A beginner can start reading the Bible with a Gospel, such as Mark, and a simple pattern: read, notice, understand and respond. You can begin while you are still exploring Christian faith. Take a short passage in order and leave room for honest questions.
The Bible is a collection of books written in different settings and forms, including narrative, poetry, letters and prophecy. A verse makes more sense when you notice its place in a book. Choose a translation you can understand and ask for help when a passage is difficult.
Follow the practical steps · Begin the seven-day guide · Read common questions
How to begin, step by step
1. Choose a book and a manageable reading
Mark gives a compact account of Jesus’ ministry, death and resurrection. Begin with a short passage and continue in order. Use the ANCC Bible Reading Plan when you want a wider route.
2. Notice the actual words
Ask who is speaking, what happens and which words or actions are repeated. Write an observation before deciding what the passage means for you.
3. Understand the setting
Read the surrounding material and ask what the passage shows about Jesus, God’s character and the people involved. Distinguish a description of an event from a direct instruction for every reader.
4. Respond and record a question
Turn what you have understood into prayer or an appropriate action. Keep one question for further reading or discussion. Return the next day without needing to resolve every difficulty first.
Seven days of reading, action and prayer
Take one day at a time. Read the complete passage printed for that day, consider the reflection, take the action if appropriate and use the prayer in your own words. You can repeat a day or move more slowly. Keep a private note of what you notice and the support you may need.
Day 1 — Begin with a teachable question
Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things out of your law.
Psalm 119:18 — World English Bible
Reflect: A good beginning includes asking for understanding.
Do: Write why you want to read the Bible and one question you bring.
Pray: God, help me read with attention and a willingness to learn. Amen.
Day 2 — Observe a Gospel story
Passing along by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you into fishers for men.” Immediately they left their nets, and followed him. Going on a little further from there, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were also in the boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them, and they left their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired servants, and went after him.
Mark 1:16–20 — World English Bible
Reflect: The story names people, an invitation and a response.
Do: List who appears, what Jesus says and what the people do.
Pray: Jesus, help me notice the actual story before adding my assumptions. Amen.
Day 3 — Ask what the story reveals
Passing along by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you into fishers for men.” Immediately they left their nets, and followed him. Going on a little further from there, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were also in the boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them, and they left their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired servants, and went after him.
Mark 1:16–20 — World English Bible
Reflect: The invitation to follow Jesus belongs within his larger ministry.
Do: Write what this story suggests about Jesus and one question needing more context.
Pray: Lord, guide my understanding and keep me willing to ask thoughtful questions. Amen.
Day 4 — Understand the purpose of Scripture
Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16–17 — World English Bible
Reflect: Scripture equips God’s people for a faithful life.
Do: Identify one thing your reading teaches or corrects in your understanding.
Pray: Father, use your word to teach and equip me for a good response. Amen.
Day 5 — Take one guided step
Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105 — World English Bible
Reflect: The image of a lamp connects learning with the path ahead.
Do: Name one decision or responsibility where you need truthful guidance.
Pray: God, guide the next step of my life as I continue learning. Amen.
Day 6 — Respond in practice
But be doers of the word, and not only hearers, deluding your own selves.
James 1:22 — World English Bible
Reflect: Understanding should lead towards an appropriate response.
Do: Choose one truthful, loving action that follows from what you have read.
Pray: Lord, help me put what I understand into practice with humility. Amen.
Day 7 — Continue in order
Let’s not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in due season if we don’t give up.
Galatians 6:9 — World English Bible
Reflect: A sustainable reading habit develops through returning.
Do: Choose the next passage and a realistic time to read it.
Pray: Father, sustain my attention and help me keep learning with others. Amen.
Questions people ask
Should I begin at Genesis?
You can, but a Gospel is often a manageable introduction to Jesus. Continue in order within the book you choose.
Do I need a particular translation?
Choose a translation you can follow. The readings printed here use the public-domain World English Bible.
What if I disagree or do not understand?
Record the question and discuss it with a trustworthy Christian. Read carefully before accepting a quick explanation.
Continue with support
Explore the Bible Reading Plan hub and continue with Loving the Bible: Build a Daily Scripture Habit for a related practical guide.
If you would like someone to pray alongside you, send a prayer request. To ask about a conversation, contact ANCC. You are welcome to plan a visit to ANCC in Leeds.
Scripture quotations: World English Bible, Classic edition, public domain. The full text of each stated reading is included above. Sources: Psalm · Mark · 2 Timothy · James · Galatians. Guide reviewed and developed 18 October 2026.
