Start Here · Foundations
How to Read the Bible.
Explore the different literary styles found in Scripture and learn how each uniquely contributes to its unified story. We understand what the Bible is by understanding how it was written.
The Journey
Nineteen lessons. Five movements. One unfolding story — from Genesis to Revelation.
Part One
Introduction to the Bible
Before we read, we ask: what is this book, and how was it written? These first lessons frame the whole journey.
- 01
What Is the Bible?
Unpack the history and origins of this extraordinary collection of writings — and what you'll actually find inside it today.
- 02
The Story of the Bible
Sixty-six books, one unified story: God's plan to partner with humanity to rule a united Heaven and Earth.
- 03
Literary Styles
Reading Scripture wisely begins with recognizing the ancient literary styles the biblical authors used — and why.
- 04
Ancient Jewish Meditation Literature
The Bible is layered, designed to be re-read and meditated upon. Discover the unique style that invites a lifelong journey.
Part Two
How to Read Biblical Narrative
Most of the Bible is story. Learning to read narrative — its plot, characters, settings, and patterns — unlocks meaning we'd otherwise miss.
- 05
Plot
Biblical stories are arranged in patterns of conflict and resolution. Verses lifted from context can lose their meaning entirely.
- 06
Character
Biblical characters are rarely simple saints or sinners. The authors present them as complex, morally compromised — and deeply human.
- 07
Setting
Locations and timing carry meaning. Paying attention to where and when a story unfolds reveals deeper layers of significance.
- 08
Design Patterns
Repeated words and parallel themes weave the Old and New Testaments into one story — and ultimately point us to Jesus.
Part Three
How to Read Biblical Poetry
A third of the Bible is ancient poetry. It is rich, artistic, and often the most difficult to read — but learning its language is worth the effort.
- 09
Poetry
Explore the unique characteristics of biblical poetry and discover its beauty, power, and emotional honesty.
- 10
Poetic Metaphor
Metaphor is everywhere in Scripture. Learning to think metaphorically is an essential tool for reading biblical poetry.
- 11
The Book of Psalms
A literary temple where you can meet with God and hear the entire biblical storyline retold in poetic form.
- 12
The Prophets
Dense poetry and wild imagery. Learn how the prophetic books contribute to the storyline of the Bible — and why they reward careful reading.
Part Four
Wisdom & Law
What do we do with ancient laws and wisdom literature? These lessons place them inside the storyline they were always meant to serve.
- 13
Biblical Law
Why are there so many laws in the first books of the Bible? Discover what they were for and how they fit the larger story.
- 14
The Books of Solomon
Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs — three perspectives on ruling with wisdom and the fear of the Lord.
Part Five
The New Testament
The gospels, the letters, and the apocalypse. The story finds its center in Christ — and its consummation in the renewal of all things.
- 15
The Gospel
Four ancient biographies of Jesus, written as an announcement of good news: the crucified and risen Christ is the true ruler of the nations.
- 16
The Parables of Jesus
Why did Jesus teach so often in parables instead of plain speech? The answer is more surprising — and more demanding — than we expect.
- 17
New Testament Letters: Historical Context
Twenty-one letters written into real first-century communities. Context is essential to hearing them rightly.
- 18
New Testament Letters: Literary Context
Beyond history, each letter is a carefully crafted argument. Learning its literary shape brings its theology into focus.
- 19
Apocalyptic Literature
Daniel, Revelation, and the unveiled hope of God's renewed creation — read on the terms its ancient authors intended.
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