Reading the bible one-to-one

What is reading the Bible one-to-one?

Reading the Bible one-to-one is a simple way for Christians to help one another grow spiritually. It involves two people of the same gender meeting regularly to read a passage of Scripture together, think carefully about what it means, and discuss how it applies to their lives.

It is not a formal Bible study or a lecture. Rather, it is two followers of Jesus encouraging one another by listening to God’s Word together, or a Christian reading with a non-Christian. It therefore involves honest discussion and a willingness to let God’s Word challenge, encourage, and shape our lives.

Why should we read the Bible one-to-one?

Jesus commands us to make disciples (Matthew 28:18–20). One of the most effective ways we can obey this command is by helping one another understand and apply God’s Word.

Colossians 2:16 says that “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom”. This is for all believers. One way we can let the word of Christ dwell in us richly is by reading the Bible one-to-one.

Reading the Bible one-to-one helps us:

  • Grow in our love for Christ.
  • Better understand God’s Word.
  • Encourage one another to follow Jesus faithfully.
  • Build meaningful Christian friendships.
  • Learn how to help others grow in the faith. 

Why should we read the Bible one-to-one?

Pray

Begin by asking God for wisdom, humility, and understanding. We depend on the Holy Spirit to help us understand and obey His Word.

  1. Choose someone to read with

Ask another person of the same gender if they would like to meet regularly to read the Bible together. This could be a younger Christian, a new believer, someone who would benefit from encouragement, or even a non-Christian who is interested in exploring what the Bible teaches.

Remember, we do not come as experts who have everything together. We come as fellow disciples who also need God’s Word to shape our own lives.

  1. Choose a book of the Bible

Read through a whole book of the Bible together rather than jumping between different passages.

Choose a book you are reasonably familiar with. If needed, use a trusted Bible study guide to help you prepare.

  1. Prepare

Before each meeting:

  • Pray.
  • Read the passage carefully.
  • Think about its meaning.
  • Consider how it applies to your own life.
  • Prepare a few simple questions to guide your discussion.
  1. Meet together

Aim to meet for about 30–60 minutes.

A typical meeting might look like this:

  • Catch up briefly.
  • Pray together.
  • Read the Bible passage aloud.
  • Discuss the passage using your prepared questions.
  • Share how God is challenging or encouraging each of you.
  • Pray for one another.

Those leading the study should model humility and honesty, especially when discussing personal application. This often helps others feel comfortable doing the same.

Who is it for?

Reading the Bible one-to-one is for every Christian who wants to grow in knowing and following Jesus. It is not for perfect Christians—because there are none.
If you are a younger Christian, you may benefit most by asking a more mature believer to read the Bible with you. As you grow, you will be equipped to help others in the same way.

How often should we meet?

Ideally, meet once a week, but any regular rhythm is valuable.

Whether you meet weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, consistency matters more than frequency.

Helpful Resources

You can use these Bible studies as you meet to read the Bible one-to-one.

The Word one-to-one available on the App store and Google play and web: https://www.theword121.com/online

Knowing the Bible (Crossway)

An excellent series of Bible studies covering individual books of the Bible. Here is the link: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/course/knowing-bible-series/

Reading Mark with a Friend by Amy Wicks: https://www.st-helens.org.uk/resources/study/10/

Here is a document with that teaches the COMA method of Bible study: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0117/6934/8158/files/OTOBR-Sheets_for_copying-US_letter.pdf?442

How can you get involved?

You can participate in several ways: