It is becoming a tradition here at Reading For The Glory to share books and other resources that we think will make good Christmas gift ideas as we approach the holiday season (See Part One and Part Two of this series, published in 2022). One perennial tradition is to give someone a copy of the Bible. Whether it is a friend, a close family member, or a fellow church member, gifting someone with a copy of God’s Word is always an excellent choice. There are, however, more editions of the Bible on the market than a person can read in a lifetime. Where to start becomes difficult.
In this article I will share with you five Bibles that I think are helpful in diving deep in personal study. Four of them are the study bible category. Each of them are excellent editions for use in personal study, a small group setting, or in preparation for teaching/preaching. Four different translations are represented among the selection, which I hope proves helpful.
- NET Full Notes Edition – Although the NET has been around for several years as an online resource, it has only just recently been available in print through Thomas Nelson Bible Publishers. The NET seeks to provide the “best of both worlds” in the literal vs. readable debate regarding biblical translation. The Full Notes Edition provides over 60,000 translator’s notes, a unique feature among study Bibles. These notes include explanations for why the translators chose a certain wording and provides alternative view points on difficult passages. It also includes notes that help the reader understand the historical and cultural background of the biblical text, as well as highlighting alternative readings found in various biblical manuscripts. This edition can be a go to for personal study, or preparing to teach.
- ESV Journal Study Bible – Available in a variety of editions, the ESV has been a trusted translation for more than two decades. The new ESV Journaling Study Bible seeks to merge a condensed version of the notes from the ESV Study Bible with the wide margin features of a journaling Bible. This edition will aid the reader in personal study, as well as application. The journaling space provides opportunity to reflect on the scripture during personal study, group discussion, or during sermons. Features also include: cross-references, maps, articles, Bible character profiles, and a glossary. Available in hardback or a beautiful Natural Brown Leather with a strap closure.
- ESV Chronological Bible – The sixty-six books that are compiled in the Bible are sorted in order by category, and not chronologically. Yet it can be helpful to understand the chronology of the biblical storyline. The new ESV Chronological Bible arranges the biblical text in chronological order guiding the reader through eight biblical eras, including a well laid out timeline of biblical history in the back. The Bible also provides a 365 daily reading plan to help readers navigate the biblical text. Available in hardcover and a beautiful TruTone Brown.
- MacArthur Study Bible (NASB) – The ministry of John MacArthur has been trusted by many for over fifty years. Best known for his New Testament commentary series, the MacArthur Study Bible distills that work along with decades of preaching to provide a comprehensive biblical resource for the most serious of biblical students. Features include: study notes by John MacArthur, book introductions, cross-references, maps, articles, and much more. Enjoyed for decades in personal study, group study, as well as in preparation for preaching or teaching, the MacArthur Study Bible (NASB) is the perfect gift for any serious Bible student. Available in a variety of binding types including the Thomas Nelson Premier Collection Goatskin Leather.
- KJV Study Bible – The King James Version has been trusted for more than four hundred years. No other Bible translation has been quoted more or widely read than the KJV. It’s eloquent combination of poetry and prose make it a favorite of millions. Now available in a study Bible edition, the KJV Study Bible provides features such as translation notes, full color maps and charts, study notes, archaeological notes, word studies, book introductions and outlines, Bible character profiles, and more! Available in hardback, leathersoft, bonded leather, and the classic black genuine leather edition.
As mentioned earlier, there are many excellent Bible editions currently available in print. I hope you find the four mentioned above helpful. For additional Bible recommendations please visit the RFTG Bible recommendation page.
Editor’s note: Each of the Bibles featured in this article were received by the publisher in exchange for an honest recommendation.
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