STEP 6 OF 10
HOW DO I READ THE BIBLE?
The Bible can feel overwhelming at first. It is a large collection of writings produced across many centuries, with history, poetry, prophecy, wisdom, letters, and accounts of Jesus’ life. You do not have to understand everything immediately. Learning to read Scripture is a skill that grows with practice.
1. What Is the Bible?
Christians believe Scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, correction, training, and helping us know how to live. The Bible is also a collection of real books written by human authors in particular cultures, places, and situations.
Because God chose to speak through real history and real human language, good Bible reading pays attention both to what the text says and to its context.
2. How Is the Bible Organized?
The 66-book Protestant Bible used in this course contains 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. Other Christian traditions include additional books in their biblical canons, so you may see differences depending on the Bible or church tradition you encounter.
The Old Testament includes the Law, History, Poetry and Wisdom, and the Prophets. The New Testament includes the four Gospels, Acts, letters to churches and believers, and Revelation.
One Simple Way to Remember It
One Bible. Two Testaments. 66 books. One unfolding story of God’s work and His plan of redemption.
3. Where Should I Start?
If you are new to Christianity, begin with Jesus. The Gospel of John is a good starting place. Mark is shorter and fast-moving. Luke gives an orderly account and connects naturally to Acts.
After a Gospel, read Acts to see how the early church grew. Then try a short New Testament letter such as Philippians, Ephesians, or James. At the same time, begin reading Psalms and selected parts of the Old Testament so you learn the larger story.
4. Which Translation Should I Use?
Bible translations vary in style. Some aim for more word-for-word wording; others aim for clear thought-for-thought communication. For this course, we will usually link the New Living Translation (NLT) because it is easy to read, and we will also provide the King James Version (KJV) for those who prefer its traditional language.
Using more than one translation can help when a verse is difficult. The goal is not to find the translation that makes a verse say what we want. The goal is to understand what the biblical writer was communicating.
5. What If I Don’t Understand?
Do not be discouraged. Even experienced Christians encounter difficult passages. Start with what is clear. Write down your questions. Read the paragraphs around the verse. Look for repeated ideas. Compare translations. Ask trustworthy teachers.
Understanding grows over time. You are allowed to say, “I do not know yet.”
6. Why Context Matters
A single Bible verse can be misused when it is removed from the surrounding passage. Context asks: Who is speaking? To whom? What is happening? What comes before and after? What kind of writing is this?
For example, a proverb gives general wisdom, while a historical narrative tells what happened. A poem uses imagery. A letter may address a specific church problem. These differences matter.
7. Should Everything Be Read Literally?
The Bible contains literal historical accounts, but it also contains poetry, symbols, metaphors, parables, visions, and figures of speech. Reading faithfully does not mean pretending every sentence belongs to the same literary form.
When Jesus says He is the door, Christians do not believe He is made of wood with hinges. The metaphor communicates truth about access and salvation. The goal is to read each passage according to the kind of writing it is.
8. What About Difficult Passages?
Some parts of the Bible raise hard questions about violence, judgment, slavery, gender, suffering, and ancient customs. Do not solve difficult texts with quick slogans. Slow down. Study the historical setting, the full biblical story, and how the passage relates to Jesus and the New Testament.
It is also okay to seek help from solid commentaries, pastors, teachers, and scholars. Humility is part of Bible study.
9. The Holy Spirit Helps Us Understand
Christians believe the Holy Spirit helps believers understand and respond to God’s truth. That does not mean every interpretation that enters our mind is automatically from the Spirit. The Spirit does not contradict the Scripture He inspired.
Pray for understanding, but also use the ordinary tools God gives us: careful reading, context, study, wise teachers, and community.
📖 Read in the Bible
John 16:13
1 Corinthians 2:12–14
10. The Bible Changes Our Lives
Bible reading is not only about collecting information. Scripture exposes our motives, corrects wrong thinking, gives hope, and teaches us how to live. Sometimes a passage comforts us. Sometimes it confronts us.
A helpful question after reading is: “What would it look like to obey what I have just learned?”
📖 Read in the Bible
Hebrews 4:12
James 1:22–25
11. Live What You Learn
If you read about forgiveness, practice forgiveness. If you read about generosity, look for someone to help. If you read about truthfulness, examine your words. Knowledge without obedience can make us proud rather than mature.
You will never apply every verse in exactly the same way, but Scripture should gradually shape your decisions, relationships, priorities, and character.
12. Make Bible Reading Part of Everyday Life
A simple routine is better than an ambitious plan you abandon after three days. Start with ten or fifteen minutes. Read a manageable section. Ask what it says about God, people, and faithful living. Write one sentence you want to remember. Pray about it.
7-Day Gospel of John Challenge
Day 1: John 1 — NLT | KJV
Day 2: John 2–3 — NLT | KJV
Day 3: John 4–5 — NLT | KJV
Day 4: John 6–7 — NLT | KJV
Day 5: John 8–10 — NLT | KJV
Day 6: John 11–14 — NLT | KJV
Day 7: John 15–21 — NLT | KJV
If this feels like too much, continue at your own pace. The goal is understanding, not rushing.
Take a Moment
Before moving on, sit quietly for a minute. Think about what stood out to you. You do not have to understand everything at once. Growth often begins with one truth that you are willing to keep thinking about and living out.
A Simple Prayer
God, thank You for giving us Scripture. Help me read carefully, understand the context, and recognize what You are teaching me. Protect me from twisting Your Word to fit what I already want. Give me wisdom and a willing heart to obey. Amen.
Keep This With You
The Bible is one unfolding story of God’s work and redemption. Read it carefully, in context, with prayer, humility, and a willingness to live what you learn.