How to Read the Bible for the First Time

Opening the Bible for the first time can feel intimidating. It is a big book, with unfamiliar names and places, and it is not obvious where to begin. The good news is that you don't need any special training. Millions of ordinary people read and understand it every day. Here is a simple guide to get started.

Step 1: Choose a readable Bible

Pick a translation you can understand easily. For most first-time readers, the New Living Translation (NLT) or New International Version (NIV) are excellent choices. If your church uses the KJV, you might also want an easier version alongside it. If you prefer to read in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil or another Indian language, choose a Bible in that language.

A Bible with short introductions to each book is very helpful. See our guide to choosing a Bible translation.

Step 2: Don't start at page one

Genesis is a wonderful book, but reading straight through can lead to getting stuck in the detailed laws of Leviticus. Instead, many people start like this:

The Gospel of Mark — a short, fast-moving account of Jesus' life.
The Gospel of John — explains who Jesus is.
Acts — how the first Christians spread the message.
A short letter, such as Philippians or James.
Genesis — the beginning of the big story.
Psalms and Proverbs — a little each day, for prayer and wisdom.

Step 3: Read a little, regularly

You don't need to read a lot. One chapter a day — or even a few paragraphs — is enough. Choose a regular time, such as early morning or before bed, and a quiet place. Reading regularly matters more than reading a lot.

Step 4: Pray before you read

Christians believe the Bible is God's Word. A simple prayer helps: "God, please help me understand what I read and show me how to live it."

Step 5: Ask simple questions

After each reading, ask three questions:

What does this say about God?
What does this say about people — and about me?
Is there something to believe, to do, or to pray about?

Write one sentence in a notebook. Over time you'll be amazed how much you learn.

Step 6: Don't worry about what you don't understand

Everyone meets passages they find confusing. That's normal. Make a note of your question and keep reading. Often a later passage explains an earlier one. You can also:

look at the notes in a study Bible — see how to choose a study Bible;
ask a pastor or Christian friend;
use a Bible dictionary for unfamiliar names and places.

Step 7: Read with others

Reading with a friend, family member or small group helps you understand more and keep going. Many churches have Bible study groups that welcome newcomers.

Step 8: Learn the basics as you go

A little background helps a great deal:

Step 9: Keep going

If you miss a day, simply start again the next day. When you finish a book, choose the next one. Many readers later follow a plan to read the whole Bible — see Bible reading plans.

A promise to encourage you

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105, KJV)

The Bible is meant not only to inform but to guide. Start small, stay curious and keep reading.

Browse our new Bibles and books for new believers.