In part one of this series, we discussed how to study the Bible. Now we’ll discuss where to start your Bible study. After all, the Bible is a big book, and deciding where to begin can be daunting. Below, I’ll go into specifics of where to begin your Bible study journey, and contact me at Atozmomm today for more advice!
WHERE TO START YOUR STUDY OF THE BIBLE
- New Testament. Most Bible scholars recommend you start your Bible study with the New Testament if you are just beginning to study the Bible. The New Testament is easier to understand and covers the life of Jesus who is central to a Christians life. Furthermore, the New Testament has a more cohesive feel to it. Once you’re done with the New Testament, begin on the Old Testament with the Book of Genesis.
- Begin with the Book of John. The Gospels (which are the books of the Bible that cover when Jesus was alive on Earth are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) are the best place to begin studying the Bible in the New Testament, particularly with the book of John. The book of John is the easiest to read, covers who Jesus is, and prepares you for the other three Gospels.
- Read Romans. The book of Romans, written by the Apostle Paul, will give you a great understanding of the Gospels as a whole and the entire book points to the Good News of Jesus Christ. The letters of the Bible, written mostly by Jesus’ disciples to the early Church is a great place to continue your Bible study.
OTHER GREAT PLACES TO START YOUR STUDY OF THE BIBLE
- Psalms. The book of Psalms in the Old Testament is a book of encouragement, and a constant reminder to us that God is with us no matter our sins. The Psalms frequently offer hope and healing. A very poetic book written by various authors, this a great book to read before bed at night if you have trouble falling asleep.
- Proverbs. Another great place to start reading and studying the Bible, Proverbs, written mostly by King Solomon who was blessed with wisdom by God, offers practical tips for living. Short and spicy, Proverbs will give you great advice when you need it the most.
- Genesis. Some of us are very linear thinkers and there’s nothing wrong with starting at the beginning of the Bible and reading it all the way through. You will understand God more and dive into how and why Jesus came when he did.
- Topics. One way to begin to study the Bible, especially if you are struggling with something you need help with right away is to choose a topic, and then study the parts of the Bible that relate to that topic. Most Bibles have subject indexes in the back, or a quick Google search will give you great places to start. Topics such as anger, encouragement, compassion, and joy are all great areas to start.
Reverend Billy Graham once offered up this advice when asked where to start reading the Bible, “Begin by reading the Gospel of John, for it tells us of Christ, of the ‘greatest life ever lived,’ and what He has done for us. Next read Acts, for it tells us what His first disciples did in the power of God’s Holy Spirit. Then perhaps the letters of John and the letter to the Philippians. Then you may want to read Romans as your next step in your Bible study, which sets forth the great doctrines which Paul taught.”
In the end, it truly doesn’t matter where you start your Bible study; just open up and begin. God will be wherever you land. Contact me for any questions!