A Beginner's Guide to Reading the Bible
Reading the Bible as a New Christian
Being a new follower of Jesus can be an exciting time in your life. It should be! You have literally been reborn and have your entire spiritual future in front of you. Chances are, you have probably already started reading the Bible. Maybe you have gone through Bible study about Jesus or someone has walked you through some scriptures that have helped you come to placing your faith in Jesus. But your journey with God’s Word is just beginning.
The Bible is the most prolific collection of writings ever assembled. The authors, inspired by God, have composed these literary works to capture the story of God’s relationship with humanity, His desires for us and His plans for our future. It is an amazing collection, filled with treasures that will help you grow in your faith and become more like Jesus.
“The Bible is the foundation of our life as Christians. Get a grip on it now. Don't let anything else take away from its priority in your life. Do this, and it will go well for you.”
― Aaron Armstrong, I'm a Christian―Now What?: A Guide to Your New Life With Christ
As the foundational text of Christianity, the Bible holds immense wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. However, diving into this vast collection of ancient texts can seem overwhelming at first. To help you navigate through the pages and glean its profound teachings, this blog post will provide valuable insights and practical tips on how a new Christian can approach reading the Bible to get the most out of it.
1. Establish a Daily Reading Pattern
Developing a consistent habit of reading the Bible is essential for spiritual growth. Set aside a specific time and place each day to engage with God's Word. Whether it's early morning, during lunch breaks, or before bedtime, consistency will help you make progress in your understanding of Scripture.
2. Begin with the Gospels
For new Christians, starting with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) is highly recommended. These books recount the life, teachings, and ministry of Jesus Christ, providing an intimate look into His character and mission. Through the Gospels, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Jesus' love, sacrifice, and the foundational principles of Christianity.
3. Embrace Different Bible Translations
The Bible has been translated into numerous languages and versions, each offering its own style and level of readability. As a new Christian, it's helpful to explore different translations to find one that resonates with you. Some popular translations include the New International Version (NIV), English Standard Version (ESV), and New Living Translation (NLT). Comparing different translations can enhance your comprehension and interpretation of the text. If you use the YouVersion Bible App for your reading, you can easily switch from one translation to another to see how the original texts have been nuanced by different translation teams.
Sometimes new Christians wonder if some translations are more accurate than others. It is true that there can be some significant differences between translations, for the most part, the major publisher translations can be viewed as accurate and helpful. If you’d like to know more about why there are so many translations, read this article.
4. Use Study Bibles and Commentaries
Study Bibles and commentaries can be invaluable resources for new Christians. These books provide explanations, historical context, and insights on specific verses or passages. They help bridge the gap between the biblical world and our contemporary understanding. Look for study Bibles or commentaries that align with your chosen translation, as they can greatly enhance your comprehension and provide deeper theological insights. Some of my favorite commentaries and resources:
5. Engage in Journaling and Reflection
As you read the Bible, consider keeping a journal to record your thoughts, reflections, and questions. Journaling helps you internalize the message, encourages personal growth, and enables you to look back on your spiritual journey. Write down verses that resonate with you or passages that raise questions. Engaging in reflection deepens your understanding and fosters a closer relationship with God.
Here’s a simple, affordable journal that you can order from Amazon.
6. Read and Discuss the Bible With Other Christians
While it is important that you have daily time to read the Bible on your own, spending time reading and discussing the Scriptures with other followers of Jesus can add another layer of learning to your personal spiritual growth. Engaging in discussions and studying the Bible together with others can enrich your understanding and strengthen your faith.
7. Pray for Understanding and Guidance
Reading the Bible is not just an intellectual exercise but also a spiritual endeavor. As you approach the Scriptures, ask God for understanding, wisdom, and guidance. Pray for the Holy Spirit to illuminate the words and reveal their meaning in your life. Remember that the Bible is not just a book but a living testimony of God's love, and prayer is an essential part of connecting with Him through His Word.
As a new Christian, reading the Bible is an exciting journey of exploration and growth. We’re excited that you are on this journey and would love to help you as you grow in your faith. If you live in Southeast Collin County and would like to join a group of people reading the Bible together, let us know and we’ll help you connect with a group near you.