Your Guide to Understanding the Bible
The five steps in this guide will help you learn how to read and understand the Bible more so you can grow closer to God.
1. Find a translation you understand.
The Bible was written in three ancient languages. Each translation to your language represents years of work to help you process the Bible in a way that makes sense.
Throughout history, different scholars have translated the original biblical texts in slightly different ways. Some translations aim for a more literal rendering of the original text (such as ESV), while others aim for more modern phrasing (such as NLT). All versions fall somewhere between a word-for-word versus thought-for-thought translation.
The New International Version (NIV) falls right about in the middle, so it’s a great version to read from if you’re just getting started.
2. Pick a time, a place, and plan.
Are you a morning or night person? Do you like quiet places or bustling coffee shops? Do you learn by watching, listening, or reading? Do you sometimes read paper and other times digital?
Once you decide on a routine that works for you, start one of these Bible Plans or consider finding a paper Study Bible.
3. Uncover the context.
Think like a researcher and discover the story behind the story.
The Bible is a collection of 66 different books, written in three languages, across three continents, over a 1,500-year period by 40 different authors. Use tools like these to learn who the text was written to, when, where, and why.
4. Read slowly and ask questions.
There’s no need to rush. Take your time and get curious.
After studying the context, what questions do you still have? Use your questions as tools to help you dig deeper through prayer, study, and conversations with other Christians.
Consider joining a Life Group or signing up for Alpha at ICA. Life Groups and Alpha are safe places to make friends who'll help you process your questions about the Bible.
5. Pray and apply what you've learned.
The Bible is meant to transform us, not just inform us. The more we apply what we learn from God’s Word, the more we become like Jesus.
Ask God what He wants you to learn about Him and yourself.
Watch the Series
Follow along with ICA as we explore God's Word in a 2-week message series, How to Read the Bible.
