If you are looking for a place to start reading the Bible, we recommend that you begin with the book of Mark (the beginning of the New Testament) and continue from there. Some of the stories will repeat, others will refer to things you don't know about yet, but keep going! The commentaries will help. But more than that, ask God to read with you and listen for the Holy Spirit to speak. Ultimately, the goal is not just to get to know the Bible, but to get to know the Lord.
- There are many books that break up the New Testament or the entire Bible into daily readings, like the One Year Bible (NLT).
- The Youversion Bible app also offers dozens of great reading plans on every subject or section of the Bible for free. Look for it on the Apple or Google app stores, or head to Bible.com on your computer.
- Our pastors often read devotionally using the New Living Translation of the Bible (NLT), but a few years ago Zondervan created a Bible paraphrase (The Story) that essentially presents the Bible as a coherent single story. It is a great way to discover the Bible! In addition, there are multiple versions for different levels of readers (adults, teens, children, etc.).