“Walking with Jesus Through Scripture” “How can I see Jesus more clearly as I read the Bible?”

If you’re new to following Jesus, you might be wondering how to even start reading the Bible. Questions like, “Which book should I read first?”, “What am I supposed to be looking for?”, or “Why is this important?” might be running through your head. You’re definitely not alone—lots of people feel the same way at the beginning. That’s why this blog is here: to walk you through a simple, step-by-step guide to help you start reading the Bible in a way that actually makes sense and means something to you.

Start with Prayer

The most valuable and obvious place to start when seeking to know Jesus, is in the place of fellowship with the Holy Spirit in prayer. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth who testifies of Jesus.

“When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me, John 15:26

•Before reading, ask the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of your understanding (John 14:26, Ephesians 1:18 ).

•A simple prayer: “Lord, help me understand Your Word and apply it to my life.”

Choose a Beginner-Friendly Bible Translation

The KJV Bible is a bible commonly brought by, or gifted to new Christians. It is also a bible new converts struggle to understand because of it’s language. For this reason, some Christians supplement reading the KJV with study tools to understand difficult phrases.

•Versions like NIV (New International Version), NLT (New Living Translation), or ESV (English Standard Version) are easier to read for beginners.

•Avoid starting with KJV unless you’re comfortable with old English.

Begin with the Right Books

When you read the Bible, some books are harder to understand because of the way they're written, the culture they come from, or the type of writing they use. Take Leviticus for example: Readers often struggle to connect ancient purity laws with present-day faith. Causing them to wonder; How do these detailed laws, rituals, sacrificial systems, and ceremonial instructions, apply to them?

Depend upon the Holy Spirit when reading any book that appears challenging. The Holy Spirit, is the person who can open your eyes to understand how this book sets up the need for Jesus as the ultimate High Priest and sacrifice.

Remember: Not every book is easy for a new believer. A good order to begin:

1.Gospel of John – learn about Jesus’ life and love.

2.Mark – simple and action-focused on Jesus’ works.

3.Acts – the story of the early church and Christian growth.

4.Philippians / Ephesians / James – practical letters for Christian living.

(Leave books like Leviticus, Ezekiel, or Revelation for later.)

Use the “SOAP” Method of Bible Study

No, the SOAP Method has nothing to do with physically bathing! But everything to do with how you engage the Word of God for spiritual transformation, as you daily renew your mind by the Spirit and the Word of God.

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

SOAP requires you to:

•S – Scripture: Read a small portion (a chapter or few verses).

•O – Observation: What does it say? Who is speaking? What is happening?

•A – Application: How can this apply to my life today?

•P – Prayer: Talk to God about what you read.

Consistency is Key (Even in Small Steps)

The best advice you could receive concerning your daily time in the Word of God, is stay consistent. Do not read the bible, so that you finish it and say that you are done. You can not speed up God’s plan for your life, but you can commit your life to God by consistently dedicating a time in the day to read his Word.

•Start with 10–15 minutes daily rather than trying to read the whole Bible quickly.

•Consistency is more important than speed.

Use a Notebook or Journal

In this Digital Age, people are putting down journals and replacing them with laptops and iPad. For you, this may not be your preferred method for journaling, which is why you should always choose the best note taking method for you. Remember: All note taking devices and resources can be used to help you draw closer to the Lord.

•Write down verses that stand out.

•Note questions to ask a pastor, mentor, or study group.

•Track your growth and prayers.

Join a Bible Study or Church Group

If you have not done so already, then don’t waste any more time before joining a bible study, church group

•Learning with others helps you grow and get answers.

•Fellowship keeps you strong (Hebrews 10:25).

Focus on Relationship, Not Just Knowledge

This is where some believers stumble in their faith. If your focus when reading the Scriptures is only knowledge, knowledge and more knowledge, you will miss the most important truth of your Christian faith: Your relationship with God in Jesus Christ. Knowledge without the founding and grounding truth of the Love of God in the life of Jesus in your heart, will produce arrogance.

“……Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.” 1 Corinthians 18:1

•The Bible is not just information—it’s transformation.

•Ask: “What is God teaching me about Himself, about myself, and about living for Him?”

Use Helpful Tools (as you grow in faith )

•A good Study Bible (like NIV Study Bible).

•Bible apps (YouVersion, Blue Letter Bible).

•Commentaries (once you’re more comfortable).

Final Word of Encouragement for New Converts:

Your hunger to know more about God has led you to desire to seek God in His Word ( His daily bread). Don’t feel pressured to understand everything at once. The Bible is a lifelong journey. God reveals His truth little by little as you walk with Him (Psalm 119:105). God promises you in Jeremiah 29: 13: And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.