Bible Basics for Catholics (Expanded Edition) | Ave Maria Press

A Clear, Engaging Walk Through the Bible's Big Picture

Bible Basics for Catholics (Expanded Edition): A New Picture of Salvation History by award-winning scripture professor John Bergsma is one of the most beloved Catholic Bible guides in print, with more than 120,000 copies sold. Published by Ave Maria Press and winner of a 2026 Catholic Media Association Book Award (Scripture Series, Second Place), this expanded edition invites Catholics of every background to finally feel at home in Sacred Scripture -- tracing God's love story from Adam and Eve to Jesus Christ with warmth, clarity, and even a touch of humor.

Drawing from Bergsma's popular Principles of Biblical Study course at Franciscan University of Steubenville, this edition adds study questions, a seven-week small group program, and companion videos while preserving the beloved stick figure illustrations that have made this book a classroom and parish staple.

Why You'll Love It

• Award-winning: 2026 CMA Book Award winner, with 700-plus five-star Amazon reviews
• Written by a respected Franciscan University scripture professor with pastoral warmth and academic depth
• Traces salvation history from Genesis to Christ in a clear, chronological framework anyone can follow
• Expanded edition includes chapter study questions, a seven-week small group guide, and companion videos
• Charming hand-drawn illustrations make complex theological concepts approachable and memorable
• Ideal for personal study, parish faith formation, OCIA/RCIA programs, and small group Bible studies

Product Details and Specifications

• Book Title: Bible Basics for Catholics (Expanded Edition): A New Picture of Salvation History
• SKU: 9781646803408
• ISBN: 9781646803408
• Publisher: Ave Maria Press
• Author: John Bergsma
• Book Type: Softcover
• Language: English
• Subject: Salvation history, Catholic Scripture study
• Audience: Adults, young adults, parish groups, OCIA/RCIA participants

Who This Makes a Good Gift For

• Catholics who want to understand the Bible but don't know where to start
• OCIA and RCIA participants and their sponsors
• Small group and Bible study leaders
• College students and young adults exploring their faith
• Parishioners participating in adult faith formation programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is this book about?
Answer: Bible Basics for Catholics walks readers through the entire arc of salvation history -- from creation to Christ -- in a clear, engaging format with hand-drawn illustrations and straightforward explanations.

Question: Is this suitable for someone with no prior Bible knowledge?
Answer: Absolutely. John Bergsma wrote this specifically for Catholics who feel overwhelmed by Scripture. No prior knowledge is required.

Question: What is new in the expanded edition?
Answer: The expanded edition adds chapter-by-chapter study questions, a seven-week small group program, and companion videos for deeper understanding, while keeping all the original illustrations.

Question: Can this be used for OCIA or RCIA programs?
Answer: Yes. It is well suited for OCIA and RCIA programs, adult faith formation classes, and parish small groups.

Question: Who is the author?
Answer: John Bergsma is an award-winning scripture professor at Franciscan University of Steubenville and a popular Catholic speaker and author.

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