You’re now into the third week of Bible readings for April—well done for keeping going!

In the Old Testament, in 1 Samuel we step into the dramatic early days of Israel’s monarchy. We meet Samuel, the last of the judges and a great prophet, whose life begins with a miraculous birth and a calling from God. Despite his warnings, the people demand a king “like the other nations.” Saul is chosen—but his reign becomes a sobering tale of pride, disobedience, and downfall. Amid the ashes of Saul’s failure, God quietly anoints a young shepherd named David, a man after his own heart.

In the New Testament, continuing in Luke, Jesus continues his journey toward Jerusalem. Through vivid parables and challenging teachings, he speaks about the kingdom of God, the dangers of pride, and the beauty of humility. Again and again, we see God’s heart for the lost and his joy when the wandering return. Jesus invites us to live watchfully, generously, and with hearts aligned to his ways.

week 3: 16-22 april

OT – 1 Samuel 1-16

1 Samuel opens with a familiar theme—the barren woman miraculously enabled by God to conceive—reminding us once again of our need to be born of the Spirit. Samuel emerges as a prophet with a priestly role who also leads as Israel’s judge. His story begins with the decline of the priesthood, marked by the corruption of Eli and his sons. As the last of the judges, Samuel is chosen by God to anoint Israel’s first king—Saul. There is a mixed response to the idea of a kingdom. It reflects the people’s unbelief and lack of trust in God as their true ruler, yet God still chooses and anoints the kings, using Israel’s kingdom to foreshadow his greater spiritual kingdom. When Saul fails through unbelief and disobedience—leaving Israel vulnerable to enemy domination by the Philistines—God raises up a man after his own heart: David.

Apr. 16: 1 Sam 1-2; Apr. 17: 1 Sam 3-5; Apr. 18: 1 Sam 6-8; Apr. 19: 1 Sam 9-10; Apr. 20: 1 Sam 11-12; Apr. 21: 1 Sam 13-14; Apr. 22: 1 Sam 15-16.

You will find a Book Background to 1 Samuel here.

NT – Luke 12:49-17:10

Jesus continues to challenge people’s thinking, speaking again in parables about the Kingdom, – its secret yet unstoppable, all-pervasive growth. He surprises his listeners with who he says will ultimately get through the door/gate into his kingdom – and who will not. Brushing off Herod’s threats, he set his face toward Jerusalem, lamenting over the city that will reject him. Meanwhile, the religious leaders, representing this wayward nation, persist in trying to trap him. Jesus contrasts their pride with true humility and, again upends expectations about who will be invited to the feast of the kingdom. He also speaks once more of the cost of discipleship. Though criticised for mixing with sinners, he reveals his heart for the lost in three parables. Then, with a startling parable about a shrewd steward, he challenges his followers to handle spiritual wealth as keenly as the world handles money. He also warns of the dangers of leading others into temptation and teaches the necessity of forgiveness.

Apr. 16: Luke 12:49-13:9: Apr. 17: Luke 13:10-35; Apr. 18: Luke 14:1-24; Apr. 19: Luke 14:25-15:10; Apr. 20: Luke 15:11-32; Apr. 21: Luke 16:1-19 Apr. 22: Luke 16:20-17:10

If you’re enjoying the Bible Tour readings, why not explore some of the other resources available on this site? I’ve recently added to a growing collection of articles for new Christians—including one on The Importance of Church. I’d love for you to take a look and share any feedback. My goal is to build a whole series called First Steps—a user-friendly, accessible set of resources to help disciple those who are brand new to the Christian faith. Let me know what you think!