What is the right way to read or study the Bible?

Question

1. The order(sequence) to read.
2. Should we try to interpret difficult passages and verses?
3. Is there a need to memorize lines from the Bible?
4. What is the best version to use? eg. KJV, NIV and so on

Answer 1

Theres definitely a right & wrong way 2 read the Bible (why theres so many interpretations/religions). Iv read the whole Bible, some parts many times (I use the ESV, accurate & easy 2 read (see below). I know a lot of Biblical things but most important is do u know about being Born Anew (Jn 3:3,5)? Everything else Biblical is built on that (the NT Book of John is the place 2 start - chap.3 1rst - the whole Bible is connected 2 John). Im not religious under "church" type labels b/c the Bible is about eternal life not how many rituals u can do. Loving the truth 1rst will bring u 2 the true love of Jesus Christ.



The Bible severely warns us not 2 trust humans, not even ourselves (Jer 10:2-5,23; Is 2:22; Job 12:11; Prov 14:12; Acts 17:11). So carefully think over what I say. Dont just believe or dismiss what I write. That way u wont make the mistake many have, getting caught up in religious beliefs having nothing 2 do with knowing God (anything written about the Bible is by humans not Jesus - including books & commentaries).



Never forget: Neither a label, title, name, its history, size of membership nor the amount of time it has existed means anything - its whats behind them that makes it valid or a lie or not useful (even with respect 2 Bibles). Most Bibles contain the truth but many have too many errors.



Its best 2 use a version that'll give 1 the quickest path 2 the truth & 2 have the best chance of overcoming confusion, which comes along the way - especially 4 young peole - what u feed children spiritually will effect the outcome - imput = output (Always get a Bible that provides references 2 look up related texts). I have access 2 30+ translations. I have found the best 2 versions (1 or 2 others r almost as good but not needed. This is why I use these 2:



Unfortunately, theres many translations & not all r good. Being wise we know there cant b many versions that can b the best/close 2 the old texts. Theres 3 main types of translations with overlaps/mixtures within each catagory (dependant on agendas or philosophical approach - some may classify some in 1 catagory when they may fit in or belong in another - especially within B&C below - 2 a degree more than 1 method may b used 4 readability or depending on agendas or theology concepts - some overuse):



A. Word 4 word &/or literal translations

B. Dynamic equivalence or thought 4 thought or overused Literal

C. Concept 4 Concept or paraphrased or overused Literal



1a. Word 4 Word &/or Literal Trans.



Bible trans. I use r based on "word 4 word" &/or some "literal" translation methods - some literal added 4 easier reading. The reason is they adhere best 2 original text. The translations, best 1rst, r King James III (KJ III) (newest update) by J. P. Green - also published a Literal Translation & an Interlinear Version (IV) - includes Hebrew&Greek, **English Standard Version (ESV) - the "easiest good version" 2 read (a related update of Revised Standard Version (RSV - best older translation), New American Standard Bible (NASB) - (update: a little harder 2 read - moved 2 B - like NKJV it has sentence structure issues & more errors), & Amplified Version (AV) (harder 2 read than the others & sentence structure/agenda issues).



1b. Old English Versions



Regrettably all other English translations have inherent problems & errors. The Old English versions like the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), Revised English Version (REV), Darby & other similar versions r written in old English thats not been used 4 over 175 years. While it may be poeticly nice the Bible isnt about poetry. The Bible's hard enough 2 understand without trying 2 decifer a long outdated language - even word 4 word/literal methods wont help much.



The truth's hidden in the Bible & it takes lots of time & energy 2 mine it as is. Theres many well-meaning people whom will tell u King James is the only "authorized" version (KJV is authorized by a "human" king not God). Many words used in old English rnt even rightly definable any more. Sadly, the Catholic church started on a wrong platform & continued 2 add more twisted teachings (Other religions followed suit 2 1 degree or another) & Bibles reinforcing their wrong teachings followed (rewritten 2 suit them). Use of old English only helps promote Biblical ignorance.



2. Dynamic Equivelance &/or Thought 4 Thought



Its good 2 stay away from all other popular versions b/c they, 2 1 degree or another have rewritten passages/verses. While many were well-meaning they watered down or caused significant changes 2 the meaning of God's actual message &/or block the true power of God's word from being rightly understood.



Many well-meaning people tried 2 make versions so-called easier or more pleasurable to read - the Bible isnt a storybook or novel - but they were trying 2 please humans instead of God. They used dynamic equivalence &/or thought 4 thought &/or used some literal/word 4 word methods of interpretation thrown in where the original was obviously better. Where these methods went wrong is b/c they tried 2 1 degree or another 2 rewrite verses in their own words (calling them so-called modern English, etc.) or styles. The more liberally applied the worse the version (especially 4 hidden agendas).



These versions include: sad 2 say all Cc versions [especially with inclusion of so-called "lost" or Apocrypha books, which dont adhere 2 the foundation/structure of the rest of the Bible](some wont like this but its true), the (NASB), REKJV, NKJV, NRSV, HCSV, CEV, GNB, NCV & others with similarly applied methods.



3. Paraphrased or Free Translation & over usage of Literal



This catagory includes but isnt limited 2 the LT, NIV, NIRV, NLV, NLT, TNIV, NLV, The Way - Paraphrased + the Message Bible (worst offenders but all versions listed here r almost as bad as the Paraphrased & Message Bible - they lean toward making the Bible more like bedtime stories than the word of God). The more liberally applied the worse the version (especially 4 hidden agendas) - perversion 2 1 degree or another of God's word.



These translation method(s) bend, rewrite &/or water down what was originally intended ([un]intentionally 4 various preferences/agendas). If u want the best chance of finding God's actual message dont use these versions - they have the best chance of giving u a distorted picture & message & u could wind up remembering them that way - especially our impressionable children). Stick with the 2 versions I list under catagory 1 2 get 2 know what God actually intended.



Then theres other so-called Bibles that have nothing 2 do with God. They r the New World Translation (JWs), Mormon (BOM), the Qu'ran (Islam/muslims) & others claiming 2 b from God, another testament, update or restoration. The true Comforter is God's Holy Spirit not Muhammed or other self-proclaimed prophets or teachers.



Many religions made many fatal mistakes as they built religions on what man would like God 2 b like. But they cant all be right (i.e. Theres 1 Bible, why so many interpretations? - II Pet 1:**19-21). Religion, 4 the most part, wont teach u much about God (they cant teach what they don't know). But it doesnt mean God doesnt know what He's doing.



The main point missed: Jesus Christ is the only 1 in history whom stated that He is "the" way, "the" truth & "the" life & no 1 can get 2 God except by Him (Jn 14:6; 5:39; 10:1,7; Acts 4:12). Either thats fully true or theres no truth & cant b any God (He knows what He's doing or He's not God).



Since Jesus stated He's the only way 2 know whom God is, this means "the" whole truth was complete & there4, finished thru what Jesus taught & did. This means any so-called new teaching & any other religious beliefs or from self-proclaimed prophets & teachers r invalid, null & void & cant lead u 2 God. But I assure u God always knew what He's doing, including all Jesus would do.



Jesus couldnt have done nor said what He did unless He had full knowledge of the entire OT (the NT didnt exist @ the time of Jesus - the only way Jesus could've understood the whole OT is if God was with Him) & the Apostles couldnt write down all thats in the NT unless Jesus allowed them 2 remember & know His purpose (Lk 24:25-27,45). Not possible unless an incredibly Intelligent Being caused it.



But God outsmarted man - the Bible's the only 1 known to man that cant be properly understood without going thru Jesus (Jn 14:6; II Cor 3:14, Is 29:11-12 - If Jewish people cant pierce the veil over the OT without Jesus then 4 sure neither can all gentiles). This is why theres so many interpretations & many thinking its all fairytales (Jesus came with the sword of division).



Many dont know that God is well aware many would [un]intentionally twist & prevert His Word so He invented a system in the Bible that will never change (Just like God & Jesus - more visible in word 4 word/literal versions).



2 begin finding our real Jesus Christ, start with Jn 3:1-14 - note: Nicodemus was very religious but Jesus flatout told him he had missed the 1rst most important step - being Born Anew. 2 be Born Anew u must 1rst understand that no1 has lived without sinning against God, breaking God's Law (Rom 3:23; Acts 3:19). There4, u must pray 2 Jesus asking Him 2 forgive ur past sins (sin separates us from God), accept Jesus Christ as your 1 & only Savior, ask Him 2 give u God's Holy Spirit (Lk 11:11-13; Jn 15:26; 14:26), seek 2 know & follow Him - u will always need ur Bible (Jn 7:17; Jn 1:12,13; 3:16,17;21; 36; 5:24: 6:37; 8:12; 10:9; 11:25; 14:6; 20:31; Is 34:16;46:10 - memorize this last set of verses - later in my life they helped me).



voyc4rmwldrns

Answer 2

A) What is the right way to read or study the Bible?



Whichever way is most effective in educating you about the will of God.





1) The order(sequence) to read.



Is not very important - but I have found it personally advantageous to read in a more-or-less chronological manner. Books covering more ancient events should be read prior to books covering more recent events. This simply makes it easier to understand, to follow the progression of the delivery of God's will.





2) Should we try to interpret difficult passages and verses?



Certainly - if you lack understanding, you should strive for understanding. However, it is not necessarily a bad idea to look to a well-respected (by you) authority for interpretation if you feel your knowledge of scriptural matters is insufficient to arrive at a correct interpretation of a passage, the understanding of which appears to be important to your salvation. In my experience, the *important* passages are quite clear. Those requiring interpretation are - very obviously - in most cases, if not all, *not* an issue with regard to your salvation.





3) Is there a need to memorize lines from the Bible?



There may be. How can we know your needs? Have you ever needed to have a passage memorized? Do you expect to?





4) What is the best version to use? eg. KJV, NIV and so on



This is a subjective matter, and depends largely upon your particular beliefs. Here are my recommendations based on your purpose and requirements

http://www.bible-reviews.com/selector.html



I will be glad to answer more specific questions about particular bible versions if you have any.



Jim, http://www.jimpettis.com/bibles/

Answer 3

1) Sequence: Years and years of reading from Genesis to Revelation and from Matthew to Revelation. Sometimes the speed is fast and at other times the pace is slow, but it is steady. As a minimum, for example, I read 4 chapters per day at least.

2) Difficulties: I never try to interpret a scripture by my own wisdom. Other scriptures will interpret the difficult scriptures. Ask the Lord what does this mean and you will cross a scripture that answers your question. I also use other sources to see what other men think about the passage.

3) Memorization is wonderful when you can recall to mind a pertinent scripture when you are going through trials and such.

4) Best version? The one you understand, and causes your heart to respond to God. Do not listen to the KJV only crowd. The KJV is a very good translation but it is not perfect. For example in John 3:16 the word monogenes is mistakenly translated only begotten. Monogenes means only unique. I like the King James but I have made many changes to it, to correct its few errors and many archaic words. In fact the King James is my main study Bible because I can see if the person is singular or plural. I also use the NASB, two different interlinear Greek Bibles [Hebrew too], NIV, Living Bible, and others. I also refer to Tyndales translation as well as Wycliffe's and several Bible commentaries. I don't leave a scripture until I am satisfied that this is what God means. Keep in mind that I have been at this off and on for over 40 years and in consequence of that have read the Bible through many times and the NT more times than I can remember. I have even read the NT twice in Spanish. Yet, for all that, each time through it is like brand new. It is always fresh. So read it through as a habit of life. God will reveal Himself to you.

Answer 4

Here's your can of worms: here's a tin opener.



One of the battered books on my shelves is "Approaches to Old Testament Interpretation" by Goldingay.

It is effectively an overview of the various ways different people and groups have attempted to interact with just the Old Testament.



It's far, far from simple.

It is unfortunate that it is not possible to tackle the bible without preconceptions, and these preconceptions make the biggest difference to the results of reading or studying it.

So they ought to be examined too but this is not often done, leading to people drawing totally different conclusions from passages.



Interpretation is unavoidable: you have a different language, culture, time period...

Never use *a* commentary. Use several, or none.

You will be amazed how much they can disagree but just using one there is a tendency to assume it's right and has everything explained correctly.



"Best version" is enough to bring up the differences of assumptions again. And marked disagreements.

And the best reading bible is not the best study bible.

The NASB, for example, in being careful about preserving tenses and constructions in the original language (very useful for study) can produce awkward, slightly unnatural English (not so helpful for reading)

Whereas the NIV has more flow, but in achieving that has lost some precision on a word-for-word basis.

This is inevitable: I was taught this as the Oxford vs Cambridge schools of translation.



Supporters of the KJV either have a particular theological stance not shared by many, or are culturally attached to it.

It was a good translation in its day, but both textual sources and the English language have changed greatly since it was published.

Just on the English grounds it cannot be a good translation any more: it's not translating into the English we use, any more.

(Though I do dread the day when someone produces the bible in "txt")

Answer 5

1...You can start with Matthew and study on through.

2...Study with a concordance to look up words and see what they mean in the original language and if they agree with other scriptures.Let the scriptures interpret themselves by agreeing with each other. When you have two or more scriptures that say the same then that scripture is true. Use that rule and you will know the truth.

3..It is a good practice to memorize verses in the bible so you can witness correctly.

4...I believe the best version to use, especially if your just beginning, is a parallel bible that has the King James and Living bible together. That's what I have been using for many years. Don't be afraid to make your own comments and references in it as you go along.



Hope this helps you...Blessings

Answer 6

Well, I've attended mandatory religion classes throughout my school career where we learned about all kinds of different religions but especially about christianity, judaism and islam. I have read passages from both the Tora and the Koran and I am relatively well read on the bible (I know the most important stories in the old and new testament). As a teenager, it was interesting to learn about all these different religious perspectives, though already back then I didn't exactly believe in it. I regarded it more as a type of historical sources (which in a way they are). Later on when I discussed with religious people, I made the somewhat bewildering experience that I was usually much better informed about their scriptures than they were (especially in the case of fundamentalist christians), even though I am an atheist. It is really true that if you want to become an atheist, all you have to do is read the bible (or any other holy book that you believe in) from cover to cover.

Answer 7

NIV is a good translation and easier to understand.

NIV Life in the Spirit Study Bible, (Previously titled The Full Life Study Bible) Is a really good study Bible. I use it often (almost every day), my pastor uses it to prepare for his sermons ( he has been with us 17 yrs) and my church gives them out to those graduating high school.

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=22427&netp_id=290275&event=ESRCN&item_code=WW&view=covers

I also use NKJV, it is also an easy version and a pastors wife just said the other night that it is the closest to KJV just put into todays kind of language since we do not all go around saying thee or thou anymore. I still use the KJV but not as often. I also have used the NAS for a certain Scripture.

Oh and you should memorize some scriptures, they can help you throughout your day. Like Philippians 4:8 will help you decide if it is right to watch a certain show or listen to a certain song and such.

Answer 8

1) sequence:

Gospels: Luke (my favorite), Matthew, Mark (shortest) and then John which is an unusual Gospel. 60% of your time

Letters: Romans and then the rest -- difficult; 35% of your time

Do not waste your time on Revelation

The Old testament.



2) Should we try to interpret difficult passages and verses? Yes, it is your own salvation.

3) No -- except some important verses of the Gospel.

4) The real version is the Greek version, but for an English version take "New Revised Standard Version" and buy an KJV for the beauty of the language, and compare side by side.

The are no "bad" only better translations.

Answer 9

My tips to gaining a good understanding of the Word of God:



First and foremost: Only a true born again Christian can discern the Living Word of God. They must also live not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit (in other words, walking in the will of God and not according to their own will) to understand the real 'meat' of the Bible. This is because the Bible states that the spiritual man discerns all things (Scripture) and that the Holy Spirit is our teacher.

Also, listening to Godly teachers like David Wilkinson, Jacob Prashe and Pastor James McConnell etc.. for you to then go and study further, would be a great help.



Buy a good qualiy concordance, i.e. a 'Strong's' Concordance for the KJV.



Download 'E- Sword'



Always pray before reading, this is essential, ask the Lord for wisdom and understanding.



In my opinion the KJV, NKJV are the best translations, from the only true manuscripts.



The NASB is a faithful translation done by Godly men who wished to glorify God. I do not buy, anymore, any other bible version apart from these three. Having said that though, all protestant Bibles (even the latest money making ones) do still agree on 97% and they all agree on the foundational doctrines of the Bible. So I wouldn't want to appear to blow the issue of 'Bible versions' up more than it really is.

Answer 10

1. There is no right or wrong order. Generally, the New Testament is more important to read than the Old Testament, so if you haven't read anything in the Bible yet, start with the New Testament from Matthew. Then continue on in order, and once you've finished the New Testament, read the Old Testament starting with Genesis and continuing on in order.

2. It depends. If you have questions, it's best to read the context carefully and consult the standard commentaries.

3. Only verses that speak to your heart or that are particularly important. It's not necessary to memorize them word for word (unless you prefer to do it that way). You can memorize the gist of it, enough to know what it means.

4. Try any of the modern English versions (NIV, NASB, etc). Avoid old (KJV, NKJV) and extremely dynamic (Amplified, Message) translations.

Answer 11

There is no right or wrong way. If that is how you are thinking, then you probably wont get much out of your studying! You study however works for you. Somedays I sit and just open it up to anywhere. Othes, I focus on studying women of the Bible. Sometimes I pick a specific book....others I attempt to read it through from the beginning. You study the Bible however it works for you, whichever way you get the most out of it. Memorization isn't necessary...something that really strikes you to your core, you will remember....

I prefer the KJV, because I feel that it is more correct in its translation (wether it is true or not...I like how it read better too)..but that is a debate between people anyways. I say which ever version you can understand better, and keeps you reading...is the one to read!

Answer 12

i hope you know that reading the bible differs from studying the bible. Reading the bible simply means having a shallow knowledge of the word of God, while studying involves serious and diligent work. So, if you mean the order of studying the bible, i suggest you pray for God's understanding and his spirit first. secondly,a quite place where no one can disturb or distract you. thirdly, focus your mind on the word of God and allow God to lead you through.

No 2 : if you can't interpret it on your own, look for a matured Christan, more especially a pastor or whosoever.

No 3: I think there's a need for that especially, when you are into ministration work.

No 4: All of them are good, but i think KJV is more better.

Answer 13

Because it is easy to write about our knowledge but difficult to write about wisdom, be careful not to fall on the trap that many do, by misinterpreting words instead of focusing on where the words point to. The bible has been written in an allegorical fashion, as all wisdom scriptures of all religions, words are nothing but pointers. Memorizing is not necessary, that is what people do when they lack the ability to process the abstraction needed to interpret the allegorical messages. good luck.

Answer 14

I would say you should read it in whatever way works for you. Listen to your inner voice. There is no point having somebody telling you the "right" (their) way to read it, only to find out that, for you, it isn't the right way.



You will often read people on here telling you that the KJV is the most accurate version. It isn't, by a long shot, but I find it the best one to use for devotional purposes (and contrary to Jack, it doesn't contain any heresies - protestant or otherwise).

Answer 15

Pray and ask God for wisdom before you read the Bible.

Meditate on a verse/verses you like.

Don't worry if you can't understand much.

The Spirit will reveal to you the message in due time.

Just read.

Then pray to God to help you benefit from the reading.

Seek His will.



Check out : http://encouragingbiblequotes.com/versesblessinga.html



and www.biblegateway.com



I use KJV and NIV.

Answer 16

Only the Catholic Church has the authority to interpret the Bible given by God, period. The best version to use "Douay-Rheims Bible"

Answer 17

The right way to read/study the Bible is by NOT reading the Bible.

Answer 18

I think it's good to vary how you read it. Walk through the Bible seminars are good to get one started.



One should consider what other's have written about difficult passages.



The Bible itself advocates scripture memory "your word I have hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee" Psalm 119



I like ESV which is an essentially literal traslation an NKJV also it.

Answer 19

As I read it, I had this big Micheal Bay movie scenario in my head with crazy special effects



like I mean, alot of special effects. ALOT.



It was starring Keanu Reeves as Jesus, and Marianne Moore as Mary,



Denzel Washington as Noah, Morgan Freeman as God, Jack Nicolson as Judas and Bono from U2 as Caesar.



with a cameo from the artist formerly known as Prince, riding a camel in a leotard at 3:00 in the morning.

Answer 20

Open the KJV and start anywhere. Move around a bit. In time you will know where to go for what you need. :)

Answer 21

just read and God will speak to your heart.



You might want to get into a study group, or church, or Sunday School.



Verses will stick in your head, especially the ones that help you through things.

Answer 22

i bought a good concordance and went to a bible study group.

Answer 23

first, ask God to open your heart to His word and go to a good study group.



Jack--that is a unbilical statement. the catholic church has no authority to interpret the bible.

Answer 24

the right way to read the bible is simple

read it in a way you understand it

as i am not you nor am i christian i would not know the exact way, i do not beleave there is one as there is no right or wrong answer in the world.

Answer 25

With your mind closed to all of the knowledge you've acquired during your lifetime!

Answer 26

1. There is no order but before opening the Word of God you should pray because spiritual things are spritiually discerned ask the Holy Spirit will teach you

2. NEVER try to interpret things for yourself. ASK THE HOLY SPIRIT TO MAKE KNOWN UNTO YOU THE THINGS YOU DONT UNDERSTAND!

3. IT IS GOOD TO KNOW SCRIPTURE AND TO REMEMBER IT BECAUSE IT WILL KEEP YOU FROM SINNING Psa. 119: 11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee

4. KJV!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DONT USE ANY OTHER VERSION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

KJV IS THE MOST ACCURATE THE NIV AND OTHER TRANSLATIONS TAKE OUT, OMMIT, AND ADD TO THE BIBLE



HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES:





Matthew 6:13 KJV "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen." NIV "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." The NIV leaves out "For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory for ever. Amen." Everything pertaining to His Kingdom and Deity is left out."



Matthew 6:33 KJV "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." NIV "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." "The kingdom of God" is changed to "his kingdom."



Matthew 8:29 KJV "And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?" NIV "'What do you want with us, Son of God?' they shouted. '"Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?'" NIV leaves out "Jesus, thou", degrading the power of the verse concerning His deity.



Matthew 9:18 KJV ". . there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him. ." NIV "While he was saying this, a ruler came and knelt before him and said, 'My daughter has just died. But come and put your hand on her, and she will live.'" NIV changes "worshipped" to "knelt before." Men kneel before their own kings and queens, but they do not worship them.



Matthew 13:51 KJV "Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto Him, Yea, Lord." NIV "'Have you understood all these things?' Jesus asked. 'Yes,' they replied." NIV leaves out "Lord," again, leaving out His Lordship.



Matthew 16:20 KJV "Then charged He his disciples that they should tell no man that He was Jesus the Christ." NIV "Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ." NIV leaves out "Jesus," as it does in numerous verses

Answer 27

KJV -read new testament first than read the old testament.

Answer 28

Do it for about three years, like I did, but be prepared for some awful realizations.

Answer 29

meditate on God's word.