Have you ever wanted to read and understand the Bible, but felt overwhelmed by its size, complexity and antiquity? You’re not alone – learning how to read the Bible can be difficult. But with a little perseverance and the right approach, you’ll soon get to grips with this essential and inspiring piece of literature.
To begin, choose a translation that you understand, and look for a version that is current and easier to comprehend. An updated translation, such as the New International Version or the New Revised Standard Version, makes the Bible’s language and content accessible to modern readers.
Next, choose one of the more well-known Bible stories as your starting point. Stories like Jesus’ baptism, Moses and the Hebrews crossing the Red Sea, or the Good Samaritan are a great way to introduce yourself to the Bible. Consider the context of the story, such as key characters, locations, and major themes.
Now that you have some background context, it’s time to dive in and start reading. Begin by reading the Bible in small, manageable chunks. Focus on one book (or section of a book) at a time, and read through it a few times. Regularly reading small sections will help familiarise you with the storylines and language of the Bible.
As you read, don’t ignore the difficult passages. Bible scholars and theologians have written much about the Bible’s interpretation, and their insights may be helpful. Many experts believe that the Bible has both a literal meaning and an underlying spiritual meaning; this is especially the case with some of the less clear books.
There are also plenty of tools available to help you get the most from your Bible reading. A concordance, which helps you find relevant passages, is a particularly useful tool for inexperienced readers. Being able to look up the definition of a word or phrase can also greatly aid your understanding.
Finally, consider joining a Bible study group or attending classes. This can be an important way to connect with other like-minded readers, share ideas and grow in understanding. Above all else, remember to set aside quiet time to meditate on what you have read. This will help to uncover the spiritual meanings of scripture, as well as guiding your journey of faith.
Set Goals
When it comes to reading the Bible, make sure to set goals. Having an objective propels you forward and ensures that you strive towards something, even if it seems distant. Set goals that are personal and meaningful to you, such as reading for a few minutes each day, or finishing a book in a set amount of time. Your personal accountability will both motivate and reward you over time.
Seek Guidance
Whether it’s from a pastor, teacher, or enlightened mentor who can explain Biblical passages, seek guidance from an experienced source if the Bible reveals illusive, or hard-to-comprehend answers. Invest in books that explore topics in detail, such as commentaries, study guides and topical books. Hear the thoughts, opinions and faith journeys of those who’ve gone before you, as this will give you clarity and direction.
Engage With Scripture
One of the best things you can do to learn the Bible is to engage with the text. Journaling is an especially beneficial tool, as each entry enables you to note observations, ideas and inspirations quickly and easily. Putting your thoughts on paper helps you establish a dialogue with God, as well as understanding and remembering what you have read.
Live Out the Bible’s Teachings
Reading the Bible is a wonderful spiritual journey, but it is important to take action and live out its teachings. After all, reading without living is empty. Making a conscious effort to live out a Bible passage helps to solidify your understanding, and bring to life the stories experienced on the page.
