Study Bibles

It is difficult to approach scripture without help.  There are many study bibles available.  While many serve cross purposes, they often have a particular theme or focus.

The diversity of study Bibles reflect the diversity of those approaching scripture.  Some might be geared more towards personal reflection, others towards scholarly interpretation, historical corroboration, or questions of theology.

Below is a list of some study Bibles available:

• The Great Adventure Study Bible by Ascension Press.
• Part of The Bible Timeline Bible Study by Ascension Press.
• Includes a color coded Bible timeline chart, which corresponds to colored tabs in the Bible to give a clear picture of where all the books of the Bible fit chronologically into periods of world history, and salvation history.
• Little Rock Catholic Study Bible.  Includes many expanded essays, articles, and graphics to help understand the Bible in the light of the Catholic Church.
• The Didache Bible, by the Midwest Theological Forum, Ignatius Press.  Presents extensive commentary based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
• The Ignatius Study Bible, edited by Scott Hahn, is full of topical essays and word studies rooted in Catholic Interpretations from the Fathers of the Church.  Currently, only the New Testament is compiled in one volume.  Old Testament books have to be purchased individually, and not all are available.
• Zondervan’s “Archaeology Study Bible” is focused on historical corroboration.
• Lee Strobel’s “Case for Christ Study Bible” addresses difficult questions of faith, and is focused on apologetics.
• Crossway’s “ESV Study Bible”is focused on scholarly interpretation of the scriptures, with many articles on doctrinal issues.
• Zondervan’s “Life Application Study Bible” has a focus of applying the scriptures to daily life.
• Zondervan's “Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible” gives insight into the customs, culture, and literature of Biblical times to help place scripture into context.
• Zondervan’s "NIV Study Bible” is focused on scholarly interpretation of the scriptures.

Don't have much time to read?  Have a smartphone?  There is a free app called Bible (also known as YouVersion), made by Life.Church which will stream audio versions of virtually any translation of the Bible.  You can listen in the car, on a run, or while working around the house.

Read about it at...  www.bible.com