(In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1).
I've almost read the entire Bible more than once. Even though I've started over a couple of times I still have a few Books that I need to reread or read. Starting at the beginning of the Bible is important because we learn about "the importance of how something begins." In error, some people believe that the Old Testament is irrelevant. This is a mistake, and yet another trick Satan uses to keep Christians ill informed of the Creator's opening message to those that He was about to create.
The Book of Genesis Chapter one doesn't just tell us that God created the heavens and earth, it also tells us what He was working with. 2 ."Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters." Genesis 1: 2
(In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1).
I'll also take it a step further. Because I did not complete it all at once I found myself going back years later to make the attempt. However, during that time I was not complacent, and was still reading passages on a regular basis. The Book of Genesis establishes the importance of "beginnings." How we start something out is extremely important.
Whether it be a relationship, job, building a home (foundation), or similar. In Genesis 1., God shows us His character, omnipotence and divine attention to detail. As a matter of fact, He also shows us that it takes time, patience, and dedication to build or create something that will stand the test of time, and be worthy of remembering. Genesis is a divine lesson that showcases God's work, His expectations of us as builders, creators and freewill beings.
On the last note, there is no such thing as reading the Bible once and becoming an expert, at least not an expert on leading souls to Christ. Now, granted one may memorize it's content, but without "good works" to prove that an understanding of God's commands exists, we have done no more than read or memorize a book. After all, the Pharisees knew the Bible in it's entirety, as does Satan.
Father, help us understand that knowing and living as though we know Your Word is essential in our daily walk with Your Son Jesus Christ. In Jesus Name, Amen!