Where Should a New Christian Start Reading the Bible? | Daily Devotional & Bible Study

In this Bible Study 101 Q&A, I answer questions you sent in. Where should a brand new believer start reading? Which Bible should you buy, and does the translation matter? I also talk about the SOAP method, the Hearing Jesus for Kids show, and whether women can be pastors.

Questions this episode answers

Where should a new Christian start reading the Bible?

The Gospel of John is a great place to start because it focuses on who Jesus is. Genesis is another good choice because it sets the stage for the rest of Scripture. If you're stuck, pray and pick one, since God can use any part of His word.

Which Bible translation should I buy?

A study Bible matters more than the translation, because its notes and book introductions give you helpful context. The NLT and NIV are among the easiest to read. Visit a Christian bookstore, look up a verse you know like John 3:16, and choose the one you can follow.

Is the SOAP method the same as looking for God first?

They are close. SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer, so observation comes before application. Looking for God first means your observation focuses on who God is and what He is doing before you ask what it means for you.

Timestamps

04:27 Where should someone new to faith start reading?

07:22 Which Bible should I buy?

10:11 Is the SOAP method the same as looking for God first?

12:35 Can you tell us the chapters ahead of time?

13:57 The Hearing Jesus for Kids show

17:53 The rescue of 136 children

27:22 Can women be pastors?

33:01 How to send in your question

Links

If you love learning about the women who served alongside Paul in the early church, join us in Rome with Bible Study Live, where we visit the catacombs and walk the Appian Way.

Bible Study Live is a small-group Bible study trip with Rachael Groll. Study Scripture where it happened in Rome, or slow down for a contemplative Bible study retreat in Maui. Dates and details at BibleStudyLive.org

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