Bible Study Guide: How To Study the Bible For Beginners

As a beginner, do you feel confused when reading the Bible? Not sure where to start?

Bible study shouldn't be hard.

This guide is designed for beginners, providing a carefully crafted reading plan to help you make the most of the Bible.

Part 1: Start with Familiar Stories

Begin with Jesus' life in the Gospels. The Gospel of John provides a relatable entry point with its clear narrative and focus on Christ's divinity. It contains most of the key storylines from the Bible, and it is also one of the more easily readable books in the Bible.

1. John It describes the life of Jesus and serves as a great starting point for reading. After finishing it, you can selectively watch the other three Gospels: Mark, Luke, and Matthew.

2. Genesis Origins of creation, humanity, and Israel's patriarchs.

3. Exodus Israel's liberation, the Ten Commandments, and covenant with God.

4. Numbers Israel's wilderness journey and tribal records.

5. Joshua Conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership.

6. 1-2 Samuel Transition from judges to kings: Saul's failures and David's rise.

7. 1-2 Kings Israel's monarchy, division, and eventual exile.

8. Ruth A story of loyalty and God's providence in hardship.

9. Ezra/Nehemiah Post-exile rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and faith.

10. Jonah A dramatic tale of repentance and God's mercy.

11. Daniel (Chapters 1–6) Faithfulness under pressure in Babylonian exile.

12. Acts The early church's explosive growth after Jesus' resurrection.

Part 2: Deepening Faith and Theology

After completing PART 1, you should be able to grasp the basic storylines of the Bible. Next, you will delve deeper into reading the Bible to strengthen your relationship with God.

1. Romans Paul's systematic explanation of salvation by grace.

2. Galatians Freedom from legalism through faith in Christ.

3. Hebrews Jesus' supremacy over Old Covenant rituals.

4. 1-2 Peter Endurance in suffering and ethical living.

5. Isaiah Messianic prophecies and God's holiness.

6. Jeremiah Calls for repentance amid impending judgment.

7. Ezekiel Visions of God's glory and promises of restoration.

8. Amos Advocacy for justice and the oppressed.

9. Job Wrestling with suffering and divine sovereignty.

10. Ecclesiastes Reflections on life's meaning under God.

11. Revelation Symbolic visions of Christ's ultimate victory.

Part 3: Expanding Biblical Knowledge

Congratulations! At this point, you should have a certain level of understanding of the Bible and have experienced spiritual growth. Next, continue to supplement your biblical knowledge and enjoy it!

1. Leviticus Ritual laws and Israel's priestly system.

2. Deuteronomy Moses' final restatement of God's laws.

3. 1-2 Chronicles Israel's history from a priestly perspective.

4. Esther Divine providence in national deliverance.

5. 1-2 Corinthians Addressing church conflicts and Christian living.

6. 1-2 Timothy Pastoral advice for church leadership.

7. James Faith expressed through practical action.

8. Jude Warnings against false teachings.

9. Hosea God's relentless love for unfaithful Israel.

10. Joel–Zephaniah Minor prophets addressing crises and hope.

Part 4: Wisdom for Daily Living

These chapters contain the wisdom of life; you can flip through any chapter at any time, seeking knowledge and finding answers to life's questions!

1. Psalms Prayers and hymns for every spiritual season.

2. Proverbs Practical wisdom for decision-making.

3. Song of Songs Allegory of God's love through romantic poetry.

Final Tips

• Stay Consistent: Dedicate 10–15 minutes daily.

• Journal Insights: Write down questions and reflections.

• Join a Group: Discussing with others enriches understanding.

By following this roadmap, you'll transition from confusion to clarity, discovering the Bible's transformative power one step at a time.