Getting Started with the Bible
A Simple Guide for Beginning Your Journey in God’s Word
The Bible is the most widely read and influential book in history. For Christians, it is God’s inspired Word that reveals His character, His promises, His plan of salvation, and His desire for a relationship with humanity through Jesus Christ.
Many people want to read the Bible but are unsure where to begin. The Bible contains sixty-six books written over many centuries by different authors, yet together they tell one unified story of God’s love, redemption, and faithfulness.
Beginning the Journey in God’s Word
What Is the Bible?
The Bible is divided into two major sections.
The Old Testament tells the story of creation, God’s covenant relationship with His people, and the promises that point toward the coming Messiah.
The New Testament tells the story of Jesus Christ, the birth of the church, and God’s continuing work in the world through His people.
Although the Bible contains many books, it tells one grand story—from creation, to redemption, to the promise of a new creation through Jesus Christ.
Where Should I Start Reading?
Many new readers try to begin in Genesis and read straight through the Bible. While this can be rewarding, many people find it helpful to begin with the life of Jesus.
The Gospel of John is often recommended because it clearly presents who Jesus is and why He came.
After reading John, many people continue with:
The Gospel of Luke
The Book of Acts
The Gospel of Mark
The Book of Psalms
The Book of Proverbs
These books provide a strong foundation for understanding Jesus, the early church, worship, prayer, and practical wisdom.
A Simple Reading Plan for Beginners
Week One: Read John 1–7
Week Two: Read John 8–14
Week Three: Read John 15–21
Week Four: Read Acts 1–14
Week Five: Read Acts 15–28
Along the way, read one Psalm each day and spend a few moments praying about what you have read.
How to Read the Bible
Before reading, ask God to help you understand His Word.
Read slowly and thoughtfully.
Pay attention to what the passage teaches about God.
Notice what it teaches about people and faith.
Ask how the passage applies to your life today.
Write down questions or observations as you read.
The goal is not simply to finish a chapter. The goal is to encounter God through Scripture.
What If I Don’t Understand Something?
Every Bible reader encounters difficult passages. This is normal.
When you come across something confusing:
Keep reading the surrounding verses.
Read the passage in another Bible translation.
Use a trusted study Bible.
Talk with a pastor, teacher, or mature Christian.
Return to the passage later as your understanding grows.
Remember that understanding develops over time. Even lifelong Bible students continue learning.
Helpful Habits for Bible Reading
Choose a regular time each day.
Read in a quiet place with few distractions.
Keep a notebook for questions and insights.
Pray before and after reading.
Read consistently rather than trying to read large amounts all at once.
Allow Scripture to shape both your thinking and your actions.
Small daily habits often produce lasting spiritual growth.
Growing Beyond the Basics
As you become more comfortable reading Scripture, you may wish to learn how the Bible is organized, how to study passages in context, and how the different books fit together in God’s larger story.
The resources in the Understanding the Bible section are designed to help you take those next steps and deepen your understanding of God’s Word.
Related Pages
Understanding How the Bible Is Organized
Old Testament and New Testament
Bible Reading Plans
How to Study the Bible
Understanding Context in Scripture
Bible Timeline
Major Themes of the Bible
Continue Learning
Understanding How the Bible Is Organized
Old Testament and New Testament
Bible Timeline
How to Study the Bible
