Scripture

How to Read the Bible as an Orthodox Christian

1 min read

Orthodox Christians read the Bible within the life of the Church. Scripture is not a standalone manual but part of Holy Tradition—proclaimed in liturgy, interpreted by the Fathers, and lived by the saints. This communal lens guards against private interpretation.

Begin with the Gospels, then Acts and the epistles, weaving in the psalms that form the backbone of Orthodox prayer. The Old Testament is read through the light of Christ, with the feasts revealing typology and fulfillment.

Study alongside patristic commentary to avoid distortion. Saints John Chrysostom, Athanasius, and Ephrem offer homilies that explain difficult passages and show how exegesis fuels repentance.

Approach reading prayerfully: make the sign of the cross, ask the Holy Spirit to illumine your mind, and close with thanksgiving. Keep notes on questions to bring to a priest or study group.

Athon’s lectionary tool surfaces the day’s readings, pairs them with succinct patristic quotes, and tracks your progress through the Gospels and Psalter so Scripture becomes a daily companion.

Continue your spiritual journey with Athon

Discover daily saints, prayers, and readings inside the app.

Download Athon on the App StoreGet Athon on Google Play