The Bible can feel intimidating at first.

It is a large book made up of many smaller books, written in different styles, across many centuries. If you are new to faith, you may wonder where to begin.

A good place to start is with Jesus.

The first four books of the New Testament — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John — are called the Gospels. They tell the story of Jesus' life, teaching, miracles, death, and resurrection.

You do not need to understand everything right away. Start slowly. Read with an open heart. Ask God to help you understand.

John is a great place to begin because it helps us understand who Jesus is and why He came.

As you read, ask yourself:

• What does this show me about Jesus?
• What does this show me about God’s love?
• What does this teach me about faith?
• What might God be saying to me?

Suggested starting point: John 1

Mark is the shortest Gospel and moves quickly through the life and ministry of Jesus.

It is a good next step if you want to see what Jesus did, how He served people, how He taught, and how He gave His life for us.

Suggested starting point: Mark 1

Luke gives special attention to the way Jesus welcomed outsiders, cared for the hurting, noticed the overlooked, and brought hope to people in need.

If you have ever wondered whether God sees ordinary, broken, struggling, or forgotten people, Luke is a beautiful book to read.

Suggested starting point: Luke 1

Acts tells the story of what happened after Jesus rose from the dead and the Holy Spirit empowered His followers.

It shows how the early church prayed, worshipped, shared life, preached the good news, cared for people, and spread the message of Jesus.

Suggested starting point: Acts 1

The Psalms are prayers, songs, and poems written to God.

They include joy, grief, fear, anger, worship, confession, trust, and hope. If you are not sure how to pray, the Psalms can help you find words.

Suggested starting point: Psalm 23

Proverbs offers practical wisdom for everyday life.

It speaks about choices, words, relationships, work, humility, integrity, anger, money, and the fear of the Lord.

Suggested starting point: Proverbs 3

If you are wondering where to begin, try this simple reading path:

1. John
2. Mark
3. Luke
4. Acts
5. Psalms
6. Proverbs
7. Romans

You do not need to rush. Read slowly. Pause when something stands out. Ask questions. Write down what you notice. Let God's Word begin shaping your heart and life over time.

As you read the Bible, it may help to ask a few simple questions:

• What does this passage teach me about God?
• What does this passage teach me about people?
• What does this passage show me about Jesus?
• Is there a promise to receive?
• Is there a command to obey?
• Is there an example to follow?
• Is there something I should pray about?

You do not need to answer every question every time. These are simply tools to help you listen, reflect, and grow.

Before you read, you can pray something simple like this:

• "God, help me understand Your Word. Show me who You are. Help me see Jesus clearly. Give me an open heart, and teach me how to follow You. Amen."

Prayer reminds us that reading the Bible is not just about gathering information. It is about growing in relationship with God.