Books & Bibles for New Christians: Everything You Need to Start Your Faith Journey Well

There has never been a more exciting time to be a new Christian in the UK. According to the Bible Society's most recent reflection, The Quiet Revival One Year On report (March 2026), there is compelling evidence that more people — especially young people — are coming to faith, buying Bibles and engaging with Scripture than at any point in recent memory. Bible sales increased by 106% (in terms of volume of sales) between 2019 and 2025 and baptisms are up across multiple denominations, and booksellers report a surge of people, many with no church background at all, picking up the Bible for the first time.

If that's you, or someone you love — welcome. You're part of something remarkable.

As someone who has spent years working with and curating Christian books, I've put together this guide to the resources I'd personally recommend for anyone who is just starting out in their faith. These aren't just popular titles — they're books I’ve chosen because they're accessible, trustworthy and genuinely life-changing.

Books for New Christians

The Greatest Story Ever Told by Bear Grylls is a fantastic introduction to Jesus — compelling, beautifully written and perfect for anyone who wants to understand who Jesus is and why his story changes everything. Bear Grylls brings to life those who walked closest alongside Jesus with fresh eyes. Bringing a depth of emotion and human understanding to what it must have been like to study and live with Christ. Though written as a narrative (which I personally loved) it went through a vigorous theological checked by a team of experts, including Bible Course creator and author Andrew Ollerton.

It's no surprise this book hit number one on the Sunday Times hardback non-fiction bestseller list in June 2025 — the first time a Christian book had done so since records began. It makes an ideal read for new believers and a brilliant gift for someone who's just come to faith.

“I have read the Bible all my life, but I appreciated a fresh take that Bear Grylls gives to the New Testament. I gave some to my grand children for Christmas, I felt that this book could well tempt them to take another look at God’s word.” Charles, Eden Customer Review

If you like the sound of this but aren’t a big reader I can heartily recommend The Chosen as a visual representation of the Gospels that tell the story in a very similar style.

Andrew Ollerton has also written a really helpful guide on understanding the whole of Scripture as one story as well as why it matters for us today - sound interesting? Check it out here The Bible: A Story That Makes Sense of Life.

For those wanting to dig a little deeper into the intellectual foundations of Christianity, The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel is a modern classic. Written by a former atheist and investigative journalist, Strobel applies the same rigorous questioning he used in his professional life to examine the historical evidence for Jesus — and the results are compelling. It's a brilliant read for anyone with questions, or for new believers who want a confident, evidence-based foundation for their faith. Again, if you fancy watching rather than reading it was also made into feature film The Case for Christ DVD.

“It is well written in detail, giving great insight and background. I can highly recommend this book for those who are searching for the truth, but also for those who already know the truth. It will without doubt encourage you in the journey of trusting in what is written in the Bible about Jesus.” Michael, Eden Customer Review

If you’re looking for an easy way to connect with God on a daily basis, Every Day with Jesus for New Christians by Selwyn Hughes has been encouraging new believers for decades. It's short, warm and easy to read — a simple habit that can quietly transform your walk with God from the very beginning. Each day includes a Bible verse, reflection, a short prayer and some additional pointers if you want to go a bit deeper. Or if you’d just like to understand the principles of this faith habit then check out The Quiet Time Kickstart which offers a 6 week set of daily reflections, space to write notes and a bit of background, again designed for anyone new to this.

Bibles for New Christians

Every new Christian needs a Bible they'll actually want to read. Eden's Bibles for new Christians range offers a wide selection of translations and formats to suit every reader — from readable modern versions like the NIV and NLT to classic options like the KJV. If you're unsure where to start, look for a Bible with clear text, helpful introductions to each book and a concordance — all of which make navigating Scripture much easier when you're just starting out.

Check out our tried and tested Bible Finder to find something just right for you.

I'd strongly encourage you to get a physical Bible you can hold, mark and return to again and again.

Aaron, our resident Bible expert has shortlisted the following 10 from the many 1000s of Bibles available here at Eden to get you started.

Learning to Pray

Prayer can feel like a mystery when you're new to faith. Where do you begin? What do you actually say? How to Pray: A Simple Guide for Normal People by Pete Greig does exactly what it says on the tin. Pete Greig, one of the founders of the 24-7 Prayer movement, writes with honesty, humour and real accessibility about a subject that many people find daunting. It's one of the most loved prayer books of recent years, and a title I recommend without hesitation.

“I had already read this book once, and I felt the Lord prompting me to buy a copy for a friend who is new in the faith and has a voracious appetite for sound Christian teaching and prayer. This is THE book. I have also been inspired to read it again. Wise, humorous and deeply practical it educates and inspires on many levels.” Kathy, Eden Customer Review

Browse the wider prayer books for new Christians collection for more options to help you build a natural, personal rhythm of prayer.

Understanding the Bible

The Bible can feel like a big, complex book — and it is! But it's also the most rewarding books you'll ever read, and the right tools to help you navigate it make all the difference. The Lion Handbook to the Bible by Pat Alexander is an outstanding companion for new believers — packed with maps, background information, historical context and commentary that brings Scripture to life.

It's the kind of book you'll return to again and again as your understanding grows.

“The best bible handbook for study and reference. Easily readable and a joy to be able to reach for, lay people and clergy alike. A real pleasure to own and use. If you have it you'll be helprd on your journey....” Albert, Eden Customer Review

Eden's ranges of Bible introductions and Bible handbooks offer even more in-depth study tools for those who want to understand the background, context and structure of Scripture — ideal once you've found your footing and you're ready to explore more deeply.

You're Not Alone

Starting out in faith is a journey and every question you have is a good one. The evidence is clear: across the UK, more people are asking those questions and finding real answers in Jesus.

Whether you're looking for something to read on your own, a Bible to journal in and make your own, or a book to work through with a friend or mentor, Eden has something for you. Explore the full resources for new believers collection and take your next step with confidence.