jordanabina
Scripture is an amazing gift from the Lord. To think that over thousands of years, and through nearly 40 authors, from different continents, that we now hold what we call the Bible is truly remarkable. The Bible has been the most popular book on the planet ever since it’s formation. For years only a few could read it, then over time, the Bible found it’s way into other languages and eventually into your hands. The Bible has been through a lot to say the least. Many have tried to destroy it, discredit it, and claim it serves no purpose, but it’s has withstood it all.
The Bible is a book comprised of stories and accounts of men and women who have experienced God. Not everything is a to-dofor us and not everything is just a story. You will find many people who make many mistakes, but one thing to remember about Bible reading is that in every line and in every chapter, the main character is God, and He is the one we’re seeking to know and understand.
Let’s get real about something up front, reading the Bible can be difficult. There will be days where the last thing you want to do is read your Bible. There will be chapters, verses, even entire books that either seem strange or completely over your head. Don’t panic, you’re not alone. From the pastor to child, everyone has to grow and mature in Bible reading. Remember, you’re beginning to use a muscle in your spiritual self that you haven’t used before. Just like anything else, it’s going to take practice. But you are not alone and you will not be in this stage forever. Stay faithful and pray before you read. Ask God to speak to you. The questions may creep into your mind like Why am I reading this? What is this actually doing for me?For that let’s let scripture speak for itself.
2 Timothy 3:16
16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God[b]may be complete, equipped for every good work.
The purpose of scripture is to allow the breath of God to teach us, correct us, and draw us into righteousness.
John 15:1-11
1“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
The greatest piece of advice I could give you when it comes to reading your Bible is this: Fight the temptation to get as much reading done as possible. What I mean is, don’t rush through your time in scripture, and don’t read just to finish. Instead, read to dwell. Read and set up camp in a scripture and stay a while. The verses you just read were the actual words of Jesus, that’s amazing! Why wouldn’t we stay a while? Jesus Himself said that HE wants us to abide in Him. One thing is true, we don’t want to just arrive at Jesus, we want to abide in Jesus.
So as you read, and something sticks out to you, or something doesn’t register the first time, stay there. Spend a week on ONE verse. I cannot tell you what a great habit that will be. Write it out, memorize it, think about it until the Lord says you’re done. In addition to that, find someone who will read along with you, find a community that you can share with. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with reading scripture alone and by yourself, but it can also be helpful as you get started reading your Bible for the first time to partner with other people.
With that I know the question I hear the most is where do I start? The truth is, you can start wherever you want I guess, but that isn’t always helpful. The Bible isn’t necessarily written in chronological order, but tends to flow well. Below I’ve listed and written out a guide to what I think is a great way to enter the scripture.
A while back I recorded a quick video about how to use your Bible and how this seemingly complicated book works. Check it out below.
Here are the three books I like to send people to jump into first. They carry some of the most amazing passages in scripture. These are just 3 of the books in the Bible and they wont complete your scriptural experience by any means, but they’re a great way to start a life of Bible reading.
Philippians
Philippians, written by the Apostle Paul, is a gift to all who read it. Paul was actually a guy who hated Christians, and then he met Jesus. Get to know a man who has seen it all and yet knows who He is because of Jesus and how that is all he needs. Ever asked these questions: What is joy and where does it come from? How can I get it? What about the things that have happened to me and all the wrong things I’ve done? How do I know if I’m saved? If you have, Paul can relate.
Study Videos:
Extra Study:
To Live Is Christ – Matt Chandler (Video Bible Study)
The Gospel of John
The book of John is my favorite of all the books in the Bible. John, a disciple of Jesus, gives us an intimate view on the life and ministry in Jesus. Some of the most famous stories and conversations about Jesus come from this book. This is an amazing section of the Bible to begin your journey with and an excellent start to learning about the life and deeds of Jesus.
Ephesians
Ephesians, written by the Apostle Paul, is a letter written to the group of believers found in the city of Ephesus (which is in modern day Turkey). This short but impactful book covers something I think is fundamental in our growth with Jesus, and that is our identity as believers. Who are we now that we have given our lives to Jesus and what would He have us do? This book discusses that and more.
Extra Study:
Who Do You Think You Are? – Mark Driscoll (Book)
Online Resources:
The Bible App –
- Great for reading plansand linking up with your friends as you read.
- The Bible App also has an audio feature that reads the text to you. #Awesome
Insight for Living Daily Broadcast –
Pastor Chuck Swindoll is one of my favorite communicators to listen to. I find him encouraging and equipping. He puts out a 30 min broadcast EVERY DAY, perfect for your drive to work or drive home.
Ask Pastor John –
The Ask Pastor Johnapp is an incredible podcasts where author, pastor, and communicator John Piper answer tough questions about scripture and our faith.
Look At The Book – Desiring God Ministries
If you want to go into a little deeper waters just for fun, check out John Pipers Look At The Book. This is a great way to learn Bible reading and to get a little more from your reading.
Check out Look At The Book here.
The Bible Project
This website is an awesome resource for finding information such as historical context, Bible questions, character studies, and seriously tons more. This is an AMAZING resource.
I pray your journey begins well and continues with an increase of blessing. If you have any questions or thoughts feel free to send me an email. I’d love to help you in any way I can. Remember, you can do this.
God Bless.
Jordan
