The Field Guide to the Bible Reading PlanSample

What Is the Bible?

The Bible is a collection of ancient writings that tell the unfolding story of God’s relationship with humanity (that’s you, and everyone ever born).

Chuck Missler describes the Bible as “an integrated message system from outside our time domain.”

It was written by more than 40 different writers over a period of more than 1500 years. You could say that the Bible is actually a library of books all bound up in one big book.

For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21 ESV

All Scripture is inspired by God. 2 Timothy 3:16 NLT

The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. Isaiah 40:8 ESV

The Bible says that its authors were ”moved or inspired by God” to speak and write. What’s important here is that God inspired the Bible’s writers. Over time these writings endured because people throughout history have connected with God through them, and recognised them as being more important than ordinary books.

The Bible won’t tell you everything there is to know about life or God. It won’t tell you how tall Jesus was or what car you should buy or who to marry.

But the Bible does tell you about God’s relationship with us.

And that’s really important.

Because we read it as part of this relationship and not just to know stuff, it’s OK to have questions or not know what to do with certain parts of it.

Some of the Bible is confusing and unusual and can seem weird but as you read it look for Jesus on every page. The entire Bible ultimately points to Jesus, so let’s get started with your reading today, pick a book and reach into the story looking for His relationship with you. All 66 books are worth exploring, but remember it is a library of books, so you don’t need to start with the beginning (Genesis).

Action:

If it’s your first time reading the Bible start with Luke in the New Testament and enjoy the journey of the life of Jesus.

If you have read it before pick a book, and linger in the book reading over it several times.