The Best Order to Read the Bible: A Guide for Beginners

The Bible is a vast and powerful book, filled with wisdom, history, and faith. But if you’ve ever opened it and felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. With 66 books written over thousands of years, knowing where to start can be confusing. Should you begin with Genesis, the very first book, or jump to the New Testament to read about Jesus?

Choosing the best order to read the Bible depends on your goals. When you’re a new believer, a curious reader, or someone looking for spiritual growth, following the right order can help you understand its message more clearly. Instead of reading it cover to cover, a structured approach will make your journey more meaningful and engaging.

In this guide, we’ll explore different reading plans that suit various needs. By the end, you’ll feel confident about where to begin and how to make the most of your Bible study. Let’s dive in!

Should You Read the Bible in Order

Reading the Bible from start to finish may seem like the most logical approach, but it’s not always the best way to understand its message. The Bible is not a single book but a collection of 66 books written by different authors across various periods. While reading it in order from Genesis to Revelation provides a historical perspective, it can also be overwhelming, especially for beginners.

A chronological reading plan, which follows the historical timeline of events, can help you grasp the Bible’s narrative flow more clearly. Another effective approach is thematic reading, where you focus on key topics such as faith, salvation, or wisdom by exploring related scriptures. Instead of reading straight through, structuring your study based on purpose and understanding will lead to deeper spiritual growth.

For those seeking a meaningful Bible study journey, it’s essential to consider context, themes, and teachings rather than just reading in sequential order. By choosing the right approach, you’ll connect with the Word of God in a more personal and transformative way.

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What is the Best Order to Read the Bible in a Year

If your goal is to read the entire Bible in a year, following a structured plan is crucial. A well-planned approach helps you stay consistent, avoid confusion, and grasp the big picture of scripture.

Instead of reading from Genesis to Revelation, a balanced reading plan typically includes portions from the Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs each day.

A chronological reading plan is one of the most effective ways to understand the historical flow of events. This plan arranges the books based on when the events happened, allowing you to follow God’s unfolding story.

Another popular method is a genre-based reading plan, where you explore the Bible by its different literary forms—history, poetry, prophecy, and epistles—providing a well-rounded understanding of its messages.

Reading the Bible in a year requires commitment, but choosing the right order will make the journey more engaging and insightful. By incorporating daily scripture reading into your routine, you will grow spiritually and develop a deeper connection with God’s Word.

What Order to Read the Bible in for Beginners

For beginners, reading the Bible in the right order can make a significant difference in understanding its message and teachings. Starting with the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—is highly recommended. These books focus on the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, forming the foundation of Christian faith.

After the Gospels, reading Acts helps you understand the early Christian church, while the Epistles (Romans, Galatians, Ephesians, and others) provide essential guidance on faith and Christian living. Once familiar with the New Testament, exploring the Old Testament—starting with Genesis, Psalms, and Proverbs—adds depth to your knowledge of God’s promises, wisdom, and history.

Beginners should prioritize understanding over speed, focusing on key verses like John 3:16, Romans 8:28, and Philippians 4:6-7 for encouragement. A structured plan, such as a 90-day New Testament reading or a one-year beginner’s plan, will help build a strong foundation in faith and scripture.

Key Insight

1. Can I start reading the Bible from the New Testament instead of the Old Testament?
Yes, starting with the New Testament, especially the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), is recommended for beginners.

It provides a clear understanding of Jesus Christ’s life, teachings, and purpose, making it easier to grasp the foundation of the Christian faith before exploring the Old Testament.

2. What is the easiest Bible translation for beginners?
For beginners, translations like the New Living Translation (NLT), English Standard Version (ESV), and New International Version (NIV) are great choices. They use clear, modern language while maintaining the original meaning of the scriptures.

3. How long does it take to read the entire Bible?
The time required depends on the reading pace. On average, reading the entire Bible takes about 70-80 hours. Many people follow a one-year reading plan, while others opt for a six-month or 90-day plan for a faster approach.

4. Is there a specific order to follow for Bible study?
There is no single “correct” order, but structured plans like chronological, thematic, or book-by-book reading can help. Many people start with the Gospels, move to Acts and Epistles, and then explore the Old Testament for historical and prophetic insights.

5. What are some important Bible verses to start with?
Key verses like John 3:16 (God’s love), Romans 8:28 (God’s plan), Philippians 4:6-7 (peace in anxiety), and Proverbs 3:5-6 (trust in God) are great starting points. These scriptures provide encouragement, guidance, and a deeper understanding of faith.

Conclusion

Reading the Bible is a transformative journey, but following the right order makes it more meaningful and enriching. When you choose a chronological, thematic, or mixed reading plan, the key is to stay consistent and focus on understanding rather than speed.

Beginners can start with the Gospels, followed by Acts and the Epistles, before exploring the Old Testament. Choosing the right translation and setting a daily reading habit will help you grow spiritually and deepen your connection with God’s Word.

No matter where you begin, the most important step is to start and stay committed to the journey of faith and wisdom.