reading the bible
I sometimes end up scratching my head over the bible. But of course, like lawrensons writes, it's no ordinary book.
The books of the bible were written by a variety of people for a variety of audiences, over a long period of time.
I agree with lawrensons, the Gospel's are a good place to start.
The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke are often called the synoptic gospels, because they are a synposis of Jesus life and teaching, and are similar. John is more mystical.
The majority of the rest of the New Testament is made up of letters from early Christians, St. Paul in particular, explaining things, encouraging, and giving practical advice on how to live a Christian life.
A lot of the Old Testament is concerned with a history of Israel, and covers successions of kings, and a lot of fighting and killing, which for me has not got much to do with living a Christian life.
Some people don't read the Old Testament at all.
Perhaps start by reading Luke, to get an idea of Jesus' life.
Then read Ephesians to get an idea of the basics of Christian living.
Then read John, for a different angle on Jesus' life. This Gospel is quite spiritual and a bit mystical in places, and Jesus says things which are difficult to understand.
Then read Romans, which explains a lot of things about Christianity and how Jesus relates to us humans, although it is rather philosphical. Paul also says things which are difficult to understand.
The trick to reading John and Romans is to read a little bit at a time, and then have a think, and ask other people for help. And pray.
One thing I would say, is that not all Bible's are the same. The various books were written in various languages, none of which was English! and translations vary. My own preference is the New International Version, which is commonly read in churches, because it is primarily concerned with accuracy of meaning. It's also worth getting a Bible which has marginal references - these are little notes in the margin that point out passages that refer to other parts of the bible - and they are very numerous. Jesus often refers to the old testamanet, and St Paul even more so. The marginal references can help you understand what they are talking about.
