Identify the version of the Bible used as a reference. The Bible comes in different versions and translations. Because some versions translate the messages in the Bible differently, correctly identifying which version of the Bible referenced is crucial.
Locate the passage in the Bible to which you're referring in the article. Note the book, chapter and verse for the citation. This information will allow readers to find the passage in the Bible for further reading.
Cite direct quotes from the Bible in your paper by inserting an open parenthesis after the end of the quote. Inside the parenthesis, insert the name of the book, followed by the chapter as a numeral, a colon, then the verse as a numeral, then the name of the edition/translation; close parenthesis. Your citation will look like this: The Bible instructs Christians, "Finally be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (Ephesians 6:10 New International Version). If you are paraphrasing, your citation will look like this: In Ephesians 6:10 (New International Version), the Bible instructs Christians to have strength in the Lord and his power.
Add more biblical citations as need. Sequential references will not include the Bible version., as it is assumed the same Bible is used through out the article. Additional direct quotes from the Bible should look like this: The Bible instructs Christians, "Finally be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (Ephesians 6:10). Additional paraphrased citations will look like this: In Ephesians 6:10 the Bible instructs Christians to have strength in the Lord and his power.