The Bible is not just a book, it is God’s living Word. Yet, many believers struggle with where to begin reading. Some are open to Genesis and get overwhelmed by Leviticus. Others start with Matthew but never make it to Revelation.
The truth is: the Bible is one story of God’s love and salvation, but it’s written across 66 books, by over 40 authors, over a span of 1,500 years. Understanding how to approach it makes all the difference.
If you have ever asked, “What is the best order to read the Bible?” you are not alone. The answer depends on your spiritual journey. New believers, seasoned Christians, and those looking for deep study may benefit from different approaches.
Before we begin, let us pray:
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word. As we reflect on how to best read the Bible, guide us by Your Spirit. Open our eyes to see Christ in every page, our hearts to receive wisdom, and our lives to be transformed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
What Makes the Bible Unique?
The Bible is unlike any other book. It is:
- Inspired by God: “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16).
- Living and active: “Sharper than any double-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12).
- Unified in message: Despite different authors, it carries one storyline—God’s plan of redemption through Christ.
The Bible is divided into:
- Old Testament (39 books): The story of creation, Israel, prophecy, law, and preparation for the Messiah.
- New Testament (27 books): The life of Christ, the church, and the hope of eternal life.
It contains history, poetry, prophecy, law, gospels, letters, and apocalyptic visions. Reading it requires prayer, patience, and openness to God’s Spirit.
Prayer
Lord, remind me that Your Word is not just information but transformation. Teach me to read not only with my eyes but with my heart. Amen.
Traditional Order: Genesis to Revelation
The simplest way is to read straight through from beginning to end. Genesis introduces creation, the fall, and God’s promises. Exodus to Deuteronomy shows God’s covenant with Israel. The historical books (Joshua to Esther) tell Israel’s story. Psalms and Proverbs bring worship and wisdom. The prophets point to Christ.
The New Testament then fulfills the Old: the Gospels reveal Jesus, Acts shows the early church, the letters guide believers, and Revelation points to our eternal hope.
Strengths of this order:
- You see the Bible in the order it is printed.
- You trace God’s story from beginning to end.
Challenges:
- Some books (Leviticus, Numbers, Chronicles) can feel heavy for beginners.
- It requires discipline not to get stuck.
Prayer for Perseverance
Father, as I read Your Word from start to finish, give me strength not to grow weary. Let every page remind me of Your faithfulness from Genesis to Revelation. Amen.
Thematic Order: Understanding God’s Storyline
Another helpful method is to read the Bible by themes. Scripture is one great story: Creation → Fall → Redemption → Restoration.
Here’s a suggested order:
- Genesis 1–3 – Creation and the Fall.
- John 1 – Jesus as the Word through whom creation came.
- Exodus – God’s covenant and redemption.
- Isaiah – Prophecies of the Messiah.
- The Gospels – The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
- Acts – The spread of the church.
- Romans & Galatians – Salvation explained.
- Revelation 21–22 – The restoration of all things.
This approach helps you see how everything points to Jesus.
Prayer for Understanding God’s Story:
Lord, as I read the Bible by themes, let me see the grand story of Your redemption. Help me to find Jesus in every chapter. Amen.
Chronological Order: Reading the Bible as Events Happened
The Bible is not arranged in strict historical order. For example, Job likely lived around the time of Genesis. The prophets ministered during the periods of the Kings and the Chronicles. Reading chronologically puts the events in sequence.
Examples of adjustments:
- Read Job after Genesis 11.
- Read Psalms alongside David’s story in Samuel.
- Read prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah during the corresponding kings.
- Read the Gospels in parallel (harmony).
Why this helps:
- The Bible becomes a connected story.
- Historical context makes prophecy and letters come alive.
Prayer for Wisdom Across Time
Lord, as I trace the Bible in historical order, open my eyes to see how Your plan unfolded in history and continues in my life. Amen.
The Best Order for New Believers
If you’re new to the Bible, it’s best not to start at Genesis and push through. Begin with the Gospels.
Suggested Order for Beginners:
- John – Understand who Jesus is.
- Mark – See Jesus in action.
- Matthew – Learn Jesus’ teachings.
- Luke – See Jesus’ compassion.
- Acts – The story of the early church.
- Genesis & Exodus – The foundations of creation and God’s people.
- Psalms & Proverbs – Prayers and wisdom for daily life.
- Romans, Galatians, Ephesians – Understanding salvation and Christian living.
- Revelation 21–22 – The hope of eternity.
Prayer for New Readers
Lord Jesus, as I begin reading Your Word, draw me closer to You. Give me clarity to understand and strength to keep going. Amen.
The Best Order for Mature Believers
For believers who have read portions of Scripture before, reading straight through from Genesis to Revelation is powerful. This allows you to embrace the full counsel of God.
Tips for mature readers:
- Use a study Bible with notes.
- Read with a journal and prayer.
- Don’t skip “hard” books, God put them there for a reason.
- Pair the Old Testament with the New Testament to keep balance.
Prayer for Endurance
Father, as I go deeper into Your Word, strengthen me to embrace even the challenging parts. Reveal Your wisdom and keep me faithful. Amen.
Practical Reading Plans You Can Use
Here are proven plans that help many believers:
- One-Year Bible Plan: Read daily portions of the Old Testament, the New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs.
- Two-Year Plan: Slower pace, ideal for reflection.
- 90-Day Plan: Intensive, for those seeking immersion.
- Psalm & Proverb Plan: Read a Psalm a day for prayer, plus Proverbs for wisdom.
Consistency matters more than speed. Even reading one chapter daily will transform your life over time.
Prayer for Discipline
Lord, give me the discipline to read daily. Even when I feel tired or distracted, remind me that Your Word is life to my soul. Amen.
Lessons Learned from Reading the Whole Bible
When you complete the Bible, you discover:
- God’s Character: He is holy, merciful, faithful, and just.
- Christ is the Center: Every book points to Him.
- The Spirit Speaks: The Word is alive and speaks personally.
- Transformation Happens: Prayerful reading changes your heart and mind.
Reflection: The goal is not just finishing the Bible but letting the Bible finish its work in you.
Prayer of Transformation
Lord, may my reading of the Bible change me. Let me not only know the Word but live it daily. Amen.
Prayers for Bible Reading
Here are 5 short prayers you can use as you study:
Prayer for Understanding
Holy Spirit, open my eyes to understand the truth of Scripture.
Prayer for Perseverance
Lord, help me not to give up, but to keep reading even when it feels hard.
Prayer for Wisdom
Father, let Your Word be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Prayer for Transformation
Jesus, let my reading lead me closer to You and change my character.
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Thank You, Lord, for giving me Your Word as daily bread. Amen.
Conclusion: Walking with God from Genesis to Revelation
So, what is the best order to read the Bible? The answer is: it depends on where you are in your faith journey. Beginners may start with the Gospels. Others may read thematically or chronologically. Mature believers may read straight through.
But one truth stands firm: The best order is the one that keeps you reading consistently, prayerfully, and with an open heart to God’s Spirit.
As you begin your journey, remember: every chapter whispers Christ’s name, and every verse invites you closer to God.
Prayer
Lord, bless my journey through Your Word. Whether I begin in Genesis or John, may every page lead me to Jesus, my Savior. Fill me with wisdom, strengthen my faith, and draw me nearer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
