Reading the Bible is one of the greatest things we can do to get closer to God and is an essential discipline in our lives as Christians. We want to provide some resources that we believe will help you, whether you’re new to Scripture or have been reading God’s Word for years. Here’s how to get started:
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1. Get a Bible.
Download the YouVersion Bible app or pick up a Bible for free at Fellowship Church from our Info Hub during one of our services!

2. Begin the One-Year Bible Plan.
This plan gives you a 15-minute daily reading from three to four chapters of the Bible, and it’s available for free through the YouVersion app.
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3. Spend time in God’s Word every day.
Joshua 1:8 tells us to “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night…” Psalm 119:105 says “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Reading the Bible gives us wisdom for our daily lives.
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As you continue your journey with God and read His Word, here are some things you can do to dive deeper:
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• Choose a Bible translation
• Try out different Bible-studying methods
• Join a Bible Study Small Group
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Choosing a Bible Translation
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There are many translations and some can be difficult to read. Choose a translation that you understand. Some great translations to begin with are NIV, NKJV, NLT, or ESV. The NIV translation is the one we regularly use at Fellowship Church.

Bible Studying Methods
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When studying the Bible, there are different methods you can use to deepen your understanding. A common one is the S.O.A.P. Bible study method. S.O.A.P. stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.
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Scripture – Read a passage of scripture and write down a verse or two that stands out to you.
Observation – What do you observe in this scripture? (What’s happening, who’s talking, etc.)
Application – What does this bring to mind in your own life? What’s the lesson? How can you apply it in everyday life?
Prayer – Write a personal prayer to the Lord asking Him to help you apply what He’s teaching you and whatever else is on your heart. Then pray it out loud.
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Other study methods are the Topical and Character Study Methods. To learn more about these methods and others, click here.

Join a Bible Study Small Group
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We believe life change happens in the context of relationships and Small Groups help you to build those life-giving relationships and grow in your walk with God. You aren’t meant to do life alone! You can learn more about Small Groups here. If you’d like assistance finding a Bible Study group, you can email our team at smallgroups@thefellowshipchurch.com. Don’t miss out—you’ll never experience all that Fellowship Church has to offer until you get connected in a Small Group!

Developing the spiritual discipline of reading the Bible is something you will never regret. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at info@thefellowshipchurch.com and our team would love to help.