How to Choose the Best Bible Study Series for Your Spiritual Journey (Compared)

Choosing the right Bible study series can feel overwhelming.

There are hundreds of options. Different authors. Different approaches. Different promises about what you'll gain.

But here's the truth: The best Bible study series is the one that meets you where you are and helps you take the next step in your walk with Christ.

Not the most popular one.

Not the one everyone at church is doing.

The one that fits your spiritual journey right now.

I'm Dr. Layne McDonald, Online and Connection Pastor at FA Memphis and Boundless Online Church, and I've walked alongside hundreds of people as they've navigated this decision. Let me help you think through it with clarity and confidence.

Start With Your Spiritual Season

Before you compare study series, ask yourself: What season am I in spiritually?

New to faith? You need something that builds a foundation. Look for series that introduce core Christian beliefs, explain how to read the Bible, and don't assume you know church vocabulary.

Seeking depth after years of faith? You're ready for theological study, cultural context, and wrestling with harder questions. Book-by-book studies or thematic deep dives work well here.

Recovering from burnout or doubt? Choose something gentle. A reflective series with space to journal, ask questions, and heal. Avoid anything that feels like homework.

Looking to apply Scripture practically? Find series that connect ancient truth to modern life: relationships, work, parenting, finances, mental health.

Your season shapes your needs. Honor where you are.

Four Main Study Approaches (And How to Pick One)

Bible study series generally fall into four categories. Understanding these helps you narrow your options fast.

1. Topical Studies

These focus on specific themes: prayer, forgiveness, identity in Christ, dealing with anxiety, marriage, leadership.

Best for: People wanting to grow in a specific area or solve a particular struggle.

Example: A study on biblical peace when you're battling worry.

Downside: You might miss the broader context of Scripture.

2. Book-by-Book Studies

These walk through one book of the Bible: verse by verse, chapter by chapter.

Best for: People ready to slow down and dig deep. Great for understanding context, culture, and authorial intent.

Example: A 10-week study through the Gospel of John or the book of Romans.

Downside: Requires more time and focus. Not ideal if you're brand new to reading the Bible.

3. Chronological Studies

These follow the Bible's timeline rather than the order of books. You read Genesis, then Job, then Exodus, seeing how God's story unfolds historically.

Best for: People who want to see the big picture of Scripture and how it all connects.

Example: The Bible Recap approach mentioned in our research.

Downside: Requires daily commitment and can feel lengthy.

4. Thematic/Theological Studies

These explore big theological ideas across the entire Bible: covenant, kingdom, grace, justice, redemption.

Best for: Seasoned believers who want to trace themes throughout Scripture.

Example: A study on God's faithfulness from Genesis to Revelation.

Downside: Can feel academic if you're not ready for it.

At Boundless Online Church, we offer multiple study formats so everyone can find what fits. Check out our Bible study groups to see what's currently running.

Community vs. Solo Study: What's Right for You?

Another major decision: Will you study alone or with others?

Solo study gives you freedom. Go at your own pace. Pause when you need to reflect. Skip ahead if something doesn't resonate. Perfect for introverts or people with unpredictable schedules.

Community study brings accountability, perspective, and encouragement. You hear how others wrestle with the same passages. You're less likely to quit halfway through. And honestly? Some of the richest spiritual growth happens when someone asks a question you never thought to ask.

Here's my recommendation: If you're new to Bible study, start with community. The support matters more than you think.

If you've been studying for years and feel stuck, try solo study with a mentor you can check in with occasionally.

Boundless offers both options. Join our Bible Study for Men or find a general study group that fits your schedule.

Practical Factors That Actually Matter

Beyond spiritual readiness and study format, consider these real-world factors:

Time commitment. Be honest. Can you do 30 minutes daily? Or is 15 minutes three times a week more realistic? Choose a series that matches your actual availability, not your ideal availability.

Format preference. Do you learn better by reading, watching videos, listening to audio, or writing? Many modern series offer multiple formats. Pick the one you'll actually use.

Cost. Some series require workbooks, leader guides, or video subscriptions. Others are free or donation-based. Budget matters. God's Word is accessible at every price point.

Difficulty level. Read a sample lesson before committing. Does the language feel approachable? Are the questions thought-provoking but not overwhelming? Trust your gut.

Length. A 4-week series feels achievable. A 40-week series requires serious commitment. Start shorter if you're unsure.

A Simple Decision Framework

Still feeling stuck? Walk through these five questions:

1. What's my biggest spiritual need right now? (Foundation, depth, healing, application)

2. How much time can I realistically commit per week? (Be honest)

3. Do I want to study alone or with others? (Both are valid)

4. What format helps me learn best? (Reading, video, audio, journaling)

5. Am I willing to invest money, or do I need something free? (No shame either way)

Your answers will point you toward the right series.

How to Test-Drive a Study Series

Here's a pro tip: You don't have to commit for life

.

Try the first week. See how it feels.

Does it spark curiosity or feel like drudgery?

Does it challenge you without crushing you?

Do you look forward to the next lesson or dread it?

If it's not working after two or three sessions, pivot. There's no shame in switching to something that fits better.

Bible study should draw you closer to God, not make you feel guilty or overwhelmed.

Finding Support for Your Journey

You don't have to figure this out alone.

Our team at Boundless Online Church helps people find the right Bible study fit all the time.

We know what works for different seasons, learning styles, and life stages.

Reach out and let's talk about where you are and where you want to go.

Contact us:

• Boundless Online Church AI 24/7 Assistant: 1-901-668-5380

• Boundless Phone: 1-901-213-7341

• FA Memphis: 1-901-843-8600

• Email:lmcdonald@famemphis.net

• Website:www.boundlessonlinechurch.org

We'd love to help you find a study that meets you where you are and moves you forward.

Your Next Step

The best Bible study series for your spiritual journey is the one you'll actually do.

Not the fanciest. Not the most popular. The one that fits.

If you're ready to explore options, check out our online programs or join one of our community groups.

And if you want to stay connected with the latest Bible study resources, teaching series, and faith-building content, follow and subscribe to Boundless Online Church for updates delivered straight to your inbox.

You've got this. And you're not doing it alone.

Let's grow together.