The Bible is a collection of books forming the sacred text of Christianity, and considered by believers to be the word of God. It is a wonderful resource for learning about history, psychology and morality, but for many people, it can be confusing and overwhelming to start reading the Bible. Where to begin? What should the first steps look like? Here, we’ll explore some strategies to guide a reader in their journey of Bible exploration, while also describing some of the most popular translations and styles of the Bible.
To get the most out of a study of the Bible, it is essential to have an open heart and mind as well as a comfortable and quiet environment. This is necessary because reading the Bible can be a profound, deeply personal experience; without being mindful and prepared, readers may not absorb the lessons that the Bible has to offer. Additionally, it is important to find the right translation and style of the Bible for the reader, as these can significantly impact one’s engagement with the text.
A great place to start with Scriptures is either the New Testament or the Old Testament. While many studies of the Bible emphasize a “whole Bible” approach, with Old Testament and New Testament writings equally reflected in any given reading, it can be helpful and empowering for a reader to focus in on one particular testament. This is because it helps the reader understand the distinctions between the two and allows for a more in-depth exploration of each. Additionally, it can be a relief for readers to start with a more “digestible” portion of the Bible without feeling like they have to “buckle down” and peruse an endless number of chapters.
The vast majority of English translations of the Bible use “King James Version” style, which is an updated iteration of a style that has been used for hundreds of years. While King James Version terminology can be confusing and hard to follow, it is a popular translation because of its historical and literary value. Books like the New International Version, Common English Bible, and the Good News Bible are considered “dynamic or up-to-date” translations and use language that is easy to understand. Finally, there are “literal translations” such as the New American Standard Bible or the English Standard Version that accurately reflect the original language and are of great value to readers who are looking for a more accurate representation of the original texts.
Once a Bible is chosen, readers need to decide on how to study it. Some people use the way of a Bible “study guide”, which consists of short prompts or questions that help one explore the text and draw meaning from it. This can be used in solitude or with a small group and is a great way to start reading the Bible. Another common way of reading the bible is called the “devotional” approach, in which a reader focuses on a particular verse or passage and spends time meditating on it and considering its meaning. Additionally, some people find Biblical study through daily readings plans, which are designed to help readers get through the scriptures in a year.
Finally, having someone knowledgeable and experienced to talk to is incredibly helpful when studying the Bible. This could be a pastor, rabbi, elder, or even a Bible-study group. These people can offer crucial perspectives and insights into the text that make the stories more abstruse. Also, any study of the Bible should include prayer, as it is a direct line of communication to God for his guidance and understanding.
The Benefits Of Reading The Bible
Reading the Bible offers tremendous benefits to readers. It can expand minds and hearts, while also providing comfort and strength. In addition to having its own rich language and stories, the Bible is filled with timeless wisdom and teachings. People can learn how to live a meaningful life, how to make sense of suffering and how to cultivate gratitude, among many other enriching lessons. Also, the Bible can inform ethical and moral decision-making, including how to make decisions about money, relationships, work, and more.
The study of the Bible can also help people build stronger relationships with others. By understanding others’ experiences and teachings, people’s understanding of the world can be vastly broadened. Bible study can also bring people closer together in fellowship, as those who share a love of the Bible are often connected through their shared reverence of God.
In addition to helping readers grow spiritually, the Bible can also provide more practical benefits. Those who have a more in-depth knowledge of the Bible can sometimes gain scholarship opportunities, as some universities are looking for students with a deeper level of religious understanding. Additionally, some jobs in churches and non-profit organizations require a thorough working knowledge of the Bible.
Conclusion
Starting to read the Bible can seem overwhelming, but it need not be an intimidating experience. By taking the time to find the right translation and learning style, and by pursuing a devotional or study group approach, each reader can make the journey into the Bible meaningful and inspiring. With the support and guidance of others, and with help from God, the Bible can become a source of comfort and knowledge to help us through our lives.
