Orthodox Bible Study Aids
The Orthodox Church has always strived for a balance between the elements of the Faith: Liturgy, sacraments/mysteries, prayer, alms, fasting, etc. The Bible has been a key part of all areas of Orthodox worship and prayer but the 'reading of the Bible' as a distinct practice has not been strongly emphasized. The tools below are designed to help develop regular Bible reading and study.
It is very important to read a recognized Orthodox commentary (usually from an Early Church Father or saint who is known for sound exegesis) in order to understand the true meaning of what was written by the New Testament authors. This doesn't have to be greatly detailed but a chapter summary is a minimum of what should be utilized.
* This New Testament reading plan is designed so that one of the four Gospels are read close each of the four major fasting seasons of the Church Year. A few often used Psalms close out the reading cycle in August. Acts, the story of the birth of the Church, is read at the start of the Church Year in September. The reading plan can be started at any time.
The Orthodox Church has always strived for a balance between the elements of the Faith: Liturgy, sacraments/mysteries, prayer, alms, fasting, etc. The Bible has been a key part of all areas of Orthodox worship and prayer but the 'reading of the Bible' as a distinct practice has not been strongly emphasized. The tools below are designed to help develop regular Bible reading and study.
It is very important to read a recognized Orthodox commentary (usually from an Early Church Father or saint who is known for sound exegesis) in order to understand the true meaning of what was written by the New Testament authors. This doesn't have to be greatly detailed but a chapter summary is a minimum of what should be utilized.
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Leaflet with a Plan to Read the New Testament in a Year* |
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Bible Reading Based on the Liturgical Year |
* This New Testament reading plan is designed so that one of the four Gospels are read close each of the four major fasting seasons of the Church Year. A few often used Psalms close out the reading cycle in August. Acts, the story of the birth of the Church, is read at the start of the Church Year in September. The reading plan can be started at any time.
