The Bible was written on three continents: Asia Africa Europe In multiple languages: Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, through more than 40 human authors: prophets, kings, shepherds, fishermen, and a physician.

The form and content of the Bible was decided through a long process of recognition by Jewish scholars (Old Testament) and early Christian leaders (New Testament), who acknowledged specific writings as being divinely inspired – the Word of God.

READ: ‘The Biblical Canon’, by Michael J. Kruger, The Gospel Coalition 

The Bible is considered to be historically accurate in many of its geographical, political, and cultural details, with archaeology confirming numerous figures, places, and events.

WATCH: Can I Trust the Bible? (8:29)

WATCH: Is the Bible historically reliable?  (1:25)

The Bible is the most printed and read book in human history. Different Bible versions exist primarily because of its translation into different languages. This brings a challenge for translators to balance the literal meaning of the original text with the need for people of different cultures to be able to understand it. Translators have also created new versions to help with readability, to ensure that it is relevance to modern audiences, or to emphasize specific themes. The most popular versions of the Bible are: the New International Version (NIV), English Standard Version (ESV), New Living Translation (NLT), and King James Version (KJV). They all say the very same thing, but finding one that suits your reading style is important. Audio Bibles are also very helpful.  

WATCH: Why are there so many versions of the Bible? (5:12)

While some people would probably prefer to start at the beginning (Genesis) or at the end (Revelation), it’s probably better to read one of the gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. Each of these tell the story of Jesus – His life, His teaching, His death on a cross, and His resurrection. John is a great place to start because it tracks the life of Jesus so clearly. Or you could start reading the book of Luke, and when that’s finished maybe you can then read through the book of Acts – which tells the story of the first Christians, and was also written by Luke.

WATCH: ‘So you have your first Bible. Now what?’ (5:33)

Take your time. There’s no rush. Maybe read a small section in the morning or in the evening. And give yourself time to think about what you’ve read. Don’t be overwhelmed. Don’t be phased when you don’t understand some things. The Bible is full of plain speaking, but also full of deep and mysterious things. So, enjoy the journey. Make notes. Ask questions as you read. Ask Christians. Ask God. Prayer (talking to God) is always helpful when reading the Bible.    

Some questions to ask yourself as you read are:

• What does this teach me about God? Focus on God's character (love, justice, holiness).
• What does this teach me about people? Look for human nature, our need for God, and the sinful attitudes or behaviors mentioned.
• How does this passage point to Jesus? Look for ways the text reveals the need for a Savior or connects to the Gospel story.
• Is this passage prescriptive or descriptive? Understand if the passage is commanding an action (prescriptive) or simply telling a story of what happened (descriptive)

Other questions for practical application, might be:

• What does God want me to understand, believe, or do?
• What sin do I need to confess or what promise can I cling to?
• How should I change my thoughts or actions based on this?

WATCH: How to Read the Bible, by Canadian Bible Society (5:07) 

Jesus is the central figure in the Bible. Indeed, the Bible is the story of Jesus – the Son of God, and also God himself. The name Jesus means ‘The Lord saves’. He came to save the world from sin – a condition of rebellion against God that separates all people from God. He did this by dying on a cross and paying the full price for our sin, and rising from the grave three days later. After instructing his followers, Jesus went to heaven, from where he will one day return.

WATCH: Who is Jesus? (8:02)

WATCH: Who is Jesus Christ? (5:18)

The Trinity can seem like a complicated idea, but it’s also quite simple. It describes the fact that God exists are three persons in one nature. Distinct in character, but on essence. Like water, ice and steam – all the same essence, but all different too. God is: the Father – who created all things; the Son – who is the Savior and King of all things; and the Holy Spirit – who guides and empowers God’s people to live right.

WATCH: What is the Trinity? (3:30)

Gospel is an old word that means ‘good news’. The gospel is the Bible’s message that the Father sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins so we can be restored to a relationship with Him.

WATCH: What is the Gospel? (6:07)

WATCH: The Gospel (5:46)

The Kingdom of God (also called the Kingdom of Heaven) is a central theme in the Bible, especially in the teachings of Jesus, whom the Bible describes as the King of Kings – the highest point of authority. The Kingdom is the Kings Domain. It refers to God's sovereign rule and reign—His authority, power, and presence actively at work in the world, in people's lives, and ultimately in a renewed creation. Jesus described His Kingdom as being a present reality (here now) and a future fulfillment (coming for completion). He told many stories about how is grows mysteriously, and how it will fully realized when He returns. The Church (all God’s people) is meant to be a preview or outpost of the Kingdom.

WATCH: What is the Kingdom of God? (2:46)

To repent simply means to turn in another direction to change course. In the Bible, it means leaving the old life of sin and separation from God, believing in Jesus and following his new way of life. It means turning to follow God, and changing the way we live our lives. 

A Christian is a follower of Christ – someone who has decided to believe in Him – who He is; what he has done on the cross to save people; and what he teaches. This transformative process can happen over a long period of time or a short period of time, depending on the faith, obedience and experiences of each person. To be saved and to become a Christian, according to Jesus you need to:

• Believe/trust in Him as the Son of God who died and rose for you.
• Repent of your sins.
• Acknowledge/confess Him openly.
• Be “born again” by the Holy Spirit (a complete spiritual rebirth — a deep, inner transformation of your heart that only God can do).
• Follow Him faithfully to the end.

Jesus also called on his followers to be baptized in water. This symbolizes what has happened spiritually, and is a public declaration of faith, obedience and love for Jesus.

The process of growth in following Jesus is called discipleship – a lifelong process of:

• Getting to know Jesus more deeply,
• Letting Him change your heart and life,
• And learning to obey and follow Him in everyday things.

Jesus didn’t just want fans or people who believe He exists. He wants followers who become more and more like Him – transformed people who are transforming the world.