Let’s start with the basics on how to study the Bible. Think of it like eating an elephant—uh, not that we’d actually want to eat an elephant, but you do it one bite at a time. First, don’t try to read the Bible cover to cover like a novel. Most people start by reading the books of John or Romans in the New Testament. They’re not too long, and they introduce you to the life and teachings of Jesus and some key principles of the faith.

What Is Bible Study?

Are you thinking, “But what is Bible study exactly?” Well, let’s break it down simply. Bible study is a personal exploration of God’s word. It’s a way to deepen your understanding of His messages and how they apply to your life. You don’t need to be a scholar or theologian to study the Bible; you just need a heart ready to listen and learn. Bible Study is more than just reading a religious book. It is an intentional effort to discover God’s character, His promises, and His will for your life. It involves asking questions, digging deeper into passages, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding.

Why Studying The Bible Matters

• To know God more deeply
• To grow in spiritual maturity
• To find direction, comfort, and wisdom
• To build a strong foundation for your faith

Jesus said in John 8:31-32, *”If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

How To Study The Bible Effectively

1. Start with Prayer

It is very important that you take the time to pray before opening the Word of God. People often just sit down, open the Bible and begin to read. I encourage you to pray first. Ask God to open your heart and mind. A simple prayer like, “Lord, help me understand Your Word” sets the tone.

2. Choose a Readable Bible Translation

There are so many translations of the Bible available today. Sometimes, I envy people from third world countries because they just have one or at best two bibles in their native languages. But in English, there are enough translations and opinions about the various translations to confuse any new Christian. I started off with King James, which did not help me at all. I then shifted to New King James version which was better. As a new Christian, I came to believe that all other translations other than the New King James were erroneous. This was indoctrinated into me by other senior believers. Today, I am a bit more mature. This is not true at all. I now enjoy reading the New Living Translation. For beginners, I recommend:

• New Living Translation (NLT)
• New International Version (NIV)

These are easier to understand while staying faithful to the original text. But do refer to other translations for comparisons. There are some verses missing in the NIV, which is why you should refer to other translations occasionally. If you want a more realistic meaning of the original Greek and Hebrew, then try to Amplified version. But the New Living Translation is more or less in today’s spoken English and very easy to understand.

3. Begin with an Accessible Book

Start with getting to know Jesus and the true Gospel message immediately. Start with one of the gospels in the New Testament, because as a beginner, you MUST understand the concept of repentance, forgiveness through Jesus Christ and eternal life. Once the foundational truth is clear, you can then proceed to other teachings. I recommend the Gospel of John. After you finish the gospel of John, move on to the book of Romans. This book will help you understand the core message of salvation through faith in Christ. It will also help you understand your struggle with sin, and the grace of God which gives you the power to overcome sin. Once done, you can then move on to either Psalms and Proverbs or even start at Genesis.

When I started, I finished all the four gospels. Thereafter, I decided to study one chapter from the old testament starting at Genesis, one Psalm, one Proverb, and one chapter from the new testament everyday. I was able to complete the old testament once and the new testament twice in a year. To summarize,

• Gospel of John: introduces Jesus and His mission.
• Romans: outlines the core message of salvation.
• Psalms or Proverbs: for wisdom and encouragement.

4. Use the SOAP Method

This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to study. Honestly, I had not heard of this when I was a new Christian. I only learnt about this many years later. But I think it is a good method and would have helped me immensely if I had known about it when I was studying the bible. SOAP stands for:

• S – Scripture: Write down a verse that stands out.
• O – Observation: What is happening in the passage?
• A – Application: How does it apply to your life?
• P – Prayer: Talk to God about what you learned.

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Here’s how it works: Start by reading a passage, pick a verse that stands out, and write it down (that’s Scripture). Then jot down what you observe about the passage (Observation). Consider how you can apply its lessons to your life (Application). Finally, pray about what you’ve learned (Prayer). See—simple!

If you’re envisioning a daunting, long session every day, here’s a tip: start small. You can carve out just ten to fifteen minutes a day. It’s like planting a tiny seed in your garden daily—the more you nurture it, the more it grows. Eventually, you’ll have a lush, spiritual garden in your heart.

How To Read The Bible Daily

Let’s talk about Bible reading plans. Search online and you’ll find a ton of free plans that guide you through the Bible step-by-step. Some plans focus on a theme, like love or faith, while others go through the Bible in chronological order. Picking a plan can help structure your study time and keep you motivated. Set a specific time and place. Start with 10-15 minutes, but be consistent with it. Keep a notebook or journal for reflections. I have observed in my own life that when i write down my thoughts, I tend not to forget it. I would even recommend you to underline, highlight and scribble on the sides of your bible itself. That way, when you revisit that scripture again in future, you will also be revisiting your old thoughts about it. My very first bible is highlighted, underlined, scribbled upon, and is in tatters. I still have it.

Someone wisely said, “If your bible is torn and tattered, your life is probably not. If your life is torn and tattered, your bible is probably not.”

Lastly, it is also a good idea to pair your bible study time with some low volume worship music. I love it. But if you prefer silence, that’s fine too.

You may miss reading your bible a day or two. Don’t let guilt overtake you. Like any new habit, consistency is key, and it can be challenging at first. One of my favorite tricks is setting specific times during the day for reading, like first thing in the morning or right before bed. Once it becomes a part of your daily routine, it feels less like a task and more like a welcoming retreat.

Helpful Bible Study Techniques

For those who thrive with structured study methods, the inductive study method is another great approach. It involves reading the passage, referencing related scripture for context, and interpreting the text to find its meaning. This method helps build a deeper understanding of the Bible passages and how they connect. In other words, ask three questions:

• What does the passage say?
• What does it mean?
• How do I apply it?

Also, remember to be patient with yourself. I know the feeling of diving into the Bible and not getting an instant lightning bolt of understanding. Spiritual growth is a journey, and each reading brings you closer to the heart of God, even if the understanding unfolds gradually.

I want to address the fear of “doing it wrong.” It’s okay to make mistakes; learning involves trial and error. Discuss your findings and confusions with someone you trust or join a Bible study group. Remember, God delights in your effort to know Him, even if everything doesn’t click right away. Speaking of groups, engaging with others provides a solid support structure and accountability. There’s great comfort in studying the Bible with others who can share their insights and encourage you along the way. It’s like being on a team, not only learning from but also cheering each other on.

Another way to approach Bible study is by thematic exploration or otherwise called Topical Study. Got questions about anxiety, love, or faith? Use a concordance or an online tool to find verses relating to these topics, and ponder their meanings. This can be particularly enlightening and personally relevant. Need some encouragement along the way? Think of the Bible as a treasure map. You’re not just reading ancient texts; you’re discovering God’s eternal wisdom meant to guide and comfort you. Every insight, every “aha” moment is a treasure you take into real life—like a spiritual pep talk.

And there is yet another method to approach Bible Study called Verse Mapping. Highlight key words, cross references, and seek out for original meanings from the original language to go deeper into any single Scripture verse.

Should you find yourself stuck or confused by a passage, it’s okay to turn to commentaries or sermons for additional insights. These resources can illuminate complex ideas and provide historical context that helps bring clarity and understanding. As you begin this journey, remember that Bible study is not just about accumulating knowledge; it’s about transformation. It’s about moving beyond head knowledge to experience a deeply personal relationship with God, like chatting with a wise, comforting friend.

If you’re not sure where to start, why not choose a Psalm, Proverbs, or one of the short New Testament letters like Ephesians or Philippians? These are rich in wisdom and encouragement, like a hearty bowl of soup for your soul.

Now there might be times when you struggle with distractions or lose focus. An easy trick is keeping a notepad nearby for jotting down distracting thoughts so you can return to them later. Or visualize closing a door on those distractions, just as you would when you want a moment to yourself.

Tools To Help You Study The Bible

And then there’s the question of what tools or plans can help you stay consistent. There are plenty of apps, digital resources, and Bible study books available that you can use on the go. It doesn’t have to be a cumbersome study process—think of these tools as your trusty sidekick.

• Bible Apps – YouVersion, Blue Letter Bible, Logos. There are many. My favorite is YouVersion. I use it myself and i have completed several bible study plans on YouVersion. It is free, it is easily accessible on your mobile device anytime, anywhere.
• Study Bibles – When you choose a particular version like the New Living Translation for example, ask for a Study Bible. They come with commentaries and notes.
• YouTube and Podcasts – Check out some good teachings on YouTube. Always compare what you hear with the written Word of God in the Bible. Discard anything unbiblical. There are quite a few good teachers on YouTube. But there are many who teach heresies and false messages too. Be careful. Do not be deceived. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to the truth. This is why praying before studying the bible is important.

As you grow in your study habits, you might start journaling your Bible study experiences. It can be a powerful way to track your spiritual growth, insights, and questions. Plus, looking back on your reflections can be deeply rewarding and illuminating.

One last practical tip: speak to God before you start. This doesn’t have to be a long, formal prayer—just close your eyes and say, “God, help me understand Your word today.” It’s that intimate moment of inviting God into your study session, making it feel more sacred and connected. Yep, it’s like the foundation of a house, setting the right tone for construction. Surround yourself with positive messages and prayers that’ll make your study time a place you look forward to visiting.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to Bible study. Each person’s journey is unique, and sometimes, it’s more about the journey than the destination. The fact that you’re interested in learning how to study the Bible is already a meaningful step forward.

And don’t worry if your study rhythm doesn’t resemble anyone else’s. Just like people have different tastes in pizza toppings, your study style can be wonderfully unique. Discover what moves you, and immerse yourself in it.

Remember, the Bible isn’t just a book—it’s a guide to knowing God personally. Your hunger for God is a signal of growth, a yearning for connection that Bible study fulfills in profound ways. Over time, you’ll come to see this pursuit as an integral and joyful part of your life.

I encourage you to set goals for your Bible study. They can be as small as “read one chapter daily” or as big as “complete the New Testament this year.” Regardless, goals keep you focused and driven, much like a map guiding you through a wonderful new world. In moments of doubt and confusion, remember the bigger picture. Each Bible reading session is a stepping stone in the adventure of faith. Like learning to dance, step by step, shuffle by shuffle, your confidence and grace will grow.

As we wrap up, celebrate your progress. Each verse studied, each insight gained is a victory in your spiritual walk. Think of it as collecting stamps in a passport—you’re traveling God’s story, leaving with souvenirs of wisdom and hope.

So there you have it, my friend—your ultimate guide on how to study the Bible without feeling overwhelmed. Take that first bite, and remember that you’re not alone. This adventure with God’s word is sure to bring fulfillment, guidance, and transformation, one small step at a time. Keep at it, and happy studying!

Explore More:

• Bible Study Methods
• Bible Study Plans
• Bible Study Tools

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