How to Mark Your Bible
A complete verse-by-verse color-coded system for marking every text on one subject throughout your entire Bible. Follow the chain — master the truth.
What Is Bible Marking?
Bible marking is a systematic method of studying God's Word by collecting every verse on a single subject and linking them together in a chain. Instead of flipping back and forth trying to remember where key texts are, you create a color-coded trail right inside your Bible that guides you from one verse to the next.
With this system, your Bible becomes a powerful teaching tool. Open to any marked verse, and you can walk through an entire Bible study — verse by verse — on that subject. The Step 1 Bible Marking Plan covers 23 foundational topics with a total of over 200 scripture references, each organized into a numbered chain.
Whether you are studying alone, sharing with a friend, or preparing to teach, a marked Bible gives you confidence that you have every key text at your fingertips — linked together in the right order.
Step-by-Step Marking Guide
Step 1: Choose Your Color System
Assign a unique color to each of the 23 study topics. Use colored pencils, highlighters, or fine-tip pens. Each color represents one subject so you can visually identify all verses on the same topic throughout your Bible.
Step 2: Write the Topic Code
In the margin next to each verse, write the topic code (e.g., "IB" for Inspiration of the Bible, "SC" for Second Coming). Use the assigned color for that topic. This code tells you which subject the verse belongs to.
Step 3: Number Each Verse in the Chain
After the topic code, write the order number of that verse in the chain. For example, the first verse under "Inspiration of the Bible" is marked "IB-1", the second is "IB-2", and so on. This creates a numbered chain you can follow from beginning to end.
Step 4: Write the Next Reference
Below the topic code and number, write the reference of the NEXT verse in the chain. This creates a trail: when you open to IB-1 (John 14:6), you will see a note pointing to IB-2 (John 17:17). At the last verse in the chain, write "END" or loop back to the first verse.
Step 5: Highlight or Underline the Text
Using the topic's assigned color, highlight or underline the verse text itself. This way, when you flip through your Bible, the color immediately tells you this verse relates to a specific subject — even before you read the margin note.
Step 6: Add a Brief Note (Optional)
In the margin or at the bottom of the page, write a brief note connecting the verse to the topic. For example, next to 2 Timothy 3:15-16 you might write: "All scripture given by inspiration of God." Keep notes short — the verse speaks for itself.
Marking Example
Here is how a marked page looks for the topic “Inspiration of the Bible” (Code: IB, Color: Red)
John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
John 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
2 Timothy 3:15-16
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures... All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.
Each margin note uses the topic color (red for IB), shows the chain number, and points to the next verse
Supplies You Will Need
Wide-Margin Bible
A Bible with wide margins gives you room to write the topic codes, chain numbers, and next references beside each verse. A King James Version (KJV) is recommended for this plan.
Colored Pencils or Pens
A set of at least 23 colored pencils or fine-tip pens — one color per topic. Colored pencils are gentler on thin Bible pages and will not bleed through.
Straightedge Ruler
A small ruler helps you underline verses neatly and draw clean lines in the margins. Neat marking makes your Bible easier to read and teach from.
Complete Verse Chains by Topic
Click any topic to see its full verse-by-verse chain with suggested color assignment
Tips for Success
Mark One Topic at a Time
Complete all the verses for one topic before moving on to the next. This keeps your markings consistent and helps you learn the subject deeply.
Start with the First Verse
On the inside cover of your Bible, write a master index listing each topic code, its color, and the first verse reference. This is your starting point for every chain.
Use Pencil First
If you are nervous about marking your Bible, start with light pencil marks. Once you are confident in the system, trace over them with colored pencils or pens.
Practice Giving Studies
The ultimate goal is to be able to open your Bible to any topic and walk someone through the entire chain. Practice by giving Bible studies to friends and family.
Master Index for Your Bible Cover
Copy this index onto the inside front cover of your Bible so you always know where each chain begins