Reading the Bible can be an enlightening, sometimes confusing, but certainly rewarding experience. Although the Bible is composed of 66 books, scattered into various sections and genres, it is one story: the story of God’s pursuit of relationship with and redemption for humanity. Knowing where to begin and how to make sense of these various stories, songs, and letters can be a daunting task for readers. In this article, we will answer the question “What order to read the Bible” so that readers of all backgrounds may approach the scriptures with greater confidence.
First, it’s important to understand the literary genres of the Bible to determine the best reading order. The Bible is composed of four main genres: narrative literature (historical accounts, genealogies, and stories); poetry (psalms, proverbs, etc.); wisdom literature (stories, parables, and principles); and epistles (letters). To approach these parts of the Bible in a thoughtful and meaningful way, it’s best to read them in chronological order.
When reading the Bible in chronological order, the order of books is as follows: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Jude, Revelation.
It is also beneficial to read other books of the Bible alongside the chronological order. For example, the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—tell the same story, but from different perspectives. It can be helpful to read them side by side to catch the small discrepancies and added insights that each author offers. Similarly, reading the books of the prophets can be a more meaningful experience when read as a whole, rather than separated as one reads through the rest of the Bible chronologically.
Aside from the reading order, it’s also helpful to have a structured plan for reading the Bible. One approach is to read through the entire Bible in one year. This requires reading approximately four chapters from the Old Testament and four from the New Testament each day. For more experienced readers, the Bible can be read in an even more expeditious manner—around 20-30 minutes for a full chapter each day. This approach also grants the reader a greater understanding of the bigger picture of scripture.
No matter the approach, reading the Bible should not be seen as a mere task but rather a journey. Try to learn something new each time you read a passage and ask God to reveal any underlying truths. Use a Bible study guide to cite commentaries and uncover deeper meanings. And pray that the Holy Spirit guides your reading and helps you relate God’s Word to your own life. In these ways, readers can make the most of the Bible and understand the profound impact it has had on history, culture, and faith.
God’s Pursuit of Relationship With Humanity
One of the major themes in the Bible is that of God’s pursuit of relationship with humanity. Throughout the narrative of the Bible, you will see God repeatedly choosing to reconcile with his people after they go astray. He uses a variety of methods to do this, from sending prophets to speak His word to them, sending His son as a sacrifice, and inspiring authors to write epistles to people in other lands. These recurring themes of redemption, hope, and divine love are present in all four genres of scriptures, revealing the character and love of the Creator. By understanding this pursuit of relationship, readers can experience the full joy that comes with a personal relationship with God.
Living Out the Principles of God’s Word
The Bible is not only an amazing collection of stories, accounts, and poems that tell the history of God’s people, but it is also a practical guide for living. The Bible contains a plethora of advice, principles, and teachings that can help us live better in every area of our lives. Whether it’s guidance on relationships, stewardship of resources, or developing character, the Bible gives us clear paths to follow in these areas. By making an effort to understand and apply the teachings of the Bible, readers can both enrich their knowledge and grow in the wisdom needed to live life in the light of God’s truth.
A Roadmap for Your Faith Journey
Reading the Bible is an inspiring and faith-building experience that can provide readers with a broader understanding of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Through studying God’s word, readers will gain knowledge and insight into the mission of Jesus, the power of prayer, and the importance of living in the spirit. This deeper understanding can give us the courage and faith to follow God, no matter the cost, and to share His love with those around us. The Bible is a roadmap to help us in our faith journey, and readers will find great strength and comfort in the scriptures.
Engaging with Differing Perspectives
Reading the Bible is not only a deeply personal endeavor; it is also an experience shared by believers around the world. As you read and study the scriptures, you will encounter a variety of opinions and interpretations on the meanings of certain passages. It is important to consider these views and opinions, not only to gain a more thorough understanding of the texts but also to learn to appreciate and celebrate the differences in beliefs between cultures and backgrounds. Doing so can open up valuable conversations and provide an opportunity for believers to strengthen their faith and to become more deeply rooted in the world of God and His people.
Encouraging Faithful Living
Finally, reading the Bible should not just be an academic experience, but should also challenge readers to become another faithful disciple of Jesus Christ. The scriptures provide a clear and tangible example of what being a disciple looks like, and reading the Bible often can help to renew and rejuvenate readers’ commitment to follow Christ. By engaging with God’s Word on a daily basis, believers can be encouraged and equipped to serve Him, love Him, please Him, and bring glory to His name.
