Why You Need to Read the Bible
Understanding God's Word
The Bible isn't primarily a historical document or a philosophical treatise (though it contains both). The Bible is God speaking to you personally—God's love letter revealing who He is and how He loves you.
God Speaks Through It
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."
— 2 Timothy 3:16
When you read the Bible, you're not reading human opinion. You're encountering God's Word. God speaks through it, revealing His character, His will, and His love for you.
It Develops Your Faith
"So faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ."
— Romans 10:17
Your faith grows as you encounter God's Word. You understand God better, trust God more, and believe God's promises more deeply.
It Guides Your Life
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
— Psalm 119:105
When you're confused about what to do, the Bible provides guidance. When you're not sure if something is right or wrong, the Bible clarifies. When you're uncertain about God's will, the Bible illuminates.
It Transforms Your Heart
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
— Romans 12:2
As you meditate on Scripture, the Holy Spirit uses it to transform you from the inside out. Your thinking changes. Your values change. Your desires change.
How to Read the Bible
Practical methods
Start Small
Don't try to read the entire Bible in a month. Start with manageable portions:
- A chapter a day from one book
- A few verses each day
- A specific passage you're reflecting on
As you build the habit, you can expand your reading.
✅ NIV (New International Version)
Best for: General reading and study
Balanced between literal and readable. Great all-around translation for new believers.
✅ NLT (New Living Translation)
Best for: Devotional reading
Very readable and clear. Excellent for understanding meaning quickly.
✅ ESV (English Standard Version)
Best for: Study and memorization
More literal but still modern and readable.
✅ NKJV (New King James Version)
Best for: Traditional language
Updates the classic KJV with modern English while maintaining dignity.
Tip: Use The Message for Devotional Reading
The Message is a paraphrase (not a translation) that's very readable and emotionally engaging. It's great for getting the "big picture" but use a standard translation for study.
Good Starting Points for New Believers
Where to begin
Where should you begin? Here are the best books and passages for new Christians:
📖 Gospel of John
Testament: New Testament
Why start here: Shows Jesus's life, teaching, and miracles. Explains clearly who Jesus is and what it means to follow Him.
Recommended for: Understanding Jesus and salvation
💙 Psalm 23
Testament: Old Testament (Poetry)
Why start here: Beautiful, comforting, brief. Shows God as your shepherd.
Recommended for: Devotional reading and memorization
✉️ Romans
Testament: New Testament (Letter)
Why start here: Deep theology of salvation, faith, and Christian living. Foundational understanding.
Recommended for: Understanding salvation doctrine
💕 1 John
Testament: New Testament (Letter)
Why start here: All about God's love. Short, encouraging, clear.
Recommended for: Understanding God's love for you
💡 Proverbs
Testament: Old Testament (Wisdom)
Why start here: Practical life guidance. You can read one chapter per day (31 chapters).
Recommended for: Daily wisdom and practical living
📜 James
Testament: New Testament (Letter)
Why start here: Practical faith in action. Shows how faith transforms behavior.
Recommended for: Understanding faith and works
📅 Recommended First-Week Reading Plan
- Day 1: John 1:1-18 (The Word Became Flesh)
- Day 2: John 1:19-51 (Jesus Begins His Ministry)
- Day 3: John 2 (First Miracle, Cleansing the Temple)
- Day 4: John 3:1-21 (Born Again, God So Loved)
- Day 5: John 3:22-36 (John Testifies About Jesus)
- Day 6: John 4 (Woman at the Well)
- Day 7: Psalm 23 (The Lord Is My Shepherd)
Your Action Steps
Begin your reading journey
Get a Bible or Bible App
Download a free Bible app (YouVersion, Logos, Bible Gateway) or purchase a physical Bible this week. Consider getting a Study Bible with helpful notes.
Establish a Bible Reading Time
Choose a specific time each day to read Scripture. Early morning often works best. Commit to reading at least one chapter or passage daily.
Start Reading John
Begin reading the Gospel of John, either on your own or following a reading plan. This book directly shows you Jesus's life, teaching, and resurrection.
Get a Journal
Get a notebook or journal to write down insights from your Scripture reading. This helps you process what you're learning and creates a record you can refer back to.
Ask Questions
If you have questions about what you're reading, write them down. Ask a more experienced Christian, your pastor, or a Bible study leader. Don't let confusion prevent you from reading.
Ready for Your Next Step?
Want the Complete Bible Reading Guide?
This comprehensive page covers essential Bible reading basics. The full resource includes 30+ pages with detailed reading plans, translation comparisons, study methods, and practical application strategies.
✓ 30+ pages • ✓ Reading plans • ✓ Translation guide • ✓ Study methods • ✓ Application strategies