The Bible is a library
Scripture contains history, law, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, Gospels, letters and apocalyptic writing. Recognising the kind of writing before you helps you understand how it communicates truth.
Christian Basics
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Starting the journey
Reading the Bible
In Scripture we encounter the story of God and his people, hear the voice of Christ and learn to recognise God at work in our own lives.
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A story that still shapes the world
Biblical language is woven into everyday life. We speak of a Good Samaritan, welcome home a Prodigal Son, seek a Promised Land and try to love our neighbour. Yet the Bible is far more than a source of familiar sayings.
Christians receive Scripture as the inspired witness to God’s saving work. Through its many voices, forms and centuries, the Bible draws us into the story that reaches its fulfilment in Jesus Christ.
Begin and end with prayer
Reading in the presence of God
Reading the Bible is not quite like reading a novel, history book or instruction manual. Begin by asking the Holy Spirit to open your heart and mind. Read slowly enough to notice what draws your attention, then end by asking that God’s Word may bear fruit in your life.
“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:9
Reading with understanding
Six principles to guide you
These principles gather the original ten suggestions into a clearer framework for thoughtful Christian reading.
Read the whole story
A passage belongs within its book and within Scripture as a whole. Notice what comes before and after, and allow the Old and New Testaments to illuminate one another.
Know what Scripture is for
The Bible reveals God’s relationship with the people he calls and teaches the truth necessary for salvation. It should not be forced to function as a modern science textbook or political manifesto.
Read within the Church
We do not read alone. The worship, teaching and wisdom of the Church help us receive Scripture alongside generations of faithful people who have prayed it and put it into practice.
Let Scripture read you
First ask what the text says and how Christians have understood it. Then ask: what is God saying to me here, in the circumstances of my life today?
Put the Word into practice
Reading is not complete while Scripture remains words on a page. Meditate upon what you have heard and allow it to shape your choices, relationships and service.
A simple daily pattern
Read slowly, respond honestly
You do not need to cover a large amount. A short passage received attentively can nourish prayer throughout the day.
Prepare
Become still and ask for the light of the Holy Spirit.
Read
Read the passage slowly, perhaps more than once.
Reflect
Notice a word, phrase or question that remains with you.
Respond
Speak with God, then carry the Word into your day.
Where to begin
Choose a manageable starting point
If the Bible is unfamiliar, begin with one of the Gospels and meet Jesus through his teaching, actions, death and Resurrection. Mark’s Gospel is short and direct; Luke gives particular attention to prayer, mercy and those at the edges of society.
Choose a reliable modern translation with introductions and notes. In our tradition, an edition that includes the Deuterocanonical or Apocryphal books allows you to encounter the fuller scriptural inheritance used in Christian worship and teaching.
- Begin with ten or fifteen minutes.
- Keep a notebook for questions and insights.
- Follow the readings used at Mass.
- Ask for help when a passage is difficult.
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