How to Choose a Book of the Bible to Start Reading?

The Bible is a vast and profound collection of 66 individual books, and for many, the question is: Where do I even begin? It’s like standing on the shore of an endless ocean, ready to fish but unsure where to cast your line. You could randomly open the Bible and start reading, and you might find something meaningful. But having a guide makes all the difference. Let me help you “catch” the heart of God through Scripture by pointing you to the perfect starting place: the Gospel of John.

(Want to skip the reading and go straight to the video? Click HERE)

I’m Travis Maxey, and I read through the Bible once a month while also doing deep-dive studies. I share my notes for free at Immersed Disciple, so feel free to sign up and dive in with me!

FREE Weekly Commentary Notes

The Gospel of John?

The Gospel of John is unique because its purpose is crystal clear. In John 20:30-31, the author tells us exactly why he wrote this book:

“Therefore, many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that by believing you may have life in His name.”

John’s gospel was written for three specific reasons:

1. To believe that Jesus is the Messiah (Christ). The Greek word “Christ” means Messiah, the promised King who would establish an eternal kingdom and liberate His people from the bondage of sin. Jesus has freed us from sin’s penalty, its power, and one day, its very presence.

2. To believe that Jesus is the Son of God. We can’t create our own version of Jesus and expect salvation. John makes it abundantly clear that Jesus is God—eternal, the Creator, the source of life itself. Through eight “I AM” statements, John reveals Jesus’ divine identity, culminating in a moment where even Roman soldiers fall back in awe of His deity.

3. To find life in His name. By believing in the true Jesus, we move from death to life. John’s gospel is the foundation for understanding who Jesus is and why He matters.

   
   

Why John First?

The Gospel of John is a key to unlocking the rest of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible points to the Messiah, the Son of God, and the life found in Him. Starting with John gives you a clear picture of Jesus, which helps you see His glory woven throughout the entire Bible. My recommendation? Read John multiple times. Let its message sink deep into your heart. Then, move on to the other gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—to get a fuller picture of Jesus’ life and teachings. After that, you’re ready to explore the rest of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, with a lens focused on God’s character revealed in Christ.

Final Thoughts

Reading the Bible is like fishing—not just casting a line, but catching something life-changing. Start with the Gospel of John, and let it guide you to the heart of God. As you read, you’ll begin to behold His glory across every page of Scripture. That, my friends, is true fishing. Want to dive deeper? Sign up for my free Bible study notes at immerseddisciple.com and join me in exploring the riches of God’s Word! Happy catching!