It reveals our imperfections, our brokenness, and our separation from God due to sin. However, this revelation is not meant to leave us in despair. Instead, it sets the stage for the most transformative message within its pages: the promise of redemption and restoration through faith in Jesus Christ.
2. Knowing Jesus Christ and Finding Freedom from Sin
The central theme of the Bible culminates in Jesus Christ. God’s love story reaches its pinnacle when He sent His Son, Jesus, to bridge the gap between humanity and Himself. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are the cornerstone of Christian faith. Through reading the Bible, particularly the Gospels, we encounter Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and ultimate sacrifice.
The purpose of the Bible, as stated in 1 John 5:13, is profound: “that you may believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” It’s through knowing Jesus, as revealed in the scriptures, that we find freedom from the bondage of sin and death (John 8:31-32). This freedom is not just a future promise; it’s a present reality that transforms our lives from the inside out.
How to Start Reading the Bible: Practical Starting Points
Feeling more convinced about the ‘why’? Let’s tackle the ‘how’ and ‘where’ to begin your Bible reading journey.
1. Choosing Your Entry Point: Gospels, Epistles, or Genesis
The Gospels: Encountering Jesus
For those new to the Bible, the Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John – are often recommended as the most accessible starting point. Meaning “good news,” these books narrate the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They provide a direct introduction to the core figure of Christianity and His teachings.
- Mark: If you prefer a concise and action-packed narrative, Mark is an excellent choice. Its 16 chapters offer a fast-paced overview of Jesus’s key events and miracles. It’s like a rapid introduction to the highlights of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
- John: For a more profound and theological exploration of Jesus’ identity and mission, delve into the Gospel of John. Written by the Apostle John, this Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, and the source of salvation. It offers deeper insights into Jesus’ divine nature and His relationship with God the Father.
The Epistles: Practical Guidance for Christian Living
Another excellent starting point is the Epistles, letters written primarily by the Apostle Paul to early Christian communities. Books like Ephesians and Colossians offer practical instructions and encouragement for living as a follower of Christ.
- Ephesians & Colossians: These epistles are rich in theological truth and practical advice on how to live a Christ-centered life. They cover topics like love, forgiveness, unity, and spiritual growth, providing a framework for Christian conduct and understanding.
Genesis: The Foundation of the Narrative
If you are drawn to beginnings and understanding the overarching story of the Bible from its inception, Genesis is a compelling starting point. As the first book of the Bible, Genesis lays the foundation for everything that follows.
- Genesis 1-3: In just the first few chapters, you’ll encounter the creation of the world, the introduction of humanity, the entrance of sin, and God’s initial promise of redemption. Genesis sets the stage for the entire biblical narrative, revealing God as the sovereign Creator and introducing the themes of sin and redemption that run throughout the Bible.
2. Establishing a Reading Plan
Consistency is key to developing a meaningful Bible reading habit.
- Set a Time: Choose a specific time each day dedicated to reading. Whether it’s the quiet of the early morning, a break during lunch, or before sleep at night, consistency will help make it a regular practice.
- Choose a Place: Designate a comfortable and distraction-free space for your reading. A favorite chair, a quiet corner, or your desk can become your dedicated space for encountering God’s Word.
- Gather Basic Tools: While all you truly need is the Bible itself, having a pen, highlighter, or a journal nearby can enhance your study. These tools can help you mark verses, jot down reflections, and record prayers.
3. Starting at a Manageable Pace
Begin with small, digestible portions.
- Start Small: Don’t feel pressured to read large sections initially. Focus on reading a chapter or even a few verses at a time. Aim for 10-15 minutes of focused reading.
- Savor and Reflect: Take time to meditate on what you are reading. Don’t rush through the words. Consider their meaning, implications, and how they resonate with you. Journaling can be a powerful way to process your thoughts, prayers, and insights.
- Seek Application: As you read, ask yourself how the passage applies to your life. Is there a promise to claim, a warning to heed, or a command to follow? Applying scripture to your daily life is where true transformation begins (Romans 8:28).
4. Beginning with Prayer
Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding.
- Pray for Guidance: Before you open your Bible, ask the Holy Spirit, whom you receive when you embrace faith in Jesus, to illuminate your mind and heart. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as our Helper, who would teach us “all things” and guide us into “all truth” (John 14:26, John 16:13). Recognizing our need for divine guidance is crucial for understanding and applying scripture.
The Bible: More Than Just a Book
The Bible is far more than a literary work; it is a transformative encounter with the living God. It’s a guide to life, a source of wisdom, and a pathway to knowing Jesus Christ intimately. It reveals God’s majesty and love, exposes our human frailty and need for grace, and offers the incredible journey of redemption and restoration.
Today is the day to begin. Open the Bible, take that first step, and start mining the inexhaustible riches within its pages. Discover God, encounter Jesus, and find the redemption and restoration your soul longs for.
Free Online Resource to Get Started
Open the Bible Story “The Flight” offers a fantastic 3-session introduction to the Bible’s grand narrative. It introduces key Old Testament figures, significant events from Jesus’ life, and the precious gifts God bestows upon every Christian. Whether you’re completely new to the Bible or have some familiarity, “The Flight” provides an accessible and engaging starting point.
Note: No images were provided in the original article to replicate.
