I've never been a great fan of study Bibles. Mainly because when people bring them to church or Bible study they inevitably recite the comments made in the notes at the bottom half of every page rather than focusing upon the actual Word of God in the top half of the page. Back in the 90's the NIV study Bible was the one many lugged around with them and I always wished they'd leave it at home for their private study.
My opinion hasn't changed much but having just picked up the new ESV Study Bible I'd like to encourage people to consider purchasing a copy.... but to still leave it at home.
Hear are 5 reasons for why I think it's worth getting.
1. This is a cross reference Bible. This is probably about the most wonderful tool you could ever have in your Bible reading as you can easily trace key words and themes and discover how a particular verse is linked to other parts of the Bible.
2. This is a scholarly study Bible with many very useful articles included. A pretty amazing list of evangelical scholars, writers and preachers have contributed not just to the individual books but a whole heap of other issues are written about as well.
3. This is a Bible! That is for all the extra features, notes, articles etc...all yield to the ultimate authority of the Word and the aim is to encourage your personal engagement with the 'top half' of the page.
4. You are given access to everything online. From what I can see all the articles and cross references are all there to use and it allows you to make and save your notes, thoughts, reflections as well. Oh, but you have to buy a copy to be given the online code.
5. This is a big book...so unless you a looking for physical punishment you'll not be hiring a truck and getting it to church or your Gospel group anytime soon.
And here are 4 reasons why I think you should leave it at home and not bring your ESV study Bible to church or Gospel Group.
1. You'll not be tempted to 'fake your own wisdom' by pretending that amazing insight into the passage is actually yours.
2. You'll not give yourself a spinal injury.
3. You'll be spending money on something that will most likely encourage you to read and love the Bible at home even more.
4. You'll prolong the life of your 'travel' Bible.
So if you score any Christmas money, or if someone is stuck on getting you a belated Christmas gift, this would be a good way to spend $50.
Head to the ESV website for more info and endless video's and endorsements.
