What Book of The Bible Should a New Christian Read First?

 

Choosing a single book from the Bible for a new Christian to read can be subjective, as different individuals may have different needs and interests. However, many Christian pastors and scholars often recommend starting with the Gospel of John.

Here's why:

1. Clarity of Presentation: The Gospel of John presents the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ in a clear and accessible manner. The language used is relatively straightforward compared to some other parts of the Bible, making it easier for new believers to understand.

2. Focus on Jesus' Identity and Message: John's Gospel emphasizes the divinity of Jesus Christ and his unique relationship with God the Father. Through various encounters, teachings, and miracles, readers gain insight into Jesus' identity as the Son of God and the Savior of the world.

3. Emphasis on Belief and Salvation: The Gospel of John repeatedly emphasizes the importance of belief in Jesus Christ for salvation. John 3:16 is one of the most famous verses in the Bible, encapsulating the essence of the Christian message: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

4. Rich Theological Content: Despite its simplicity, the Gospel of John is rich in theological content. It explores themes such as love, faith, obedience, eternal life, and the work of the Holy Spirit, providing a solid foundation for new Christians to build upon.

5. Personal Application: The Gospel of John contains numerous stories and encounters that invite personal reflection and application to one's own life. Readers can identify with the various characters and situations presented in the Gospel and consider how they relate to their own journey of faith.

While the Gospel of John is often recommended as a starting point for new Christians, it's important to remember that the entire Bible is God's inspired Word and is valuable for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). As believers grow in their faith, exploring other books and passages of the Bible will provide them with a deeper understanding of God's character, His plan for humanity, and how to live a life that honors Him.

Can I be Sure of My Salvation?

For Christians, assurance of salvation is based on their faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. Here are some key ways Christians can know they are saved:

Faith in Jesus Christ

Christians believe that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. They trust in His sacrificial death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins and His resurrection, which conquered sin and death.

Scriptural Promises

The Bible offers numerous promises of salvation to those who believe in Jesus Christ. For example, John 3:16 (NIV) declares, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Inner Witness of the Holy Spirit

Christians believe that the Holy Spirit dwells within believers and bears witness to their adoption as children of God. Romans 8:16 says, "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children."

Changed Life

Genuine faith in Jesus Christ leads to a transformed life characterized by love, obedience, and a desire to follow Christ. While Christians understand they are saved by grace through faith, their faith is evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and a growing conformity to the likeness of Christ.

Assurance Through Prayer and Fellowship

Christians often find assurance of salvation through prayer, fellowship with other believers, and participation in the sacraments, such as baptism and communion, which symbolize their union with Christ and participation in His death and resurrection.

Perseverance in Faith

While Christians may experience doubts and struggles at times, they trust in the promise of God's faithfulness to sustain them and keep them secure in His love. Philippians 1:6 (NIV) states, "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Ultimately, the assurance of salvation for Christians comes from the unchanging promises of God, the work of the Holy Spirit within them, and their faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord.

Why Should I Read The Bible?

For Christians, reading the Bible holds significant importance for several reasons:

Spiritual Nourishment

The Bible is regarded as the Word of God and is believed to contain teachings, guidance, and inspiration necessary for spiritual growth and sustenance.

Understanding God's Will

Christians believe that the Bible reveals God's will for humanity, providing insights into His character, His purposes, and His plan for salvation.

Learning from History

The Bible contains accounts of historical events, including the lives of prophets, kings, and ordinary people, which provide lessons and examples for believers to learn from.

Developing Faith

Reading the Bible helps Christians deepen their faith by strengthening their understanding of God's promises, faithfulness, and love.

Moral and Ethical Guidance

The Bible offers moral and ethical teachings that help Christians navigate life's challenges, make righteous decisions, and live in accordance with God's principles.

Personal Reflection and Meditation

The Bible provides a source of comfort, encouragement, and reflection for believers during times of joy, sorrow, doubt, and uncertainty.

Community and Fellowship

Reading the Bible is often done within the context of Christian community and fellowship, where believers gather to study, discuss, and apply its teachings together.

For Christians, the Bible is not just a religious text but a foundational source of wisdom, guidance, and truth that shapes their beliefs, values, and practices.