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Quick Verdict: What is the best Bible for beginners?
For most adults, the New Living Translation (NLT) is the best choice. It translates the ancient Hebrew and Greek into modern, conversational English (approx. 6th Grade reading level), making it significantly easier to understand than the KJV or ESV.
- Best for Reading: NLT Life Application Study Bible
- Best for Study: NIV Life Application Study Bible
Taking the first step to read the Bible is an exciting moment, but it often comes with a big question: with so many options, what kind of Bible should I actually get?
It can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
Choosing your first Bible is a personal and joyful decision, and we're here to make it simple.
The truth is, the best Bible for a beginner is one you will actually open, read, and understand.
To help you find that perfect companion for the start of your faith journey, we've created this simple guide. We'll walk you through the two most important things to look for—an easy-to-read translation and helpful features—and give you our top recommendations.
The best Bible for a beginner combines an easy-to-read translation like the NLT, NIV, or CSB with the helpful notes of a Study Bible, with our top recommendation being the NLT Life Application Study Bible for its unmatched clarity and practical guidance.
Step 1: Choose an Easy-to-Read Translation
Before you can choose a specific Bible, you need to choose a translation. For a beginner, the goal is clarity, not complexity. You want a version that speaks in natural, modern English.
Here are the top three translations we recommend for new readers:
NLT (New Living Translation)
What It's Like: Warm, flowing, and easy to read, like a good story.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The most accessible and least intimidating option. Perfect for devotional reading.
NIV (New International Version)
What It's Like: Clear, balanced, and reliable. The world's most popular modern Bible.
Why It's Great for Beginners: A trusted all-rounder that blends readability with accuracy. Great for church and personal study.
CSB (Christian Standard Bible)
What It's Like: Fresh, smooth, and modern. A great blend of accuracy and clarity.
Why It's Great for Beginners: A fantastic modern alternative to the NIV that is easy to read and highly reliable.
Any of these three translations is a fantastic starting point. They are all trustworthy, respected, and, most importantly, written in language that you won't struggle to understand.
Step 2: Choose a Helpful Type of Bible
Once you've chosen a translation, you'll see different types of Bibles, like "Thinline," "Journaling," or "Study" Bibles.
For a beginner, we overwhelmingly recommend getting a Study Bible.
A Study Bible includes the full text of Scripture, but it also contains thousands of notes at the bottom of the pages, along with maps, character profiles, and introductions to each book. These notes are written by scholars to help you understand the context, explain confusing verses, and apply the Bible's message to your own life. It’s like having a knowledgeable guide sitting beside you as you read.
Our Top 3 Bible Recommendations for Beginners
Now, let's put it all together. Here are our top 3 specific Bibles that combine an easy-to-read translation with features that are perfect for someone just starting out.
1. The NLT Life Application Study Bible (Our Top Pick)
- Best for: The person who wants maximum clarity and practical life advice.
The NLT Life Application Study Bible is our number one recommendation for a reason: it's the most helpful and encouraging Bible for a new reader. It pairs the super-readable NLT translation with thousands of notes that are laser-focused on one question: "What does this mean for my life today?" It removes the intimidation factor and makes reading the Bible a life-giving experience from day one.
The Bestselling Bible for Beginners:
NLT Life Application Study Bible, Third Edition ★★★★★ "Thoroughly enjoying using this study Bible. It makes cross-referencing and life application easier, and I love understanding the context of each book. I'd recommend."
2. NIV Life Application Study Bible (Anglicised) - Third Edition
- Best for: Beginners in the UK looking for guidance
As many Churches in the UK use the NIV Bible, you might want one that matches where you attend. The NIV Life Application Bible offers a similar level of guidance and insight into reading the Bible, but in a translation that likely matches the one others around you will be reading.
It uses the trusted and balanced NIV translation and is perfect for the curious mind.
The Bestselling Bible for newer UK Christians:
NIV Life Application Study Bible (Anglicised) - Third Edition ★★★★★ "Bought this as a gift for an adult baptism. It has features I was not expecting, including a family tree page, as in an old family bible. And a presentation page. Plus, of course, all the study features. I was expecting good. This was better than good. All in all, delightful."
3. The CSB She Reads Truth Bible
- Best for: The person who wants a beautiful and devotional experience.
The CSB She Reads Truth Bible is more than just a Bible; it's a beautifully designed reading experience. It pairs the modern and readable CSB translation with stunning artwork, reading plans, and wide margins for taking notes or journaling. While particularly popular with women, its focus on devotional reading and beautiful design makes it a wonderful and engaging choice for any beginner who appreciates aesthetics.
The Bestselling Bible for Creative Devotion:
CSB She Reads Truth Bible ★★★★★ "A group of us bought this for a good Christian friend who is in pain and unable to get abnout at the moment. I was looking for something for her to read that would give her a different view of the Bible and giver her something to think about. She was delighted with it and the way it focussed on the women of the Bible."
Found Your Bible? Start Here (Don't Start at Genesis!)
The most common mistake beginners make is opening the Bible at Page 1 (Genesis) and trying to read it like a novel.
You will do great for the first 50 pages. But then you will hit Leviticus—a book of ancient Jewish laws about dietary restrictions and temple sacrifices. This is where 90% of "New Year's Resolutions" to read the Bible die.
If you are a beginner, the key is to start with Jesus. The Old Testament (Genesis, Exodus, etc.) makes much more sense after you have met the main character.
Here is a simple 7-Day "Start-Up" Plan to get you hooked without getting overwhelmed.
The 7-Day Beginner Plan
Commit to just 10 minutes a day. Read these chapters in order:
- Day 1: Mark Chapter 1 – The action begins. (Notice how fast-paced it is).
- Day 2: Mark Chapter 2 – Jesus breaks the rules. (See how he treats outcasts).
- Day 3: Mark Chapter 4 – The Parables. (Jesus explains life using stories).
- Day 4: John Chapter 1 – The "Zoom Out". (John explains that Jesus is God in human form).
- Day 5: John Chapter 3 – The most famous conversation. (Includes John 3:16).
- Day 6: Psalm 23 – How to Pray. (Read this slowly when you feel stressed).
- Day 7: Psalm 139 – You are known. (A reminder that God knows everything about you).
Why these 3 books?
- The Book of Mark: It is the shortest, fastest Gospel. It reads like an action movie as Jesus moves immediately from one event to the next.
- The Book of John: It is the "Deep" Gospel. While Mark tells you what Jesus did, John tells you who Jesus is and how much He loves you.
- The Psalms: This is the Bible's "Spotify Playlist." It isn't a story; it is poetry and song. Use it when you don't know what to say to God.
Your Journey Starts Now
Choosing your first Bible is the start of an amazing journey. Whether you choose the practical guidance of the Life Application Bible, the inquisitive nature of the Quest Bible, or the devotional beauty of the She Reads Truth Bible, the most important step is the next one: opening it up and starting to read.
Our Bible Finder tool can give you a recommendation in just a few clicks! Try the Bible Finder ►
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'.
