In last week’s article, we noted that folks often ask where is a good place to start reading the Bible. While most folks would probably just start on page one, the fact that the question is even asked shows that folks are looking for ways to best understand a very large book. It was noted in last week’s article that there may not really be a “wrong way” to answer the question of where to start, but I do have a favorite suggestion that I give to folks when they ask.
In my opinion, a great place to start reading the Bible (especially for folks who have never picked it up before) is the book of John. I recognize that is right in the middle of the book, but there is something about this book that makes it, in my view, the perfect introduction to the Bible for someone who is not familiar with the Bible. Why is that?
First and foremost, the stated purpose of the book of John is to create faith. Near the end of the book, John affirmed that he had “written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:31). Perhaps even the entire Bible could be said to have been written for that purpose—“Faith comes by hearing…the word of God” (Rom. 10:17). For someone who does not know Jesus, the book of John is a great place to start.
The book of John emphasizes the deity of Jesus from its very first verses. Jesus is God, who became flesh and dwelt among humanity on this earth (John 1:1-14). That is important for a first-time reader to know. Jesus emphasized repeatedly His relationship with the Father, “making Himself equal with God” (5:17-18), for they are “one” (10:30; 17:11, 21-22).
The book of John emphasizes the authority of Jesus. He spoke the very words of God while on this earth (12:49-50; 14:10; cf. 6:38). He has the “authority to execute judgment” (5:27), and His word “will judge [man] in the last day” (12:48).
The book of John emphasizes the compassion of Jesus. Someone has counted 27 personal conversations of Jesus in this book. Whether it was a Samaritan woman, a blind man, a Roman governor or even antagonists out to get Him, Jesus showed Himself to be a man of kindness and selflessness.
The book of John emphasizes the love of God. The most well-known Bible verse is here in John 3:16. Jesus affirms that there is “no greater love” than what was demonstrated on the cross (15:13). His love is so deep that it compels us to love Him in return through our obedience (14:15; 15:14; 21:15-17).
Are you looking for a place to start, to get an idea of what the Bible is about and help you to see why it is such a great book to read and study? Start in John. (more next week)
