The best way to read the Bible?

Question

What is the best way to actually read the Bible?

Answer 1

There were some good answers relating to preparation and outlook. Here is the mechanics of the system I recommend for those who wish to read the entire bible.

First, I highly recommend reading the Old Testament (OT) first because so much of the New Testament (NT) depends upon that. You should always remember when reading the NT that nearly every person in it is a Jew - and the OT will teach you much about being a Jew. *Then* you will understand *why* the NT persons do and say many of the things that they do.

Second, my system: treat reading the bible as something *very* important - just as important as putting on underwear, for example. With this mindset, set aside 1 hour *every* day for reading the bible - no exceptions. If you read the bible for 1 hour every day - slowly and carefully - you should finish in 3 to 4 months (3 for an abridged bible, 4 for complete, 6 for a good study bible).

I also recommend reading the bible *again*. The 2nd time, you will make a lot of connections between the OT and NT that you missed the 1st time around. Although it's best to read the OT before the NT, the 2nd time around you have the NT fresh in your mind while reading the OT.

Jim

Answer 2

The easiest way to read it, is to start with the New Testament.

I think that Matthew is the most beautiful to read.

So that the whole task seems manageable, just bear in mind that the Bible isn't just one book but a collection of books written by people who observed what was happening. Therefore, you'll be reading accounts of the same events sometimes, as recorded by various eye witnesses.

I often just open it randomly and browse a section or two; reflect on it.

Don't try too hard to remember things as sequential events - aim for the spirit of the word.

Answer 3

There are hermeneutical principles that you have to follow to make reading beneficial. You have to read it just like any other literature.

One important thing: you have to determine what literary genre is the author using. Prose or poetry?

Some people read the Bible without doing this. So they read it like everything is historical and literal. They read the creation stories in Genesis like they are scientific. Dumb way to read it that way.

When you read the Bible, do it reverently.

Let the Bible read you.

Answer 4

How about the way it's been assembled. There's a reason it was put in that order.

But if you don't want to read the whole thing, then I suggest at least reading the Minor Prophets and the Gospels.

Answer 5

the best way to read the bible is to have a heart to understand what its real purpose is. Remember that is written to be debated, but the words are written in order to be fulfilled in our lives. Here's what Psalms 119:130 says, The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

Answer 6

before reading the bible, ask God to enlighten your mind so you can understand what the bible is saying. The bible has alot of symbolism, especially the parables and examples that Jesus gives. When you read the bible try to enterpret the symbolism and metaphors in it.

Answer 7

I suppose if you get bored with the Old Testament you can switch back and forth with the New or Pslams, but you might as well read it front to back.

Answer 8

Start with John, read a chapter of John a day.

Answer 9

Trying to visualise the passage you are reading (i.e. Jesus' travels, miracles, etc) and seeing how you can apply the lesson being taught

Answer 10

I read matt then go to romans to jude then I go back to mark to roman to jude and when I get to john I read all the way to rev like act