Help me understand the Bible

The Bible can seem overwhelming at first. It is a collection of many different books, written across centuries and containing history, poetry, wisdom, prayer, letters and accounts of the life of Jesus.

You do not need to begin on the first page, read large sections or understand everything immediately. The Bible can be explored in different ways.

You might read a short passage, listen to an audio Bible, follow a guided explanation, discuss it with other people or watch a biblical dramatisation that helps bring its people and events to life.

The clearest place to begin is usually with one of the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. They introduce Jesus through his words, actions, relationships, death and resurrection.

Jesus said that the Scriptures point towards him:

“These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.”

John 5:39

Films and television programmes can make biblical stories easier to imagine and understand. They can help you picture the setting, recognise the people involved and follow what is happening.

A dramatisation will usually include imagined conversations, characters or details that are not stated directly in the Bible. It is therefore best used as a doorway into the biblical account, rather than as a complete replacement for it.

Listening can also be helpful, particularly if reading feels difficult or unfamiliar. Hearing a Gospel spoken aloud may help you notice the movement of the story and the way Jesus speaks to people.

Whatever approach you choose, begin with a manageable amount. Notice what Jesus says, how he treats people and what surprises, comforts or challenges you.

You may find some parts difficult or confusing. It is all right to pause, ask questions or return to them later. Understanding the Bible can grow gradually over time.