It can feel like a maze when you look for a Bible. In a store or online, there are so many choices. You will see different colors, sizes, and covers. Additionally, you will also see strange letters like NIV, KJV, ESV, and NLT. It can be very confusing. I remember feeling lost in a bookstore. All I wanted was a Bible I could understand. If you are asking, “what bible should i read as a beginner?” you are asking the right question. I am here to help you.
This guide will give you simple, real-talk answers. My goal is to help you find a Bible you will actually read. First, we will look at the best Bibles for new readers. Then, we will talk about what a “study Bible” is. Finally, we will also see where you should start reading. Let me be your friendly guide and help you find the right Bible for you as you determine what Bible should I read as a beginner.
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How to Read the Bible for Beginners
Why Understanding Bible Translations is Key for Beginners
First, we need to talk about translations. This is what confuses most new people. The Bible was not written in English. Specifically, the Old Testament was in Hebrew and Aramaic, while the New Testament was in Greek. So, every English Bible is a translation.
Translators use different styles. For the most part, they can be “word-for-word” or “thought-for-thought.”
- Word-for-Word Bibles: These try to match each old word to an English word. They use the same sentence style as the old text. For this reason, they are good for deep study, but they can be hard to read smoothly.
- Thought-for-Thought Bibles: These focus on the main idea. They put the meaning into clear, modern English. The goal is to make it easy to read. In essence, they ask, “What did the writer want to say, and how can we say that clearly today?”
- Paraphrases: These are not strict translations. Instead, they retell the Bible’s message in today’s words. They are good to read along with a standard Bible, but not as your main one.
There is no single “best” Bible. The best one for you is the one you will read and understand. For a beginner, a “thought-for-thought” Bible is often the best choice because it is both accurate and easy to read. Answering what Bible should I read as a beginner often leads people to this type of translation.
Why the NIV is a Top Answer to ‘What Bible Should I Read as a Beginner?’
If I had to suggest just one Bible, it would be the New International Version (NIV). The NIV is the most popular modern-English Bible. A large group of scholars from many churches made it. It is both accurate and easy to read. Furthermore, the words are clear and modern, making it a perfect place to start. It helps you understand the Bible without hard old words. The NIV answers the question, “what bible should i read as a beginner?” for millions of people.
Is the NLT a Good Bible Choice for Easy Reading?
The New Living Translation (NLT) is another great choice. The NLT is even easier to read than the NIV. Its main goal is to be very clear. In fact, it reads like a modern book. I often use the NLT when a Bible part is hard to understand because it helps make the meaning clear. If you want a Bible that is very easy to read, the NLT is a great choice.
Should a Beginner Start with the King James Version (KJV)?
Many people have heard of the King James Version (KJV). It is a beautiful old Bible, and it has had a big impact on the English language.
However, I do not suggest the KJV for most beginners. It was written in 1611. The English language is very different now. It uses old words like “thee” and “thou.” Moreover, the sentences can be hard for a modern reader to follow. It is a good Bible, but it can be a wall for someone just starting out.
What Bible Should I Read as a Beginner? Study Bibles vs. Regular Bibles
After you pick a translation, you will see another choice: Study Bibles. So, what is the difference?
- A Regular Bible just has the Bible text. It might have a few notes at the bottom of the page.
- A Study Bible, on the other hand, has a helpful guide built inside. At the bottom of each page, notes explain hard parts. They give you history. They also define key words. In addition, they have maps, charts, and facts about each book of the Bible.
I really suggest a study Bible for a new reader. It is like having a teacher with you. It helps you when you get stuck. I understood the Bible much better after I got my first study Bible. The notes on the page helped me make sense of the hard parts. This is a crucial tip for anyone wondering what Bible should I read as a beginner.
What are the Best Study Bibles when considering What Bible Should I Read as a Beginner?
There are many great study Bibles. The key is to find one in a version you like (like NIV or NLT). Also, make sure the notes are for everyday people, not just pastors. Here are two top choices:
- The NIV Life Application Study Bible: This is a very popular study Bible. Its notes are great. They explain the text. They also help you use the Bible’s lessons in your own life. It answers the question, “How does this old text matter to me today?” For these reasons, it is a great tool for a beginner.
- The CSB Study Bible: The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) is a newer, good translation. The CSB Study Bible is full of color maps, charts, and pictures. Its notes are clear and helpful.
Are Digital Bibles or Bible Apps a Good Option for Beginners?
We live in a digital age. You do not need to buy a book to start reading. The YouVersion Bible App is a free and amazing tool. It has hundreds of translations, like the NIV and NLT. Many have audio versions so you can listen. The app also has thousands of free reading plans. You can get started with a digital Bible experience with the YouVersion Bible App. It is a great way to start, and it is free.
I Have My Bible, So Where is the Best Place to Start for What Bible Should I Read as a Beginner?
Okay, you made a choice! You have your Bible. You are ready to start. So, do you open to page one, Genesis 1:1?
You can, but it is not always the best plan for a new reader.
The Bible is not in order by time. Instead, it is grouped by the type of writing. The Old Testament starts with law, then history, then poems, then prophecy. If you read straight through, you will find great stories in Genesis and Exodus. But then you will get to books like Leviticus and Numbers. These Bible books have old laws and lists that are hard to read. As a result, many beginners stop here.
Why Starting with the Gospels is Best for a Beginner
The best place to start reading the Bible is with Jesus.
The whole Bible is about him. The Old Testament points to him. The New Testament tells his story. When you start with Jesus, the rest of the Bible makes more sense.
The story of Jesus is in the first four books of the New Testament. They are called the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. You should start with one of these.
What is the Best Gospel for a Beginner to Read First?
- The Gospel of John: This is my top choice for a beginner asking what bible should i read as a beginner. John wrote this book for a clear reason. He wanted to help people believe that Jesus is the Son of God and have life. It is a deep and powerful book. It is a great way to meet the main person in the Christian faith.
- The Gospel of Mark: If you want a fast story with a lot of action, start with Mark. It is the shortest Gospel and moves very quickly from one event to the next. It is an exciting read.
After you read a Gospel, read the book of Acts. It tells what Jesus’ followers did after he went to heaven. It is the story of how the Christian church began.
What is a Simple Bible Reading Plan for a Beginner’s First Month?
Have a simple plan so you do not feel lost. Do not try to read for hours a day. Just start with 15-20 minutes. Here is a sample plan:
- Week 1: The Gospel of John, Chapters 1-10. Read one or two chapters a day. You can use your study Bible notes. Or use a tool like The Bible Project’s insightful videos to learn about the book first.
- Week 2: The Gospel of John, Chapters 11-21. Next, finish the story of Jesus. Take your time with these powerful chapters.
- Week 3: The Book of Genesis, Chapters 1-12. Now that you know Jesus, go back to the start. Read about creation, Adam and Eve, Noah, and the Tower of Babel.
- Week 4: The Book of Ephesians. Finally, read a shorter book. Ephesians is a short letter in the New Testament. It is full of wise and practical tips on the Christian faith.
This simple plan gives you a taste of different parts of the Bible. This will keep your reading fresh.
Final Encouragement for Your Bible Reading Journey
Choosing a Bible is a big and rewarding step. Do not let the options stop you. The question “What Bible should I read as a beginner?” is the start of a great journey.
Remember to be kind to yourself. You will not understand it all at first. That is okay. Some days will feel deep. Other days might feel dry. Just keep going. The goal is to let this wise and living book change your heart and mind over time. A key part of what Bible should I read as a beginner is also learning to be patient with the process.
If you get stuck, ask for help. For instance, talk to a pastor or a trusted friend. Also, use great online tools to get answers from Got Questions for your specific questions.
You are at the start of an amazing adventure. I hope this guide helped you and gave you the confidence to start this lifelong journey.
FAQ – What Bible Should I Read as a Beginner
What is the best way for a beginner to start reading the Bible?
Beginners should start with the Gospels—preferably John or Mark—and consider using a study Bible or a digital app to help explain difficult parts, along with a simple reading plan to gradually explore different parts of the Bible.
Should beginners start with the King James Version (KJV)?
Most beginners are advised not to start with the KJV because it uses old English words and sentence structures that are difficult for modern readers, making it harder to understand initially.
Is the New Living Translation (NLT) suitable for beginners?
Yes, the NLT is an excellent choice for beginners as it is even easier to read than the NIV and presents the Bible’s message in a very clear and contemporary manner.
Which translation is recommended for beginners and why?
The New International Version (NIV) is recommended for beginners because it is accurate, easy to read, and uses clear, modern language, making it accessible for new readers.
Why is it important to understand different Bible translations as a beginner?
Understanding different Bible translations is crucial for beginners because the original texts were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, and translations vary in style and readability, affecting comprehension.
