What Order Should The Bible Be Read In? What You Need To Know

In What Order Should I Read The Bible

Written by Sam

I am Pastor Samuel Harris, the founder and main contributor to this blog. My journey with the Bible and its teachings began at a young age, ultimately leading me to pursue a degree in Theology, and eventually, to my present calling as a pastor.

Last Updated On December 15, 2023

The Bible is a complex and rich text with various genres, narratives, and teachings. Traditionally, it’s divided into the Old Testament and the New Testament. Some people start from the beginning with Genesis and read straight through to Revelation. Others, though, recommend starting with the New Testament, particularly the Gospels, to understand the life and teachings of Jesus before diving into the Old Testament. Another approach is thematic or chronological, which can provide a different perspective on the biblical narrative. It really depends on your goals and interests in reading the Bible.

In the paragraphs that follow, I offer a more detailed look at what order the bible should be read…

Embarking on the journey of reading the Bible can be as daunting as it is enriching. This sacred text, revered by millions, isn’t just a book; it’s a compilation of 66 unique books, each woven with its own narrative, style, and spiritual depth. Written over thousands of years by various authors, the Bible spans an array of genres, from historical accounts to poetic musings, offering a diverse tapestry of spiritual wisdom.

The challenge, especially for first-time readers, lies in deciphering where to begin. With so many entry points, it can be overwhelming to decide the best order to read the Bible. Should you start at Genesis and proceed to Revelation, or is there a more effective path to understanding this complex and profound collection?

This guide is crafted to simplify your journey through the Bible. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, historical knowledge, or personal growth, the structured approach we’ll explore aims to bring clarity and direction to your reading. By considering various recommended sequences and understanding the unique structure of the Bible, you’ll find a path that resonates with your intentions and curiosity.

Understanding the Bible’s Structure

Before we delve into the specific order of reading, it’s vital to grasp the unique structure of the Bible. This isn’t just a single narrative; it’s a collection of 66 different books, compiled over a span of a thousand years by a multitude of authors. Each book contributes to the overarching story of God’s relationship with humanity, yet they stand alone with their distinct themes, styles, and purposes.

The Dual Testament Structure

The Bible is broadly divided into two testaments – the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament lays the historical and theological foundation, detailing creation, the fall of man, the rise of nations, and the history of the people of Israel. It’s rich in prophecy, law, poetry, and narrative. The New Testament, on the other hand, reveals the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Christian church. It’s the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and provides a new covenant of salvation through Jesus.

Genre Diversity in the Bible

One of the Bible’s most intriguing aspects is its diversity of genres. It houses historical books that recount the history of Israel and the early church. Then there are the poetic books like Psalms and Proverbs, offering wisdom through beautifully crafted verses. The prophetic books contain messages from prophets to nations and individuals, often with a focus on justice, repentance, and restoration. Lastly, the epistles are letters written by early Christian leaders to churches or individuals, guiding them in their faith journey.

Understanding this structure helps in appreciating the Bible’s depth and navigating its contents more effectively. Instead of viewing it as a single book to be read from cover to cover, it’s more beneficial to see it as a library, filled with different types of books, each offering unique insights and wisdom.

Starting with the New Testament

Embarking on the journey through the Bible, a strategic and often recommended starting point is the New Testament. This section of the Bible, which tells the story of Jesus Christ and the early Christian community, serves as a pivotal guide to understanding the entire biblical narrative.

Why the New Testament First?

The New Testament is essential for grasping the core message of Christianity — the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It’s here we find the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of the new covenant. Starting with the New Testament can illuminate the Old Testament, making its complex narratives, laws, and prophecies more comprehensible.

The Gospels: A Window into Jesus’s Life

The best place to begin in the New Testament is with the Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These four books offer firsthand accounts of Jesus’s life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Each Gospel, while telling the same story, offers a unique perspective, providing a multi-dimensional view of Jesus’s life and ministry.

  • Mark: Known for its brevity and simplicity, Mark’s Gospel is an ideal starting point for first-time readers. It offers a straightforward account of Jesus’s ministry, making it less daunting for newcomers.
  • John: Following Mark, the Gospel of John is a good choice, offering a deeper theological insight into Jesus’s identity and mission.
  • Matthew and Luke: These Gospels can be read next, as they provide more detailed accounts and include well-known teachings and parables of Jesus.

Acts: The Early Church in Action

After the Gospels, the book of Acts is a natural continuation. Written as a sequel to Luke’s Gospel, Acts chronicles the early days of the Christian church, starting with Jesus’s ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit. It sets the stage for understanding the growth of the church and the spread of the gospel across the ancient world.

Navigating Through the Epistles

The New Testament also contains numerous letters, known as epistles, written by early Christian leaders to various churches and individuals. These writings, especially those penned by Paul, address theological issues, ethical instructions, and practical advice for living a Christian life. They deepen the understanding of the teachings of Jesus and how they were interpreted and applied in the early church.

Exploring Practical Wisdom

After delving into the profound narratives of the New Testament, it’s enriching to explore the Bible’s treasury of practical wisdom. This wisdom, largely found in the books of James, Proverbs, and Psalms, offers timeless guidance on living a life of faith, integrity, and purpose.

James: Faith in Action

The book of James is an excellent next step. This epistle, known for its straightforward and practical nature, addresses how faith translates into daily actions. James speaks directly about the importance of living out one’s faith through good works, offering practical advice on topics like controlling the tongue, showing true compassion, and living with integrity. Its concise and direct style makes it an accessible read for those new to the Bible.

Proverbs: Timeless Wisdom for Everyday Living

The book of Proverbs is another invaluable resource for practical wisdom. This collection of short sayings and instructions offers insights into wise living, touching on diverse aspects of daily life, such as handling money, speaking truthfully, and cultivating good relationships. Proverbs’ format makes it easy to digest; its individual verses are packed with guidance that is as relevant today as it was when written.

Psalms: The Heart’s Expression to God

Psalms, a book of poetry and songs, beautifully complements the practical teachings of James and Proverbs. Written over several centuries, the Psalms express a wide range of human emotions – from joy and gratitude to despair and lament. This book serves as a guide for personal reflection and prayer, offering words to express feelings and thoughts that we often struggle to articulate. Reading one Psalm a day alongside other Bible readings can provide daily moments of reflection and spiritual nourishment.

Diving into the Old Testament

Having established a foundation in the New Testament and explored the practical wisdom literature, it’s time to dive into the rich and diverse narratives of the Old Testament. This part of the Bible, filled with stories of creation, kings, prophets, and the people of Israel, offers profound insights into God’s plans and purposes throughout history.

Genesis: The Beginning of Everything

Start your Old Testament journey with Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Genesis is fundamental in understanding the origins of the universe, humanity, and the nation of Israel. It sets the stage for the entire biblical narrative, covering creation, the fall of man, the flood, and the lives of the patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. These stories are not only foundational to Jewish and Christian beliefs but also deeply influential in Western thought and culture.

Exodus to Deuteronomy: The Law and the Wilderness

After Genesis, proceed to Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These books continue the story of the Israelites, detailing their liberation from Egypt, their journey through the wilderness, and the establishment of God’s laws through Moses. While these books can be challenging due to their detailed laws and regulations, they are crucial for understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel and the basis of many moral and ethical teachings in the Bible.

Historical Books: From Joshua to Kings

Next, turn to the historical books starting from Joshua, followed by Judges, Ruth, and the books of Samuel and Kings. These books narrate the history of Israel from their entry into the Promised Land, through the era of the judges and the establishment of the monarchy, to the division and eventual exile of the nation. They provide context to the prophetic books and Psalms and give insights into the complexities of leadership, faithfulness, and the consequences of disobedience.

Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah: A Perspective on Israel’s History

The books of Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah offer a retrospective look at Israel’s history, focusing on the themes of restoration and faithfulness to God’s covenant. While Chronicles retells some events already covered in Samuel and Kings, it provides a different perspective, emphasizing God’s mercy and the importance of temple worship.

Gaining Historical Context

After exploring the foundational narratives of the Old Testament, it’s beneficial to revisit the New Testament with a new lens, enriched by the historical and cultural context you’ve gained. This return to the New Testament allows for a deeper understanding of the life of Jesus and the early Christian church, especially in light of Israel’s history.

Revisiting the Gospels: Matthew and John

Having read through the Old Testament, you’re now equipped with a deeper understanding of the Jewish culture, religious practices, and historical context in which Jesus lived. This background enriches your reading of the Gospels. I recommend revisiting the Gospels of Matthew and John at this stage.

  • Matthew: Matthew’s Gospel connects the Old Testament prophecies with the life of Jesus, emphasizing Jesus as the Messiah promised to the Jewish people. With your newfound understanding of the Old Testament, you’ll appreciate the numerous references and fulfillments of prophecies in a new way.
  • John: John’s Gospel, with its rich theology and emphasis on Jesus’ divine nature, can be read with greater depth after understanding the religious and historical background of the Jewish people.

Understanding the Epistles

With a solid grasp of the Gospels and the Old Testament, the Epistles in the New Testament take on new significance. These letters, written by apostles to early Christian communities, address various theological, ethical, and practical issues. Understanding the historical context of these communities, their struggles, and their cultural backgrounds can provide a richer understanding of the messages in these letters.

Gaining Perspective on Acts and Revelation

  • Acts: The book of Acts, detailing the early church’s growth and struggles, can be read with a deeper appreciation of how the gospel spread from a predominantly Jewish context to a diverse, multicultural one.
  • Revelation: Finally, reading Revelation, with its vivid imagery and prophetic visions, becomes more meaningful. You can now connect its symbolism and references to the Old Testament prophecies and Jewish apocalyptic literature, gaining a clearer understanding of its message about the end times and the hope it offers.

Reading the Epistles and Wisdom Literature

Having navigated the foundational stories of both the Old and New Testaments and gained a rich historical context, it’s time to delve into the Epistles and the Wisdom Literature. These parts of the Bible offer deep insights into living a godly life and understanding the complexities of human existence from a biblical perspective.

Paul’s Letters: Insights into Early Christianity

The Epistles, particularly those written by Paul, are a crucial component of the New Testament. Paul’s letters to various churches and individuals address a range of topics, from theological discussions to practical advice on living as a Christian in a non-Christian world. These writings are foundational to Christian doctrine and ethics. With your background in both Testaments, you’ll find a deeper understanding of Paul’s teachings and how they relate to the overarching narrative of the Bible.

Wisdom Literature: Ecclesiastes, Job, and Song of Solomon

After exploring the Epistles, turn to the Wisdom Literature in the Old Testament. This includes books like Ecclesiastes, Job, and Song of Solomon. These books delve into the complexities of life, offering reflections on its meaning, the nature of suffering, the pursuit of pleasure, and the search for wisdom.

  • Ecclesiastes: Offers a philosophical perspective on the meaning of life, challenging conventional wisdom and inviting readers to find contentment in God despite life’s enigmas.
  • Job: Presents a narrative on suffering and divine justice, exploring deep questions about God’s character and human suffering.
  • Song of Solomon: A poetic book celebrating love and intimacy, often interpreted both as a literal love poem and as an allegory of God’s love for His people.

These books, while distinct in their themes and styles, provide a profound exploration of human experiences and emotions. They invite readers to wrestle with life’s big questions and to find solace and wisdom in God’s presence and teachings.

Integrating Epistles and Wisdom Literature into Life

Reading the Epistles alongside the Wisdom Literature provides a balanced approach to understanding both the practical and philosophical aspects of faith. These books encourage you to apply biblical principles to everyday life, enriching your spiritual journey and deepening your relationship with God.

Exploring Prophecy and Revelation

n this final part of your journey through the Bible, you will delve into the rich and complex world of biblical prophecy and the book of Revelation. This exploration will not only deepen your understanding of the Bible’s prophetic messages but also provide a sense of closure to the grand narrative of Scripture.

The Prophetic Books: Voices Calling for Justice and Faithfulness

The prophetic books in the Old Testament, both Major and Minor Prophets, offer powerful messages calling for social justice, repentance, and faithfulness to God. These books, including Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the twelve Minor Prophets, often use poetic and symbolic language to convey their messages.

  • Major Prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah (including Lamentations), and Ezekiel are considered major due to their length and the depth of their content. These books contain prophecies about Israel’s future, Messianic predictions, and profound insights into God’s character and human nature.
  • Minor Prophets: Despite being shorter, these books (Hosea to Malachi) are no less significant. They address various social and religious issues of their times and offer timeless lessons on God’s mercy, justice, and sovereignty.

Reading these prophetic books helps in understanding the historical and cultural contexts of Israel and the surrounding nations during various periods. It also provides a deeper appreciation of how these prophecies point to the coming of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Revelation: The Culmination of Biblical Prophecy

The book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament, offers a dramatic and symbolic conclusion to the biblical narrative. It describes the ultimate victory of Christ and the establishment of God’s kingdom. This book is filled with vivid imagery and apocalyptic language, drawing heavily from the Old Testament, particularly the prophetic books.

  • Understanding Revelation: With your background in both Testaments, you will be better equipped to understand the symbols and references in Revelation. This book is not just about future events but also offers encouragement and hope to believers in every generation.
  • The Message of Revelation: Despite its complex imagery, the central message of Revelation is clear – the ultimate triumph of good over evil and the establishment of a new heaven and earth where God will dwell with His people.

Integrating the Themes of Prophecy and Revelation

As you read through these prophetic texts and Revelation, consider how they integrate with the themes you’ve encountered throughout the Bible. Reflect on the continuity of God’s plan from Genesis to Revelation and the consistent call for faithfulness, justice, and hope amidst trials.

Conclusion

As you reach the end of this guided journey through the Bible, it’s important to remember that each reader’s path may vary. The Bible, with its rich tapestry of narratives, teachings, and wisdom, invites a personal exploration that resonates uniquely with every individual. Whether you followed this recommended order or charted a different course, the key is to engage with the text in a way that deepens your understanding and strengthens your faith.

Reading the Bible is more than an academic exercise; it’s a journey of personal reflection and spiritual growth. As you’ve navigated through its diverse books, from the historical narratives to the poetic wisdom literature and the prophetic writings, you’ve encountered timeless truths and profound insights relevant to your life. Allow these teachings to shape your perspectives, guide your decisions, and enrich your spiritual journey.

The Bible’s relevance transcends time and culture. Its messages of hope, redemption, and love are as applicable today as they were centuries ago. As you reflect on your reading, consider how the themes you’ve explored resonate with your experiences and the world around you.

Your journey through the Bible doesn’t end here. Each reading can reveal new insights and deeper understanding. I encourage you to revisit these sacred texts, perhaps exploring different translations, study aids, or reading plans. Engage with others in discussions, join Bible study groups, or simply reflect in personal meditation. The Bible is a living text, continually offering wisdom, comfort, and guidance.

Remember, reading the Bible is a journey of faith and discovery. There’s no single “correct” way to read it. Your journey is unique, shaped by your experiences, questions, and spiritual yearnings. Embrace it with an open heart and mind, and let the words of the Bible speak to you in new and profound ways.

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