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BIBLE STUDY GUIDE
Reading Plans

Many people, upon picking up a Bible for the first time, begin reading in Genesis (the first book) and have great intentions of continuing all the way through Revelation (the last book).  The majority of those who try this method become frustrated and discouraged and discontinue reading within a few weeks.  We've developed a 3-Step reading and study plan which will provide you a good overall knowledge of the Bible before attempting to read it in its entirety. 

We suggest that you read The Basics prior to beginning and read the Bible Interpretation Guide during your reading.  As always, please send us any comments or suggestions that you might have.

Navigation Notes:  For speed of loading, and ease of navigation and printing, we've split this into multiple pages.  You may click on the "[TOC]" links within the pages to return to the Table of Contents. 

 

Table of Contents

How to Read the Bible - A Few Suggestions
Step 1 - These readings will familiarize yourself with some of the most popular and quoted verses in the Bible.  Each plan will take about 2-3 weeks at one chapter a day.
Reading Plan 1a - Old Testament Sampling
Reading Plan 1b- New Testament Sampling - Life and Teachings of Jesus
Reading Plan 1c- New Testament Sampling - Birth and Growth of Christianity
 
Step 2 - These readings will cover about 15% of the Scriptures and provide a good overall view of the Bible.  They were also chosen on the basis that most readers should be able to understand a majority with minimal use of commentary notes.  We've attempted to roughly arrange the readings in chronological order while also grouping by writer and topic.  The two plans combined will take about 6 months at one chapter a day, or about 3 months at two chapters a day.  We suggest reading the OT at a Glance and NT at a Glance for a quick overview of the Bible.  We also suggest reading Irenaeus' Rule of Faith, the Apostles' Creed, and the Westminster Shorter Catechism concurrently with these plans.
Reading Plan 2a - Overview of the Old Testament
Reading Plan 2b - Overview of the New Testament
 
Step 3 - The following plans will take you thru the entire Bible. 
Reading Plan 3 - Thru the Entire Bible for the First Time
Advanced Reading Plans - for Experienced Readers
 
 

How to Read the Bible

 

Here's a few suggestions to help you get more out of your study time.

I'll repeat this principle from our Bible Interpretation since it's so important.  The Word of God should be approached very carefully, with humility and much prayer. 

Read Consistently - Just as our bodies need daily meals to keep us physically healthy, we also need daily feeding of the Word of God to keep us spiritually healthy.  We recommend at least 15 minutes daily.

Set a Regular Reading Time and Place - The best way to maintain consistency is to commit to reading at a set time and place each day.  I think most folks find first thing in the morning to be the best time, before the busy activities of the day kick in.  I usually read 20-30 minutes in the morning, then work on various studies in the evenings.  You may find a different schedule works better for you, but the important thing is to be consistent.

Read the Bible Experientially - That is, put yourself into the story.  The Bible contains great principles, inspiration and guidance on how to live.  Basic human nature has not changed since the days in which the Scriptures were written, so they contain messages for us today.

Read the Bible Thoughtfully - Don't rush through your reading.  Take time to meditate on what the Scriptures are saying.

Read the Bible Devotionally - Read it with your heart as well as your head.  Don't limit yourself to an intellectual understanding, but ask the Holy Spirit for the spiritual aspect.  This will provide that spiritual inspiration that all Christians need in their daily life.

Keep a pencil and paper handy.  Expect a work from God.  It's a good idea to write out your answers and findings based upon the "Basic Questions to Ask" and "What to Look For" sections of the Bible Interpretation page.  It's also interesting to compare your observations with others, and even with your notes from the previous time you read this particular passage. 

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