Where Should I Start Reading the Bible? The Best Place for Beginners

The short answer: start with a Gospel

Most pastors and Bible teachers suggest beginning with the Gospel of Mark or the Gospel of John. Mark is the shortest Gospel — you can read it in about two hours — and moves quickly through Jesus's life. John is slower and more reflective, and was written so readers would understand who Jesus is (John 20:31).

Starting at Genesis isn't wrong, but many readers lose momentum in the laws of Leviticus and the lists in Numbers before they've met Jesus at all.

A simple order for your first 90 days

• Weeks 1–2: Mark — the whole story of Jesus, fast.
• Weeks 3–5: John — who Jesus is, in his own words.
• Weeks 6–7: Acts — what happened next, and how the church began.
• Weeks 8–9: Genesis 1–25 — creation, Abraham, and the promise.
• Weeks 10–11: Psalms (a few each day) — how to pray honestly.
• Weeks 12–13: Romans or James — what it means to live it out.

Which translation should I use?

For a first read, choose a readable modern translation such as the NIV, NLT, or CSB. The ESV and NASB are more word-for-word, which is great for study. The KJV is beautiful but uses older English that can slow new readers down.

Tips that help beginners keep going

• Read one chapter a day, at the same time each day.
• Write down one sentence that stood out.
• Don't worry about understanding everything — keep reading.
• Read with a friend or join a group so you can ask questions.