If you are thinking about reading the Bible for the first time, or for the first time in a long while, it helps to begin in a way that keeps you from getting discouraged.
Many people try to read straight through from the beginning, reach the ceremonial laws and detailed instructions in the Old Testament, and lose momentum. Those parts matter, but they are easier to understand after you have first seen the bigger story of Scripture.
A simple place to start is this:
1. Begin with an NLT Bible.
For a first read, the New Living Translation is easier to understand than more literal translations. It’s still the same story.
2. Read the Gospel of John.
John is a good starting point for learning who Jesus is, what he taught, and why he came.
3. Read Acts.
Acts shows what happened after the resurrection, how the church began, the actions of the apostles, and how the message of Jesus spread.
4. Finally, read from Genesis to Revelation.
Once you have started with Jesus and the early church, read the Bible as a whole. You will begin to see that the Old Testament points forward to Jesus and helps show humanity’s need for a Savior.
5. Add an ESV Study Bible when you are ready.
The English Standard Version is a more literal translation, and a good study Bible includes notes, cross-references, and explanations that can help when a passage is harder to understand.
Read patiently and keep going. Understanding grows over time.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.