Best New Testament Bible Study
The ESV Study Bible contains two kinds of words.
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."
The ESV Study Bible, Personal Size compresses all the features of the award-winning ESV Study Bible into a smaller size for easier carrying.
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."
As one of the world's most recognized and respected Bible teachers, Joyce Meyer's insight on Scripture is an invaluable resource to many students of the Word of God. Her well-researched knowledge of Scripture and her passion for weaving the Word of God into daily life are inspiring companions to the Amplified Version of the Bible. Joyce has authored nearly 100 books, which have been translated into 100 languages. Joyce conducts approximately a dozen domestic and international conferences every year, teaching people to enjoy their everyday lives.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I bought this Bible 9 years ago."
"I'm very pleased with this Bible by Joyce Meyer."
"I love the way it's written in modern English, very easy to read."
"Bought it for my sister who loves it!!"
Best Christian New Testament References
The ESV Study Bible contains two kinds of words.
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 New Testament Criticism & Interpretation
Now, in The Prodigal God , Keller takes his trademark intellectual approach to understanding Christianity and uses the parable of the prodigal son to reveal an unexpected message of hope and salvation. Praise for Timothy Keller and The Prodigal God. "The insights Tim Keller has about the two individuals in the story, and about the heart of God who loves them both, wrecked me afresh. In this book, Timothy Keller shows us something of how this story actually reveals the heart of God, and, if we read it carefully, our own hearts. "When it comes to the gospel of Jesus Christ, Timothy Keller is simply brilliant."
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"But in his book Tim shows that in the original context Jesus meant for the elder son to play a much bigger role than the church has historically recognized."
"I found this book very interesting and I recommend it to anybody who maybe curious why the oldest son, who stayed home, was wrong in his actions."
"Great thought provoking book for individual or group study."
"Yet Dr Keller's depiction of Jesus message in the parable, and in its larger context, is true to Jesus' message of grace and truth: who we are, and how amazing is God's love toward us."
"In "The Prodigal God," Timothy Keller gives the familiar parable of The Prodigal Son a closer examination."
"This is a terrific study that I've found can be uncomfortable for us "comfortable" Christians but is well worth the time you may spend in introspection and prayer."
"In this book he talks about the lost sons."
"I loved this book."
Best Christian Bible Apocrypha & Pseudepigrapha
A reprint of the classic King James version of the Holy Bible that also includes the full Apocrypha and for references from the book of Jude, the Book of Enoch is included.
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..."
"It's convenient to have my favorite Bible translation on my Fire."
"This is a beautiful edition - I looked around, and for the money this is the most decorative King James version you can find."
"My favorite version for its devotion to accuracy in translation."
"Able to write Book needed and immediately go to it."
"One of many helps(?)."
"good for daily Bible reading, needed the old King James, but this one is good."
"exactly what I needed for better understanding."
Best Christian Poetry
A message of hope and gift of compassion for the bereaved, now available in Spanish. He wrote and illustrated such beloved books as THE NEXT PLACE, OLDER LOVE, BEGINNING, RAISING YOU ALONE, PAW PRINTS IN THE STARS, TODAY'S SPECIAL, DEAR ME,and more. He is the illustrator of Tom Hegg's classic CHRISTMAS TEA and PEEF books, Richard Jorgensen's READING WITH DAD, and Rick Kupchella's TELL ME WHAT WE DID TODAY, and is the author of GRANDPA HAS A GREAT BIG FACE, THE SEA OF SLEEP, BUGTOWN BOOGIE, and IT'S MONDAY, MRS. JOLLY BONES!
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I got this book for my 6 year old daughter when her aunt moved to hospice care, it is a beautiful book with lovely words that helped her a lot."
"When my aunt had cancer and was home with Hospice, a Hospice nurse gave this to her."
"I received this book when I was 7 years old when my father passed."
"This book is so comforting."
"Got it for my young grandchildren after my husband died unexpectedly."
"I read thisall the time."
"Great book for helping, not only children, but adults too, understand the concept of the otherside, eternal life, etc."
"I have since ordered 8 copies from Amazon so that I have an extra in my "gift" drawer and so that other friends have one apiece as a gift and a spare for when they would want to give someone such a special book or gift in rememberance of. someone close who has died."
Best Paul's Letters
The Acclaimed, Authentic Biography of the Early Church's Greatest Evangelist--the. Apostle Paul. John Pollock is one of today's preeminent Christian biographers.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Amazing, inspiring book that brings the historical times and the real St. Paul (as well as Jesus and his Apostles/disciples) back to life."
"This is the best book to date that I have read about the Apostle Paul."
"Just finishing the book, much history of Paul's life and what it was like is detailed here."
"A wonderful book explaining more about St. Paul than I ever knew before."
"There were a number of times as I progressed through this book where I became hungry for the authors citation Information."
"It was a good review of Paul's life & ministry."
"It gives us a look at what Paul was like and what he was feeling as he was traveling across Macedonia preaching the story of Jesus Christ and salvation."
"Well written story about the life of Paul."
Best Old Testament Bible Study
As one of the world's most recognized and respected Bible teachers, Joyce Meyer's insight on Scripture is an invaluable resource to many students of the Word of God. Her well-researched knowledge of Scripture and her passion for weaving the Word of God into daily life are inspiring companions to the Amplified Version of the Bible. Joyce has authored nearly 100 books, which have been translated into 100 languages. Joyce conducts approximately a dozen domestic and international conferences every year, teaching people to enjoy their everyday lives.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I bought this Bible 9 years ago."
"This is a really good bible for those who want in addition to the bible, all the insight that Joyce Meyers offers tucked in some of the pages as commentary."
"I'm very pleased with this Bible by Joyce Meyer."
"I love the way it's written in modern English, very easy to read."
"Bought it for my sister who loves it!!"
Best Christian Bible Study Guides
NEW Anniversary Edition of Rose Book of Bible Charts, Maps and Timelines, Volume 1 covers over 200 Bible topics and features MORE pages, 6 EXTRA topics, updated information, and a bonus 24' fold-out on Jesus' Family Tree. This stunning, easy-to-understand reference book still provides the same full-color, REPRODUCIBLE Bible charts and overviews that made the original a favorite, but in an easier-to-use, updated format! 6 NEW pamphlets on popular Bible topics, including Psalms 23, Lord's Prayer, Twelve Tribes of Israel, and more. Psalm 23 Tabernacle Ark of the Covenant Archaeology & the Bible (50 Proofs of the Old Testament Solomon's Temple Names of God The Ten Commandments and You 100 Well-Known Old Testament Events The Creation The Exodus. Heroes of the Faith: Hebrews 11 The Twelve Disciples 1 Corinthians 13: The Love Chapter The Armor of God The Fruit of the Spirit 100 Well-Known Events from Acts to Revelation. Especially for the visual learner, this book is a real treat. From full-color maps of Bible lands, to summaries of every book in the Bible, to lists of key people and events, including an outline of Jesus' life and information about each of the disciples, to theological beliefs across the religious spectrum, this volume is a treasure of teaching aids.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"This was a Christmas gift for a family member, and he has used the book every day since receiving it and can't say enough good things about it!"
"I love this book."
"In fact I bought one for a friend and they love it too."
"Incredible book to use when studying the Bible."
"I love this book."
"So good I purchased several and gave them to some of my friends."
"This is such a good book."
"bought for father in law he says its a great read."