How to Read the Bible Chronologically

How to Read the Bible Chronologically

📖 Ever wondered how to read the Bible in the order events happened? Discover how a chronological Bible reading plan can deepen your understanding of scripture!

1. What Does It Mean to Read the Bible Chronologically?

The traditional Bible order follows the structure of law, history, poetry, prophecy, and the New Testament. However, the events in the Bible don’t always appear in the order they actually happened.

A chronological reading plan arranges scripture in the sequence events occurred, helping you understand:

✅ The historical flow of biblical events.
✅ How different books and stories connect across time.
✅ The context of prophecy and fulfillment.

2. Why Read the Bible Chronologically?

Reading scripture chronologically gives you a clearer picture of God’s story as it unfolds over time.

✅ Understand Prophecies Better – See how Old Testament prophecies align with their fulfilment in the New Testament.
✅ Follow Biblical History More Clearly – Read key events in their historical setting.
✅ Discover the Bigger Picture – Watch how God’s plan for salvation develops over time.

📌 Example: Reading Psalms alongside David’s life in 1 & 2 Samuel adds depth to his prayers and songs!

3. How to Read the Bible Chronologically

📍 Step 1: Choose a Chronological Reading Plan

📌 Follow a printed guide, an app, or a chronological Bible to stay on track.

📖 Step 2: Use a Chronological Bible

📌 A Chronological Bible already arranges scripture in order, making it easier to follow.

🔗 Shop Chronological Bibles Here

📚 Step 3: Read at a Steady Pace

📌 Plan for 15-30 minutes daily to complete the Bible in a year.

🛐 Step 4: Reflect and Apply

📌 Keep a Bible journal to track insights and prayers as you read.

🔗 Find Bible Study Journals

4. Best Bibles for Reading Chronologically

📖 Best Overall: NIV Chronological Study Bible

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Puts scripture in historical order.
• Includes study notes, maps, and insights.
• Perfect for deep study and devotional reading.

🔗 Shop NIV Chronological Study Bible

📖 Best for Beginners: NLT One-Year Chronological Bible

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Easy-to-read NLT translation.
• 365 daily readings for completing the Bible in a year.
• Great for those new to chronological reading.

🔗 Shop NLT One-Year Chronological Bible

📖 Best for In-Depth Study: ESV Chronological Bible

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Uses the literal, word-for-word ESV translation.
• Includes historical notes and timeline comparisons.
• Great for those who want a deeper study experience.

🔗 Shop ESV Chronological Bible

5. Start Your Chronological Bible Journey Today!

Reading the Bible chronologically helps you see God’s plan unfold step by step. Whether you’re using a reading plan or a dedicated chronological Bible, this method deepens understanding and builds faith.

Still not sure which Bible is right for you? You can learn more in our complete, free 97-page ebook, 'How to Choose Your Bible'.