How To Study The Bible For Beginners

Studying the Bible can seem daunting, but with the right approach it can be an enriching experience that brings you closer to God. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: start by reading a few verses a day, look up confusing parts, take notes, reflect on how it applies to your life, and find a study group.

In this comprehensive 3000 word guide, we will cover everything you need to know as a beginner to studying the Bible effectively. You’ll learn how to choose a translation, useful study methods and tools, tips for understanding context and meaning, and how to apply what you read to transform your spiritual life.

Choosing a Bible Translation

Literal vs. Thought-for-Thought

When selecting a Bible translation, one of the most important considerations is whether the translation is literal (word-for-word) or thought-for-thought. Literal translations like the English Standard Version (ESV) and New American Standard Bible (NASB) attempt to translate the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek words as directly as possible.

Thought-for-thought translations like the New International Version (NIV) and New Living Translation (NLT) focus more on capturing the meaning of phrases and passages.

Literal translations stay closer to the original wording and are useful for in-depth Bible study. However, they can sometimes be harder to read because ancient Hebrew and Greek do not translate word-for-word into modern English.

Thought-for-thought translations are usually easier to understand, but they take more liberties in interpretation. Most scholars recommend using both literal and thought-for-thought translations.

Popular English Translations

Here are some of the most popular English Bible translations:

• King James Version (KJV) – A literal translation completed in 1611. Its elegant, traditional language can be harder for modern readers to understand.
• New International Version (NIV) – A thought-for-thought translation first published in 1978. One of the most widely-read modern translations.
• English Standard Version (ESV) – A literal translation published in 2001. It updates the vocabulary of the Revised Standard Version.
• New Living Translation (NLT) – A thought-for-thought translation first published in 1996. It uses conversational language.
• New King James Version (NKJV) – A literal translation first published in 1982. It updates the language of the original King James Version.

There are also some great study Bibles available. The ESV Study Bible and NIV Study Bible include thousands of study notes to enhance understanding of the text.

Study Bibles

Study Bibles include extra content to help readers better understand the meaning and context of Bible passages. They generally contain extensive study notes and introductions to each book that provide background information. Many also include supplementary articles, maps, charts, and diagrams.

Here is a comparison of some popular study Bible editions:

The best study Bible depends on your preferred translation and study style. Comparing a few options can help you find the one that is most helpful for your needs. High quality study Bibles make the text more accessible and allow for deeper understanding.

Bible Study Methods and Tools

Read Consistently and Take Notes

One of the best ways to study the Bible as a beginner is to get into a habit of reading it consistently. Setting aside even just 10-15 minutes a day to read a passage and take notes can make a big difference over time.

As you read, write down key words, main ideas, questions, and anything that stands out to you. Apps like YouVersion make it easy to highlight and take notes digitally as you read on your phone or tablet.

Look Up Unfamiliar Terms

The Bible was written thousands of years ago in ancient languages and cultures, so it’s common to come across unfamiliar names, places, and concepts. When you stumble on a word you don’t understand, take the time to look it up in a Bible dictionary or online resource like GotQuestions.org.

Understanding key terms will help you grasp the meaning of passages.

Use Study Guides and Commentaries

Study guides and commentaries provide helpful explanations and background information to aid your understanding. For beginners, I recommend the Life Application Study Bible and David Guzik’s online commentary.

Consult these secondary resources after your own initial observation to gain valuable insights and see different perspectives.

Learn Basic Bible Structure

Knowing the basic structure of the Bible will equip you to study more effectively. The Bible is a collection of 66 books divided into the Old Testament and New Testament. It contains different genres like poetry, prophecy, history, and letters.

Learning the major divisions, types of literature, and timeline of the Bible provides helpful context for study.

Understanding Context and Meaning

Consider Historical Context

When studying the Bible, it is crucial to consider the historical and cultural context in which it was written. Knowing the author, audience, time period, and setting can provide insight into the meaning of the text.

For example, understanding the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt gives greater significance to God’s commands in Exodus and Leviticus. Consulting Bible dictionaries, commentaries, and books on Bible backgrounds can enrich your understanding of the context.

Pay Attention to Literary Style

The Bible contains different types of literature – poetry, prophecy, epistles, gospel narratives, and more. Recognizing the literary style can help you properly interpret the meaning. Poetry and prophecy often use symbolic language, whereas epistles contain didactic instruction.

Gospels record historical narrative combined with Jesus’ teachings. Paying attention to grammar, language, and genre gives clues to each passage’s intended meaning.

Reference Cross Passages

Since the Bible is one unified book, you can deepen understanding of specific passages by comparing them with other relevant verses. For example, Old Testament prophecies and symbols are interpreted clearly in the New Testament.

Paul’s teachings in one epistle often complement his writings in another. By cross-referencing passages that use similar vocabulary or cover the same topic, you gain a more thorough perspective.

Learn Principles of Interpretation

Certain principles, like context, historical background, and cross-referencing, guide proper Bible interpretation. Additionally, scripture should be understood in light of God’s overarching revelation and redemptive plan.

Passages contain a single meaning based on authorial intent, although they may have multiple applications today. Appropriate methods of interpretation account for literary style, avoid personal biases, compare translations, and consult commentaries.

Learning and applying sound principles of Biblical interpretation helps unlock the meaning of scripture.

Applying What You Read

Let Scripture Transform You

Reading the Bible should lead to life transformation, not just head knowledge. Ask God to speak to you through His word and be open to how He wants to change your heart and mind. Pray for wisdom to apply what you read. As James 1:22 says, “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.”

Putting Scripture into practice demonstrates that God’s word is active and alive in you (Hebrews 4:12). This could involve changing your attitude, priorities, habits, relationships, or any area God reveals needs work. Be patient with yourself as growing spiritually is a lifelong process.

Find Personal Application

Look for ways the passages you read apply to your life right now. Ask questions like: How does this verse relate to my circumstances? What does this teach me about God, others, or myself? Is there an example to follow or avoid? What adjustments do I need to make?

The goal is not just to understand the text but to live it out. The more you see Scripture’s personal relevance, the more meaningful it will become.

Join a Bible Study Group

Studying the Bible with others provides accountability, encouragement, and insight you can’t get on your own. According to a Barna study, only 28% of Christians regularly participate in a small group or Bible study.

But those who do are twice as likely to serve the poor, share their faith, memorize Scripture, and lead others spiritually. A community of believers can help you apply God’s word in thoughtful ways. Look for a Bible study at your church, among friends, or online.

Conclusion

Studying the Bible does not need to be complicated if you follow these fundamental strategies tailored for beginners. Start simply by reading consistently, taking notes, and looking up terms you don’t understand. Then grow your understanding of context, meaning, and personal application over time.

With some guidance and commitment, God’s Word will come alive to you in new ways.