Reading the Bible in 2021
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“Whether your Bible is well worn or you are unsure where to begin, here are five resources that are accessible to read (or listen to) for all ages to begin and continue reading the Bible this year,” says Amy Norman from Resource Church St Bart’s, Toowoomba
What everyday rhythms of your life will help you grow as a disciple of Jesus in 2021?
Reading the Bible every day is a simple and powerful way we can grow in our understanding of God and in relationship with him.
Whether your Bible is well worn or you are unsure where to begin, here are five resources that are accessible to read (or listen to) for all ages to begin and continue reading the Bible this year.
- Bible in One Year (App/Newsletter). This free app is a great way to be guided through reading the Bible, accompanied with concise and helpful commentary by Nicky and Pippa Gumbel. In 2021, a new edition was released which includes an Express edition (10 mins per day) and a Youth edition (ages 13-18). There is also an option to listen to the audio, which I find perfect for a commute to work.
- Best News Ever: Your 100-Day Guide to the Gospel of Mark by Chris Morphew. Get children or the whole family involved in daily Bible reading. This is a great option for primary-aged children, with each day including a short verse to read, commentary, questions and a prayer. The format also suits reading together as a family, maybe over breakfast or before bed.
- New Testament for Everyone Series by Tom Wright. If tackling the whole Bible seems daunting, Wright’s guides are a perfect companion to read through a book of the New Testament. Helpful for those just beginning to read the Bible or who want to grow in their understanding, it is structured with a section of the Bible reading and matching commentary. You might like to read these alongside the books we are going to study this year (Luke and 1 Corinthians), or pick a New Testament book you are less familiar with. John Goldingay’s Old Testament for Everyone Series is also a good option to read through the Old Testament.
- The Way of Wisdom: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs by Tim Keller. Explore the book of Proverbs this year, with daily devotions unpacking the wisdom found in the Proverbs. With one page per day, it is a very manageable way to begin a habit of reading, reflecting, and praying through the Bible every day.
- Read Scripture (App). Developed by the Bible Project, this app is an attractive way to read through the Bible. At different intervals, it includes short videos (from the Bible Project) providing an overview of the book or introducing the genre of literature or a key theme. You can set a reminder each day, or read through at your own pace.
As with any endeavour, it is easier with company! This year you might like to pick the same Bible reading plan with a friend or family member, so that you can encourage one another with what you are learning and have someone to ask how you are progressing.
“Reading the Bible every day is a simple and powerful way we can grow in our understanding of God and in relationship with him” (Amy Norman, St Bart’s, Toowoomba)
First published on the St Bart’s, Toowoomba website on 31 December 2020 (slightly updated).
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