Introduction to the Bible: God’s Love Letter

The Bible is not a typical book; it is a collection of 66 books written over 1,500 years. Christians believe that through the Bible, God communicates His acts and words directly to people.

The word "Testament" simply means a covenant, which is an arrangement that defines the relationship between God and humans.

• Old Testament (39 Books): Documents the history of Israel and the Law. It shows that people failed to live up to God's standard.

• New Testament (27 Books): Begins with Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and shows how God established a new, perfect relationship through Him.

What is in the Bible?

The books are named after their authors, recipients (letters), or subjects (history, poetry).

The New Testament: The Good News

The New Testament is the best place to start because it focuses entirely on Jesus.

• The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John): These are the first four books and share the "good news" (the meaning of the word Gospel) of Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

• Acts: Chronicles the actions of Jesus’ followers after His ascension.

• The Letters (Epistles): Written by Jesus' followers to early Christians, helping us understand how to live out the Gospel in our own lives.

Where to Begin Reading

We know it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Many people wonder: Do I start at Genesis? Should I pick a random page?

A great plan is to begin with the Gospel of Mark or the Gospel of John. These are eyewitness accounts written specifically to convince you that Jesus is the Son of God and Savior.

• The Gospel of Mark is a fast-paced, action-oriented account.

• The Gospel of John focuses on deep theological truths and Jesus' conversations.

6 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Bible Experience

To make God's Word come alive, you need a simple plan.

1. Choose an Understandable Version: I recommend the New Living Translation (NLT) for readability or a Study Bible in the English Standard Version (ESV) or New International Version (NIV) for accuracy.

2. Read a Little Every Day: Start with 5–10 minutes—less time spent, but more time remembering, is always better. Consistency is the most important thing.

3. Pray Before You Start: The Bible is God's love letter. Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and guide you as you read.

4. Work Through One Book: Instead of flicking around, commit to reading one small book (like John, Philippians, or Ephesians) one chapter at a time.

5. Look for the Truth: When you read, ask yourself two key questions:

   • What does this indicate about God to me?

   • What does this tell me about how to live?

6. Write It Down: If a verse "flies off the page," jot it down. This helps you absorb the message and carry God's Word with you throughout the day.