Many people would like to read the Bible but aren't sure how. Maybe you tried starting at Genesis and got stuck somewhere in Leviticus. Maybe the language felt old-fashioned, or you weren't sure what the stories meant for your life today. If so, you're not alone, and you're not doing anything wrong.
The Bible isn't one book so much as a library: 66 books in the Protestant Bible, written over many centuries in different styles. Knowing that changes how you approach it. This guide will help you choose a translation, decide where to start and find a reading method that fits your life.
Understand What Kind of Book the Bible Is
The Bible is divided into two main parts:
- The Old Testament (39 books) tells the story of God's relationship with the people of Israel. It includes history, law, poetry, wisdom sayings and the writings of the prophets.
- The New Testament (27 books) tells the story of Jesus and the early church. It includes four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), the book of Acts, letters to early Christian communities, and the book of Revelation.
Because the books are so different, you don't read a psalm the same way you read a letter from Paul. A poem invites you to feel and pray; a historical narrative invites you to follow a story; a letter invites you to imagine the community that first received it. United Methodists read Scripture as the primary authority for faith, interpreted with the help of tradition, reason and experience. You can read more in What Do United Methodists Believe?
Choose a Readable Translation
The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, so every English Bible is a translation. Some aim for word-for-word accuracy; others aim for natural, readable English. A few good options for beginners:
- Common English Bible (CEB): clear, modern English; often used in United Methodist resources.
- New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVue): widely used in scholarship and mainline churches.
- New International Version (NIV): one of the most popular translations, balancing accuracy and readability.
A study Bible, which includes introductions to each book, notes and maps, can be especially helpful when you're starting out. Free apps and websites also let you compare translations side by side.
Where to Start Reading
You don't have to start at the beginning. Here are three good entry points:
Start with a Gospel
The Gospels are the heart of the Christian story. Mark is the shortest and fastest-moving, and you can read it in an afternoon. Luke is full of stories about Jesus' compassion for outsiders and includes many of his best-known parables. John is more reflective and poetic.
Then read Acts
Acts picks up where Luke leaves off, telling how the first Christians spread the good news after Jesus' resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
Add Psalms and Proverbs
The Psalms are the prayer book of the Bible, expressing every human emotion from joy to despair. Proverbs offers practical wisdom for everyday life. Many people read one psalm and a few verses of Proverbs each day alongside a longer book.
After that, you might explore Genesis, the letters of Paul (Philippians is short and joyful), or prophets like Isaiah and Micah.
Simple Methods for Reading
The SOAP method
This easy journaling method works well for beginners:
- S – Scripture: Read a short passage and write down a verse that stands out.
- O – Observation: What is happening? Who is speaking? What do you notice?
- A – Application: How might this passage speak to your life today?
- P – Prayer: Write a short prayer in response.
Lectio Divina (sacred reading)
This ancient practice is slower and more contemplative. Choose a short passage and read it aloud several times. First, notice a word or phrase that catches your attention. Next, reflect on why it stands out. Then respond to God in prayer. Finally, rest quietly in God's presence. It's a wonderful way to read the Psalms or the parables.
Ask simple questions
If journaling isn't your style, keep three questions in mind as you read: What does this passage say about God? What does it say about people? What might God be inviting me to do?
Tips for Building a Lasting Habit
- Start small. Ten minutes a day is better than an hour once a month.
- Pick a regular time and place, like with your morning coffee or before bed.
- Use a reading plan. Plans that take you through a Gospel in a month, or the New Testament in a year, give helpful structure.
- Pair reading with prayer. See our guide on how to pray for beginners.
- Use a daily devotional, such as The Upper Room or Our Daily Bread, which pair a short passage with a reflection. Both are listed on our resources page.
- Be gentle with yourself. If you miss a few days, simply pick up where you left off.
What to Do With Hard Passages
Sooner or later, you'll come across passages that are confusing, troubling or seem to contradict each other. That's normal. Christians have wrestled with difficult texts for centuries. When you hit a hard passage:
- Read the verses before and after it to understand the context.
- Check the notes in a study Bible.
- Ask what the passage meant to its first readers before asking what it means today.
- Read it in light of Jesus' command to love God and neighbor.
- Bring your questions to others. You don't have to figure it out alone.
Read the Bible With Others
Reading Scripture in community is one of the best ways to grow. Other people notice things you miss, share insights from their own experience and help you stay consistent. At Laingsburg United Methodist Church, our adult studies have explored books like Rob Bell's What Is the Bible? and have read through the whole Bible together. Current studies are listed on our Ministries page and our Adult Ministries page. Everyone is welcome, and no question is too basic.
Sunday worship is another place to hear Scripture read and explained. You can catch up on recent readings and sermons on our Past Services page.
Conclusion
Starting to read the Bible doesn't require special training, just curiosity and a willingness to begin. Choose a readable translation, start with a Gospel, use a simple method like SOAP, and read with others when you can. Over time, these ancient words can become a source of comfort, challenge and wisdom for your everyday life. If you would like companions for the journey, we would love to welcome you at Laingsburg UMC. Join a Bible study or worship with us any Sunday at 10:30 am.