Bible Study Tools for Beginners

Have you ever tried Bible study resources and found them too advanced? Or maybe they weren't what you thought they were. If you're young in the faith, it's best to use Bible study tools for beginners rather than trying to jump into the deep end of the pool right away.

That's what we've done here. We've collected lists of tools that we feel are more approachable and simpler to use. Most are solid entries for beginning Bible students.

With that said, we've sprinkled in some resources for those who are more advanced in their studies. But don't misunderstand me. Regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey, these valuable and relatively approachable.

There's something for everyone here. These are truly Bible study tools for beginners and beyond.

We recommend you read all the content we've offered. If that's not possible, bookmark this page, and click here to find the Study Pathway Navigator that will walk you through the process.

Most of the links are functional, but not all. Some we're still working on content pages to go along with them. So sit tight, and thank you for your patience!

Let's get to it.

Basic Bible Study Tools for Beginners

The first step is pretty clear. Start with tools that simplify the process and guide you step by step. Look for resources that explain how to read and interpret Scripture faithfully.

It should offer structured reading plans. Another feature of good Bible tools for beginners are topical guides, including built-in definitions, maps, and cross-references. These should be accessible online or via mobile apps for convenience.

A study Bible, a basic commentary, and a Bible dictionary are excellent places to begin. These are basic Bible study tools for beginners.

Bible Study Apps and Software

Bible apps make study portable and interactive. If you like electronic-based study, this bible study tool works well for beginners. Look for apps that offer easy navigation between books and chapters, multiple translations, built-in reading plans and devotionals, and features like highlighting, note-taking, and verse sharing.

Popular friendly apps include YouVersion, Bible Gateway, and Blue Letter Bible. More advanced users might look at the Bible app from Logos Bible Software. It's one of the best apps out there, albeit, a bit more advanced than the other offerings. That said, beginners will certainly benefit greatly as well.

If you're simply looking to read the Bible digitally, a clean and intuitive Bible app is essential. The best Bible apps prioritize readability, offline access, audio Bible options, and daily verse reminders.

Apps like the CEV Bible App or Olive Tree Bible Reader are excellent for straightforward reading without distractions.

Of course, anyone can benefit from these. I use apps all the time. In fact, I preach using an outline in an app. So even pastors can use them!

If you want more, we've written a page on the best Bible app for beginners.

Bible Commentaries and Study Bibles

A Bible commentary helps explain difficult passages. They do this by providing historical and theological context. For beginners, choose commentaries that are written in plain language, stick closely to Scripture, and reflect trusted scholarship. 

The MacArthur Bible Commentary and the Warren Wiersbe “Be” Series are strong starting points.

As you grow, you may want to explore multiple commentaries for comparison. Other options to add to your tool belt are Matthew Henry for historical depth, and the Bible Knowledge Commentary for accessible, conservative exposition. Choose one or two to begin with and expand as your study deepens.

Study Bibles are an option here as well. We have a number of options we've already discussed on another page. For now, we'll just say a study Bible is one of the most important Bible study tools for beginners.

Bible Dictionaries and Encyclopedias

A Bible dictionary defines key terms, places, and concepts found in Scripture. For beginners, it’s a must-have tool. Look for alphabetical entries with Scripture references. It will also provide you with clear definitions and helpful extras like maps, timelines, and illustrations. The Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary and Nelson’s Compact Bible Dictionary are excellent starting points.

A Bible encyclopedia goes deeper than a dictionary. It offers full-length articles on biblical topics. It’s ideal for exploring themes, understanding cultural and historical background, and preparing lessons or deeper studies. For beginners, the Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible offers accessible yet thorough entries.

However, nothing beats the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. The updated ISBE is a go-to resource for me and is a beacon of scholarly evangelical research.

These function perfectly for beginning or intermediate Bible students. Use them often since they give illuminate the culture and even problems that the writers of the Bible faced. This will help you interpret the Bible better.

Finishing It Up

These are basic resources. We hope these suggestions for Bible study tools for beginner students are helpful to you.

We're planning to create more content for advanced users. So stay tuned. Until then, find encouragement in your Bible study. God bless.

Links Mentioned on This Page

Here are the best Bible study apps we've found!

Find the best commentaries here.

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