Where Is the Best Place to Start Reading the Bible? A Complete Guide for Beginners
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Starting to read the Bible for the first time can feel like an overwhelming task. With its 66 books, multiple authors, and ancient history, it’s no surprise that many ask, “Where is the best place to start reading the Bible?”
This is a great question, and it doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what you’re looking for—whether it’s spiritual growth, historical understanding, or getting to know more about Yeshua (Jesus).
In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to approach Bible reading, and why both the Old and New Testaments are crucial to understanding the full picture of God’s story. For those new to the Bible, we’ll also highlight the best places to begin and offer tips to make your Bible-reading journey a meaningful one.

The Best Place to Start Reading the Bible – Why Starting with the Old Testament Can Be the Best Option
Many people, eager to get to the story of Yeshua, may skip over the Old Testament, thinking they can jump right into the New Testament for a faster understanding of the Gospel. But this approach misses so much of the beauty and depth of God’s plan, which unfolds over centuries of history in the Old Testament.
Consider the Bible as a single, overarching narrative, where the New Testament fulfills the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament. Without understanding the foundation laid in the Old Testament, the New Testament can feel disconnected.
The Old Testament is filled with accounts of God’s covenant with Israel, which sets the stage for Yeshua’s coming and His work of redemption.
Some of the key events in the Old Testament—like the creation story, the fall of humanity, the lives of the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob), the Exodus from Egypt, and the giving of the Torah (Law) at Mount Sinai—are vital to understanding God’s covenant and promises. These narratives help us grasp the why of Yeshua’s mission.
Also, the story of Israel is not simply ancient history. It is central to understanding the role of the people of God and the unfolding of His redemption plan. Skipping over the Old Testament is like jumping into the middle of a novel without knowing what came before.
How can we fully understand Yeshua’s role as the Messiah without first embracing the story of Israel and God’s covenant relationship with them?
Connecting the Old Testament to the New Testament
The Old Testament isn’t just a prequel to the New Testament—it’s deeply connected, and its themes resonate throughout the entire Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is one continuous story of redemption. The Torah (the first five books of the Bible) introduces us to God’s laws, covenants, and promises, many of which are fulfilled in the New Testament.
For example, in Genesis 12:3, God promises Abraham that through him, “all the families of the earth will be blessed.” This points directly to the New Covenant that Yeshua brings, as He extends salvation not just to Israel, but to the nations (Gentiles) as well.
Throughout the prophetic books, we see numerous prophecies about the coming of a Messiah who will restore Israel and bring salvation to the world. Yeshua Himself frequently quotes from the prophets, such as Isaiah, to explain His mission.
If we skip over the story of Israel, we also miss the important covenants God makes with His people, which set the foundation for the New Covenant that Yeshua establishes. For instance, without an understanding of the Mosaic Covenant (the giving of the Law at Sinai), we won’t fully grasp why Yeshua’s role as the “Lamb of God” who takes away the sins of the world is so significant.
The apostle Paul beautifully ties the Old and New Testaments together when he explains in Romans 11 that Gentile believers are “grafted in” to the rich heritage of Israel. This means that believers in Yeshua are part of the same story of redemption, and understanding the story of Israel helps you see your place in God’s plan.
Why Starting with the New Testament May Be More Suitable for Some
While the Old Testament is foundational, many new believers find it easier to start their Bible reading journey with the New Testament, specifically the Gospels. The New Testament begins with the story of Yeshua—His birth, ministry, death, and resurrection—and this can feel more immediately relevant and accessible to someone looking to understand the basics of the Christian faith.
The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) provide an intimate look at Yeshua’s life, His teachings, and His miracles. Of these, the Gospel of John is often recommended as a starting point because it focuses heavily on Yeshua’s identity as the Son of God and His mission to bring eternal life to all who believe in Him.
Where to Start in the New Testament
For beginners, starting with the Gospel of John is often the best way to introduce yourself to Yeshua’s life and teachings. John emphasizes the divinity of Yeshua and His relationship with the Father. This Gospel also contains some of the most well-known and loved passages, like John 3:16, which speaks of God’s love for the world and His gift of salvation through Yeshua.
After reading John, the Book of Acts is a great follow-up because it tells the story of the early believers and the spread of the Gospel after Yeshua’s resurrection. This book helps us understand how the early church grew and how the message of Yeshua reached both Jews and Gentiles.
From there, you can move on to the Epistles (letters), such as Romans or Ephesians, which explain the theology of salvation, grace, and how to live as a believer in Yeshua.
The Best Books for Spiritual Growth and Encouragement
For those seeking spiritual encouragement and wisdom, the Book of Psalms is an incredible place to start. The Psalms express the full range of human emotions—from joy and praise to sorrow and lament. These songs and prayers offer comfort, guidance, and insight into how to approach God in every season of life.
Proverbs is another excellent book for practical wisdom. Written by King Solomon, it is full of short sayings that offer advice on how to live a righteous life, make wise decisions, and honor God in your daily actions.
Both Psalms and Proverbs are part of the Old Testament, yet their messages resonate deeply with believers today, offering timeless insights that can guide our spiritual journey.
How to Read the Bible Chronologically (For Readers Interested in History)
If you’re someone who loves history and wants to see the “big picture” of the Bible, a chronological reading plan might be for you. Starting with Genesis, you can follow the story of God’s people in the order that the events actually occurred. This can help you understand how the different books fit together and see how God’s promises unfold over time.
Reading the Bible chronologically helps bring the stories to life and offers a deeper appreciation of the connections between events, people, and prophecies. By understanding the Old Testament history, you’ll see more clearly how the New Testament fulfills these earlier promises and prophecies.
Practical Tips for Building a Daily Bible Reading Habit
Reading the Bible regularly can transform your life, but it can also be challenging to build the habit. Here are some practical tips to help you stay consistent:
- Set aside a specific time each day for Bible reading, whether it’s in the morning, during lunch, or before bed.
- Use a Bible reading plan to keep you on track. Whether you’re reading chronologically or focusing on certain themes, a plan will guide you and keep you from feeling lost.
- Find a quiet place where you can read without distractions.
- Take notes as you read. Writing down key insights or questions can help you engage more deeply with the text.
- Pray before you begin, asking God to help you understand His Word and apply it to your life.
Prayer for Understanding God’s Word
Here is a prayer you can pray to ask God to help you as you study the Word.
Abba Father, I come before You with a heart open to receive Your truth. As I read Your Word, I ask that You grant me understanding and wisdom. Help me to see the deeper meaning behind the stories and teachings and to apply them to my life. Guide me by Your Holy Spirit to live according to Your ways, and let Your Word be a light to my path. May Your truth transform me and draw me closer to You each day. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.
Overcoming Common Obstacles in Bible Reading
Many people struggle with distractions or feeling overwhelmed when trying to read the Bible. If you find yourself getting stuck, don’t be discouraged! Start small, maybe reading one chapter a day, and gradually build up from there.
If you miss a day, don’t beat yourself up—just start again the next day. The goal is not to rush through the Bible, but to grow in your understanding and relationship with God.
Bible Translations: Which One Should You Choose?
When choosing a Bible translation, it’s important to remember that every translation is, in a sense, an interpretation. The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, and translating ancient languages into modern ones is not always straightforward. There isn’t always a simple one-to-one translation for certain words or phrases, and translators have to make choices about how to best convey the meaning of the original text.
Because of this, it’s helpful to use more than one translation as you study. Comparing different versions can reveal the nuances of the original language and give you a deeper understanding of the text.
For example, the Tree of Life Version (TLV) offers a translation with a Messianic Jewish perspective, while the New American Standard Bible (NASB) is known for its accuracy and literal approach. Some of the scholars commissioned to work on the Tree of Life translation are my own professors so I have great confidence in this translation and it is why I use it as a primary source on my site.
By using multiple translations, you can uncover the richer, layered meanings in Scripture that might not be apparent in a single version. This approach helps you engage more deeply with God’s Word and its semantical depth.
Free Bible Reading Plans and Resources
To help you get started, consider using a free Bible reading plan. Many Bible apps like YouVersion and Blue Letter Bible along with sites like Bible Gateway offer a variety of plans that cater to different interests—whether you want to read through the whole Bible in a year or focus on specific themes like spiritual growth or wisdom.
My Final Thoughts on How to Start Reading the Bible
Reading the Bible is an incredible journey of discovering God’s heart and His plans for humanity. Whether you start with the Old Testament, embracing the story of Israel and God’s covenant promises, or begin with the New Testament to focus on Yeshua’s life and teachings, every part of Scripture holds profound truth and wisdom for your life. Remember, there’s no “right” or “wrong” place to start—just take that first step.
As you read, let God’s Word speak to you personally. Allow yourself to be transformed by His truth, and don’t rush through the process. Study, reflect, and pray. And most importantly, enjoy the journey as you grow in your relationship with God.
If you’re looking for a community to explore Scripture with, I invite you to join our Besorah Bible Study Facebook group where we dive deeper into the Word together and support each other in our spiritual growth. Feel free to leave a comment below sharing where you’ve chosen to start reading or any insights you’ve gained along the way!
May God bless you as you seek Him through His Word!
FAQs: Common Questions About Bible Reading
How long should I spend reading the Bible each day?
There’s no set time requirement for reading the Bible, and it often depends on your personal schedule. Some people find that setting aside 10-15 minutes a day is a good starting point, while others might dedicate 30 minutes or more. The key is consistency. Whether it’s a short reading or a longer study session, make it a habit. Over time, you’ll naturally want to spend more time as you engage with Scripture.
What if I don’t understand what I’m reading?
It’s completely normal to come across passages that are hard to understand, especially if you’re new to the Bible. In such cases, don’t be discouraged! Take your time and use resources like commentaries, study guides, or even Bible apps that offer explanations. Also, praying for understanding before you start reading can open your heart and mind to what God wants to reveal to you.
Should I read the Bible in order from Genesis to Revelation?
Reading the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one option, but it’s not necessary to read it in strict order. Some find it more beneficial to start with specific books that align with their spiritual needs. For beginners, the Gospels in the New Testament (like John or Luke) are often a good place to start. Others might prefer to read the Bible chronologically, following a timeline of events.
What is a good Bible reading plan for beginners?
A good Bible reading plan for beginners could start with the Gospel of John to get to know Yeshua’s life and teachings, followed by Psalms for comfort and Proverbs for wisdom. You can also explore Genesis to understand the creation story and the foundations of God’s covenant with Israel. Many Bible apps, like YouVersion, offer reading plans that guide you through the Bible based on your goals or interests.
Do I need to read both the Old and New Testaments?
Yes, both the Old and New Testaments are important for a full understanding of the Bible. The Old Testament lays the foundation, providing the history, law, and prophecies that lead up to the coming of Yeshua in the New Testament. Reading both helps you see how God’s plan unfolds from creation to redemption and how the two testaments complement each other.
What if I don’t have much time to read the Bible?
If you’re pressed for time, it’s still possible to engage with Scripture in meaningful ways. Consider reading a short passage, like a Psalm or a parable from the Gospels, and reflecting on it throughout the day. Listening to audio Bibles during your commute or while doing chores is another great way to stay connected to God’s Word when you’re short on time.
Is it okay to skip around and read different books out of order?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine to read the Bible out of order, especially if you’re focusing on specific topics or themes. Some people prefer to study books that speak to their current life circumstances, while others follow a structured plan. The important thing is to remain consistent and engaged with the Word.
I do recommend reading through the entire Bible when possible, as it allows you to see the full narrative unfold and appreciate how each part contributes to the overall story. This approach helps you gain a deeper understanding of how God’s plan develops from beginning to end.
We do have free Bible reading and writing plans available here on our site that focus on different themes each month!
What if I feel like I’m not getting anything out of my Bible reading?
If you feel like your Bible reading has become dry or unfulfilling, try mixing up your approach. You could try reading a different translation, using a Bible study guide, or joining a Bible study group for discussion and fresh perspectives. Sometimes stepping back to reflect and pray can help you re-engage with the text on a deeper level.
Should I memorize Scripture?
Memorizing Scripture can be a powerful spiritual discipline. Having God’s Word hidden in your heart allows you to recall it in moments of need, whether for comfort, encouragement, or guidance. Start small, maybe with a verse from the Psalms or a favorite passage from the Gospels, and work your way up.
How do I know if I’m interpreting Scripture correctly?
Interpreting Scripture can sometimes be challenging. To ensure you’re on the right track, it’s helpful to study with others, use trusted commentaries, and consult different translations.
Prayerfully ask the Holy Spirit to guide you, and don’t hesitate to ask a pastor or a knowledgeable mentor if you’re unsure about a particular interpretation.
How can I keep my Bible reading from feeling like a chore?
If Bible reading starts to feel like a duty rather than a delight, try changing your approach. Incorporate worship music, prayer, or journaling to make your time in the Word more personal and meaningful. Sometimes reading a different book or focusing on a specific theme can also refresh your study.
Keep the focus on building your relationship with God, rather than just completing a task.
Do I need a special place to read the Bible?
While it’s great to have a quiet, dedicated place for Bible reading, you can read the Bible anywhere. What’s most important is finding a time and space where you can focus. For some, that might mean reading in the morning at a quiet desk, while for others, it could be during lunch breaks or before bed.
Tree of Life (TLV) – Scripture taken from the Holy Scriptures, Tree of Life Version*. Copyright © 2014,2016 by the Tree of Life Bible Society. Used by permission of the Tree of Life Bible Society.

About Our Author
Diane Ferreira is a Jewish believer, wife, and mom, as well as a proud bulldog mom. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Jewish Studies at seminary, deepening her passion for Scripture and Jewish history. Diane writes with a heart to connect the rich traditions of her Jewish heritage with her faith in Yeshua, offering insights that inspire believers to grow in their walk with God. When she’s not studying or writing, Diane enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and crochet.
Great post, Diane! I’m planning to read through the Bible in chronological order of book authorship in 2020 and I KNOW I need more than willpower to do it!!!
Pinned & tweeted.
Thanks for linking up at InstaEncouragements!
Thank you Patsy!! I so appreciate it!!
If I could show you a picture, I would! I put a bunch of sticky notes on my wall to remind myself of not only prayer and study, but even house chores and life chores. I am looking forward to being inspired, rather than doddle and wonder what to do sometimes. Thanks so much for posting! I’d love to be a blogger some day and just love your website and insights xx
Feel free to reach out any time! Always happy to help new bloggers!