It can be challenging for anyone who is reading the Bible for the first time but especially for global neighbors who don’t speak English as their first language and often come from different religious backgrounds. What are strategies we can use to overcome barriers our global neighbors may have in reading and understanding the Bible?

Choose a simple English translation. The NIrV (New International Reader’s Version), CEV (Contemporary English Version), and NLT (New Living Translation) are good options in easily readable English.

Discover if the Bible is available in their language. The YouVersion app has over 2,300 languages available. Your global friend can read the passage in their language after you have read it in English.

Begin with these Bible stories. These stories show your global friend the redemptive thread that runs through Scripture.

1. Genesis 1- God creates the world
2. Genesis 2- Death is the penalty of sin
3. Genesis 3- Sin enters the world and God promises a Deliverer
4. Genesis 4:1-10- Abel offers a blood sacrifice
5. Mark 1- The Deliverer comes
6. Mark 2:1-12- Jesus has power over sickness
7. Mark 4:35-41- Jesus has power over nature
8. Mark 5:1-20- Jesus has power over demons 
9. Mark 8:1-10- Jesus has power to meet needs
10. Mark 14:43-65- Jesus goes to the cross
11. Mark 15- The death of Jesus pays for our sins
12. Mark 16- The resurrection of Jesus

Another resource is “The Story of Hope”.

Read slowly and ask simple questions. Use basic questions like: 
“What happened in this story?”
“Was there anything you didn’t understand?”
“What does this teach us about God?”
“What does this teach us about people?”
“What do you think about this?”

Explain Biblical terms. Use simple definitions to explain Biblical terms (i.e. sin, grace, mercy, faith, disciple). For example: “Mercy means not getting the punishment that you deserve.”

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