what book of the bible should i read

2 min read 15-04-2025

Choosing where to begin in the Bible can feel overwhelming. With 66 books, spanning thousands of years and diverse genres, it's understandable to feel lost. This guide helps you find the perfect starting point based on your interests and goals. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking for a fresh perspective, we'll navigate you to a book that resonates.

Understanding the Bible's Structure

The Bible is divided into two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament primarily focuses on God's covenant with Israel, leading up to Jesus' birth. The New Testament recounts Jesus' life, ministry, death, resurrection, and the early church.

Within these sections are different genres, including:

Historical Narratives: These recount events and the lives of key figures. (e.g., Joshua, 1 & 2 Kings)
Poetry: Books like Psalms and Proverbs offer lyrical expressions of faith, wisdom, and lament.
Prophecy: These books contain messages from God delivered through prophets (e.g., Isaiah, Daniel).
Gospels: These tell the story of Jesus' life (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John).
Epistles (Letters): Letters from apostles like Paul offer teaching and guidance to early Christians (e.g., Romans, Galatians).
Apocalyptic Literature: Revelation presents symbolic visions of the future.

Finding Your Perfect Starting Point: Questions to Ask Yourself

To help you choose, consider these questions:

What are you hoping to gain from reading the Bible?

Spiritual Growth: If you're looking for encouragement and a deeper understanding of faith, start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John) to learn about Jesus' life and teachings. The Book of Psalms offers prayers and reflections on faith that can be deeply moving and relatable.
Historical Context: If you're interested in the history and culture of ancient Israel, begin with the Book of Genesis which recounts creation and the early patriarchs. The Books of Kings provide a historical narrative of the Israelite kingdoms.
Practical Wisdom: For guidance on daily living and making wise decisions, read the Book of Proverbs. Ecclesiastes explores life's meaning and the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits.
Understanding God's Love: The Book of Romans is a powerful explanation of God's grace and salvation through Jesus. The Gospel of John highlights Jesus' identity as the Son of God and emphasizes his love for humanity.

What's your reading style?

Short and impactful: Proverbs, Psalms (individual Psalms), or shorter epistles (e.g., James, Jude).
Narrative-driven: Genesis, Exodus, Ruth, Esther, or the Gospels.
Theological depth: Romans, Galatians, Hebrews.

Recommended Starting Points Based on Interest

New to the Bible? Start with the Gospel of Mark. It's concise and action-packed, offering a compelling narrative of Jesus' life and ministry.
Interested in Jesus' teachings? The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) provides a foundational understanding of Jesus' core message.
Seeking wisdom and guidance? The Book of Proverbs offers timeless advice for living a fulfilling life.
Want a historical overview? The Book of Genesis sets the stage for the entire biblical narrative.
Curious about the early church? The Book of Acts chronicles the growth and spread of Christianity.

Beyond the First Book: Tips for Continued Reading

Read slowly and reflectively: Don't rush through it. Take time to meditate on what you're reading.
Use a study Bible: Many Bibles include helpful notes and cross-references.
Join a Bible study group: Connecting with others can enhance your understanding and encourage you.
Pray for guidance: Ask God to open your heart and mind to his word.

Choosing your first book of the Bible is a personal journey. There's no wrong answer. This guide provides a starting point; the most important thing is to begin and to engage with God's word. Happy reading!