# >> College & Higher Education >> College

How to Cite the Bible in APA Format Text

The American Psychological Association, also known as APA, developed a standard for formatting and citing references in academic and other text documents. This format is commonly used by media writers and in the social sciences, and differs from other common formats like the MLA, which is used most often in academic settings. There are general rules to follow when referencing or citing the bible in APA format. One rule is the Bible shouldn't be included in your works cited or reference page.

Instructions

- 1
  Cite the Bible using the book, chapter and verse. Only identify the version, or translation of the Bible in the first reference.
  
  Example: "You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you" (Psalm 86:5, New International Version).
- 2
  Include a subsequent reference to the Bible within the same document. Don't include the version.
  
  Example: "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. (Ephesians 6:18)"
- 3
  Reference the Bible in the sentence.
  
  Example: In Psalm 86:5 (New Jersulam Bible), the Lord is portrayed as a forgiving and loving.
  
  Only insert the version of the bible (New Jersulam Bible), if this is your first reference to the Bible within the text. If not, remove the version (e.g., "According to Psalm 86:5, the Lord.....").

Colleges With Good Child Development Degrees in Florida

University Financial Issues