Best English Standard Version Christian Bibles
The ESV Study Bible was created to help people understand the Bible in a deeper way. And click on these images to see samples of the detailed and authoritative historical illustrations included in the ESV Study Bible : GolgothaHerod's TempleTemple ComplexTemple Mount "Retaining the majesty of language with the clarity of thought, the English Standard Version is a grand accomplishment."Dr. Ranald Macaulay,Christian Heritage, The Round Church, Cambridge"After preaching out of the same version for over 10 years, I switched to the ESV Bible. "Eric J. Alexander,Retired Pastor, St. George's-Tron Parish Church, Scotland"At last a translation that majors on accuracy, combined with a modern, fluent style.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"(For a much fuller version of this review, covering more topics/texts, visit my website by searching for "Dwight Gingrich" and "NIV Zondervan Study Bible."). DIFFERENCES: It appears to me that the ESVSB is somewhat stronger than the NIVZSB in these areas: Charts, maps, illustrations, historical information, and general apologetic or bibliological articles. A comparison of the introductions to Exodus shows that the one in the ESVSB is slightly longer (six pages to the NIVZSB’s five), with more attention given to the historical reliability of the book and to its literary features. The similarities here outweigh the differences, but I give the ESVSB the blue ribbon for visual helps and breadth of topics addressed in articles. Creation – Henri A. G. Blocher. Sin – Kevin DeYoung. Covenant – Paul R. Williamson. Law – T. D. Alexander. Temple – T. D. Alexander. Priest – Dana M. Harris. Sacrifice – Jay A. Sklar. Exile and Exodus – Thomas Richard Wood. The Kingdom of God – T. D. Alexander. Sonship – D. A. Carson. The City of God – T. D. Alexander. Prophets and Prophecy – Sam Storms. Death and Resurrection – Philip S. Johnston. People of God – Moisés Silva. Wisdom – Daniel J. Estes. Holiness – Andrew David Naselli. Justice – Brian S. Rosner. Wrath – Christopher W. Morgan. Love and Grace – Graham A. Cole. The Gospel – Greg D. Gilbert. Worship – David G. Peterson. Mission – Andreas J. Köstenberger. Shalom – Timothy Keller. The Consummation – Douglas J. Moo. While I disagree with minor points in some of these articles, I find myself agreeing with a much higher percentage of what is said here than with what is said in most systematic theologies. I have a niggling question about the place of such essays in a study Bible (how many readers will really find and benefit from this content in their specific moments of exegetical need? They teach that both divorce and remarriage are “possible but never ideal” (NIVZSB, p. 1969) in cases where one marriage partner engages in “sexual immorality” (Matt. On the other hand, the NIVZSB takes a more rigid stance than the ESVSB on 1 Corinthians 7:10-16: “There are only two options for a divorced woman: (1) remain unmarried or (2) reconcile with her husband.” It acknowledges regarding verse 15 ("the brother or sister is not bound in such circumstances”) that “it is often suggested that this allows a deserted Christian spouse to remarry” but states that “this interpretation is not plausible.”. Homosexuality: Both study Bibles state clearly that homosexual relations are sinful. Nonresistance and Relationship to Government: On Matthew 5:38-48 the NIVZSB says that “Jesus is prohibiting retaliation for wrongs experienced.” It explains that a slap on the cheek is “a common Jewish insult by a superior to a subordinate, not an aggressor’s blow.” (p. 1939). The ESVSB presents this position much more clearly: “Jesus is not prohibiting the use of force by governments, police, or soldiers when combating evil… One should not return an insulting slap, which would lead to escalating violence. In the case of a more serious assault, Jesus’ words should not be taken to prohibit self-defense…, for often a failure to resist a violent attack leads to even more serious abuse.” This difference is also evident in places like Romans 12-13, where the NIVZSB gently questions whether governments have the right to administer capital punishment, while the ESVSB suggests one way believers can "overcome evil with good" is through military or police force. This is remarkable, given that Sam Storms, a strong continuationist, was chosen to author an essay on “Prophets and Prophecy.” In this article he only vaguely hints at his own position by some present-tense references to prophecy. ), ending thus: “However one understands the extent of the atonement, this passage clearly teaches the free and universal offer of salvation to every single human being; ‘desires’ shows that this offer is a bona fide expression of God’s good will.” On this Timothy verse the NIVZSB suggests that “what God ‘wants’ may be hindered by lack of human faith.” This last statement opens the door to non-Calvinistic interpretations (but does not demand them). At Exodus 20:8-11 the ESVSB makes no Christian application, while the NIVZSB mentions that the Sabbath “anticipates the experience of rest through faith in Christ” (p. 155). The NIVZSB's “Exile and Exodus” article presents one perspective strongly: “As the only perfectly obedient Israelite...—a faithful remnant of one—Jesus (not the unbelieving nation) is the sole heir of all of the covenantal promises made to Abraham, Israel, and David... Life everlasting, a land flowing with milk and honey, a posterity as numerous as the stars, a perpetual reign over all creation, and uninhibited access to the Father’s presence all belong exclusively to him” (p. 2661). However, both Bibles (perhaps especially the ESVSB) also suggest multiple times that seeing a future role for an ethnic Israel is a legitimate interpretative approach. On the other hand, it seems slower to affirm some of the more fundamentalist ideas of evangelicalism (things such as capital punishment or a special plan for the future of ethnic Israel), it feels slightly more cautious as it affirms some points of evangelical doctrinal dispute (inability of true believers to fall from the faith, distinct gender roles in the church), and it is sometimes slower to pick sides at all regarding what the text means for today (the Christian and the military)."
"I love this study Bible."
"For my personal, at-home study though, I prefer the HCSB Study Bible in print form, for its close proximity of body text and commentary on the same page, as well as for its features of quality maps and word definitions and usages."
"The only con I can think of for this study bible is that it is heavier and bigger than most bibles, making it a bit harder to carry to and from church, bible studies, and classes."
"It has many helps and resources such as introductions to books, history of the 400 years (between OT and NT), references, maps (not just in the back of the bible but throughout), footnotes, many many helps. I have had many bibles (in many versions) over the years but this ESV Study Bible is my absolute favorite for reasons mentioned."
"I just received the indexed study bible, and the indexed pages are completely off except for Genesis and the Concordance."
Engage in devotional, Christ-centered Bible reading and study with the distinctive, comprehensive notes and practical application of The Lutheran Study Bible.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I am using it for my AP Literature classes as we study Greek literature, comparing and contrasting poetry and prose in Homer's writings and in the Bible."
"It is somewhat clumsy when a link to a note on the text gives direction to look at a note on another text. Then you have to go to that text and click on the link to that text."
"but to choose one in any of the groups is virtually impossible, so I wind up spending a considerable amount of time "hunting and pecking" through the location function to find the selection I'm looking for."
"This makes the LSB very difficult to use in church or in a class using the bible."
"It may seem hard to access the books of the Bible when using this ebook on the Kindle Fire, but by just memorizing a few numbers, you can make it much easier and quicker!"
"This is hands down the best study Bible there is."
"I highly recommend this bible."
"The information in here is awesome!"
With numerous new features, the ESV Student Study Bible is an invaluable resource. "Presents a wealth of details about the Bible in a sharp, simple, contemporary format that helps students understand the saving message of Scripture and apply it to daily life.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Daughter uses this for school."
"Great size, great notes, great price."
"Nice leather cover, good sized font."
"A hit with our granddaughter."
"Wonderful for beginners."
"Product never made it to Jinyu very disappointed."
Best Christian Standard Version Bibles
BOOK INTRODUCTIONS--thoughts on the importance of each book and how it relates to the battlefield of the mind WINNING THE BATTLES OF THE MIND--core teaching to help you apply specific biblical truths to winning the battle PRAYERS FOR VICTORY--Scripture-based prayer to help you claim God's guarantee of winning PRAYERS TO RENEW YOUR MIND--help for you to learn to think the way God thinks KEYS TO A VICTORIOUS LIFE--practical truths for overcoming mental or emotional challenges POWER POINTS--insight into how to think, speak, and live victoriously SPEAK GOD'S WORD-first-person Scripture confessions to train your mind for ultimate victory SCRIPTURES ON THOUGHTS AND WORDS--more than 200 Bible passages that teach you how to think and speak in agreement with God's Word. JOYCE MEYER is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"There are daily prayers, history on each chapter before you begin to read it giving the reader a Cliff notes version if you wish to view it that way."
"Use The Battlefield of the Mind Bible to encourage and equip yourself and those you love to be victorious in the battle over your thoughts with over 200 verses, points, and thoughts."
"This Bible's has so much balance to it , as you read through this Bible, it's simplicity gives you such a sense of understanding, but see not only that the PowerPoints and prayers, that applies to that situation you've read in many ways imitates yours in real life situations...and the devotionals, prayers is right there to come into agreement with...what an awesome Book..but then again we'll have it like that cause Joyce Meyers is one of God's Shephardess....."
"Great to read along with the Bible."
"This is Joyce's great addition to the Bible."
"Nice study bible with plenty of commentary and suggested prayers to meditate on."
"It's the most beautiful bible."
"This is a beautiful, easy to read and informative BIBLE!"
Best Contemporary English Christian Bibles
![Holy Bible: The Authorized King James Version (KJV) Old and New Testaments [illustrated]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/518%2B37wsJbL._SS600_.jpg)
The Authorized Version, commonly known as the King James Version, the King James Bible or simply the KJV, is an English translation by the Church of England of the Christian Bible begun in 1604 and completed in 1611.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I give this bible 5 stars cause it exposes that the bible has been tampered with... All bible believers must have this bible in their collection..."
"I love this bible!"
"My favorite version for its devotion to accuracy in translation."
"One of many helps(?)."
"exactly what I needed for better understanding."
"New formula for looking up the verses, which was an improvement over the last time I used my kindle for bible research."
"Wish the type was larger but the translation is closer to the original."
"We traveled to see our son and his Family at Christmas and I was able to use my Kindle and read my Bible while traveling."
Best Multiple Translations Christian Bibles
In this first-of-its-kind study Bible, the Bible is presented with commentary from the ancient Christian perspective that speaks to those Christians who seek a deeper experience of the roots of their faith. This is the only resource Bible written with study aids and articles written from an Orthodox Christian perspective- the New Testament and Psalms are interpreted from the doctrinal foundation of the Orthodox Church.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"For purposes of full disclosure allow me to say, first of all, that I'm a practicing Catholic Christian of the Latin Rite who hopes to grant a unique perspective regarding the offerings of this particular Bible. Allow me to articulate exactly why: The case for the Septuagint Old Testament: The unique and most compelling reason to acquire the OSB: it is the only complete Bible in English to be published with the Greek OT right next to the NT. This is so, because Greek was the common language of antiquity in the region and the Septuagint translation (which includes the apocryphal/deuterocanonical "hidden books" of the "second canon") was completed more than a century before Christ's birth. If you don't already have a Septuagint, it's well worth picking one up, and the OSB version is preferable to the aging Brenton translation and even to the flawed-NRSV-based NETS (if you're a conservative practitioner of your faith, it's really hard to take the NRSV seriously with its literal-but-intentionally-unorthodox renderings of scripture as well as its politically-motivated gender-sterilized language). The case for the NKJV New Testament: Other reviewers have mentioned a distaste for the New King James Version and, as someone who also affirms most of the critical methods of modern NT scholarship, I can certainly empathize. Though the NKJV relies on the Textus Receptus (a Reformation Era-variant of Byzantine text-type manuscripts, compiled by Erasmus) and maintains such renderings in the body of scripture, its footnotes are the most comprehensive of any translation. The overriding benefit to the selection of the TR is that the NKJV retains the same eloquent, familiar phraseology and literary grace that caused its predecessor to leave such an indelible mark on English language and literature ever after. If you're an Eastern Catholic, this will fit you like a glove since all scripture references cited during Byzantine Divine Liturgy are clearly referenced and the appendix even includes a lectionary for the entire liturgical year. The potential benefits to such future volumes would be references to papal encyclicals, pertinent teachings from the Catechism, and explanations by intellectual giants like Dr. Scott Hahn, Curtis Mitch, or other faithful scripture scholars. Despite this, text ghosting from the other side is surprisingly minimal--I just worry about dropping this one day and forever creasing a couple hundred pages for its potential lack of resilience. Other observations of note: The OSB does suffer one logistical drawback shared, for example, by the Douay-Rheims (the traditional Catholic Bible translated from the Clementine Vulgate): the verse numberings occasionally deviate from the standard (which has been set by an OT in Hebrew and a NT in Greek). Also, the publisher has more or less recently come out with a red, genuine leather edition that is significantly pricier, but which sports a beautiful and ornate gold cover design."
"I was surprised to find a variant of the chronologies, such as Gen 5 and Gen 11, to see how the LXX is so different from the MT."
"Really good."
"Excellent study Bible and useful for students of the Apocrypha as revealed in the LXX."
"As an Orthodox Christian, I consider the print version of the OSB an invaluable resource, as it is the only modern and scholarly translation of the Septuagint in particular that has an easily-used and usually easy-to-read print format. The scholarly value of this translation is best left to those with more reputation than I. I am mainly writing this review to point out that the Kindle version that I bought last month has a few design flaws that make it difficult to use on a Kindle touch."
"I reasoned that the Kindle was lighter, and I could have the whole OSB as an eBook, so I forked out $15.00 and downloaded it, only to find that the notes are absent, and what this version calls "notes" are just references of one passage to another, much as you will find in any version of the Bible This greatly diminishes what I have in the print version -- I might as well have bought a NKJ, Don't get this Kindle version if you are expecting to get what you find in the print version of the Orthodox Study Bible."
Best King James Christian Bibles
The year 2011 marks the 400th anniversary of the King James Version—and this new study Bible celebrates by bringing the KJV into a 21st century context. The KJV Study Bible is a study guide for the most famous English translation of the Bible, The King James Version.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Most KJV I've seen don't have subheadings that describe what you're about to read, "The Lords Prayer," "Justification By Faith," "The Ten Visions," etc. This might be a defect but the binding is bound SO tight it creates "ripples" through all the pages, especially the old testament. This combined with the super-cheap paper makes the pages wavey almost like subtle water damage. I'm hoping through heavy use it might relax and the pages feel better, it seems like it's happening so I'll give it some time. I uploaded pics to show this, again it looks almost black most of the time but when in direct light it glistens bright red. No italics for added words in New testament, not a big deal for easy reading but if you create a study bible why omit this feature? It would be a five star bible to me if it had better paper and Italics for added words in NT."
"I published this review at the other page for this product then realized the same Bible was listed twice. I have at least 4 or 5 study Bibles on my shelves so I feel I have an opinion worth sharing. The notes help explain the text very, very clearly so that I'm not left scratching my head as I have been with other study Bibles."
"This was a gift for my son; he was delighted with it."
"Will be good to give to the granddaughter to read."
"This was a gift for College bound granddaughter, she needed new 'adult' Bible and wanted a Study Bible too...her Minor is in Biblical Study."
"Nice quality bible I was well pleased when it arrived."
"The King James Version of the Bible is a wonderful English translation of the Bible."
"Perfect wished it was a little bigger lettering."
Best God's Word Christian Bibles
BOOK INTRODUCTIONS--thoughts on the importance of each book and how it relates to the battlefield of the mind WINNING THE BATTLES OF THE MIND--core teaching to help you apply specific biblical truths to winning the battle PRAYERS FOR VICTORY--Scripture-based prayer to help you claim God's guarantee of winning PRAYERS TO RENEW YOUR MIND--help for you to learn to think the way God thinks KEYS TO A VICTORIOUS LIFE--practical truths for overcoming mental or emotional challenges POWER POINTS--insight into how to think, speak, and live victoriously SPEAK GOD'S WORD-first-person Scripture confessions to train your mind for ultimate victory SCRIPTURES ON THOUGHTS AND WORDS--more than 200 Bible passages that teach you how to think and speak in agreement with God's Word. JOYCE MEYER is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"There are daily prayers, history on each chapter before you begin to read it giving the reader a Cliff notes version if you wish to view it that way."
"Use The Battlefield of the Mind Bible to encourage and equip yourself and those you love to be victorious in the battle over your thoughts with over 200 verses, points, and thoughts."
"This Bible's has so much balance to it , as you read through this Bible, it's simplicity gives you such a sense of understanding, but see not only that the PowerPoints and prayers, that applies to that situation you've read in many ways imitates yours in real life situations...and the devotionals, prayers is right there to come into agreement with...what an awesome Book..but then again we'll have it like that cause Joyce Meyers is one of God's Shephardess....."
"Love this Bible and love Joyce Meyer’s teaching notes that are in it."
"Beautiful Leather cover Bible - very pleased."
"Very good book /Please read!"
"Great Bible."
Best New American Christian Bibles
We are proud to release an electronic edition of the New American Bible: Revised Edition (NABRE), which features an excellent formatting true to the paper edition and multiple navigation aids, which allow opening any verse in the Bible in seconds (as explained in detail in the book itself; this feature is not supported by Kindle Fire). In accord with canon 825 §1 of the Code of Canon Law, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops approved for publication The New American Bible, Revised Old Testament, a translation of the Sacred Scriptures authorized by the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Each section of the bible and each book has an introduction describing the historical place of the book, whether it's considered historically accurate or an allegory, and how the book was modified over time before becoming part of the canon."
"If you know the correct abbreviations, which are pretty intuitive, it's as easy as typing mt 1 5 in the search bar, selecting "Index Items" and clicking on the first result, and you'll go straight to Matthew, Chapter 1, Verse 5."
"It was a nice, beautiful gift that, while clearly. legible and with extra valuable information and notes including a dictionary, I would not have. purchased for myself had I first reviewed it."
"From there you can easily select any reference by book, book - chapter, or book - chapter - verse."
"I started with the Gospel according to St. John because it was Easter time when I downloaded it and I wanted to compare the differences between John's story and the other gospels. The sermon on Sunday recently had a mention about the contrast between the "writers" and it was fascinating. It took me a while to figure out how to get back, since it did not occur to me to just hit the back button on the Kindle Fire (1st generation), so I got lost a few times by going from footnote to footnote. I also wanted to read the story of Joseph the Dreamer, since I had just watched the Technicolor Dreamcoat by Andrew Lloyd Webber but I could not find it in the Old Testament - I am a new testament woman."
"I am a student of the Bible and enjoy reading assigned passages."
Best New International Christian Bibles
The Bible is the bestselling book in history, and the New International Version (NIV) Bible is the bestselling version year after year. -- Philip Yancey, author How I wish someone had put a book like this into my hands 50 years ago -- N. T. Wright, Research Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity, University of St. Andrews, Scotland. Every line and every word in the Bible comes from a context -- historical, social, cultural, theological -- and speaks into those contexts -- sometimes against that culture, sometimes with that culture, and sometimes to expand that culture. The NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible not only acknowledges this but engages ordinary readers in seeing what it looks like.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I really wanted a bible that would be my permanent bible that I could keep for years and highlight, write, etc in. This bible is it!"
"I love the feel of the textured cover, the colors are perfectly muted and Iam so excited to explore every book's beautiful illustrations."
"it's easier to bring it to Bible Study than a heavy Bible."
"I am really enjoying the new Fire Tablet that my husband gave me as an early Mother's Day gift, and the online versions of the Bible that I am downloading."
"A bible you can understand, easy to read."
"Great bible , bought it for my wife and she can't put it down."
"The New King James Versio & the Holman Christian Standard Version are my favorites but the NIV gives me a perspective that isn't always seen in the other versions."
"The only way I have found to be able to move from one book to another is to go to the menu and choose "front matter" which moves me to the index page--then I have to do the procedure a second time-- menu, choose 'front matter' and THEN it will give the list of OT and NT books from where I can choose the link to a book."
Best New King James Christian Bibles
Commissioned in 1975 by Thomas Nelson Publishers, 130 respected Bible scholars, church leaders, and lay Christians worked for seven years to create a completely modern edition of the King James Version that would continue the classic tradition of the original King James.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I give this bible 5 stars cause it exposes that the bible has been tampered with... All bible believers must have this bible in their collection..."
"My favorite version for its devotion to accuracy in translation."
"One of many helps(?)."
"exactly what I needed for better understanding."
"New formula for looking up the verses, which was an improvement over the last time I used my kindle for bible research."
"Wish the type was larger but the translation is closer to the original."
"We traveled to see our son and his Family at Christmas and I was able to use my Kindle and read my Bible while traveling."
"One of my favorite features is being able to take notes, highlight text and there is a Bible dictionary."
Best International Children's Christian Bibles
Understanding empaths and Empathy Traits of an Empath Self-tests for Empaths Living life as an Empath Empath related problems and how to overcome them How to deal with negative entities Techniques to clear negative energy from your surroundings How to learn and control Empath abilities Chakra development for Empaths Emotional management techniques for Empaths.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"This book have bees written in a easy and step by step easy ways which was really enjoyable to read.I tried some techniques and that was awesome.Highly recommended for beginner.Thank you Ryan James for this nice, informative book ."
"Interesting book and was enlightening to read."
"Awesome and filled with management techniques."
"Super great excellent book!"
"More Excerpts: "They have sharper than normal observation skills that enable them to comprehend things more. This also makes them more understanding of other people, thus they can be good counselors and healers." "There are also those who will telepathically link to someone else who knows a lot about the thing they are interested in – eventually, they become experts themselves." We are constantly needing to be reborn to learn and atone for past life mistakes. They are the serial killers, the pedophile and hedonists, thieves, the corrupted, and in some cases the manipulative liars and those that leave this world doing atrocious things to mankind. They can mislead people, plant seeds of anger, envy and all other kinds of things unimaginable to humans. If there was advice I can give as an empath to others: it would be to live a life with as much altruism, be of service to others as much as you can; live, speak, and think in truth and fair justice, exercise patience and optimism when facing adversity, never engage in activities that may hurt another, never abuse of power and money, don't deprive others of their rights or happiness, don't laugh at another's weaknesses and failures because the very same thing may happen to you in another life since we are to live multiple lives until we are done atoning, be as non attached to materialism and money, don't slander or spread false news to hurt another because it eventually becomes your own undoing in another life, don't kill animals for sport or for fun because a body is just a body and we very well can be reborn as an animal to relive the harm we caused in a previous life, don't take life for granted especially those that have loved you unconditionally, and live a life with as little judgement of others and live in as much humility as much as you can and learn as best as you can. Never wait for opportunities...pursue them regardless of what people may think or say, express your individuality and have a firm belief in God but remain as unattached as possible from religions because people are going to be surprised to know that they are created by mankind but not from God."
"Feelings and thoughts lingering since childhood were finally brought to light. Coming across the term a little over a year ago, I was not ready to accept my gifts. Avoiding the subject left me feeling lost, alone, and completely overwhelmed. And provides basic tools to get you heading away from over stimulation back to feeling like yourself again."
"This is described as an informative book; to me it is not."
Best More Bible Translations
The ESV Study Bible was created to help people understand the Bible in a deeper way. And click on these images to see samples of the detailed and authoritative historical illustrations included in the ESV Study Bible : GolgothaHerod's TempleTemple ComplexTemple Mount "Retaining the majesty of language with the clarity of thought, the English Standard Version is a grand accomplishment."Dr. Ranald Macaulay,Christian Heritage, The Round Church, Cambridge"After preaching out of the same version for over 10 years, I switched to the ESV Bible. "Eric J. Alexander,Retired Pastor, St. George's-Tron Parish Church, Scotland"At last a translation that majors on accuracy, combined with a modern, fluent style.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"(For a much fuller version of this review, covering more topics/texts, visit my website by searching for "Dwight Gingrich" and "NIV Zondervan Study Bible."). DIFFERENCES: It appears to me that the ESVSB is somewhat stronger than the NIVZSB in these areas: Charts, maps, illustrations, historical information, and general apologetic or bibliological articles. A comparison of the introductions to Exodus shows that the one in the ESVSB is slightly longer (six pages to the NIVZSB’s five), with more attention given to the historical reliability of the book and to its literary features. The similarities here outweigh the differences, but I give the ESVSB the blue ribbon for visual helps and breadth of topics addressed in articles. Creation – Henri A. G. Blocher. Sin – Kevin DeYoung. Covenant – Paul R. Williamson. Law – T. D. Alexander. Temple – T. D. Alexander. Priest – Dana M. Harris. Sacrifice – Jay A. Sklar. Exile and Exodus – Thomas Richard Wood. The Kingdom of God – T. D. Alexander. Sonship – D. A. Carson. The City of God – T. D. Alexander. Prophets and Prophecy – Sam Storms. Death and Resurrection – Philip S. Johnston. People of God – Moisés Silva. Wisdom – Daniel J. Estes. Holiness – Andrew David Naselli. Justice – Brian S. Rosner. Wrath – Christopher W. Morgan. Love and Grace – Graham A. Cole. The Gospel – Greg D. Gilbert. Worship – David G. Peterson. Mission – Andreas J. Köstenberger. Shalom – Timothy Keller. The Consummation – Douglas J. Moo. While I disagree with minor points in some of these articles, I find myself agreeing with a much higher percentage of what is said here than with what is said in most systematic theologies. I have a niggling question about the place of such essays in a study Bible (how many readers will really find and benefit from this content in their specific moments of exegetical need? They teach that both divorce and remarriage are “possible but never ideal” (NIVZSB, p. 1969) in cases where one marriage partner engages in “sexual immorality” (Matt. On the other hand, the NIVZSB takes a more rigid stance than the ESVSB on 1 Corinthians 7:10-16: “There are only two options for a divorced woman: (1) remain unmarried or (2) reconcile with her husband.” It acknowledges regarding verse 15 ("the brother or sister is not bound in such circumstances”) that “it is often suggested that this allows a deserted Christian spouse to remarry” but states that “this interpretation is not plausible.”. Homosexuality: Both study Bibles state clearly that homosexual relations are sinful. Nonresistance and Relationship to Government: On Matthew 5:38-48 the NIVZSB says that “Jesus is prohibiting retaliation for wrongs experienced.” It explains that a slap on the cheek is “a common Jewish insult by a superior to a subordinate, not an aggressor’s blow.” (p. 1939). The ESVSB presents this position much more clearly: “Jesus is not prohibiting the use of force by governments, police, or soldiers when combating evil… One should not return an insulting slap, which would lead to escalating violence. In the case of a more serious assault, Jesus’ words should not be taken to prohibit self-defense…, for often a failure to resist a violent attack leads to even more serious abuse.” This difference is also evident in places like Romans 12-13, where the NIVZSB gently questions whether governments have the right to administer capital punishment, while the ESVSB suggests one way believers can "overcome evil with good" is through military or police force. This is remarkable, given that Sam Storms, a strong continuationist, was chosen to author an essay on “Prophets and Prophecy.” In this article he only vaguely hints at his own position by some present-tense references to prophecy. ), ending thus: “However one understands the extent of the atonement, this passage clearly teaches the free and universal offer of salvation to every single human being; ‘desires’ shows that this offer is a bona fide expression of God’s good will.” On this Timothy verse the NIVZSB suggests that “what God ‘wants’ may be hindered by lack of human faith.” This last statement opens the door to non-Calvinistic interpretations (but does not demand them). At Exodus 20:8-11 the ESVSB makes no Christian application, while the NIVZSB mentions that the Sabbath “anticipates the experience of rest through faith in Christ” (p. 155). The NIVZSB's “Exile and Exodus” article presents one perspective strongly: “As the only perfectly obedient Israelite...—a faithful remnant of one—Jesus (not the unbelieving nation) is the sole heir of all of the covenantal promises made to Abraham, Israel, and David... Life everlasting, a land flowing with milk and honey, a posterity as numerous as the stars, a perpetual reign over all creation, and uninhibited access to the Father’s presence all belong exclusively to him” (p. 2661). However, both Bibles (perhaps especially the ESVSB) also suggest multiple times that seeing a future role for an ethnic Israel is a legitimate interpretative approach. On the other hand, it seems slower to affirm some of the more fundamentalist ideas of evangelicalism (things such as capital punishment or a special plan for the future of ethnic Israel), it feels slightly more cautious as it affirms some points of evangelical doctrinal dispute (inability of true believers to fall from the faith, distinct gender roles in the church), and it is sometimes slower to pick sides at all regarding what the text means for today (the Christian and the military)."
"I love this study Bible."
"But the paper used in this book did not match with their work, not as good as those bibles which printed in USA I had before."
"I have never enjoyed faithfully reading the Bible as much as I do now; whether it be in church, Bible study, or at home for daily devotions."
"If you can only have one Study Bible, I highly recommend this one, unless you're a new convert, I'd recommend starting with a Life Application Study Bible, before moving onto this highly in depth study Bible."
"ESV is considered as my first choice of the Bible version, my reviews on the make of the book, quality material for sure, book is in good size, can put in medium sized shoulder bag, portable, and the colorful pictures and charts, and the commentaries are very educational when it comes to understand a full chapter, of course, God's words and His wisdom is way beyond my plain comprehension, and I hope this good study Bible would help me move further a little bit in understanding the profound and perfect knowledge from Him!"
"I just received the indexed study bible, and the indexed pages are completely off except for Genesis and the Concordance."
Best Parallel Bible Editions
In this first-of-its-kind study Bible, the Bible is presented with commentary from the ancient Christian perspective that speaks to those Christians who seek a deeper experience of the roots of their faith. This is the only resource Bible written with study aids and articles written from an Orthodox Christian perspective- the New Testament and Psalms are interpreted from the doctrinal foundation of the Orthodox Church.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"For purposes of full disclosure allow me to say, first of all, that I'm a practicing Catholic Christian of the Latin Rite who hopes to grant a unique perspective regarding the offerings of this particular Bible. Allow me to articulate exactly why: The case for the Septuagint Old Testament: The unique and most compelling reason to acquire the OSB: it is the only complete Bible in English to be published with the Greek OT right next to the NT. This is so, because Greek was the common language of antiquity in the region and the Septuagint translation (which includes the apocryphal/deuterocanonical "hidden books" of the "second canon") was completed more than a century before Christ's birth. If you don't already have a Septuagint, it's well worth picking one up, and the OSB version is preferable to the aging Brenton translation and even to the flawed-NRSV-based NETS (if you're a conservative practitioner of your faith, it's really hard to take the NRSV seriously with its literal-but-intentionally-unorthodox renderings of scripture as well as its politically-motivated gender-sterilized language). The case for the NKJV New Testament: Other reviewers have mentioned a distaste for the New King James Version and, as someone who also affirms most of the critical methods of modern NT scholarship, I can certainly empathize. Though the NKJV relies on the Textus Receptus (a Reformation Era-variant of Byzantine text-type manuscripts, compiled by Erasmus) and maintains such renderings in the body of scripture, its footnotes are the most comprehensive of any translation. The overriding benefit to the selection of the TR is that the NKJV retains the same eloquent, familiar phraseology and literary grace that caused its predecessor to leave such an indelible mark on English language and literature ever after. If you're an Eastern Catholic, this will fit you like a glove since all scripture references cited during Byzantine Divine Liturgy are clearly referenced and the appendix even includes a lectionary for the entire liturgical year. The potential benefits to such future volumes would be references to papal encyclicals, pertinent teachings from the Catechism, and explanations by intellectual giants like Dr. Scott Hahn, Curtis Mitch, or other faithful scripture scholars. Despite this, text ghosting from the other side is surprisingly minimal--I just worry about dropping this one day and forever creasing a couple hundred pages for its potential lack of resilience. Other observations of note: The OSB does suffer one logistical drawback shared, for example, by the Douay-Rheims (the traditional Catholic Bible translated from the Clementine Vulgate): the verse numberings occasionally deviate from the standard (which has been set by an OT in Hebrew and a NT in Greek). Also, the publisher has more or less recently come out with a red, genuine leather edition that is significantly pricier, but which sports a beautiful and ornate gold cover design."
"I was surprised to find a variant of the chronologies, such as Gen 5 and Gen 11, to see how the LXX is so different from the MT."
"Really good."
"Excellent study Bible and useful for students of the Apocrypha as revealed in the LXX."
"As an Orthodox Christian, I consider the print version of the OSB an invaluable resource, as it is the only modern and scholarly translation of the Septuagint in particular that has an easily-used and usually easy-to-read print format. The scholarly value of this translation is best left to those with more reputation than I. I am mainly writing this review to point out that the Kindle version that I bought last month has a few design flaws that make it difficult to use on a Kindle touch."
"I reasoned that the Kindle was lighter, and I could have the whole OSB as an eBook, so I forked out $15.00 and downloaded it, only to find that the notes are absent, and what this version calls "notes" are just references of one passage to another, much as you will find in any version of the Bible This greatly diminishes what I have in the print version -- I might as well have bought a NKJ, Don't get this Kindle version if you are expecting to get what you find in the print version of the Orthodox Study Bible."