One of the most daunting questions for a Christian is, “Where does the Bible say that?” You wish you knew the answer when your neighbor, or your son or daughter, asks you a question about Scripture. But, the truth is, like many American Christians, you’ve only read Genesis, maybe Exodus, a few Psalms, and parts of the New Testament.

Actually, 90 percent of 21-year-old Christians admit that they have never read the entire Bible. The idea of reading Genesis to Revelation is exciting—and intimidating. If you’ve ever thought, “I just wish I knew where to start!” when it comes to reading God’s Word, a brand-new book by David and Renée Sanford will show you the way. The authors who brought us the Living Faith Bible (Tyndale) and the Starting Point Study Bible (Zondervan) have written How to Read Your Bible (W Publishing Group) for Christians who are ready to jump-start their Bible reading.

In a half-novel, half-conversation approach, the Sanfords answer the basic questions plaguing the minds of those who want to know, “What does the Bible really say?” How to Read Your Bible dives into tough issues like:
• Why should I read the Bible?
• Is my Bible trustworthy?
• What about apparent errors?
• Where do I start reading the Bible?
• How do I make sense of what I’m reading?

For an example of the resources available in How to Read Your Bible, see the Bible Study Helps page and the free Sample Chapter.

To coincide with the release of their new book, the Sanfords are setting out to encourage individuals and churches to read the Bible cover to cover. Dr. Thom S. Rainer, president and CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources, says that biblical literacy should start with the church. He states, “Only three percent of churches in America have a planned method of instructing their members to learn the Bible in its entirety."

In response, the Sanfords have developed three unique Bible reading plans that any church or individual can use, conveniently arranged into a 61-day survey plan, a 121-day plan biographical plan, and a 365-day comprehensive plan. The 61 days between the Fourth of July and Labor Day are the perfect opportunity for Christians who want to get familiar with the Bible to try the survey plan, which you can download for free from BibleGateway.

Scripture itself teaches that God prospers those who delight in his Word, take it to heart, and apply it in every area of life.