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This edition is a little different than your average Free Newsletter, so bear with me. Every year or so, because this type of information benefits some readers, I like to share my current favorite books for Bible study and theology resources.
If you follow other writers-bloggers in the Christian genre’ you know posts like this are perhaps overshared. I aim to provide details to help you decide what resources appeal to your needs (or not). I say this because we are all different. This includes how we study Scripture and process what we are learning.
Here is one example, and I hope this does not terribly disappoint. I am not big on journaling as I read the Bible, at least in the typical sense. I’ve tried journaling several times over the years but eventually toss it aside. I have journals on my shelf that are mostly empty, save for the first few pages, where I wrote down minimal thoughts.
You may love the process of journaling as you read and study. I know this is a part of the devotional routine for many students of the Bible. If you find journaling beneficial, DO NOT be deterred because of my habits.
On the other hand, I tend to make a lot of notes in the margins of my Bible. Perhaps it’s my way of journaling. I usually underline about half of every ‘serious’ book I read (e.g., theology, doctrine, Christian life). And I go through a lot of book darts.1 Also, as I study Scripture, I’m regularly jotting down thoughts that may bring about an essay here on Substack.
My point, again—we are all different. Serious students of the Bible will find the tools and methods that work for us. What we use may depend on our personality, the setting where we study, or our phase of life.2
The five books highlighted below are current favorites of mine. See if there’s something on the list new to you that piques your interest. Whether you are a beginner Bible student, an experienced student of Scripture, or looking for more advanced study, I’ve tried to include something for everyone.
#1 – Seamless: Understanding the Bible as One Complete Story
BEGINNER LEVEL 6-week study {video sessions available for purchase but not required}
Seamless is a beginner-level study course that goes from Genesis through Revelation. The focus is to give you a picture of the one big story running throughout the Bible. The author, Angie Smith, writes with a light-hearted approach to Scriptural themes. I recommend this book for those new to Bible study or for someone looking to rekindle their love for God’s word.3
#2 – 30 Days to Understanding the Bible
BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 30-day study + doctrinal lessons
An organized presentation on Scripture and how to study it. I have classified this study as beginner/intermediate level because it is a little more academic yet still basic. The format is “era” focused (e.g., creation, exodus, kingdom, exile) as it teaches through the books of the Bible. I especially love the section on the Ten Great Doctrines of the Bible. The lessons can be completed in 30 days (15 minutes a day) or you can move at your own pace.4
#3 – Every Woman a Theologian
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL teaching on the Bible + doctrine + life application
This is less of a “study” and more of a “book” to be read. The book’s pages hold an absolute wealth of knowledge, and I wish I could put a copy in the hands of every woman I meet! Every Woman a Theologian helps to identify your beliefs…, understand theological concepts…, see how Scripture’s timeless truths can guide you…, feel more equipped to share your perspective…, and so much more. I highly recommend this resource! 5
#4 – Search the Word
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 6-week study on the Bible + introduces inductive study method + praying Scripture + more
This is a treasure as far as Bible resources go. I‘ve classified it as intermediate level due to its length, almost 175 pages, and intensity. Search the Word covers a lot of territory, goes deep into Bible doctrine, and introduces the inductive Bible study method. I’ve been through this study individually and with a small group. Both experiences were very beneficial, and I now reference this book repeatedly.6
#5 – How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth
ADVANCED LEVEL 13-chapters + how to study different genres + Bible translations + more
This book will take you to school on ‘how to read and understand Scripture.’ You’ll learn how to study each genre’ differently (e.g., Epistles, Gospels, Old Testament Narratives, Wisdom books). How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth is deep, but the authors insist it isn’t only for the few, the gifted, the scholarly…it’s meant to be read and comprehended by everyone from armchair readers to seminary students. That’s you and me, friend!7
These book darts are a current addiction.
I’ve found my preferred tools and methods have changed over the years, and you may notice the same. Finding new study resources can rejuvenate your study life, as well. When it happens, go with it!
Seamless: Understanding the Bible as One Complete Story — by Angie Smith
30 Days to Understanding the Bible — by Max Anders. (My dad, a career minister of 65 years, recommended this book to me.)
Every Woman a Theologian — by Phylicia Masonheimer. (One of the best resources I’ve found for breaking down and explaining theology, doctrine, and what it means for us.)
Search the Word — by The Daily Grace Co. (This book is one of the hundreds of resources offered by The Daily Grace Co. Their bible study books are stellar.)
How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth — by Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart. (This book was not required reading when I was taking courses for university degrees in ministry, but it should have been!)