BIBLE STUDY KIT
Get started, dive deeper or just refresh your reading.
See below for free printable reading plans, Bible study strategies, online tools and inspiration to get more out of your reading.
Are you local?
If you live in or near Dunedin, New Zealand, request a free Bible reading pack with everything you need to get started.
Set yourself up with just four simple tools:
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Bible
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Bible reading plan
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Notebook & pen
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Coloured pencils
Which Bible?
Not sure which Bible version to use?
The chart below shows how some common versions line up on the translation spectrum.
The main difference between versions is whether the translators have aimed to translate word for word (as much as possible), or if they have used more paraphrase to better convey the meaning of each passage.
Generally, for Bible study, word for word translations are more helpful for accuracy and spotting repeated words. For relaxation and reading to children, a thought for thought translation can be more helpful.
However, all of these versions can be helpful for getting another perspective on a tricky passage. Looking at a verse in more than one translation can be a good way to get a broader sense of its meaning.
Whichever version you choose for now, the main thing is to start reading - which is where a Bible reading plan can come in.
Bible Reading Plans
Wondering where to start reading?
A Bible reading plan is one of the most useful tools to help you get started and keep going.
Just as we wouldn't eat a weeks worth of food in one sitting, reading a little of the Bible every day gives us time to digest what we’ve read and encouragement as we go about our day.
There are lots of different sorts of plans you can explore, ranging from just a few days to a whole year. It can be helpful to start with an introductory plan. While a three day plan might sound really good, you'll get more of the picture with a longer plan that allows you to read more in context for yourself.
If you are already familiar with the Bible, then changing things up with a new plan can be a great way to refresh your reading.
God has included every chapter (and every word) for a reason, so when you are ready, the best reading plan is one that covers the entire Bible. We’ve included an introductory plan and a whole Bible reading plan below which you might find helpful, but there are lots more you can explore online in apps such as Bible Gateway or YouVersion.
Free to download and print for personal use.
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Online Bible Apps
Don't have a physical Bible?
No problem.
Get all four tools, including the Bible in one easy app on your phone or computer.
Here are two popular free Bible apps:
Bible Gateway - https://www.biblegateway.com/app/
YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/
The advantages of an online Bible include:
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Convenience – read anywhere
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Range of Bible versions
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Variety of reading plans
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Track your progress
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Audio options to listen
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Highlight & take notes on verses
Use what works for you – many people make use of both a physical and an online Bible.
Start Reading
For the best chance of success make a plan.
Not just a reading plan – but a plan for where and when you can make space in your day to read. Whatever time of day you think will work best, be specific and visualise how this will fit into your routine – will you read when you first wake up, during lunch, or listen to the Bible while you walk the dog?
Find a time and space where you can focus your attention and put your Bible out or set yourself up with an audio app so you're ready to go. Being intentional with creating a daily habit of reading will help get the word into your day when times are busy and you need it the most.
Once you’ve found a time and space to read, take a moment to prepare yourself. You might want to pause to contemplate the God whose word it is and pray for God’s help to be receptive to what he has to say. Then simply read carefully and think about it.
Digging Deeper
Bible study does not need to be complicated.
The Bible is like no other book. There are layers of meaning just waiting to be discovered in every passage. For simple strategies to find new insights check out the blog post below.
