How to Start Studying the Bible: 7 Simple Steps

To start studying the Bible, pick a translation you can read, begin with the Gospel of John instead of Genesis, and read one chapter a day. After each chapter, ask two questions and write your answers. Start with 10 to 15 minutes. Add a guide if you want structure.

How do I start studying the Bible?

Follow these seven steps in order.

Step 1: Drop the pressure

There is no wrong way to start. You do not need to read ancient Greek, own a fancy journal, or start at page one. You only need to open the Bible.

Many people wait months because they are afraid of doing it wrong. Starting messy beats not starting.

Step 2: Pick a translation you can read

Choose a translation that sounds like normal speech to you. A modern one is fine, and you are not cheating by using it.

• NLT (New Living Translation) reads like a conversation.
• NIV (New International Version) is a middle ground between readable and word-for-word.
• ESV (English Standard Version) is a bit more formal but still clear.

Use whichever one you own, or try a few in a free Bible app. You can switch later.

Step 3: Do not start at Genesis

Start with a short, clear book instead. Reading straight from page one is how many people stall in Leviticus.

• John explains who Jesus is.
• Mark is the shortest Gospel and moves fast.
• Psalms is a good fit when you need comfort first.
• James is short and practical.

Our post on the easiest book of the Bible to study first goes through each option.

Step 4: Start small

Start with 10 to 15 minutes. Five minutes of real reading beats an hour of zoning out.

Here is a simple starting plan:

1. Pick one book. John is a good choice.
2. Read one chapter a day.
3. Ask: "What did I learn about God?"
4. Ask: "What does this mean for my life today?"
5. Write your answers if you like notes. Skip it if you do not.

Step 5: Get a guide

A guide gives you context and tells you what to read next. The Bible was written over a long time, by many authors, in other cultures. A little help makes a big difference.

You can study without one. If you want structure, our page on how to choose a Bible study guide for beginners has a checklist and a way to try one before you buy.

Step 6: Find a time you can repeat

Pick a window in your real day, not an ideal one. Morning, a lunch break, or after bedtime all work. Pick one and attach it to something you already do, like your first cup of coffee.

Step 7: Give yourself grace

You will miss days. You will read things you do not understand. That is normal.

The Bible is not a test you can fail. If you miss a day, open it the next day. You do not have to catch up.

A section for new Christians

If you are new to the faith, this part is for you. Three things help most.

You do not have to know everything

You are allowed to be new at this. You can ask questions that feel basic. Many people who have read the Bible for years still have passages they do not understand. Start where you are.

The Bible is not a rulebook

The Bible has instructions, but it is mostly a story. It is the story of God and people. It helps to read it as a story with a main character, not as a list of rules to pass.

You will not understand everything at first

Some passages are hard, even for people who have studied them for decades. If something does not make sense, mark it, move on, and come back later. Understanding comes in layers.

A few more tips for new Christians:

• Skip the study Bible for now. Footnotes can overwhelm you at the start. A clean, readable Bible is enough.
• Write in your Bible. Circle or underline what stands out. It is a tool.
• Find one person to ask. A friend, a mentor, or someone at church can answer your questions.
• Do not compare. Someone who has studied for 20 years is not ahead of you in a race. There is no leaderboard.

The quick-start version

Short on time? Use this checklist.

1. Pick a readable translation. NLT or NIV are common choices.
2. Start with John. Do not start with Genesis.
3. Read one chapter a day. About 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Ask two questions after each chapter.
5. Get a guide if you want structure. See how to choose a Bible study guide for beginners.
6. Give yourself grace when you miss a day.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to pray before studying the Bible?

You do not have to. Many people find a short prayer helps them focus, such as asking God to help you understand what you are about to read. It can take ten seconds.

How long does it take to get comfortable with Bible study?

It varies. Many people find the first week or two the most awkward. A short, repeatable routine helps it start to feel normal.

Can I use a Bible app instead of a physical Bible?

Yes. Apps are good for reading on the go, and many have free reading plans. The main downside is distraction from other notifications. Turning on do-not-disturb can help.

What if my family or friends are not into Bible study?

You do not need anyone's permission to study the Bible, and you do not have to announce it. You can start quietly, on your own terms.