Reading the Bible for the first time, but don’t know how to start? Or tried a few times and thought it was too difficult to stick with?
Many people often follow the same steps: open the book, start reading, and close it when stuck. They try to read everything at once and finish in a month. The Bible is not another random book or a novel you can read and understand in such a short time.
It takes time. All you have to do is be consistent and follow a step-by-step method.
Understanding What the Bible Actually Is
One of the biggest reasons people feel lost early on is a simple misunderstanding: the Bible is a single book.
No, it’s not. It’s a collection of 66 books written across different time periods, by different authors, and in different styles. Some parts read like stories. Others feel like instructions, poetry, or letters written to specific communities.
The Bible is broadly divided into two sections:
The Old Testament: It focuses on the creation of the world, the history of Israel, laws, and reflective writings such as Psalms and Proverbs. The writing style shifts frequently; one chapter may read like a narrative, while another may feel like a list of instructions without immediate context.
The New Testament: It begins with the life and teachings of Jesus through the Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and continues with letters and guidance for early communities.
Why Reading the Bible Feels So Hard at First
- You don’t know where to begin
- Some passages feel difficult or distant
- You’re not sure what’s important and what isn’t
- You read for a few days… then stop
5 Best Ways to Read the Bible for the First Time
Starting the Bible can feel like entering a library rather than opening a single book. To make it easy, here are five simple ways.
1. Follow a Structure
Read with a plan, don’t open a random page; you will get confused and quit halfway.
The New Testament in 90 Days: Focus on the second half of the Bible because it’s easier than the Old Testament. It has 260 chapters. Read 3 chapters every day. At this pace, you can complete the testament in three months without feeling overwhelmed.
Chronological Plan: The Bible isn't actually written in the order in which things happened. It's organized by writing type (History, Poetry, Letters, etc.) For example, you’ll read a story about King David and then immediately read a Psalm that he wrote during that specific event.
2. Start With One Book
The best way to read the Bible for the first time is to read one book at a time. Start with the easy entry- Gospel of John.
Why John is often suggested first:
- Written in simple language compared to other Gospels
- Focuses clearly on who Jesus is and what He teaches
- Easier to follow without needing much background
Once you are done with this book, start reading:
- Mark, then Matthew, and Luke to understand the full Gospel account
- Then Acts (what happens after Jesus’ ministry)
- Then New Testament letters (like Romans or James)
3. S.O.A.P Method
Reading the Bible is not just about scanning pages; it’s about understanding and applying its lessons. The S.O.A.P. method helps you do that.
- S — Scripture: Read a passage
- O — Observation: Note what stands out
- A — Application: Reflect on what it means for you
- P — Prayer: Respond through prayer
How to apply this:
- Read a short passage (even a few verses)
- Write down one or two key observations
- Think about how it applies to your life
- End with a short prayer
This way, instead of covering chapters, you spend more time understanding and reflecting on a smaller section.
4. Don’t Just Read, Listen to the Bible
Our brain processes hearing and reading differently. Listening to the "drama" of the stories while you’re stuck in traffic can make the Bible feel more alive and less like a textbook.
You can use an audio version of the Bible through apps or recordings and listen during:
- Travel
- Daily routines
- Quiet time
Combine this with reading and listening first, then going back to the text.
This method is especially helpful for maintaining consistency when sitting down to read feels difficult.
5. Go Topic-Wise
When you are going through something, the Bible is the first place you turn to overcome that feeling or seek guidance. And honestly, this is one of the best ways to read the Bible.
When You Feel Anxious or Overwhelmed
Start with:
- Philippians 4
- Psalm 23
- Matthew 6:25–34
These passages focus on trust, provision, and letting go of constant worry. They’re short, clear, and easy to return to more than once.
When You’re Looking for Direction or Purpose
Start with:
- Proverbs 3:5–6
- Jeremiah 29:11
- Psalm 32:8
These are often read when you’re trying to make decisions or feel uncertain about what’s ahead.
When You Want to Build Faith
Start with:
- Hebrews 11
- Mark 4:35–41
- Romans 10:17
These passages show what faith looks like in action and how it grows over time.
When You Need Strength or Motivation
Start with:
- Isaiah 40:28–31
- Joshua 1:9
- Psalm 27
These are grounding passages that people often return to during difficult or demanding phases.
When You Want to Understand Love and Relationships
Start with:
- 1 Corinthians 13
- 1 John 4:7–12
- Colossians 3:12–14
These passages focus on how love is expressed, not just as a feeling, but through actions.
The Best Way to Read the Bible for the First Time
Reading and understanding are two different things. Despite following the best methods, you may get stuck in the middle. A bible guide can help you.
- It helps you understand what you’re reading, explains unfamiliar context, names, and customs in simple terms.
- It keeps you consistent and adds meaning to difficult sections, so you don’t lose interest or stop midway.
- It connects everything and shows how different parts of the Bible relate to one another.
- It saves you time and gives quick explanations so you don’t have to search for answers elsewhere.
Why the Elvasma Bible Study Guide is a Great Start
1. It Makes Scripture Visual
Instead of just reading words, you get to "see" the story, which helps you remember what you’ve learned.
2. It Simplifies the "Big Picture"
Elvasma Bible Guide breaks down all 66 books individually. It helps you grasp the story, key themes, and symbolism of each book without the "information overload" that usually happens when beginners try to read on their own.
3. It Connects the Characters
It can be hard to keep track of who is who! This guide specifically shows you how characters connect across different books.
4. It Builds Reading Confidence
Many people quit because they feel "lost." This guide is designed to give you clarity and confidence. Explaining the meaning behind the chapters removes the fear of "doing it wrong" and gives you the peace of mind to stay consistent.
5. No Experience is Required
It is built for the person starting from scratch who just has an "open heart" and a desire to learn.
Final Thought
You don't have to be a good reader to read the Bible. Faith, the right plan, and the right guide are enough to understand the words of God. Just be consistent and don't try to complete in one go. Take a small pause, focus on understanding the context, and apply it in your daily life.
FAQs
How to read the Bible step by step?
Start with the Gospels → move to Acts → then New Testament letters → go back to key Old Testament books (Genesis, Psalms, Proverbs).
Where should I start?
Start with John. It’s the easiest part for beginners.
How much should I read daily?
Don’t focus on volume; focus on understanding everything you read. Begin with 1–2 chapters or 10–15 minutes a day. Keep it consistent.
What if I don’t understand everything?
You won’t, and that’s okay. Understanding builds over time.
Do I really need a guide?
Yes, if you are reading for the first time or you don’t want to spend much time.
Which is the best Bible guide for beginners?
The Elvasma bible guide is one of the best guides for someone who has just started. It breaks down all 66 books into simple and easy-to-understand language. With visuals, short summaries, and reflection prompts, it helps you get the most out of it.