HOW TO READ THE BIBLE

  The Bible makes fascinating reading. In fact, its accounts and moral lessons are so well-known that they play a major role in the literature of many languages. The Bible helps us get to know our Creator, Jehovah God. It is also a deep source of practical wisdom. A Bible proverb says: “Wisdom is the prime thing. Acquire wisdom; and with all that you acquire, acquire understanding.” (Proverbs 4:7) How can you benefit most from your Bible reading?
 
  Try to schedule your reading when you are normally most alert. And don’t skim over the material. Your aim should be to fill your mind with God’s thoughts and to assimilate them. After you finish a period of reading, reflect on what you have read, and compare it with what you already know. This will deepen your understanding and appreciation.—Psalm 143:5.
  Some may wonder, ‘Where in the Bible should I begin reading?’ Of course, you can start at the beginning. 

However, some first-time readers find it easier to start with the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—the accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry. Then some proceed to the beautifully written and wisdom-packed poetic books—Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes. After that, your appetite may be whetted for other parts of the Bible. (See below.)* And do not adopt the false notion that you only need to read what is commonly called the New Testament. Remember, “all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial.”—2 Timothy 3:16.
 
  A particularly effective way to study the Bible is topic by topic. For example, the study aid What Does the Bible Really Teach? used by Jehovah’s Witnesses in their public ministry includes such timely subjects as “How to Make Your Family Life Happy,” “Worship That God Approves,” and “Where Are the 
Dead?” 

 
* READING THE BIBLE BY SUBJECT
 
The origin of life and man’s fall into sin  Genesis
 
The founding of ancient Israel  Exodus to Deuteronomy
 
Action-packed accounts  Joshua to Esther
 
Moving poetry and song  Job, Psalms, Song of Solomon
 
Wisdom for living  Proverbs, Ecclesiastes
 
Prophecy and moral guidance  Isaiah to Malachi and Revelation
 
Jesus’ life and teaching  Matthew to John
 
The establishment and spread of Christianity  Acts
 
Letters to the congregations  Romans to Jude