After Salvation, What's Next?

We all have a lot going on therefore, it may be difficult to find time to read the Bible. 

However, it makes it easier if you make a plan and try your best to abide. 

• Start out small - commit to maybe 15 - 30 minutes a day to read
• Or start with 3 days out of the week 
• Pick a designated time - if your day kicks off at 9am, set your alarm to wake up a little earlier

It may be reasonable to assume, you should start reading the 1st book in the Old Testament - "Genesis". 

However, in my humble opinion, I recommend you start reading the New Testament first. There is most definitely important information, history and countless lessons in the Old Testament however, when first starting - kick off with the following books in the New Testament. You can also skip around amongst the books listed below.

New Testament Books

• Matthew/Mark/Luke/John - Recollections of actual events from Jesus' birth to death to resurrection. The same events are communicated from different perspectives. Jesus taught his 12 disciples many important lessons which are shared in these books
• Acts - After Jesus' ascension into Heaven, he leaves his disciplines & others with the power of the Holy Spirit to assist with spreading God's word. Saul originally persecuted believers of Jesus however, after an encounter with Jesus, his heart was changed (and his name) and he (Saul became Paul) began to minister to others 
• Romans - Insightful principles are revealed as Paul continues his mission to spread truth amongst cities/towns of the Roman empire
• 1st and 2nd Corinthians - It is common for us to focus on what's trendy or current in modern culture. However, certain beliefs or actions popularized by many are not always the wisest
• Galatians - Being saved is by God's grace, NOT your works
• Ephesians - Includes feasible practices for Christian living including the Armor of God
• Philippians - One of the early churches started needed to be reminded of the necessary values of unity, humility and joy
• Colossians - We are in a constant battle between what we are used to seeing, hearing and doing and the new life we should be living in Christ - Beware of false teachers
• First and Second Thessalonians - Provides instruction on rightful living and shares context on Christ's 2nd return from Heaven to Earth
• First and Second Timothy - Training principles for those who make the decision to lead others to God
• Titus - Additional principles for Christian living
• Philemon - Account of a runaway slave who went to prison, accepted Jesus and was now asking (on behalf of Paul) to be set free from his Master
• Hebrews - Insight to prevent you/others from turning away from Christ
• James - Trials test your faith and make you wiser. Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. Guidance on the importance of controlling what you say, temptation and prayer
• First and Second Peter - Guidance on experiencing persecution based on Christian faith
• First, Second & Third John - Encouragement to believers to stand firm in God's word and will
• Jude - Judgement is coming for false teachers and/or those opposed to God

After you read the above books, then switch to the books in the Old Testament. Unlike the New Testament, books in the Old Testament are best understood when they are read in order (from beginning to end).

Old Testament Books

The Law (Authored by Moses)

1. Genesis
2. Exodus
3. Leviticus
4. Numbers
5. Deuteronomy

Historical Books

1. Joshua
2. Judges
3. Ruth
4. First Samuel
5. Second Samuel
6. First Kings
7. Second Kings
8. First Chronicles
9. Second Chronicles
10. Ezra
11. Nehemiah
12. Esther

Wisdom/Knowledge Books

1. Job
2. Psalms
3. Proverbs
4. Ecclesiastes
5. Song of Songs

Prophetic Books (Major)

1. Isaiah
2. Jeremiah
3. Lamentations
4. Ezekiel
5. Daniel

Prophetic Books (Major)

1. Hosea
2. Joel
3. Amos
4. Obadiah
5. Jonah
6. Micah
7. Nahum
8. Habakkuk
9. Zephaniah
10. Haggai
11. Zechariah
12. Malachi

And LAST, but definitely NOT least, the book of Revelation (New Testament).

God's word is CONSTANT - IT NEVER CHANGES. On the other hand, our world, culture, society, what seems right, what seems wrong is always changing, it is inconsistent. DON'T believe everything you see or hear. There is no such thing as "My Truth, Your Truth".  Trust and believe in God's word - It is one of, if not the only constant in our life.

You may be thinking...

•  "Wait, what???"
• "There isn't a church near me" 
• "I think those in the church are lukewarm Christians"
• "I can just watch church online"
• "I don't need to go to church, I will just read my Bible at home"

TRUTH: You can watch church online however, the overall experience (online) is subpar when compared to being in person

TRUTH: The church is considered the body of Christ. Whether there are lukewarm Christians attending the church does NOT influence YOUR walk and journey with the Lord. Unless, you are maybe attending a small, community church, I bet there are Christians with a fire and passion for Christ and that body of followers is who you should fellowship & grow with. At the end of the day, pray and ask God for confirmation on your next steps.

TRUTH: Going to church is one of the many many steps or activities you should take to actively engage in your journey with the Lord. It is NOT the only action you take. Spending 1 - 2 hours once a week is NOT enough. But, in union with you reading the Bible, spending time alone with the Lord and going to church - collectively is the right prescription.

TRUTH: (Praise/Worship) If you are early in your walk, it's ok to pause on this. Typically in church services, it kicks off with a series of songs where they ask you to stand and sing, praise and worship our Lord. As a new believer, I remember not understanding why some in the audience would be yelling, hands raised, speaking in tongues, etc... But, as you get to know and understand God's mercy, grace and awesome character, you will one day appreciate all he has done for you and others. You will one day praise, honor, worship and express your gratitude for Jesus.