back to top
Search
Home Blog

Best Bible Study Tools and Resources to Keep You Grounded in God’s Word in 2026

Arin Kurtz
-
0
Best Bible Study Tools and Resources to Keep You Grounded in God’s Word in 2026

If you’re anything like me, it’s easy to set high expectations when it comes to setting a new goal. Especially with something like Bible reading, it can be both exciting and intimidating! Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering, “Where do I even start?” or you’ve opened your Bible with the best intentions, only to get overwhelmed and abandon the habit after just a few days. I’ve been there too.

Here’s the thing: without some kind of guide, it’s so easy to lose your way. And not just in what you’re reading, but in understanding what the text really means. Most of us haven’t been to seminary or spent years studying biblical languages.

That’s why solid Bible study tools are so important. They give you a path to follow, helping you get the most out of your quiet time with God and understand how all those different stories fit together into one great story.

With so many choices in the Bible study market, this article will help you sort through the many options with curated recommendations depending on your needs. But first, let’s set the foundation and understand why we need Bible study tools in the first place.

Why Bible Study Tools Matter

Whether it’s a workbook, a video Bible study, or a digital resource like Bible Gateway Plus, a good Bible study tool can:

  • Offer structure and direction, helping you know what to focus on each day.
  • Explain tough passages and reveal connections you might otherwise miss.
  • Help you see how the Bible speaks to your unique season of life.
  • Provide practical applications so you do more than just read but are transformed by what you’ve read.
Bible Gateway Plus as low as $4.17 per month. Start Free Trial

Plus, using a Bible study tool from a trusted teacher frees you up to meet with God, receive what He has to say, and reflect on what you’re learning, without having to become a biblical scholar overnight (phew!).

Similarly, the right Bible study tool helps keep you from just bouncing your own ideas around without any outside perspective. It’s a crucial way we can guard against confusion or even, unintentionally, veering off into our own interpretations of Scripture.

How to Choose the Right Bible Study Tool

If you’re looking for your first (or next) Bible study resource, here’s what I recommend considering first:

  • Think about your goals. Are you searching for direction in your daily quiet time? Wanting to dive deeper into theology or a particular book of the Bible? Or maybe you’re looking for a Bible study tool that’s designed for a group so you can learn in community?
  • Consider your season of life. Maybe you want a topical study that speaks to what’s on your heart right now, or a year-long study to help you build consistency. Depending on your needs and availability, you may consider a weekly Bible study with daily personal study between sessions, or something designed to be done every day for a fixed amount of time.
  • Check the source. It’s important to use resources from trusted, vetted teachers and publishers. The cheapest or prettiest book isn’t always the best guide; look for authors who are faithful to Scripture and have the kind of wisdom you want shaping your time with God.

With so many options to choose from, clarifying your goals will help make choosing the right Bible study tool for you so much easier.

Top Bible Study Tools and Resources for 2026

To help you find the right resource, I’ve sorted some of our top recommendations into five distinct categories. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a helpful starting point as you begin your Bible study journey. Try not to feel too overwhelmed by the options and instead narrow in on what category feels most relevant to you in your season of life, and then pick from there. You really can’t go wrong with any of these options!

One thing I want to note: this list contains both video Bible studies and workbooks. I’ve noted which ones are video Bible studies and how many sessions they are for reference. Though video Bible studies are traditionally done in a group setting, you can also do these studies on your own and use the discussion questions as personal journalling prompts.

Let’s dive in!

Bible Studies for Starting Your Journey

This category is ideal for those who are new to reading the Bible or are looking for a big-picture overview of Scripture. These resources help build a solid foundation, making God’s Word more accessible and understandable.

Top Recommendations:

More Great Options:

Another wonderful resource for both new Bible readers and seasoned students is a Bible Gateway Plus membership. It offers access to dozens of study Bibles, commentaries, dictionaries, and more, providing a rich, trusted companion to your study experience.

In-Depth Bible Studies

For those who want to dig deeper into the text, this category is perfect. Whether you’re exploring a specific book of the Bible or wrestling with more complex biblical themes, these resources provide rich theological and historical context.

Top Recommendations:

  • Psalms by Dr. Sandra Richter (8 session video Bible study): An academic yet accessible look into the historical and cultural context of the Psalms. You’ll love Sandy’s down to earth, quippy teaching style and be amazed how much you didn’t know about this popular book of the Bible!
  • The New Testament You Never Knew by N.T. Wright and Michael Bird (8 session video Bible study): Renowned Biblical scholar N.T Wright takes you to the Holy Land as you discover things you never knew about Jesus’ baptism and journey in the wilderness, the meaning behind the parables, and so much more.
  • A Jesus Shaped Life by Lisa Harper (8 session video Bible study): In her signature teaching style, Lisa Harper invites you to experience how biblically sound theology deepens your relationship with God and each other.

More Great Options for Specific Books of the Bible

Kind of like how a commentary provides additional context, these workbook studies will help you think critically about what you’re learning and provide additional guidance from the teacher, so you don’t have to make sense of what you’re reading on your own. It’s kind of like having Max Lucado or Scot McKnight sitting right beside you as you read through the text!

Topical Bible Studies

If you want to focus on a specific area of your spiritual life, a topical Bible study is a great choice. These studies allow you to spend dedicated time learning about a particular facet of Christian life. They are an excellent way to broaden your knowledge or take a break from studying a specific book of the Bible.

On Prayer

On the Holy Spirit

On the End Times

Small Group Video Bible Studies

While many of the studies mentioned can be used for both individual and group settings, the following are some popular studies for small groups. Each study includes video teaching from a trusted Christian teacher, discussion questions for meaningful conversation, personal study to help you apply what you’re learning, and a leader’s guide.

Top Recommendations for Women’s Groups

Top Recommendations for Men’s Groups

Year-Long Studies

If you’re looking for a single resource to guide you through the entire year, a 52-week study is the perfect option. These studies provide a consistent, structured plan to help you build a lasting habit of getting into God’s Word every day. They are also cost-effective options for those who might feel overwhelmed by choices — just one purchase for a full year of Bible study!

Top Recommendations:

More Great Options:

Conclusion: Get Started Reading the Bible More Intentionally Today!

Building a Bible study habit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The important thing is to start small — just a few minutes a day is enough to begin forming a meaningful rhythm. And like any new habit, accountability is key! Find a friend or a small group to join you on your journey.

And, if you need additional support, a Bible Gateway Plus membership can help you dive even deeper into your Bible reading with notes and articles from dozens of Study Bibles and other Bible Study tools — all for less than a pack of highlighters. Sign up for a free trial today!

The most important thing to remember about building a new Bible study habit is that it’s not about perfection or ticking off a to-do list. Be patient with yourself and enjoy your time in God’s Word, growing in your relationship with Him. You’ve got this and happy studying!

The Prophecies Fulfilled by the Wise Men and Their Gifts for Yeshua, the Savior

Rabbi Jason Sobel
-
0
The Prophecies Fulfilled by the Wise Men and Their Gifts for Yeshua, the Savior

The journey to Bethlehem wasn’t an easy day trip for the wise men, the magi who came from another part of the Ancient Near East (Matthew 2:1-12). Their pilgrimage to visit the young Jewish King was long and probably arduous. Why would they embark on such an expensive and challenging expedition? Why this particular birth? How would know a child was coming? And why would it be so meaningful that they would bear such expensive gifts?

Let’s begin by understanding who the wise men were: priestly astrologers who gave counsel to the kings of Persia and Babylon. They came from Babylon, which is modern-day Iraq, east of Israel. This fact is a crucial key to revealing the significance of their visit.

The Timing (Daniel 9:20–27)

We find God’s timetable in Daniel 9:20–27, where Daniel meditates on the fact that Israel has been in exile for seventy years. He understands that the exile is almost over and that the people should be able to return from Babylon to Israel, the promised land.

As Daniel meditates, an angel comes to him and essentially says, “Not just seventy years of exile, but seventy weeks, or seventy times seven.” Daniel 9:25 says, “Know, therefore, and discern that seven weeks [of years] will elapse between the issuing of the decree to restore and rebuild Yerushalayim until an anointed prince comes. It will remain built for sixty-two weeks [of years] … but these will be troubled times” (CJB). The math might sound odd, but “weeks of years” is a biblical term referring to a seven-year period.1

Banner reading "Bible Gateway Plus, Less Than $5.00 per month, Free Trial"

This verse foretold the exact year that the Messiah would come. From the time of the rebuilding of Jerusalem, there would be 483 years until the coming of the Messiah, who would lay down His life as the sacrifice atoning for the sins of the people.

The walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt in 445 BC, ordered by King Artaxerxes (Neh. 2:1). When you add 483 years to 445 BC, it comes to the exact time the Messiah came and laid down His life as the Passover Lamb.2 It set a prophetic clock in motion.

The Waiting (Daniel 2:48)

Why would these Persian magi astrologers from Babylon care enough about this birth to travel from the East at great expense?

Consider that Daniel wrote his book while he was in Babylon. He was one of the wise men — and the only one who, by God’s Spirit and revelation, could interpret the dreams of Nebuchadnezzar. As a result, the king made Daniel the head of the wise men (magi) in Babylon (Daniel 2:48).

Based upon Daniel’s instruction, the magi knew to look for the time of the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, which would begin a prophetic countdown to the coming of the Messiah.

The Star (Numbers 24:17)

The Scriptures tell us a star would lead the magi to the baby.

In Numbers 22, we find that Balak, the King of Moab, hired the prophet Balaam to curse the Jewish people traveling in the wilderness. Balak was scared that the B’nei Yisrael (the children of Israel) might try to invade and take over his land (which was never Israel’s or God’s intention). Balaam tried to curse Israel four times. But instead of cursing them, he blessed them. (You cannot curse what God has blessed, and no one can rob you of what God has destined for you!)

Balaam’s fourth blessing relates directly relates to the journey of the magi: “I see him, yet not at this moment. I behold him, yet not in this location. For a star will come from Jacob, a scepter will arise from Israel” (Num. 24:17, TLV).

This prophecy signifies that the Messiah’s coming would connect to a star and a scepter. Where was Balaam from? He was from Babylon, where he may have been one of the early wise men prophets (Num. 22:5).

The Gifts (Matthew 2:11)

The Bible doesn’t actually say how many wise men followed the star to where the child lay. But the number three is assumed because they brought three gifts. We read in Matthew 2:11 that the gifts were gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

  • Gold is a gift befitting a king. It points to Yeshua as the promised Son of David, the promised messianic King.
  • Frankincense (l’vonah in Hebrew) represented the Messiah’s divinity. Because it was the incense (Ex. 30:34) burned in the Beit HaMikdash (holy temple), it also points to the fact that Jesus is a kohen gadol (high priest). Frankincense was also put on the meat offerings that were presented for atonement and sacrifices (Lev. 2:1, 24:7).
  • Myrrh was used in the temple as anointing oil. Part of the coronation process of a king was an anointing with special consecrated oil, which contained myrrh. This gift points to Yeshua as the promised Messiah and King of kings. In addition, myrrh was used for embalming and healing (Jeremiah 46:11, John 19:39).

There is so much symbolism, richness, and intentionality in the three gifts that it becomes a gift in itself to realize they were not random but actually fulfilled prophecy!

And this is only one of numerous examples of how God’s promises set in motion in the Old Testament connect to the birth, life, death, and triumphant resurrection of Jesus, Yeshua, in the New Testament.

Cover of "Transformed by the Messiah" by Rabbi Jason Sobel

Discover the Jesus who has been pursuing you since before time, in Transformed by the Messiah: How Old and New Testament Jesus Connections Reveal God’s Intentional Story for Your Life! Join an unforgettable journey through the birth, ministry, and death of the Messiah as found in the Old and New Testaments, and have your own life transforming experience.

When reading the Bible we often miss essential details that add richness and significance, and therefore don’t grasp the bigger picture. New York Times bestselling author Rabbi Jason Sobel, in his unique and engaging way, helps readers see God’s story in high definition, enabling them to better understand the cultural and historical background of Scripture, God’s intention for every detail, and how it applies to our lives.

Footnotes

  1. “This 490-year period is divided into three segments; (a) 7 ‘sevens’ (49 years), (b) 62 ‘sevens’ (434 years), and (c) 1 ‘seven’ (v. 27; 7 years)” (J. Dwight Pentecost, “Daniel,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 [Victor Books, 1985], 1363). ↩︎
  2. 483 years × 360 days (Jewish calendar) equals 173,880 days between the command to rebuild Jerusalem and the coming of the Messiah the Prince. March 14, 445 BC + 173,880 days brings you to April 6, AD 32, the exact day Jesus rode into Jerusalem. God puts His integrity on the line for His people. God did what He said He would do. This shows the prophetic power of God. He has a plan for His people. ↩︎

The Latest in Bible Scholarship: Trends and Developments From SBL 2025

Jacob Edson
-
0
The Latest in Bible Scholarship: Trends and Developments From SBL 2025

I recently had the privilege of attending the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Annual Meeting 2025 (plus the Institute for Biblical Research, IBR) in Boston, Massachusetts, November 22-25, 2025. It was an incredible (and exhausting) whirlwind of information, authors and academics, and discounted books (so many books!), and I’m excited to share some of what I discovered with Bible Gateway readers.

I went to over a dozen sessions — most of which contained several presentations and discussions — during the four-and-a-half days I spent there. That was a tiny fraction of the hundreds on offer, so I had to make some hard choices about what to focus on. Some overarching themes emerged, but keep in mind there’s a ton of stuff I simply couldn’t cover.

This article will focus on Bible scholarship (which was of course the main attraction), but I’ll also touch on a bit of theology toward the end — plus, something just for fun.

But first …

What Is SBL Annual Meeting?

SBL Annual Meeting (held in conjunction with the American Academy of Religion, AAR) is the world’s largest conference for biblical scholarship, drawing an estimated 10,000 attendees every year. Most are scholars and authors focusing on a very particular niche of Bible-related research, though with over a thousand presenters, the conference itself is very wide-ranging.

It’s important to note that the Society of Biblical Literature is first and foremost an academic organization rather than a faith-based one. Members and attendees come from many confessional and denominational backgrounds worldwide — including, in some cases, none at all.

Banner reading "Bible Gateway Plus, Less Than $5.00 per month, Free Trial"

It’s also something of a proving ground for these scholars’ research, which is often brand new or still in development. Presenters often debate and critique each other’s work during the conference.

In other words, much of the scholarship is controversial — both among believers and other academics — so take it all with a grain of salt.

What About IBR?

The Institute for Biblical Research is a faith-based organization, and an academic one. Or, as their website explains, “an organization of evangelical Christian scholars that fosters excellence in biblical studies within a faith environment.”

Many IBR members are also SBL members, so there’s a lot of overlap, but with a much narrower doctrinal alignment.

Reception Theory

Reception theory emphasizes how the Bible has been interpreted differently in different times, places, and cultural contexts. For example, the way a 2nd-century AD Egyptian understood Paul’s letters might be very different from a 20th-century American — and that American might have a very different understanding than a contemporary in China.

Reception theory isn’t new, but I did see it come up a lot at IBR/SBL. It’s clear that scholars are paying careful attention to the way biblical interpretation changes based on who’s commenting on the text. This extra attention makes sense given the rise of Christianity in the global south, and its relative decline in the increasingly secular west.

Of course, there’s a danger here: at its most extreme, there’s a risk of undermining biblical authority by denying an inherent meaning to the Word itself.

But most scholars aren’t saying that. Instead, they’re reminding us to approach Scripture with a “hermeneutic of humility” (hermeneutic is an exegetical term that basically just means “interpretation”). In other words, don’t always assume that your first interpretation of a verse is the correct one.

Kevin J. Vanhoozer’s ‘Mere Christian Hermeneutics’

One place this approach was on display in a deeply faith-centered context was in several panels discussing Kevin J. Vanhoozer’s recent, highly praised book, Mere Christian Hermeneutics: Transfiguring What It Means to Read the Bible Theologically.

Dr. Vanhoozer expressed a conviction that we are experiencing “a pandemic of biblical literacy.” He said it’s critical that we know how to read the Bible as a meaningful whole and live it out in our context.

That means setting aside our personal and political agendas and engaging Scripture with a “perfect love for God’s Word.” That’s why it’s critical that we read in community — our own church community, but also in conversation with the global church throughout history (sometimes known as the “communion of the saints”).

Otherwise, we run the risk of reading the Bible only to find ourselves, rather than reading it to find Jesus Christ.

Read More

Trauma and Humor in the Hebrew Prophets

Another place reception theory popped up was in a fascinating presentation on the way the Old Testament prophets sometimes use humor to process the destruction of Jerusalem and exile to Babylon.

Dr. Rebecca Poe Hays of Truett Seminary (Baylor) argued that we should read texts like Elijah taunting the priests of Baal (1 Kings 18:20-29), Jeremiah comparing idols to scarecrows (Jer. 10:1-16), and Habakkuk mocking the stupidity of artists who pray to their own art for help (Hab. 2:18-20) almost like ancient stand-up comedy routines making fun of their Babylonian oppressors.  

She especially drew attention to Isaiah 44:9-20, where Isaiah mocks someone who chops down wood, uses part of it to roast his dinner, then turns the rest of it into an idol which he proceeds to worship:

“Half of it he burns in the fire; over this half he roasts meat, eats it, and is satisfied. He also warms himself and says, ‘Ah, I am warm by the fire!’ The rest of it he makes into a god, his idol, bows down to it and worships it; he prays to it and says, ‘Save me, for you are my god!'” (Isaiah 44:16-17, NRSVUE)

Dr. Poe Hays pointed out that this sort of comedy is a time-honored way that people establish resilience and reclaim their own power in the face of tragedy and oppression.

It’s also, frankly, hilarious.

It’s easy to flatten out our Bible reading into one long, solemn story or poem, so it was helpful to be reminded that there’s a lot of joy and humor in it, too.

Read More

  • Rebecca Poe Hayes: Reading Resilience in the Psalms: Trauma, Healing, and the Strength to Survive (Oxford University Press, forthcoming)

Reception of Mary Magdalene

We all know the story of Mary Magdalene — repentant sinner, former prostitute, seven demons, etc. But how much of that story is actually in the Bible?

Rev. Dr. Jennifer Powell McNutt of Wheaton College presented a spirited paper that packed a ton of research into a short session. Her research was framed around three central questions:

  • Who was Mary Magdalene according to Scripture?
  • How has the church interpreted her across history?
  • What can she mean for the church today?

Dr. McNutt argued that a lot of what we assume about Mary Magdalene is based on conflating various women (some named Mary, some not named at all) from the gospels. Mary was by far the most common name for women in first-century Judaea, so it makes sense there are so many of them in the New Testament. But because of that, church fathers such as Augustine and Pope Gregory the Great seem to have confused Mary Magdalene, Mary of Bethany (John 11:1-2, Luke 10:38-42), and the anonymous “sinful woman” of Luke 7:36-50.

In the end this conflation may have led us to focus more on Mary Magdalene as a repentant sinner than as the “apostle to the apostles” (to use Thomas Aquinas’ term) who Jesus chose as the first witness to his resurrection (John 20:1-18).

Read More

Did John Know the Synoptics?

For a long time in the academy, it’s been assumed that the reason John wrote such a different gospel from the synoptics (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) was because he hadn’t read their versions. The traditional view is that Mark was written first, and Matthew and Luke integrated his material while significantly expanding it with their own accounts, while John wrote independently (or maybe with Mark).

You can visualize it like this:

Arrows pointing from Mark to Matthew and Luke, and a dotted arrow pointing from Mark to John

But two books published last year argue that John did know all three synoptic gospels and intentionally left out much of their material — since he assumed his readers would already be familiar with it — while fleshing out the story with theological context and dramatic tension.

Dr. James Barker of Western Kentucky University demonstrated a “snowball effect,” where each gospel writer reworked and built on the ones before, like this:

Arrows pointing from Mark to Matthew to Luke to John

This session also happened to have one of my favorite moments from SBL, when Dr. Barker did a “show and tell” of scrolls and codices (ancient books) that he had made by hand in order to demonstrate how an ancient writer could easily reference other literature without relying on oral transmission.

Read More

Whither Wisdom Literature?

Another session I found interesting was a reevaluation of “Wisdom Literature.” Wisdom Literature is a biblical genre of philosophical writings, typically including Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and sometimes Psalms and Song of Songs.

Or is it?

Dr. Arthur Keefer of the University of Notre Dame Australia provocatively argued that “Wisdom Literature” as a genre has no antecedent in the ancient world, and was instead invented by post-enlightenment philosophers in 17th and 18th century Europe. These increasingly secular philosophers tended to appeal to figures like Solomon and occasionally Job as “bold inquisitors” engaged in the virtuous acquisition of worldly knowledge — as opposed to what they considered more embarrassingly “mythological” figures like Abraham, Moses, David, and even Jesus.

So, Dr. Keefer asked, “why has a portion of Scripture been segregated from the rest and acquired a secular association of universal applicability?” And is it time to reevaluate its usefulness as a biblical category?

Trends in Theology: A Christocentric View of God’s Purpose

Whenever you have multiple books published on the same niche topic in a single year, you know it’s going to get talked about (see the reevaluation of the Gospel of John, above). In this instance, two pastor-theologians (Presbyterian Rev. Dr. Edwin Chr. van Driel and Anglican Rev. Dr. Samuel Wells) presented separate arguments for what they refer to as “a supralapsarian motive for the incarnation.”

If your eyes are already glazing over at that, supralapsarian means “above the fall,” and Christocentric means putting Christ (rather than humanity) at the center of the Gospel.

So both van Driel and Wells argued that God’s decision to incarnate as man in Jesus Christ was not a “Plan B” response to humanity’s Fall, but rather (since God doesn’t have Plan B’s) a choice he made even before creating the world, because of his desire to be in relationship with his creatures.

There were objections. Dr. Andrew Torrance of the University of St. Andrews expressed discomfort with the notion of God taking joy in anything other than himself, while Lutheran theologian Dr. Ian MacFarland of Candler School of Theology (Emory) was concerned about undervaluing the forgiveness of sin achieved through the cross. Finally, Dr. Cambria Kaltwasser of Northwestern College took a balanced approach, appreciating how van Driel and Wells’ theory makes Christ an end unto himself, rather than “Christ as an instrument and humanity as a problem,” but adding that even in love, sacrifice is necessary.

Van Driel responded that we aren’t only forgiven sinners, but that we are forgiven sinners intended for Jesus, and asked, “If we allow even forgiven sin to define our identity, does this mean that sin has won?”

Read More

And Something Just for Fun

As a fan of prolific fantasy author Brandon Sanderson, I was intrigued by a paper with the title, “Giving Thomas the Benefit of the Doubt: Reading the Resurrection with The Way of Kings” by Dr. Jennifer Lehmann (Santa Clara University). The paper did not disappoint.

Warning: Spoilers Ahead! If you haven’t read The Way of Kings (and you plan to), you might want to skip this one.

Dr. Lehmann called attention to the overt Christological themes of the character Kaladin by reading the scene of his death alongside John’s account of Jesus’ passion. They are both arrested on a pretense, tortured and put on trial before a kangaroo court, and hung up to die visibly — and they both tell their (mostly disbelieving) followers that they will return.

Where things get especially interesting, though, is how Sanderson then switches viewpoints to the character of Teft, who wants to believe Kaladin but remains skeptical of his claims — much like Thomas in the Gospel of John. But whereas Thomas is seen as someone “of little faith” (because we already know Christ has returned!), in The Way of Kings the audience gets to experience the long, “dark night” of grief and doubt for ourselves — sort of like a Good Friday service. Then, in the morning, we follow Teft (and — not for nothing — a character named Rock, which is also the meaning of the name Peter) and experience his shock, joy, and exultation upon finding Kaladin still alive — just as we do upon encountering the risen Christ on Easter morning.

Conclusion: A Lot to Think About — and Pray on

I hope you’ve enjoyed this recap of SBL 2025, and that it’s given you as much to think about as it gave me. Whether or not you or I are convinced by any of these arguments, I always appreciate the opportunity to prayerfully take a closer look at aspects of the Bible, biblical history, and theological viewpoints that I might otherwise skim over or miss entirely. SBL had that in spades, and I look forward to learning more next year!

If you like studying and learning about the Bible, you’ll love Bible Gateway Plus. With Bible Gateway Plus, you get instant access to dozens of trusted study tools and commentaries that can help you explore context, history, interpretation, and theological meaning with greater depth and clarity than ever. Get started with a free trial today!

How the Old Testament’s Messianic Prophecies Point to Jesus

Lee Strobel
-
0
How the Old Testament’s Messianic Prophecies Point to Jesus

Imagine that your boss invites you to a Christmas party at his house, which you have never visited before. Or that hot new Christmas toy you want to snag for your toddler is only available at a store in an area of town you seldom visit. Or you want to go to a farm in the country to cut down your own Christmas tree, but you’re nervous because you get lost easily.

How would you find any of these locations? Today the answer is simple: Plug the address into the GPS system in your car or on your cell phone, and — voilà! — it leads you step-by-step to where you want to go.

In an analogous way, the ancient prophecies about the coming of the Messiah lead us, step-by-step, not only to the place where he would be born but also to the very individual himself. These predictions exclude every other individual who has ever lived and zero in on the Savior of the world. With all pretenders ruled out, the baby in the manger is pinpointed as the one and only Messiah, the Son of God.

Thus messianic prophecy becomes “the infallible guide leading in a straight line from Moses and the Prophets to Jesus and the Apostles,” said Old Testament scholar Jacob Jocz.1 For example, when the bloodthirsty King Herod asked his chief priests and teachers of the law where the Messiah would be born, they didn’t have to think long before answering, “Bethlehem.”

How did they know? Because the prophet Micah had foretold the birthplace hundreds of years earlier. Micah 5:2 reads, “You, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel” (NIV). Verse 4 adds that this King’s “greatness will reach to the ends of the earth.”

Banner reading "Bible Gateway Plus, Less Than $5.00 per month, Free Trial"

Like using a navigation system, this prophecy helped the religious leaders pinpoint the birthplace of Jesus with accuracy. It is just one of dozens of predictions about the coming Messiah contained in the Hebrew scriptures. For instance, prophecies about his ancestry dramatically winnowed down potential messianic candidates — the Messiah needed to be a descendant of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and a member of the tribe of Judah and the house of David.

However, the single most controversial prophecy came from Isaiah. Christians say the prophet foretold that the Messiah would be born of a virgin, but critics maintain that this prediction is actually an error based on a misunderstanding and mistranslation.

Did Isaiah Foretell a Virgin Birth?

Some seven hundred years before the first Christmas, Syria and Israel were threatening to overthrow King Ahaz of Judah, a faithless leader who refused to join their military coalition against Assyria. Isaiah tried to reassure Ahaz that everything would turn out all right if he put his trust in the Lord. He urged Ahaz to ask God for a sign to set his mind at rest. Feigning humility, Ahaz said he couldn’t do such a thing.

Says the prophet in Isaiah 7:14–17 (ESV):

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good. For before the boy knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good, the land whose two kings you dread will be deserted. The Lord will bring upon you and upon your people and upon your father’s house such days as have not come since the day that Ephraim departed from Judah — the king of Assyria!

In his gospel, Matthew later applies this prophecy of a virgin birth to Jesus as confirmation that he is, indeed, the “Messiah,” which means the “anointed one” sent to bring salvation to God’s people.

Arguments Against Messianic Prophecy

However, agnostic New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman is among the critics who say this is not a messianic prophecy. “It is clear that Isaiah 7 is not predicting something that is going to happen in the distant future,” he said.2

Old Testament scholar John Walton said Isaiah was only predicting that a young woman in the court of Ahaz will give natural birth to a child. He said that proper interpretation of the relevant passage “gives us no clue that Isaiah had been aware that he was speaking of the Messiah.”3

Critics typically raise several issues in arguing that Isaiah 7 is not a messianic prophecy. First, they contend that the word virgin is a mistranslation of the Hebrew word ‘almah, which simply means a young woman. If Isaiah had intended to say virgin, they assert, he would have used the Hebrew word betulah. Second, they say Jesus was not named Immanuel, as Isaiah says, but he was named, well, Jesus! And third, they say this prophecy was actually intended for Ahaz and was fulfilled centuries before Jesus was born when a maiden married and gave birth to a son.

So, Matthew, three strikes and you’re out!

Arguments in Favor of Messianic Prophecy

Not so fast, say other scholars, including Michael Rydelnik, professor of Jewish studies at the Moody Bible Institute and author of The Messianic Hope: Is the Hebrew Bible Really Messianic?

He said messianic expectations were bristling at the time of this exchange between Isaiah and Ahaz. That’s because Ahaz was a descendant of David and was being threatened with annihilation, which had huge implications for the future emergence of the Messiah, who needed to be from David’s line. “If Ahaz and the entire royal house were to be destroyed, it would bring an end to the messianic hope,” Rydelnik said.”4

Not only was there a messianic context to this conversation, but Rydelnik said Isaiah 7 shouldn’t be read in isolation. Actually, it’s part of a larger complex of verses foreshadowing the Messiah. In Isaiah 7, he is going to be born; in Isaiah 9, he has already been born and declared “mighty God”; and in Isaiah 11, he is reigning in the supernatural power of the Spirit.

‘Almah vs. Betulah: Understanding the Hebrew

What about the claim that ‘almah should be translated as young woman rather than virgin? Actually, there is no single word in biblical Hebrew that always and only means virgin. ‘Almah is best translated as maiden, that is, “a young woman who is unmarried and sexually chaste, and thus has virginity as one of her characteristics.”5 Besides, betulah doesn’t always denote virginity — for example, Joel 1:8 refers to a betulah who is a widow.

The best way to determine the meaning of ‘almah, Rydelnik said, is to see how it is used elsewhere in the Hebrew scriptures. He examined the eight other times it’s found and said, “In every usage of the Hebrew Bible, the word ‘almah either refers to a virgin or has a neutral sense.”6

Even in the pre-Christian era, two hundred years before Jesus was born, scholars translating the Hebrew scriptures into Greek chose the word Parthenos — that is, “virgin” — in translating ‘almah.

Rydelnik said Isaiah chose his words with precision. “While the Hebrew betulah could refer to a virgin of any age, ‘almah would refer to a virgin who had just arrived at puberty. She is a maiden in the truest and purest sense. So there does not seem to be cause to abandon the traditional interpretation of ‘almah as ‘virgin’ except for an antisupernatural or antimessianic bias.”7

Interestingly, the great medieval Jewish commentator Rashi twice translated ‘almah as virgin in another Old Testament book but declined to do so when it came to Isaiah 7:14, which Rydelnik attributed to an antimessianic bias.8 However, Rashi said this regarding the Isaiah 7 passage, “And some interpret that this is the sign, that she was a young girl [‘almah] and incapable of giving birth.”9

A young girl incapable of giving birth? Was even Rashi acknowledging that some Jewish experts believed there was something extraordinary — perhaps even supernatural — about the birth that was being foretold?

The Meaning of Immanuel

With regard to Jesus not being named Immanuel, it’s important to note that many biblical names were descriptive in nature. Immanuel means “God with us,” and for countless people around the planet, that’s exactly who Jesus is. In the deepest and most ultimate way, he is Immanuel. And, of course, in his gospel, Matthew specifically applies this prophecy — including this name — to Jesus himself.

Cover of "The Case for Christmas, Revised and Updated Edition" by Lee Strobel

Adapted from The Case for Christmas: A Journalist Investigates the Identity of the Child in the Manger (Revised and Updated Edition) by Lee Strobel.

Who was in the manger that first Christmas morning? And how can we know for sure?

In this completely revised and updated edition of The Case for Christmas — reflecting the latest scholarship and research — award-winning legal journalist Lee Strobel weighs the evidence to distinguish myth from truth about what happened in Bethlehem.

Footnotes

  1. Quoted in Michael Rydelnik, The Messianic Hope: Is the Hebrew Bible Really Messianic? (B&H, 2010), 190. ↩︎
  2. Bart Ehrman, “Faith, History, and Isaiah 7,” Bart Ehrman Blog, Sept. 27, 2012. ↩︎
  3. John H. Walton, “Isaiah 7:14: What’s in a Name?,” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 30, no. 3 (September 1987): 289–306. ↩︎
  4. Rydelnik, Messianic Hope, 148. ↩︎
  5. ESV Study Bible, 1254, citing as examples Genesis 24:16, 43, “maiden”; Exodus 2:8, “girl.” ↩︎
  6. Rydelnik, Messianic Hope, 155. ↩︎
  7. Rydelnik, Messianic Hope, 155. ↩︎
  8. Rydelnik, Messianic Hope, 155, n. 20. ↩︎
  9. Lee Strobel, In Defense of Jesus, 231. Rashi is an acronym for Rabbi Shlomo Yitschaki (1040–1105), considered the foremost commentator on the Tanakh (Old Testament) and the Babylonian Talmud. Rashi did not personally believe that Isaiah 7:14 was a prophecy about a virginal conception of the Messiah. See Rabbi A. J. Rosenberg, The Judaica Press Complete Tanach with Rashi, CD-ROM ed. (Judaica Press, 1999). ↩︎

Bible Gateway Year in Review 2025: Top 100 Verses and More

Bible Gateway
-
0
Bible Gateway Year in Review 2025: Top 100 Verses and More

Which Bible verses did people read most in 2025? How did the list change since 2024? (Was Psalm 91 still the reigning champion?) What articles did people read the most? And what does it all say about people’s Bible interests this year?

We gathered the data to help us answer these questions and more.

There were no huge surprises this year; most verses only shuffled a few points in one direction or another. Psalm 91 continued its ascent (pushing John 3:16 all the way down to #24), as did Psalm 121. Isaiah added a few verses this year, and Revelation (which did not appear at all last year) resurfaced with a few verses toward the bottom, knocking Ephesians’ “armor of God” verse off the list altogether.

You can see the full list below (and compare it to last year’s), but first let’s take a bird’s-eye look at the data.

Top Bible Verses, by the Numbers

Of the top 100 Bible verses read on Bible Gateway in 2025 …

  • The most popular book (by far) was again the Psalms, claiming well over a third (40) of the top 100 verses (mostly thanks to Psalms 23, 91, and 121, as mentioned above) — one more verse than last year, and six more than 2023.
  • The second most popular book was a three-way tie at 1 Corinthians, Matthew, and Isaiah, with six verses each (Isaiah gained two over last year, while Matthew gained one).
  • The most popular chapters (also by far) remained Psalm 23, which retained its claim to the first six verses on the list, and Psalm 91, with all 16 verses still in the top 25. (This suggests readers are usually reading these entire psalms, rather than isolated verses. See the Methodology section below for more on how we process that data.)
Banner reading "Bible Gateway Plus, Less Than $5.00 per month, Free Trial"
  • The most popular New Testament chapter was again tied between 1 Corinthians 13 and Philippians 4, also typically read as a block, both with five verses in the top 100. Paul was again well represented, with 31 verses from Pauline epistles (though not the same 31 as last year).
  • The top 100 is divided almost evenly between Old and New Testaments, with the Old Testament taking 51 of the top 100 verses, including the first #1 through #23. Remember, though, that 40 of those OT verses are from the Psalms, and another six are from Isaiah, leaving only five verses from the rest of the Old Testament books.
  • With Psalms and Paul combined totaling over one-third of the top 100, that leaves only 29 verses from the entire rest of the Bible combined. Eleven of those verses are from the Gospels (Matthew and John, to be precise; neither Mark nor Luke made the list), so that’s only 18 verses from the remaining 50 books of the Bible!

Top 100 Bible Verses at BibleGateway.com

Here are the top 100 most viewed Bible verses on BibleGateway.com. All are quoted from the NIV; click through to the verse to read it in your preferred translation.

  1. Psalm 23:4 — Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
  2. Psalm 23:1 — The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
  3. Psalm 23:6 — Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
  4. Psalm 23:5 — You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
  5. Psalm 23:3 — he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
  6. Psalm 23:2 — He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
  7. Jeremiah 29:11 — “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” [See Becky Kiser’s commentary on this verse.]
  8. Psalm 91:11 — For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; [What does this psalm’s popularity tell us about our world today? And how can it help us with our current troubles?]
  9. Psalm 91:1 — Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
  10. Psalm 91:4 — He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
  11. Psalm 91:2 — I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
  12. Psalm 91:12 — they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
  13. Psalm 91:7 — A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.
  14. Psalm 91:10 — no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
  15. Psalm 91:15 — He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.
  16. Psalm 91:14 — “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.”
  17. Psalm 91:16 — “With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”
  18. Psalm 91:9 — If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,
  19. Psalm 91:5 — You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,
  20. Psalm 91:8 — You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.
  21. Psalm 91:3 — Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.
  22. Psalm 91:13 — You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
  23. Psalm 91:6 — nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
  24. John 3:16 — For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
  25. Romans 8:28 — And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [Read how Romans 8 can help with our relationships.]
  26. Isaiah 41:10 — So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
  27. Romans 12:2 — Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. [Learn how to avoid conforming to the patterns of this world.]
  28. Matthew 6:33 — But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [Take a deep dive into Jesus’ most famous speech, the Sermon on the Mount.]
  29. Joshua 1:9 — “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
  30. Philippians 4:7 — And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
  31. John 14:6 — Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
  32. Philippians 4:6 — Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [Read Curtis Chang’s analysis of this verse and chapter.]
  33. Ephesians 6:12 — For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [Learn more about demons in the Bible.]
  34. Philippians 4:13 — I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
  35. Philippians 4:8 — Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
  36. John 16:33 — “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
  37. Isaiah 40:31 — but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
  38. Proverbs 3:6 — in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
  39. Proverbs 3:5 — Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [See Megan Marshman’s devotional on this verse.]
  40. Matthew 11:28 — “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
  41. 1 Peter 5:7 — Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
  42. Psalm 121:8 — the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
  43. 2 Corinthians 5:17 — Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
  44. Matthew 28:19 — “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
  45. Matthew 28:20 — “and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
  46. Psalm 121:7 — The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life;
  47. Psalm 121:2 — My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
  48. Psalm 121:3 — He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber;
  49. 1 Corinthians 13:4 — Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [See Scot McKnight’s commentary on this chapter and verse.]
  50. Psalm 121:1 — I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?
  51. Psalm 121:4 — indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
  52. 2 Timothy 1:7 — For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
  53. 2 Corinthians 12:9 — But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
  54. Psalm 121:5 — The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
  55. John 14:27 — Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
  56. Psalm 121:6 — the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
  57. Galatians 5:22 — But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
  58. Isaiah 54:17 — “no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the LORD.
  59. 1 Corinthians 13:7 — It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
  60. John 10:10 — The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
  61. Psalm 1:3 — That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.
  62. 1 Corinthians 13:5 — It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
  63. Galatians 5:23 — gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
  64. Romans 12:1 — Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
  65. Ephesians 3:20 — Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,
  66. 1 Corinthians 13:6 — Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
  67. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 — give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
  68. Psalm 1:2 — but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.
  69. 2 Timothy 3:16 — All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
  70. 1 John 1:9 — If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
  71. Psalm 46:10 — He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
  72. 2 Corinthians 10:5 — We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
  73. Psalm 1:1 — Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,
  74. Ephesians 2:10 — For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
  75. Hebrews 4:12 — For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
  76. Galatians 6:9 — Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
  77. Colossians 3:23 — Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,
  78. Isaiah 53:5 — But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
  79. Ephesians 2:8 — For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—
  80. Matthew 11:29 — Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
  81. Revelation 21:2 — I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
  82. 1 Corinthians 10:13 — No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
  83. Romans 5:8 — But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. [What does it mean that Christ “died for all”?]
  84. Revelation 21:1 — Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.
  85. 2 Chronicles 7:14 — if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
  86. Psalm 100:4 — Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
  87. Matthew 5:16 — In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
  88. 1 Peter 2:9 — But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. [Read J.D. Walt’s commentary on this verse.]
  89. Genesis 1:27 — So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. [What does it mean to be bearers of God’s image?]
  90. Psalm 139:14 — I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
  91. Isaiah 43:19 — See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
  92. Philippians 4:19 — And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
  93. Romans 3:23 — for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
  94. 1 Corinthians 13:8 — Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
  95. Galatians 2:20 — I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
  96. Hebrews 12:2 — fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
  97. Psalm 1:6 — For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
  98. Psalm 1:4 — Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
  99. Isaiah 9:6 — For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
  100. Psalm 27:14 Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

Top 5 Verses from the Apocrypha

Although the Deuterocanonical or Apocryphal books get significantly fewer views than the core 66 books (which makes sense given that they are accepted only by Catholics, Orthodox, and some Anglicans and Lutherans, while nearly all Christians accept the rest), we thought it would be interesting to see which of them get the most looks, too.

Since these are not translated in the NIV, we use the NRSVUE.

Like the main list, the top five verses from the Apocrypha are claimed by two chapters that are usually read as a block. Interestingly, the top verse last year (1 Maccabees 3:19) dropped not only out of the top 5, but all the way down to #35 (not shown).

  1. 2 Maccabees 12:45 — But if he was looking to the splendid reward that is laid up for those who fall asleep in godliness, it was a holy and pious thought. Therefore he made atonement for the dead, so that they might be delivered from their sin.
  2. Sirach 6:14 — Faithful friends are a sturdy shelter; whoever finds one has found a treasure.
  3. 2 Maccabees 12:44 — For if he were not expecting that those who had fallen would rise again, it would have been superfluous and foolish to pray for the dead.
  4. Sirach 6:15 — Faithful friends are beyond price; no amount can balance their worth.
  5. Sirach 6:16 — Faithful friends are life-saving medicine, and those who fear the Lord will find them.

Top 10 Articles on Bible Gateway: News & Knowledge

Now for our most-read articles last year. This list contains only articles published in the past year, so it leaves out perennial favorites like our guides to the Kings and Prophets of Israel and Judah and biblically accurate angels (not to mention last year’s top verses!)

We also filtered out holiday-focused articles such as our popular guides to Lent and Easter.

  1. Complete Guide to Bible Versions: Comparison, History, and Philosophy of Top Bible Translations [Updated 2025] by Jacob Edson
  2. Who Were the 12 Apostles in the Bible? What Happened to Them? [Chart] by Jacob Edson
  3. 50 Major Events in the Bible Storyline [Infographic] by Jacob Edson
  4. What’s the Difference Between the Old Testament and the New Testament? by Jacob Edson
  5. 4 Simple Steps to Transform How You Read the Bible [FREE 5-Day Devotional] by David Platt
  6. Guide to All the Judges of Israel in Order [Chart] by Jacob Edson
  7. Psalm 91: A Door to Mental Health in Troubled Times by John Eldredge
  8. Understanding the Story of the Bible Changes Everything by Zach Windahl
  9. A Field Guide to Biblically Accurate Demons (and Their Leader) [Bible Verses] by Jacob Edson
  10. What Is the Holy Spirit? How the Third Person of the Trinity Illuminates Christ by Phil Collins

Methodology

To compile the list of our most viewed Bible verses, we crunched Google Analytics data of page views for every translation in every language. We also controlled for verse ranges: for example, if 10 verses are viewed, each verse receives 0.1 view.

This accounts for why a few passages have several verses on this list, sometimes (but not always) side by side. Often, those verses are viewed as a single unit; but sometimes individual verses are searched instead, which elevates them above the rest of their group.

Bible Gateway data is of course not all Bible data. Still, Bible Gateway received hundreds of billions of views last year, in many different languages, all around the globe. So this is a pretty good sampling of the most popular Bible verses in the world.

That said, verses are always best read in context. While a Bible verse every day is a great way to make Bible reading less daunting if you don’t know where to start, we prayerfully encourage you to do a deeper dive into these popular verses by exploring the passages and books they are situated in, so you can get a fuller picture of God’s grand story — and your own role to play in it.

If you’re not sure where to start, a Study Bible can help focus your reading; here are some of the best Study Bibles available right now. Or, you can try Bible Gateway Plus with free and explore dozens of resources for getting to know the Bible — and the Lord — more closely.

December 2025 Bible News Roundup

Bible Gateway
-
0
December 2025 Bible News Roundup

Here is your source for all the latest Bible-related and Bible-adjacent news from the month of November 2025 — from archaeological discoveries and academic research to cultural events and conversations, developments in the global church, and more. Click the link in each story to view the original source(s).

Updated throughout the month.

Week of December 7

  • December 11 — Archaeologists in Israel have uncovered potential evidence of Judah Maccabee’s 163 BC battle against the Seleucid army near Bet Zecharia, south of Jerusalem. Finds include three sling bullets and a bronze Seleucid coin. These artifacts align with historical accounts in the Book of Maccabees, describing the Seleucid advance with war elephants and Judah’s brother Eleazar’s heroic sacrifice, and provide the first archaeological support for this pivotal battle in the Hanukkah story. (Jerusalem Post)
  • December 11 — Some quick Christmas stats: 91% of Americans celebrate Christmas, with 47% attending church during the season, including 21% of the religiously unaffiliated. Christmas Eve is the second-most attended service after Easter. While 53% of Americans believe they could retell the biblical Christmas story, only 22% feel confident doing so accurately. And 72% view Christmas as celebrating a historical event, affirming Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. (Lifeway Research)
Bible Gateway Plus as low as $4.17 per month. Start Free Trial
  • December 10 — Around 2,000 Christians from over 200 denominations gathered for the National Christian Convention in New Delhi, India, to protest rising violence and persecution. Reports show a 500% increase in attacks on Christians since 2014, with 93% of incidents going unpunished. Protesters condemned anti-conversion laws, denial of burial rights, and the exclusion of Dalit Christians from legal protections. They plan to submit a manifesto demanding justice and protection for Christians to Indian leaders. (Christianity Daily)
  • December 9 — The current Golden Age of biblical media continues with two productions bringing fresh perspectives to familiar stories. The animated musical David offers a visually stunning and theologically rich portrayal of King David’s life, blending epic storytelling with Psalm-inspired music. Meanwhile, Kevin Costner’s The First Christmas presents a gritty, historically grounded take on the Nativity, emphasizing the human struggles of Mary and Joseph under Roman rule. (The Gospel Coalition, Christian Post)
  • December 9 — A Gallup poll revealed that only 49% of Americans consider religion important in their daily lives, a 17-point drop since 2015 and the lowest level recorded in the U.S since polling began in 2007. While the U.S. remains more religious than other wealthy nations, it lags far behind the global average of 80%, buoyed by places like Africa and South America. Experts suggest this shift reflects fewer nominal Christians and more opportunities for evangelism among those unfamiliar with biblical teachings. (Lifeway Research)
  • December 9 — The latest results from Arizona Christian University’s Worldview Survey show a variety of beliefs regarding salvation among U.S. Christians. For instance, while 73% of Catholics affirm that a person who “does enough good things” will reach heaven, only 43% of Evangelicals and Mainline Protestants agreed. Meanwhile, 48% of Evangelicals and 46% of Catholics said “admitting you have sinned is all you need to do to repent,” compared to only 36% of Mainline Protestants. (Christianity Daily)
  • December 9 — About 100 children abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic School in Nigeria (see November 21) have been released and escorted to safety. However, 153 students and 12 staff members remain captive. Authorities have not disclosed whether negotiations, security operations, or ransom payments secured the release. Efforts to free the remaining hostages are ongoing. (Aleteia)
  • December 9 — Archaeologists in Jerusalem have uncovered a significant section of the Hasmonean-era “First Wall,” dating back to the late 2nd century BC. Found beneath the Tower of David Museum, the wall is linked to the Hanukkah story and stood 10 meters tall in its prime. It was reportedly dismantled as part of a ceasefire deal between Jewish King John Hyrcanus I and Syrian King Antiochus VII. Artifacts like arrowheads and catapult stones further connect the site to historical sieges. (Jerusalem Post, AP)
  • December 8 — Bethlehem celebrated its first public Christmas event in three years with a tree lighting in Manger Square. Thousands of locals and visitors attended the joyous return to tradition after disruptions caused by the Gaza war. Mayor Canawati emphasized the event’s message of peace and hope, commending interfaith participation from Christian and Muslim families. Though scaled back from previous celebrations, festivities included carols, a Christmas bazaar, and biblical productions. (Christian Daily, RELEVANT)
  • December 8 — A new Pew Research report offers the latest evidence that the decades-long decline in U.S. religious affiliation has stalled. Since 2020, 70% of Americans have consistently identified with a religion. Still, a hoped-for revival is less evident, especially among young adults, who remain less religious than older generations. While daily prayer and religious service attendance have stabilized, generational shifts suggest future declines as older, more religious cohorts are replaced. (Religion Unplugged, RNS)
  • December 8 — South Asian advocates petitioned the EU to intensify efforts to protect freedom of religion in the face of escalating religious persecution. In India, where over 600 attacks on Christians were reported in 2025, anti-conversion laws are often misused to target peaceful worship. Speakers also noted violence incited by Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, rising religious nationalism in Sri Lanka, Nepal’s surveillance of Christians, and harassment in Bangladesh. (Christian Daily)
  • December 7 — Reports increasingly suggest the rise in Christian converts — in Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox churches — is a real trend, not a blip. The percentage of U.S. adults who identify as Christian has remained steady at 62% since 2019. Although that number is far below the 78% who identified as Christian in 2007, sociologist Rodney Stark argued it’s a “decrease only in nominal affiliation, not an increase in irreligion.” That is, most “nones” were “cultural Christians” who weren’t attending church anyway. (Aleteia)

Week of November 30

  • December 5 — The Pacific island nation of Tokelau celebrated the completion of the first full Bible translation in the Tokelauan language, a project spanning 26 years. A launch event was held on Fakaofo Atoll, involving collaboration between local translators, the Bible Society New Zealand, and the United Bible Societies. Previously reliant on Samoan scriptures, Tokelauans now have access to the entire Bible in their heart language, preserving their oral tradition and strengthening their faith. (Christian Daily)
  • December 5 — Who was the real Santa Claus? Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop from modern-day Turkey, was known for secretly giving gold to save a poor family from ruin, in addition to many other acts of kindness both mundane and miraculous. Nicholas defended Christian orthodoxy at the Council of Nicaea and endured persecution under Roman rule. Today, his legacy as a protector of the vulnerable and a model of Christlike giving continues to inspire Christians worldwide. (Christianity Today and Christian Today)
  • December 4 — Israeli archaeologists have uncovered a royal palace at the ancient Alexandrium fortress, a mountaintop site 650 meters above the Jordan Valley. The discovery reveals the fortress was part of a larger royal complex built by Hasmonean King Alexander Yannai and later renovated by Herod the Great. The site, described by Josephus as a “fortress built in great splendor,” played roles in political struggles, imprisonment, and royal burials in the years leading up to the birth of Jesus. (Jerusalem Post)
  • December 4 — Pope Leo XIV’s first full-length U.S. book, Peace Be With You: My Words to the Church and to the World, will be released on February 26, 2026 by HarperCollins (which previously published books by Popes Francis and John Paul II). The book compiles sermons and addresses delivered since Leo’s election in May, offering a vision of peace, unity, and reconciliation in a divided world. The title reflects his inaugural papal greeting, emphasizing peace for all people and nations. (AP News)
  • December 4 — The 14th annual Jesus Reigns Celebration in the Philippines drew thousands of Christians nationwide on November 30. The nondenominational event featured synchronized motorcades, worship gatherings, and public declarations of faith across multiple provinces. The 2025 theme, “Living Sacrifice,” encouraged participants to fully surrender to God and live for his glory. Organizers emphasized the event’s non-political nature and commitment to unity, prayer, and excellence in worship. (Christian Daily)
  • December 4 — The Vatican announced a balanced budget for 2024, a significant turnaround after years of deficits. The Holy See reported a €1.6 million ($1.86 million) surplus, with a sharp reduction in its operating deficit from €78 million ($90.5 million) in 2021 to €44 million ($51 million) in 2024. It’s a big improvement following financial challenges in 2023, but the Secretariat for the Economy emphasized the need for “realism and discipline” to sustain financial stability. (Aleteia)
  • December 3 — A Barna survey assessed the spiritual impact of Charlie Kirk’s assassination in September. Among 5,003 U.S. adults surveyed, 87% had head of Kirk before his death, though only 15% followed him closely. Nearly 30% took action in response to his death, predominantly spiritual rather than political, with younger generations and practicing Christians most affected. Barna CEO David Kinnaman noted the response aligns with a broader trend of renewed interest in Christianity among Millennials and Gen Z. (Barna)
  • December 3 — The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has adopted a new “Social Message on Child Protection,” designating all ministers as mandated reporters of child maltreatment, even if the information is disclosed during confession. Citing Bible verses such as Matt. 18:3-6, Mark 10:13-16, and Isaiah 1:17, the policy prioritizes protecting vulnerable children over confessional confidentiality, aligning with Lutheran theology, which allows direct confession to God. (Ministry Watch)
  • December 3 — An instructor at the University of Oklahoma has been placed on leave following a student’s complaint about receiving a failing grade on an essay that cited the Bible to argue against the existence of “multiple genders,” labeling such beliefs as “demonic.” The student claimed her religious beliefs were unfairly penalized, though the instructor stated the grade was based not on the student’s beliefs but on the essay’s failure to “answer the questions for the assignment.” (AP)
  • December 3 — Religious commitment is rising among U.S. military personnel, even as broader American society becomes more secular. Sociologist Ryan Burge found that weekly church attendance among active-duty members increased from 21% in 2010–2012 to 28% in 2022–2024, compared to 16% among civilians. Additionally, 44% of military personnel now view religion as “very important,” up from 39% a decade ago, while civilian numbers dropped to 30%. (Christianity Daily)
  • December 3 — The Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College has launched a free resource to address the mental health crisis in rural America. The online resource provides practical, faith-integrated strategies to help churches and community groups understand and address challenges like farm stress, isolation, and limited access to care, while uplifting the strengths of rural communities, such as strong social bonds and faith-based support. (Christian Daily)
  • December 2 — Following on TGC’s list (Nov. 24), Christianity Today announced its 2025 Book Awards. The Book of the Year is The Reason for Church by Brad Edwards, which emphasizes the importance of the church in an age of individualism and division. The Award of Merit goes to The Body God Gives by Robert S. Smith, a biblical critique of transgender theory. Other winners include many Bible Gateway contributors such as Grace Hamman, A.J. Swoboda, and Dan Allender. (Christianity Today)
  • December 2 — Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency in response to escalating violence and kidnappings. The order includes recruiting 50,000 police officers, deploying forest guards, and reallocating security personnel to high-risk areas. While praised as a positive step, the declaration faces challenges in gaining public trust and addressing systemic issues following years of government denial regarding violence against Christians. (Baptist Press)
  • December 1 — In Brussels, Belgium, an infant Jesus figure was stolen from a Nativity scene in the Grand Place over the weekend. The controversial figure was made of different-colored cloths with no facial features to allow people of all backgrounds to see themselves in the story of Christ’s birth. The design drew criticism online for not “represent[ing] the spirit of Christmas.” Authorities have replaced the figure and increased vigilance around Brussels’ Christmas market, which attracts millions of visitors annually. (AP)
  • December 1 — Quebec’s proposed Bill 9 seeks to ban public prayer, restrict religious expression, and phase out subsidies for religious private schools. The bill would extend existing bans on religious symbols to daycare staff, prohibit face coverings in educational institutions, require municipal approval for public religious practices, and limit religious (e.g., kosher) menus in public institutions. Critics argue the bill undermines religious freedom, while the government defends it as a step toward full secularization. (Religion Unplugged)
  • December 1 — The Church of England has launched its largest-ever Christmas campaign, “Joy of Christmas,” aiming to reconnect people with the true meaning of the season. The initiative includes daily reflections, online services, and over 500 free resources for families, schools, and children — including a new illustrated children’s book, The Grumpy Owl and the Joy of Christmas, and an audio series by theologian Paula Gooder, alongside Advent meditations, carol concerts, and candlelit services. (Christian Today)
  • November 30 — Advent Sunday, the fourth Sunday before Christmas, kicks off the Advent season in many Christian traditions. From a Latin word meaning “arrival,” Advent began in the 4th century as a 40-day period of fasting and penance, but has evolved into a season of joyful anticipation of Christ’s birth and second coming. Churches (and homes) light candles weekly, symbolizing Jesus as the Light of the World, alongside Bible readings of Old Testament prophecies, the Nativity story, and Christ’s return. (Christian Today)
  • November 30 — Following their appearance together in İznik, Turkey (see November 28), Pope Leo XIV and Patriarch Bartholomew signed a joint declaration reaffirming their commitment to Christian unity and global peace. The document emphasized theological dialogue, practical cooperation, and interreligious efforts, and suggested establishing a common date for Easter as a concrete first step. (RNS)
  • November 30 — Be sure to catch up on all the biggest, most thought-provoking, and most inspiring Bible news stories of November!

View news archives here.

Reading news about the Bible is great — but reading the Good News of the Bible is better! Bible Gateway Plus offers Study Bibles, commentaries, encyclopedias, and tons more resources to help you get more from God’s Word — all for less than $5/mo. Start your free trial today!

Scripture in Clear Focus: A Short History of Biblical Typography

Laura Bartlett
-
0
Scripture in Clear Focus: A Short History of Biblical Typography

The Clear Focus Bible offers a fresh and innovative way to experience God’s Word by utilizing the Bionic Reading® method — an innovative new typography that guides the eye through the text with artificial fixation points that bold initial letters of words. The ultimate goal of the Clear Focus Bible is to help more readers engage with Scripture through improved focus, clarity, and reading comprehension.

In many ways, this innovation has only been made possible because of the vast and remarkable history of biblical typography throughout the centuries. From the painstaking efforts of ancient scribes, through the artistry of medieval calligraphers, to the revolutionary invention of the printing press, each era has shaped how we encounter the text. It’s helpful to pull back the curtain on this history, in order to better understand the ongoing legacy of work and stewardship that’s emerged over centuries. 

The Legacy of Preserving God’s Word for God’s People

The Word of God has been a cornerstone of faith for millennia, serving as a source of guidance, comfort, wisdom, and the revelation of God to humanity. But how we read the Bible has transformed dramatically over the centuries.

Banner reading "Bible Gateway Plus, Less Than $5.00 per month, Free Trial"

The physical presentation of the text — its typography — has always played a crucial role in its accessibility and impact. From the painstaking work of ancient scribes to the digital innovations of today, there has been a continuous effort to make the scriptures clearer and more engaging for every generation. This journey through the history of biblical typography reveals a profound dedication to preserving and presenting God’s Word, a journey that continues with new tools designed for the modern reader.

The Sacred Work of the Scribe: Preserving Scripture for Future Generations

Long before printing presses and digital screens, the preservation of Scripture rested in the hands of dedicated scribes. The act of transcribing the Hebrew scriptures was a deeply spiritual and rule-bound process. Scribes like the Masoretes, who worked between the 7th and 10th centuries AD, followed an incredibly strict set of guidelines to ensure every letter was perfect.

Ancient Hebrew scroll

These scribes used specific types of animal skins for their scrolls, which were prepared in a particular way. The ink had to be black and made from a precise recipe. Before writing the name of God, a scribe would ceremonially wash and change his pen. He could not write even a single letter from memory; he had to look at the source text and pronounce each word aloud as he wrote it. The spacing between letters, words, and sections was meticulously measured. If a single mistake was found on a finished panel of a scroll, the entire section was often cut out and buried, deemed unfit for use.

This intense precision was not just about accuracy; it was an act of worship. The scribes believed they were handling the very breath of God, and their typographical work reflected that reverence. The result of their labors was a clear, uniform script that was legible and honored the divine nature of the text. Their work ensured that the Bible would survive through ages of turmoil and transition, passed down with an astonishing degree of accuracy. Their typography was a testament to their faith, becoming a physical manifestation of the text’s holiness.

Medieval Typography: The Beauty of Scripture Illuminated

As Christianity spread across Europe, the presentation of the Bible entered a new phase. During the Middle Ages, the scroll gave way to the codex — the ancestor of the modern book. This shift made the scriptures easier to navigate, allowing readers to flip between passages instead of unrolling a long scroll. In monasteries across the continent, monks took up the scribal mantle, dedicating their lives to copying the Bible by hand.

This era gave rise to the illuminated manuscript, where typography became an art form. Using quills and vibrant inks made from ground minerals and plants, these monastic calligraphers created Bibles that were both texts and treasures. The lettering itself was often beautiful and ornate, with styles like Gothic script lending an air of majesty and authority to the page.

Medieval illuminated manuscript

But it was the illumination that made these Bibles truly breathtaking. Intricate illustrations, known as miniatures, depicted biblical scenes in vivid color. The first letter of a chapter, the “initial,” was often transformed into a magnificent piece of art, decorated with gold leaf that shimmered in the candlelight.

These decorative elements were not just for show. In a largely illiterate society, the images helped convey the stories and teachings of the text to those who could not read. The typography and art worked together to create a multi-sensory experience, drawing the reader into the sacred narrative.

Bibles like the Book of Kells and the Lindisfarne Gospels stand as monuments to this era, where the physical book was as much an object of devotion as the words it contained.

The Revolution of the Printing Press: Making Scripture More Accessible

For centuries, Bibles were rare and expensive, chained to pulpits and locked away in monasteries. Only the wealthy and the clergy had access to a personal copy. This all changed in the mid-15th century with Johannes Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press with movable type. This innovation was arguably the single most important event in the history of biblical typography and distribution.

Gutenberg’s first major project was the printing of the Bible. Using a metal alloy to cast uniform letters, he could produce pages of text far faster and more consistently than any scribe. The Gutenberg Bible, printed around 1455, was a masterpiece of early typography. He designed a font that mimicked the formal Gothic script of the best manuscript Bibles, making the new, printed book feel familiar and authoritative.

Gutenberg Bible

The impact was immediate and profound. The printing press dramatically lowered the cost of producing Bibles, making them accessible to a much wider audience. For the first time, middle-class families could aspire to own a copy of the scriptures. This explosion in availability fueled the Protestant Reformation, as leaders like Martin Luther used the press to distribute the Bible in vernacular languages, allowing people to read it for themselves.

The typography of these early printed Bibles prioritized clarity and readability for a growing literate public. The focus shifted from ornate, decorative beauty to clean, functional text designed for personal study and reflection. The press democratized the Word, placing it directly into the hands of the people.

A New Typographical Frontier: Bionic Reading® and the Clear Focus Bible

From the scribe’s scroll to the printer’s press, the goal has always been to make the biblical text more accessible. Today, in our fast-paced, digital world, we face a new set of challenges: information overload, constant distractions, and strained attention spans. Reading, even for pleasure or spiritual growth, can feel like a chore. The next evolution in biblical typography addresses this modern problem directly.

Enter Bionic Reading®, a typographical method designed by Swiss scientists to enhance the reading experience in a digitally saturated age. This innovative system works by subtly bolding the initial letters of each word. This simple modification creates “fixation points” that guide the eye through the text more smoothly and efficiently. The brain reads the rest of the word, which is rendered in a lighter font, almost automatically. This reduces the cognitive load required to decode sentences, allowing the reader to absorb the content with greater speed, comprehension, and — most importantly — focus. It helps to quiet the noise of a wandering mind, creating a clearer channel between the reader and the text.

Clear Focus Bible interior

This groundbreaking approach finds its perfect application in the Clear Focus Bible. By integrating the Bionic Reading® method, the Clear Focus Bible represents the latest step in the long history of making scripture accessible. It takes the timeless Word of God and presents it in a format optimized for the 21st-century reader. For those who struggle with focus, find long passages daunting, or simply want to connect more deeply with their reading, this Bible offers a powerful solution.

The Clear Focus Bible is not about changing the Word; it is about making it more accessible for more people, particularly for those with reading challenges. It carries forward the legacy of the scribes, the monks, and the printers who all sought to present the scriptures with clarity and reverence. It acknowledges that in our world of endless digital distractions, focus is a precious commodity.

By leveraging modern typographical science, the Clear Focus Bible helps readers cut through the mental clutter and engage more profoundly with the biblical narrative. It is a tool for deeper devotion, enabling a more immersive and less strenuous reading experience, and proving that the ancient quest to bring the Word into sharper view is still alive and well.

Cover of NIV Clear Focus Bible

Imagine a quiet time where you read longer, read with more clarity, and give Scripture the undivided attention it deserves. With the Clear Focus Bible — available now in NIV, NASB, and NIrV — you can stay engaged, identify previously learned words, and absorb information without losing focus. Get your copy today!

December 2025 Bible Verse Calendar

Bible Gateway
-
0
December 2025 Bible Verse Calendar

Here’s your Bible Gateway verse-of-the-day calendar for the month of December! Click each link below to read the verse in your preferred translation — or download the image (or PDF) of all verse references.

You can also subscribe to get Bible Gateway’s Verse of the Day right in your inbox every day — in your preferred translation (or multiple translations)!

Bible Gateway’s Verses of the Day for December

DayVerse
1John 1:1-2, 14
2Hebrews 1:1-2
3John 6:35
4John 8:12
5John 10:7, 9-10
6John 10:14-15
7John 11:25
8John 14:6
9John 15:5, 8
10Deuteronomy 18:15
11Isaiah 7:14
12Galatians 4:4-5
13Matthew 2:4-6
14Luke 1:26-28
15Luke 1:30-33
16Luke 1:46-47, 49
17Matthew 1:20-21
18Luke 1:68-70
19Luke 1:76-78
20Luke 2:1, 4-5
21Luke 2:6-7
22Luke 2:8-11
23Luke 2:11-14
24Luke 2:16-20
25Isaiah 9:6
26Luke 2:28-32
27Psalm 103:1-2
28Matthew 11:28
29John 14:1-3
30John 16:33
31Isaiah 43:16, 18-19

Get the most out of your Bible reading — including each of the above verses — with a free trial of Bible Gateway Plus. Access dozens of Study Bibles, dictionaries, commentaries, and other resources to go deeper into every aspect of God’s Word. Try it today!

Calendar of daily Bible verses for December 2025

How to Pray the Lord’s Prayer: 6 Context Lenses to Understand Jesus’ Words

Brad Gray and Brad Nelson
-
0
How to Pray the Lord’s Prayer: 6 Context Lenses to Understand Jesus’ Words

The Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 is the most well-known prayer in human history — but that familiarity can work against us. By assuming we already know what it means, we miss the depth and power Jesus intended.

Understanding Jesus’ prayer in its original context changes things. After years of study, teaching, and leading trips to the Bible lands, we’ve developed a simple yet powerful framework at Walking The Text called the six “Lenses of Context” that help us see the Bible as it was meant to be understood. Each lens offers a fresh perspective to sharpen our vision.

Bubble chart depicting the 6 Context Lenses from Walking The Bible: Historical, Cultural, Geographical, Linguistic, Literary, Visual

By context, we mean all of the details Biblical writers didn’t include because they assumed their readers already knew: history, culture, geography, language, literary design, and visual settings of these places.

As you explore each lens, you’ll begin to see that this ancient prayer is so much more than a mantra to recite, but an invitation to join Jesus in his mission of bringing heaven here.

1. Historical

The Lord’s Prayer begins with the words, “Our Father.” For us, these are familiar words — even comforting, depending on your relationship with your own father. But in the first century AD, calling God Father was bold, even dangerous. That’s because in the Roman Empire, Caesar claimed the title pater patriae — “father of the country.” To call God Father was a way of saying Caesar isn’t ultimate. God is.

One of the ways Rome’s Caesar acted like a father was through the Annona, a daily grain allowance provided for citizens in Rome. The only problem was that Rome didn’t grow enough grain for itself. It filled its storehouses by stripping grain from the lands it conquered — especially Egypt and Judea. Caesar fed some of “his children” by taking from others. Jesus, by contrast, taught his followers to pray to a Father whose kingdom doesn’t exploit, but provides.

Banner reading "Bible Gateway Plus, Less Than $5.00 per month, Free Trial"

In the Roman world, dependence on Caesar meant living under his thumb. The daily grain allowance was a constant reminder of who held power. But Jesus redefines dependence — not as a tool of control, but as a pathway to freedom. To pray for daily bread is to trust a Father whose generosity doesn’t exploit but sustains.

For Jesus’ audience, bread was survival. Most lived day to day, working for a wage that could buy just enough food for the family. That’s the radical trust Jesus was inviting when he told his followers to ask God for daily bread.

Instead of hustling to secure more and more, the Lord’s Prayer calls us back to the basics: Today, Father, give me what I need today. It’s a posture of trust that reshapes our striving, softens our fear, and frees us from confusing provision with control.

2. Cultural

Whenever we step into a culture radically different from our own, we feel the shock. Reading the Bible is the same kind of cross-cultural experience. For those of us shaped by the modern Western world, entering the world of Scripture means learning to see through very different eyes.

In Jesus’ day, Jewish sages and rabbis gathered disciples who longed to imitate them in every way. About two centuries before Jesus, a rabbi named Yose ben Yoezer captured this spirit when he wrote:

“Let your house be a meeting-place for the sages (rabbis);
sit in the dust of their feet;
and drink in their words with thirst.”
(Mishnah Avot 1:4)

A rabbi walking the roads of Galilee would kick up dust as he traveled. To be covered in that dust was a badge of honor — proof you were following closely. That’s why, in Luke 11, one of Jesus’ disciples asked, “Lord, teach us to pray.” He wasn’t saying, “Give us tips for making prayer more personal.” He was saying, “Teach us to pray the way you pray. Give us your words.”

In our world, we often assume prayer is only authentic if it’s spontaneous. But in the Jewish world, prayer was authentic when it aligned your heart with God’s. Prayer wasn’t about pouring out your feelings; it was about being so deeply shaped by God’s words that you learned to feel what they expressed.

That’s the gift of the Lord’s Prayer. When Jesus said, “Pray like this,” he was inviting his disciples to walk in his dust — to let his prayer shape their own, and to live as he lived, in alignment with the words he gave them to pray.

3. Geographical

“Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them” (Matthew 5:1-2, NIV).

Geography isn’t background detail — it often explains why the story happens at all. By delivering his message on a mountain, Matthew wants us to hear echoes of Moses on Mt. Sinai. After rescuing his people from Egypt, God brought them to Sinai where Moses gave them God’s commandments — His principles for living. Then God planted Israel in Canaan, what biblical geographers call “the land between.” Situated at the crossroads of the ancient world, it was the place where the great empires of Africa, Asia, and Europe converged. It linked trade routes, bridged seas, and funneled cultures into constant contact.

It’s as if God said, “I want you here, where the world passes through. Be my living message — so that when people encounter you, it will be as if they are encountering me.”

Just as Moses gave Israel God’s covenant law, Jesus was now giving his disciples a vision of what life in God’s kingdom looks like through his Sermon on the Mount. And he did it in Galilee — a place buzzing with crossroads energy, at the intersection of three different political districts. Around the Sea of Galilee, you could find Torah-keepers, Roman loyalists, political zealots, and pagan influences — all colliding in one small region.

And right there, in the middle of all those competing voices, Jesus trained his disciples for life in the kingdom not by arming them with arguments for every debate, but by anchoring them in the truth with words to steady their hearts: Our Father in the heavens, holy be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done. It’s a lifeline — rooting us in God’s story and training us to live faithfully no matter what cultural crosscurrents we face today.

4. Linguistic

Words matter. The Bible wasn’t written in English. The Old Testament came to us in Hebrew (with parts of Ezra and Daniel in Aramaic), and the New Testament in Greek. That’s why we have so many translations — because no single English word can always capture the full depth of the original language.

But sometimes the difference isn’t in a word, but in the grammar. For example, when Jesus taught his disciples to pray, he didn’t say “My Father” or “Give me this day my daily bread.” He said:

Our Father.
Give us.
Forgive us.
Deliver us.

The entire prayer is in the plural because faith isn’t a solo project. It’s a communal way of life. But that doesn’t come naturally to those of us who live in Western cultures that prize individualism and self-reliance.

Jesus teaches us to pray in the plural daily so that we remember there’s no such thing as following Jesus on your own. This prayer re-centers us in community — reminding us that our story is tied to the flourishing of others.

5. Literary

Biblical authors often communicated powerful messages not just with the words they used, but with how those words were arranged. Understanding the literary context of a passage — things like genre, design, who, what, when, and where — can unlock profound insights.

In Western culture, we tend to save the best for last — the grand finale at a fireworks show or the final scene of a movie. But the Bible often does the opposite, placing the most important material at the center like a literary sandwich. And that’s exactly what Matthew does with the Sermon on the Mount.

The Sermon itself is arranged into three broad sections: an introduction (Matthew 5:1-16), a body (Matthew 5:17-7:12), and a conclusion (Matthew 7:13-29). Zoom in closer, and you’ll see that the body also divides into three parts: righteousness toward Torah (Matthew 5:17-48), righteousness toward God (Matthew 6:1-18), and righteousness in everyday living (Matthew 6:19-7:12). Then zoom in even closer, and the section on righteousness toward God divides again into three practices: giving (Matthew 6:1-4), prayer (Matthew 6:5-15), and fasting (Matthew 6:16-18).

And right at the center of the center of the center — what do we find? The Lord’s Prayer.

Matthew is doing everything in his written power to shout: “Look here! This is the heart and soul of it all!” Zoom in one final time, and at the very center of the Lord’s Prayer itself we find the heartbeat of it all: “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

That’s not just literary design. If we’re honest, most of us place ourselves in the center and push God to the edges. We end up chasing what’s trivial and neglecting what’s eternal. Matthew’s structure reminds us there is a center, and it’s not us. It’s God’s kingdom breaking into the world.

6. Visual

Jesus, the master teacher, knew the power of visuals. He constantly used imagery to anchor truth in the hearts of his listeners.

And when it comes to the Lord’s Prayer, the setting matters. Picture yourself standing on that hillside above the Sea of Galilee. To one side lay the kingdom of Herod Antipas, with its wealth and politics. To another, the territory of Herod Philip, a hotbed of armed resistance. Across the lake, the Decapolis shouted Rome’s power and pagan worldview. Everywhere you looked there were competing thrones, rival kingdoms, and clashing values.

And it’s here — at the crossroads of empire — that Jesus gave his disciples the Lord’s Prayer. Not a set of political strategies or cultural coping techniques, but words to steady their hearts.

Think about that. In a landscape surrounded by kingdoms, Jesus points to another kingdom altogether. His prayer becomes a compass — not directing us toward fear, compromise, or retaliation, but toward trust in God’s reign breaking into the world.

We need that compass, too. Our lives are just as crowded with rival kingdoms: the kingdom of consumerism, always telling us we need more; the kingdom of achievement, whispering we’ll never measure up; the kingdom of partisanship, demanding that we pick a side. In the swirl of voices, it’s easy to feel pulled in every direction, wondering who really sits on the throne. But Jesus teaches us to pray differently. Your kingdom come is a declaration of trust: God, I choose Your reign above the false thrones around me.

Bringing Heaven Here

When you grasp its depth and breadth, you’ll see why the Lord’s Prayer is the single most important passage in the Bible for understanding who God is, why Jesus came, and what we’re doing here on earth. It’s a condensed summary of Jesus’ entire life and ministry. If you want to understand Jesus — if you want to share in the kind and quality of life he lived — understand his prayer.

What’s more, the Lord’s Prayer encapsulates the story of the Bible. When you understand this prayer, not only does it unleash the power of Scripture, but it unlocks you — revealing your purpose on earth and your role in God’s mission. Pondering and praying this prayer is the most important practice a follower of Jesus can do every day!

When we uncover the world behind the prayer, we’ll recover the power within it.

Cover of "Bringing Heaven Here" by Brad Gray and Brad Nelson

From the creators of the global television series The Sacred Thread comes a transformative exploration of how the Lord’s Prayer unlocks the power of God to guide, heal, and renew our lives and the world around us.

Bringing Heaven Here: How The Lord’s Prayer Can Change Your Life and Our World will unveil the hidden truths and untapped power of the world’s most famous prayer — and show how it applies to your life today. Discover how to stay rooted in Him, embrace the purpose He has for you, and let the Lord’s Prayer guide you into a life of true transformation.

123...36Page 1 of 36