
Participants
You have something to say.
Whether you’ve been swimming in the waters of Scripture for decades or you’ve yet to dip in your toes, yours is an important voice in Discovery Bible Study. You have a unique perspective that can enrich the discovery of what God is up to in the Bible and how that connects with our lives today. Discovery Bible Study is designed for the experienced and the beginner Bible explorers. Approach this experience with an open mind and heart. Jesus is your guide, and he’s with you every step of the way.
Navigating the Bible
Each of the 66 books of the Bible contains timeless wisdom for anyone curious about the ways and teachings of Jesus. The Bible is divided into two major portions: The Old Testament (before the birth of Jesus) and the New Testament (after the birth of Jesus). Biblical scholars have added chapters and verses to help readers navigate these ancient texts.
There are also many translations of the Bible, which was first written in Ancient Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Which translation is best? They all have strengths. For a Discovery Bible Study, the New International Version (NIV), New Living Translation (NLT), or English Standard Version (ESV) will serve well.
Print or Digital? There are many excellent options for Bible apps, such as YouVersion (free), which has both text and audio. For a more tactile experience, nothing beats a paper Bible (especially for those of us prone to digital distractions).
How to Find a Specific Passage
Let’s find John 16:33. Bible verse references are written as Book, Chapter, Verse
John = the book
16 = the chapter
33 = the verse
Can you find it on your own? In John 16:33, Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Want to learn more about how to read the Bible?
The Bible Project Video Series: How To Read The Bible
The New Joy of Discovery in Bible Study (Newly Revised) by Oletta Wald
Become a discoverer, observer, and interpreter of the text
Incorporate the wisdom of the text into your daily life
Move towards a deeper reading of Scripture
Summarize the text through charts and conversation