Find Scripture in the Bible (print version)
God's Word (the Holy Bible) is a large volume containing 66 books within two major parts; the Old Testament and the New Testament. To some, using the Bible may seem difficult at first. The good news is that with some basic knowledge of its layout and with practice, you will be able to quickly find any verse or passage of Scripture. In fact, its a very easy skill to develop! By following the simple steps below, you will learn this skill in no time!
Become familiar with the layout
The Bible is divided into two sections: the Old Testament (Genesis through Malachi) and the New Testament (Matthew through Revelation). By opening your Bible in the center, you should find the Book of Psalms or the Book of Proverbs. Now, if you take the right hand portion of Scripture and divide in half, you should find the Book of Matthew or the Book of Mark.
As you scan the pages, you will notice that the Bible is divided by Book, Chapter, and Verse. Verses are usually arranged with small numbers within the text. Some Bibles are formed into paragraphs and only have the number of the verse that begins each paragraph. In many Bibles, you will see the words of Christ in red.
At the top left and right hand corners of many Bibles, you will find the Book's name followed by a number, colon, and another number (example: John 3:16). The text tells you what Book you are viewing as well as the chapter and verses on that particular page. If the text is located on the upper left hand page, then John 3:16 (using our example) will be the first verse on the left hand page. If the text is located on the upper right hand page, then John 3:16 will be the last verse on the right hand page. Therfore, the Scriptures in front of you fall between the Scripture reference at the top left and the Scripture reference at the top right.
Quick Tips for Finding Scripture
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (KJV)