There is no replacement for reading the Bible on one’s own, regularly. It’s indispensable to personal growth and congregational growth. But, where to begin? How to continue? What to look for?
We recommended finding a version that’s understandable, then starting with The First Letters of John, and then The Gospel of John. The ambitious goal of reading through the whole Bible in a year is laudable, in a way, but much more important is to develop a pattern of reading, reflecting, and trusting God’s Word.
First steps then:
- Pick a time and a place for regular reading of the Scriptures and stick to it
- Find an understandable version
- Read through The First Letter of John then The Gospel of John unhurried, not so much to get through the books, but to solidify the discipline of regular reading
- Establish a reading plan (our pamphlet on Reading the Bible lists many)