How to Read the Amplified Bible
The Amplified Bible is one version of Christian scripture that seeks to provide as much background on the setting and context of various passages as possible. The text routinely includes alternate readings that offer various possible translations of the original Greek and Hebrew into modern English. For many, the Amplified Bible is one of the more readable versions of the Christian canon, and lends itself to several different methods of reading and study.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Conduct a study on a specific topic. Using the concordance, identify specific passages within the text that address the subject matter. Locate the passages and note the explanatory notations relevant to the verses cited. Also make note of any multiple translations from the original language to English, as this can impact the understanding of the passage.
-
2
Select one of the shorter books within the canon and read it from start to finish. This approach allows the reader to become acquainted with the format of the Amplified Bible, and prepare to study the longer and more details books.
-
-
3
Focus on one of the subsets of books within the canon and enter into an intense study. For example, read and compare the corresponding passages within the three Synoptic Gospels with the Gospel of John, or compare Paul’s letters to the Corinthians to the letters to the Thessalonians.
-
4
Begin at the beginning. One of the simplest ways to read the Amplified Bible or any other version of the Bible is to start with the first book and read the books as arranged in the canon. Start with reading Genesis as the first book of the Old Testament and continue to the end of the Book of Revelations at the end of the New Testament.
-
5
Set aside a specific time each day for reading in the Amplified Bible. The time may be in the mornings, during a lunch break at the midpoint of the day, or before retiring for the evening. Having a schedule for daily reading helps to provide continuity to the activity and allow the scripture reading to become an anticipated part of the daily routine.
-
6
Determine goals for each daily reading. The goal may be to read and ponder on one chapter at a time, or to read and think about a certain number of pages. Make sure the goal is reasonable and provides time for thinking about the information encountered and how it relates to the readings from previous days.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
There is no one right way to read the Amplified Bible. If one approach does not seem to work, try a different approach.
Do not compare your progress in reading the text to the efforts of others. It is much more productive to move at your own pace and take as much time as you need to glean the most from what is read.
