Start with a plan.
Try the "Foundations of Faith" reading plan in the YouVersion Bible app.
One Church / Grow Deeply
Open the Word.
Grow in faith.
You don't have to be a Bible expert to begin. Whether you're opening Scripture for the first time or finding your way back, we've gathered a few simple tools to help you get started.
Start somewhere.Ask good questions.Keep showing up.Grow deeply.
01 / Getting started
New to the Bible?
Start right here.
There's no pressure to know everything. Take one next step and let the habit grow over time.
Meet Jesus in John.
Read the Gospel of John and notice what Jesus says and does.
Read the Gospels.
Explore Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John for four perspectives on Jesus.
Keep going.
Continue through the New Testament and make reading a regular rhythm.
Open Foundations of Faith ↗Free reading plan on YouVersion
02 / Watch & learn
The Bible is a story
worth exploring.
BibleProject makes beautiful, easy-to-follow videos that help explain Scripture's books, themes, and big-picture story.
BibleProject • Video 01
How to Read the Bible
Start with an overview of the BibleProject video series.
BibleProject • Video 02
Overview: Old Testament
Discover how the Hebrew Scriptures tell one connected story.
BibleProject • Video 03
Overview: New Testament
Explore how the New Testament continues the biblical story.
03 / Finding your Bible
Which translation
should I read?
The best Bible to begin with is one you'll actually read. These six translations are good options, each with a slightly different reading style.
NIV
New International Version
A popular balance of accuracy and readability.
NLT
New Living Translation
Highly readable, with natural and accessible language.
CSB
Christian Standard Bible
A balance of word-for-word accuracy and readability.
CEV
Contemporary English Version
Very easy to read, with a simple conversational style.
ESV
English Standard Version
A more literal, word-for-word approach.
NKJV
New King James Version
A modern update of the King James Version.
A good place to begin
Don't get stuck choosing the "perfect" version.
If you're new to Scripture, NIV and NLT are approachable starting points. The important thing is to start reading and keep asking questions.
"You don't need to understand every verse on day one to begin growing."ONE CHURCH / GROW DEEPLY
04 / Go a little deeper
Helpful Bibles
for real life.
Study Bibles include notes, context, and commentary to help you better understand what you're reading.
Life Application Study Bible
Practical notes and insights to help connect Scripture with everyday life.
View the NLT edition ↗Life Application Study Bible
Read the Bible with study notes that focus on understanding and applying the text.
View the NIV edition ↗Enduring Word Study Bible
Explore Scripture with commentary and helpful historical and theological context.
View the NKJV edition ↗A little unexpected, but really helpful
Yes, even a kids' Bible.
Some children's Bibles are excellent for adults who want to learn the main themes and stories of Scripture. They're great to explore together as a family, too.
05 / Make it personal
A simple way to
spend time with God.
Try the S.O.A.P. method during your quiet time. All you need is a Bible, a notebook, and a little time.
S
Scripture
Read slowly. Write down a verse or passage that stands out to you.
O
Observation
What is happening in the passage? What might God be showing you?
A
Application
How does what you've read connect to your life today? Write down one response.
P
Prayer
Talk with God about what you've read, ask for help, and take time to listen.
One next step
Start small.
Stay curious.
Five minutes in Scripture is a great place to start. You don't have to have all the answers. Just keep showing up.