Unlocking the Bible: Build Confidence in Reading and Understanding Scripture

Many people find the Bible overwhelming to read. The language can feel distant, the stories complex, and the overall message hard to grasp. This often leads to hesitation or frustration when trying to engage with Scripture. Yet, understanding the Bible is a powerful way to deepen faith and enrich daily life. This post offers practical guidance to help you read, understand, and pray with the Bible confidently. It will also introduce you to the big picture of salvation and the Bible’s major themes, people, and covenants.

Why Confidence Matters in Bible Reading

Confidence changes how you approach Scripture. When you feel sure about where to start and how to interpret what you read, the Bible becomes more inspiring and less intimidating. Instead of skimming or skipping difficult parts, you engage deeply and thoughtfully. This leads to better understanding and a stronger connection to the message.

Many people struggle because they try to read the Bible like a regular book, expecting a straightforward story or clear instructions on every page. The Bible is a collection of different types of writing—history, poetry, prophecy, letters—that require different reading approaches. Knowing this helps you adjust your expectations and reading style.

Understanding the Big Picture of Salvation

At the heart of the Bible is the story of salvation. This story explains how God restores the relationship between humanity and Himself. Understanding this big picture helps you see how all the smaller stories and teachings fit together.

The story begins in Genesis with creation and the fall of humanity. It continues through the Old Testament with God’s covenant promises to His people, the Israelites. These covenants include agreements with Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David, each revealing more about God’s plan.

The New Testament reveals the fulfilment of these promises through Jesus Christ. His life, death, and resurrection offer salvation to all who believe. Recognizing this flow helps you connect the dots between different parts of the Bible.

Getting Familiar with Major Themes

The Bible contains several key themes that appear throughout its books. Knowing these themes makes it easier to understand individual passages and their purpose.

• God’s Sovereignty

God is in control of all things and works through history to accomplish His will.

• Human Sin and Redemption

Humanity’s failure to live according to God’s standards creates the need for salvation.

• Faith and Obedience

Trusting God and following His commands are central to a faithful life.

• Covenants

Agreements between God and His people that shape the unfolding story.

• Kingdom of God

God’s reign over all creation, both now and in the future.

When you spot these themes, you can better understand why certain events happen and what lessons they teach.

Recognizing Key People in the Bible

The Bible features many important figures whose lives illustrate God’s plan. Becoming familiar with these people helps you follow the narrative and see how God works through individuals.

• Adam and Eve  

 The first couple created in the image and likeness of God.

• Noah  

 The one righteous man who built the Ark to safe mankind.

• Abraham

The father of faith who trusted God’s promises.

• Moses

The leader who delivered Israel from Egypt and received the Law.

• David

The king after God’s own heart, whose lineage leads to Jesus.

• Jesus Christ

The Son of God and Saviour.

• Peter

Fisherman and head of the Apostles on who Jesus built his Church

• Paul  

 Apostle to the Gentiles, who spread the gospel and wrote many New Testament letters.

Knowing their stories provides context and makes the Bible’s message more relatable.

Why not register for a course

The Course (available for registration on Events) will provide you with:

• Guided Learning

Lessons focus on key themes, people, and covenants, helping you see the big picture.

• Step-by-Step Approach

The course breaks down complex ideas into manageable parts.

• Comprehensive overview  

This is an opportunity for anyone who would like to get more confident reading, understanding, and praying with the Bible. The course will help you navigate and understand the big picture of salvation, and get familiar with the Bible’s major themes, people, and covenants.