Lesson 1.1: Welcome & Meet Your Instructor

Welcome to "How to Read and Study Your Bible"! My name is Dr. Dillon Evans, and I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with you. Whether you're brand new to reading the Bible or you've been a Christian for years but feel like you're not getting as much out of Scripture as you'd like, this course is designed for you.

[Personal story - 2-3 paragraphs about your own journey with Scripture. Include a moment when Bible reading clicked for you, or a season when you struggled, to create connection with students]

Why This Course Matters

The Bible isn't just another book on your shelf. It's God's revelation of Himself to us—His love letter, His instruction manual for life, His story of redemption. But here's the truth: many Christians own Bibles they rarely open. Others open them dutifully but feel confused, bored, or overwhelmed.

This course exists to change that. Not by adding more religious duty to your life, but by helping you encounter the living God through His Word.

What to Expect in This Course

In the modules ahead, we'll cover:

• Module 2: Choosing Your Bible - What translation should you use? What's the difference between a study Bible and a reading Bible? Physical or digital?

• Module 3: Essential Tools - What you need to read and study effectively (spoiler: it's simpler than you think)

• Module 4: How to Read the Bible - Practical methods for reading Scripture that help you understand the big story and stay engaged

• Module 5: How to Study the Bible - A step-by-step approach to studying passages deeply and accurately

• Module 6: Putting It Into Practice - Creating a sustainable plan that includes reading, studying, and devotional time

Your Assignment

Before you move to the next lesson:

1. Reflect on your current Bible reading: Think honestly about your relationship with Scripture right now. Do you read it regularly? Do you feel confused when you read? Do you struggle to stay consistent? Write down your thoughts.

2. Set your intention: Why are you taking this course? What do you hope to gain? Write down 2-3 specific goals.

3. Ask God to Lead: Pray to God, right now - to help you learn from Him and develop a living faith. To also remove distractions and to work on your heart, to renew your mind, and reveal Himself in a powerful way.