Where should a new believer start reading in the Bible?

Beginning a journey through the Bible can be a transformative experience, especially for new believers. The Bible, an intricate tapestry of history, poetry, prophecy, and doctrine, offers a comprehensive revelation of God’s character, His plan for humanity, and His redemptive work through Jesus Christ. For a new believer, knowing where to start can be daunting. The Bible is not just a book but a library of 66 books, written over centuries by different authors under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. To navigate this vast and sacred text, it is helpful to start with sections that clearly articulate the core message of the Christian faith and provide a foundation for understanding the rest of Scripture.

A new believer should begin with the Gospels, particularly the Gospel of John. The Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are the heart of the New Testament, chronicling the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Among these, the Gospel of John is uniquely suited for new believers because it explicitly aims to foster belief. John states his purpose clearly: "But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31, NIV). John’s Gospel emphasizes the deity of Christ, His miracles, and His profound teachings, providing a clear picture of who Jesus is and why He came.

Starting with John, new believers will encounter foundational truths about Jesus’ identity as the Word made flesh (John 1:14), His role as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29), and His promise of eternal life to those who believe in Him (John 3:16). John’s narrative is both theologically rich and accessible, making it an ideal entry point into the Bible.

After John, the next step could be the Book of Acts. Acts, also authored by Luke, continues the story after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, detailing the birth and growth of the early Church. This book provides new believers with a historical context for the spread of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. Acts also introduces key figures like Peter and Paul, whose epistles form a significant portion of the New Testament. Reading Acts helps believers understand the mission of the Church and their role within it.

Following Acts, it is beneficial to read some of Paul’s epistles, starting with Romans. The Book of Romans is a profound theological treatise that systematically explains the Gospel. Paul addresses the sinfulness of humanity (Romans 3:23), the justification by faith (Romans 5:1), and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8). Romans lays a solid doctrinal foundation and helps new believers grasp the implications of their faith in everyday life.

Another essential book is the Psalms. The Psalms are a collection of songs and prayers that express the full range of human emotions, from joy and gratitude to sorrow and repentance. For new believers, the Psalms offer a way to connect with God on a personal level, learning to pour out their hearts in worship and prayer. Psalm 23, for instance, is a comforting reminder of God’s guidance and provision: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul" (Psalm 23:1-3a, ESV).

In addition to Psalms, the Book of Proverbs is invaluable for practical daily living. Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings that provide guidance on how to live a life pleasing to God. It covers a wide range of topics including wisdom, humility, integrity, and relationships. Proverbs 3:5-6 encapsulates the essence of this wisdom: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight" (NIV).

After establishing a foundation with these books, new believers can explore the Old Testament, starting with Genesis. Genesis is the book of beginnings, detailing the creation of the world, the fall of humanity, and God’s covenant with Abraham. Understanding Genesis is crucial for comprehending the overarching narrative of the Bible and God’s redemptive plan through history.

As new believers grow in their faith, they should also read the other Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) to get a fuller picture of Jesus’ life and teachings. Each Gospel provides unique insights and complements the others. For instance, Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, Mark presents a fast-paced account of Jesus’ ministry, and Luke offers detailed narratives and parables.

Engaging with the Bible is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual discipline. Here are some practical tips for new believers as they begin their journey through Scripture:

1. Pray for Understanding: Before reading, ask God for wisdom and insight. The Holy Spirit, who inspired the Scriptures, also illuminates them to our hearts and minds. James 1:5 encourages us: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (NKJV).

2. Read Regularly: Consistency is key. Set aside a specific time each day for Bible reading. This helps in developing a habit and allows the Word to dwell in you richly (Colossians 3:16).

3. Reflect and Meditate: Take time to ponder what you read. Meditate on key verses and ask how they apply to your life. Psalm 1:2 speaks of the blessed person whose "delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night" (NIV).

4. Use a Study Bible: A good study Bible provides helpful notes, cross-references, and explanations that can enhance your understanding of the text. Resources like the NIV Study Bible or the ESV Study Bible are excellent choices.

5. Join a Bible Study Group: Engaging with other believers in a Bible study group can provide support, accountability, and deeper insights. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another" (NIV).

6. Apply the Word: The Bible is meant to transform us. James 1:22 exhorts us to be "doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves" (NKJV). As you read, consider how God is calling you to live out His Word in your daily life.

The journey through the Bible is a lifelong adventure. Each time you read, you will discover new depths and insights. As you grow in your understanding, the Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth (John 16:13). Remember, the ultimate goal of Bible reading is not just knowledge but a deeper relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Embrace this journey with an open heart, and you will find that the Word of God is indeed "living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword" (Hebrews 4:12, ESV), capable of transforming your life from the inside out.