How Christian Leaders Recommend Studying the Bible: Start, Read, and Build a Habit

Several Christian leaders offered straightforward, overlapping advice for people who want a dependable way to study the Bible. Their core theme: start reading regularly, pay attention to what Scripture says about God and Christ, and combine personal reading with trustworthy teaching. Practical small choices—which Bible to use, where you read, and a steady routine—matter more than an advanced study method at the outset.

• Choose a readable Bible. Pick a translation you can understand so reading doesn't become a chore.
• Open the book. One leader framed it simply: you need a book, a look, and a nook—meaning a Bible, the act of opening it, and a regular place to read.
• Read daily and consistently. Short, regular readings of both Old and New Testaments are recommended rather than sporadic long sessions.
• Ask God for help in understanding as you read. Leaders encouraged brief prayer as you approach the text.

• Watch for statements about God's character and actions. Note phrases that describe who God is—holy, merciful, patient—and actions he takes.
• Look for Christ across Scripture. One suggestion was to read with an eye for how the Old and New Testaments point to Jesus and his work for sinners.
• Track narrative acts: deliverance, judgment, mercy—these concrete events reveal how God works in history.

• Gospel of John is a common recommendation for new believers because it presents a clear account of Jesus' life.

• Choose the entry point that helps you keep reading consistently.

Support your reading with teaching and resources

• Use accessible resources. One leader recommended Michael Lawrence's Biblical Theology for the Church as a simple guide to reading for what Scripture says about God and Christ.

• Make a reading place and time (your nook). Consistency—going to the same place at the same time—was emphasized as the habit that actually changes how you live.

Short example plan (implied by the leaders' advice)

• Pray briefly before reading, asking for understanding.
• Take notes on what the passage says about God and any references to Christ.
• Listen to a sermon or teaching regularly that explains and applies Scripture.