on the journey of reading the Bible is both a profound and transformative experience. The Bible, with its diverse array of books, encompasses history, prophecy, poetry, and doctrine, offering timeless wisdom and divine truths. However, for many, the question arises: in what order should one read the Bible? The structure and content can seem overwhelming, and without a guided approach, it is easy to feel lost amidst its pages.
To facilitate a meaningful engagement with scripture, various reading sequences have been developed. Each sequence serves a unique purpose, catering to different spiritual needs and learning styles. Whether you are seeking to understand the chronological flow of biblical events, dive into the life and teachings of Jesus, or explore specific themes such as grace or justice, there is a reading plan tailored for you.
This article outlines 11 reading sequences in what order should i read the bible, each with accompanying Bible verses, to help you navigate the sacred text with clarity and purpose.
In What Order Should I Read The Bible
To get a coherent understanding of the Bible, start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to grasp the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, then move to Genesis for the foundational stories of creation and early history.
Following this, you can read the other books of the Old and New Testaments to see how God’s plan unfolds through history and prophecy.
I will now explain each step in more depth.
1. Chronological Order
Reading the Bible in chronological order immerses you in the unfolding of God’s story as it happened through history. This sequence starts with the creation in Genesis and follows the timeline of events through to the early church in Acts and the epistles.
Key Verses
- Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
- Exodus 3:14 – “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.'”
- 1 Samuel 16:13 – “So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David.”
Benefits
Reading chronologically allows you to witness the development of God’s plan through history, providing context to the prophetic writings and the life of Jesus Christ.
2. Beginning with the Gospels
The Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—offer a direct introduction to the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Starting here provides immediate insight into the heart of Christian faith.
Key Verses
- Matthew 1:21 – “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
- Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
- John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Benefits
Beginning with the Gospels places Christ at the forefront of your reading, highlighting His pivotal role in salvation history and grounding your understanding in His life and work.
3. Thematic Reading Plans
Thematic reading plans organize scripture around central themes such as grace, justice, or love. These plans can provide a focused study on how a particular theme is developed throughout the Bible.
Key Verses
- Psalm 103:8 – “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.”
- Micah 6:8 – “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
- 1 Corinthians 13:13 – “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
Benefits
Thematic reading enriches your understanding of specific biblical concepts and how they interconnect across different books and authors.
4. Historical Books First
Starting with the historical books (Genesis through Esther) provide a narrative foundation that sets the stage for the rest of the Bible. This approach highlights the history of Israel and God’s dealings with His people.
Key Verses
- Genesis 12:2-3 – “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
- Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
- Esther 4:14 – “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Benefits
Reading the historical books first lays a chronological and contextual groundwork that enriches the understanding of subsequent prophetic, poetic, and doctrinal writings.
5. Prophetic Books Next
After the historical books, delving into the prophetic books (Isaiah through Malachi) unveils God’s messages to His people through the prophets. This sequence sheds light on the fulfillment of prophecies in the New Testament.
Key Verses
- Isaiah 9:6 – “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
- Jeremiah 29:11 – “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'”
- Malachi 3:1 – “‘I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,’ says the Lord Almighty.”
Benefits
Reading the prophetic books after the historical accounts helps to see how God’s warnings and promises unfolded, providing a deeper appreciation of His sovereignty and faithfulness.
6. Wisdom Literature and Poetry
The books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon provide profound insights into human experience, wisdom, and worship. These texts can be read at any point to enhance devotion and understanding.
Key Verses
- Job 1:21 – “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”
- Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Benefits
Wisdom literature and poetry offer timeless reflections on life’s complexities and divine guidance, making them essential for spiritual growth and contemplation.
7. Pauline Epistles
The epistles of Paul, from Romans to Philemon, provide theological depth and practical guidance for Christian living. These letters are foundational for understanding the doctrines of grace, faith, and church life.
Key Verses
- Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 – “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
- Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Benefits
Reading the Pauline epistles equips believers with sound theology and practical advice for living out their faith in diverse contexts.
8. General Epistles
The general epistles, including Hebrews, James, and the letters of Peter, John, and Jude, address specific challenges and encouragements for early Christians. These writings complement Paul’s epistles and broaden understanding.
Key Verses
- Hebrews 11:1 – “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
- James 1:22 – “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
- 1 Peter 2:9 – “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
Benefits
The general epistles provide a diverse range of perspectives on faith, endurance, and Christian conduct, enriching the broader scriptural narrative.
9. Apocalyptic Literature
Revelation and parts of Daniel contain apocalyptic visions that reveal God’s ultimate victory over evil. These books are often read with caution due to their symbolic language and complex imagery.
Key Verses
- Daniel 7:13-14 – “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory, and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom will never be destroyed.”
- Revelation 21:4 – “‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
- Revelation 22:12 – “‘Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”
Benefits
Apocalyptic literature offers a vision of hope and assurance of God’s final victory, encouraging steadfast faith amidst trials.
10. New Testament First
Reading the New Testament before the Old Testament can provide immediate insights into the life
and teachings of Jesus, as well as the formation of the early church. This approach can illuminate the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the new covenant established through Christ.
Key Verses
- Matthew 5:17 – “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
- Acts 2:42 – “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
- Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”
Benefits
Reading the New Testament first helps to understand the new covenant and the establishment of the church, setting a framework for exploring the Old Testament in light of Christ’s fulfillment.
11. Combination Reading Plans
Combination reading plans blend passages from both the Old and New Testaments, often including Psalms or Proverbs for daily devotion. These plans provide a balanced diet of scripture, enriching daily reading with a variety of biblical genres.
Key Verses
- Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Benefits
Combination reading plans allow readers to engage with the breadth of the Bible daily, fostering a holistic understanding and appreciation of God’s word.
Conclusion
The Bible, with its diverse books and genres, offers various reading sequences to cater to different preferences and goals. Whether one chooses to read chronologically, thematically, or by focusing on specific sections, each approach provides unique insights into the divine narrative. By selecting a reading plan that resonates with their spiritual journey, readers can deepen their understanding, enrich their faith, and draw closer to the heart of God.
In undertaking this sacred journey, may each reader find the wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration embedded within the ancient words of scripture, allowing them to navigate life with renewed purpose and hope.
