I received a complimentary copy of this in exchange for an honest review as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid. All reviews are my honest opinions based on my experience with the product. #BibleGatewayPartner
Is the New Testament for Everyone by N.T. Wright a trustworthy translation of the Bible?
I am extra careful when I evaluate new Bible translations, as well as when I review a Bible, and even more so when I am reviewing a Bible that is not typical. The New Testament for Everyone by N.T. Wright checks all of those boxes. It is a newer, less common translation, it is a Bible, but it is what I would label an abnormal Bible. On top of all of those factors, the New Testament for Everyone was translated by one person on their own. If you are like me, that’s a bonus item added to the “reasons to be skeptical” list.
With that said, this translation is published by Zondervan, a trusted Bible publisher, and is now available on the top Bible website, BibleGateway.com. That should add some credibility to the material, right? Well, let’s walk through the New Testament for Everyone by N.T. Wright with a look into N.T. Wright, a peek at how he translated the NTFE translation, and then a comparison of the NTFE to other popular translations.
Who is N.T. Wright?
Nicholas Thomas Wright, known as N.T. Wright, is an English New Testament scholar, Pauline theologian, and has served as the Bishop of Durham in the Church of England. He has written over 70 books, and has his own translation of the New Testament, the Kingdom New Testament, which later bred the NTFE (New Testament for Everyone). You can find more than 30 online courses, certifications, ebooks, and blog articles on his website (also available on a new site) where it states that believers can “Learn from the world-renowned Prof. Wright by engaging a variety of resources”. His works have been controversial to the degree that other renown Bible scholars, such as John Piper, have written their own books to dispute the teachings of N.T. Wright.
A red flag for me is that no matter what I look up concerning N.T. Wright, I find complaints, controversy, and warnings. There is not a lot of material that defends Wright and his works. Of course, this does not mean that all of the complaints and warnings are accurate, but anytime I find a lot of controversy around a Bible scholar I stop and ask some questions, as should we all.
How and why did N.T. Wright Translate the New Testament?
N.T. Wright translated the New Testament from the original Greek into “easily readable modern English, aiming for both accuracy and accessibility.” (BibleGateway.com). Wright used his own study and understanding of the New Testament as a Bible scholar and theologian to translate the New Testament for Everyone Bible translation. Usually, Bible translations are completed by a team of scholars translating together based on an agreed upon goal, set of translation “rules”, and principles.
Wright’s philosophy for translation is that each generation should have a new translation while also taking into account previously completed translations. In the Preface of the New Testament for Everyone, he gives credit to one of his “lifelong heroes, William Tindale” and then goes on to explain what kind of translation NTFE is by saying;
“Some have been quite strict translations, almost word for word; others have been paraphrases, trying to convey the message in a looser, less formal way. Two questions, then: is this new version really a translation, or a paraphrase? And why do we need yet another one?”
He then states plainly that the NTFE is a translation, not a paraphrase. For those of you who don’t know, William Tyndale was responsible for beginning the work of translating the Bible into English when Henry VIII was King of England and had separated England from the Roman Catholic Church making himself the Head of the Church of England. Tyndale began a dangerous project of secretly translating the scriptures into English, which was forbidden by the Pope, but eventually opened the door for common people to read the Bible for themselves for the first time. N.T. Wright sees what Tyndale did, and seems to desire to carry the torch onward for common people to have a translation they can easily understand, just as Tyndale worked at providing a Bible in English so the common people could understand the Word of God in their own language.
N.T. Wright points out time and again how language evolves over time, making new translation important to the development of our culture, so that there is always a translation that each generation will be able to read and make sense of without deciphering outdated linguistics. The NTFE translation is designed to be as word-for-word as possible, but with first-century Greek being so vastly different from modern English, he basically explains that there is no way to match it up word-for-word at all, let alone in a way that would make any sense. So, he veers away from the literal verbatim translation in order to capture what the original writer seems to intend to say. With this, I give him credit for his honesty in disclosing that no translation of the Bible is truly “safe”, and that all of them are “risky” – but that it is a necessary risk so that we can understand God’s Word.
How is the New Testament for Everyone meant to be used?
One thing I want to mention is that the goal of the New Testament for Everyone by N.T. Wright is to provide a fresh, modern translation of the Bible in English. It is intended to be used alongside other translations, but namely it was originally designed, per the Preface of the New Testament for Everyone, to accompany N.T. Wright’s commentary series’ on the New Testament which was made for people who have no intention of reading Bible commentaries. This is not a translation that is acclaimed to be the end-all for believers – it is intended to be a companion translation, but again namely a companion to Wright’s own commentaries.
N.T. Wright encourages Bible readers to go beyond the translations we have grown comfortable with, and step into a new way of wording the same message. With that, though, Wright does not want you to stop here with the NTFE – he makes it crystal clear that as the world changes, and the English language evolves, translations should evolve as well to ensure that we have a Bible in our own language that makes sense to us at any point in history.
Additionally, the New Testament for Everyone is also designed to be read more like a novel. I actually really appreciate that this Bible is laid out in a way sort of halfway between novel, which lacks verse references etc, and a traditional Bible with all the references. It has verse numbers and subtitles to guide readers, but it is still setup to flow like a novel. It makes me think of the Eternity Now: New Testament Series. Eternity Now is the Bible, but legitimately in novel form.
Layout of the NTFE
NTFE’s layout and style is a mesh of this and a traditional Bible, which gives you a different experience while reading it. I can sit and read it like a novel with less distraction, and less of a temptation to stop at breaks I normally would in my Bible, but I can also use the verse numbers and subtitles to guide me and reference where I am. The intention behind this is to give the Bible reader a flexible reading experience, which also enables us to study scripture with more flexibility and ease.
NTFE vs. NKJV
One way I find helpful to evaluate a translation is to compare to other translations. The NKJV (New King James Version) is my favorite primary translation. As we are approaching Christmas, I wanted to take a look at Luke 2 and read about the birth of Jesus Christ. The very first thing I noticed is that Luke 2:1-2 already differs from a variety of other translations I checked. (Emphasis mine.)
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. Luke 2:1-2 NKJV
At that time a decree was issued by Augustus Caesar: a census was to be taken of the whole world. 2 (This was the first census, before the one when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) Luke 2:1-2 NTFE
While every translation I read (NLT, ESV, NIV, KJV, CSB, AMP, NET) stated that the census was WHILE Augustus Caesar was governor, NTFE states that it was “BEFORE the one” when he was governor. Maybe not a huge deal, not worth splitting hairs over maybe, but this now changes the timeline of events a bit and strikes me that it is a small detail that is clearly different than so many other translations.
In Luke 2:10, the angel of the Lord appears to the shepherds and speaks to them. This shows us another noticeable difference for the NTFE, which is again translated more as a novel. Where there are conversations, they will read more like you would read a conversation in you favorite novel than what you are accustomed to in scripture. Additionally, frequently where you would read “Christ” in most translations, the NTFE reads as “Messiah”, which Wright points out in the Preface is how Christos is literally translated.
10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
10 “Don’t be afraid,” the angel said to them. “Look: I’ve got good news for you, news which will make everybody very happy. 11 Today a savior has been born for you—the Messiah, the Lord!—in David’s town. 12 This will be the sign for you: you’ll find the baby wrapped up, and lying in a feeding-trough.”
13 Suddenly, with the angel, there was a crowd of the heavenly armies. They were praising God, saying,
Right away, there are some pretty noticeable differences. Of course, the point of new translations is to be different in some way or another, while holding true to the original message as much as possible. The New Testament for Everyone has the flow and style of a novel, but it also changes some things that are most often translated particular ways. Sometimes this may be a bigger issue while other times, like above, it is not something I would quantify as a salvation issue.
Another noteworthy verse, though, is Matthew 18:11 where Jesus is telling the parable of the Lost Sheep. Verse 11 is included in many translations, yet is left out in the NTFE. This verse, I would argue, is important because it does talk about salvation. So, its exclusion is something to dive into.
10 “Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven. 11 For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.
12 “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? 13 And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. 14 Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish. Matthew 18:10-14 NKJV (Emphasis mine.)
10 “Take care not to despise one of these little ones. I tell you this: in heaven, their angels are always gazing on the face of my father who lives there.
12 “How does it seem to you? If someone has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders off and goes missing, what will he do? He’ll leave the ninety-nine on the hillside and go off after the one that’s missing, won’t he? 13 And when, eventually, he finds it, I’ll tell you the truth: he will celebrate over that one more than over the ninety-nine who didn’t go missing! 14 It’s the same with your father in heaven. The last thing he wants is for a single one of these little ones to be lost.” Matthew 18:10-14 NTFE
Matthew 18:11 is said to have been added here from the story of Zacchaeus the Tax Collector in Luke 19:10. Some manuscripts have it in Matthew here, and some do not. This leads to some translations including it, and some not. The main thing here is that yes, this verse is in other places in scripture, and the message and lesson is in other places in the Bible. It is difficult for translators to determine what manuscripts to go by, and what ones not to. The Preface of the NTFE explains a bit more about how N.T. Wright made these difficult calls, as well as why there are no footnotes to let us know when something has been left out like many other translations include. Essentially, it boiled down to lessening distractions, and going with what appeared to be the most reliable manuscripts available to date – not all of which were available when many of the translations we have in English were being translated.
Do I recommend the New Testament for Everyone?
Personally, the NTFE feels so deprived of the deep, poetic language of most translations of the Bible that the modernization of the English used in the NTFE feels overly casual. I find it hard to take it as seriously as I do many other translations, and where N.T. Wright’s goal was to better capture the original meanings of what was being written it feels more like he took much of the meaning and significance away from the Word. It is so “modernized” that it reads with even less depth than translations intended for children, such as the ICB or the ESV.
Overall, the New Testament for Everyone is designed to be used by those who need the Bible in very modernized, easy-to-read language and reading style. It is meant for those who have a hard time reading other modern translations, or who want some help studying the Bible for the first time. The NTFE is a translation might be helpful to someone who is just starting out with the Bible and is reading at a lower reading level, but I want to stress that you should eventually “outgrow” this translation and move up to a more literal translation that better captures the depth of the original scriptures.
I would not recommend the NTFE as a primary translation, a solo translation, or your final translation of choice. Finally, the New Testament for Everyone is a Bible translation I would label as “proceed with caution” and would not personally recommend, but I also see it as a potentially helpful companion study resource alongside other translations that have gone through what I would refer to as a more trustworthy vetting and research process, and are more literal and go deeper than the NTFE.
Where can you find the NTFE?
If you would like to check out the New Testament for Everyone for yourself, I encourage you to find it at the following places online:
A Study of Colossians 3:1-17 with the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection
I received a complimentary copy of this in exchange for an honest review as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid. All reviews are my honest opinions based on my experience with the product. #BibleGatewayPartner
About the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection
I want to start off by saying that I never in my life thought I would ever own a Premier Collection Bible, which I think most of you can relate to. I especially never thought I would own a Premier Collection Bible that was more than just the scripture text and nothing additional, like this one that includes end-of-verse references as well as some other helpful tools. I always figured that Premier Collection was reserved for a family heirloom or a special anniversary gift, and things like that – not something I would long to hold and use every day.
Receiving the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection was like opening an incredibly special gift. I opened the box and immediately wished I’d hit the record button on my camera for you to see the stunning beauty and my whole family’s raw reaction to seeing and holding it for the first time. It came in a Bible box, and inside the box, it was wrapped in thick black paper, with a shiny sticker seal reading “Premier Collection”. This in itself was enough to impress me, but when I carefully unwrapped my new NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection, I was blown away.
My favorite things about the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection
The leather is real, genuine goat skin. For some, this will be a put-off, but I assure you this cover is the most supple, flexible, soft, smooth Bible cover I have ever felt. The NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection just begs to fall open and lay beautifully flat on a table or comfortably open in your hands.
Not only is the cover absolutely incredible, but the page edging – oh my lanta – words wouldn’t do it justice but I will try! I have several Bibles that have gilded page edges but non compare to the gorgeous edges of the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection. It goes from a gentle gold-gilded page edge and when you start spreading the pages you uncover this hidden beauty of rose-gold coloring. It is so soft and beautiful, even my husband was blown away at how different these specially dyed page edges turned out.
There are THREE ribbon bookmarks, which is a wonderful encouragement to actually USE this Bible rather than let it sit there and just look pretty somewhere but not get used regularly. Three bookmarks is more than the standard one or two more Bibles come with and I love lots of bookmarks in my Bibles!
The text is a perfect size. The NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection comes in the NKJV Comfort Print, and let me tell you it is very comfortable on my eyeballs. I wear bifocals and most Bibles I still hold up close to my eyes. My husband and I both were fawning over how easy this text is to read without strain. Also, the verses all begin on new lines which makes appropriate space for the end-of-verse references. This breakup of verses helps my eyes to read more fluidly and not get visually overwhelmed by long and daunting paragraphs.
I absolutely love that there is a map and a concordance at the back! Again, I would have assumed that Premier Collection Bibles were just simple Bibles that look elegant and are reserved for special occasions. The fact this Bible includes not just verse references but also a concordance shocked and pleased me greatly. It also includes manuscript notes at the bottom of appropriate pages to let readers know where some manuscripts differ from what is included in the NKJV translation.
Colossians 3:1-17 with the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection
To really test out any Bible, I love to do a small Bible study using only that Bible and no other resources. I love to get out multiple study Bible, as well as some online resources like BibleGateway+ and Blue Letter Bible, but in order to get an authentic feel for a new Bible I use it alone, and from there I can better understand how I would benefit from using it in conjunction with my other resources.
In Colossians 3:1-17 we learn about the old and new self and are called to live as our new selves in Christ Jesus, casting away our old self that desires earthly things. This passage reinforces many lessons from the Lord that we see in quite a few other places in scripture, and using only the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection we can follow the references and expand on our reading and understanding of this passage. For the following study, we will be on pages 1702-1703 of the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection. All verses outside Colossians 3:1-17 are the references listed after the verses of our given passage in Colossians.
Not Carnality but Christ
Colossians 3:1-11 teaches us to seek things from above rather than things of the earth, and that when we are in Christ, our very life is found in Him. We are called to put to death the parts of us that are earthly, and that remaining in them brings God’s wrath.
Our old self consists of:
Fornication
Uncleanness
Passion
Evil desires
Covetousness and idolatry
Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
And do not present your members as [a]instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.
All of these earthly, fleshly things will lead to the wrath of God because it is all disobedience to God. We should be setting our minds on godly things rather than the evil things we naturally gravitate to.
Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience,
in which you once walked according to the [a]course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Not only are we to put off the old self, but we are to be a new creation as the “elect of God”. We are to put on the attributes of God’s elect, which He teaches us, and to do all that we do in His name, and so for His glory, with gratitude.
Forgiveness is incredibly important to living a godly life. Through Colossians as well as Mark we learn that we should forgive others as we have also been forgiven. None of us deserve it, but God forgives us even though we don’t deserve it and calls us to do likewise as He does.
bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not [b]puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, [c]thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is [d]perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.
13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
Love is also vital to the Christian. We are made new because of the love of God, and again He calls on us to imitate Him. We are to love as He loves, and because He loves us.
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
By loving others, we can have peace and be united with fellow believers. Love is not conditional, and we always have something to be grateful for – to God, and for others. Our ability to love comes from God who indwells us, and we are called to let the peace of Him who indwells us rule our hearts as well.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
We should be filled up with the Word of the Lord, allowing His Word to teach us and encourage us, as well as to sing His Word and praises from our hearts. Worship through music is included here as part of the new self. When we are indwelled by His wisdom, we can’t help but sing His praises.
And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
No matter what we do, do it for the glory of God with gratitude. No matter if it is singing His praises, forgiving others, acting in humility, or choosing to love others, we are called to do it for the Lord and in His power.
Is the Premier Collection worth the cost?
As I said previously, I never thought I would ever own a Premier Collection Bible. I am extremely pleased to discover that this Premier Collection Bible also includes helpful Bible study tools and is clearly made to be used rather than just sit on display. My husband and I were in awe of this Bible as soon as we opened it up and decided this will be the Bible he and I read together in our morning Bible time. We want to use it regularly and feel confident that this Bible is made to withstand everyday use.
One thing my husband brought up is that as soon as we opened it up in our hands he thought of the well-used Bible you see Dr. Charles Stanley reading from the pulpit. It lays open so effortlessly and comfortably, and it is incredibly lightweight. Even with its Comfort Print, which is slightly larger than standard Bible text sizes, it is a small personal size that could easily go with you to church or work. The goatskin cover is made to be used and to last, so I don’t need to worry about being extra careful with it (although we have told our child that she can’t handle it without permission because let’s face it, kids always have sticky fingers cover in some kind of yuck and I don’t want that on this beauty).
So do I think it is worth it to get a Premier Collection Bible? If I had not gotten this as part of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid, would I have purchased one for myself? I can tell you that I absolutely would get the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection for myself and my family if I had not gotten it as part of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid. This Bible is well worth the price tag. I am confident it will hold up over the coming years, and we will be able to pass it along to our daughter when she is older as an heirloom, but my husband and I will use it lovingly together each morning until then. I wish I could let you touch it, see its elegant colors, and use your very own eyes to read this comfortable Bible font.
Where to get the NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection
You can find out more information about the Premier Collection Bible to help you understand how to care for it, as well as to see all of the different options available. I am in love with this NKJV End-of-Verse Reference Bible, Premier Collection with a brown goatskin cover, and you can get your own at the following places online:
I received a complimentary copy of this in exchange for an honest review as a member of theBible Gateway Blogger Grid. All reviews are my honest opinions based on my experience with the product.#BibleGatewayPartner
A Study of Isaiah 44 with the NKJV Bible Study Bible
I am a sucker for a good study Bible. I have a growing collection and have been able to regift many to those who do not have a study Bible or need a different one to support their studies but struggle to let go of them (my husband may even go so far as to call me a Bible addict). Study Bibles are wonderful tools to help believers learn more about God’s Word and more fully understand what God has to say to us through these 66 books. The NKJV Bible Study Bible is a type of study Bible I had not previously had the pleasure of using, but I am excited to tell you about it through a study of Isaiah 44, which happens to be where the Water On Thirsty Land name comes from.
What is the NKJV Bible Study Bible?
The NKJV Bible Study Bible is a study Bible that provides a Bible study for every chapter of the Bible. Every chapter of scripture has a provided study guide to help readers dig deeper, think broader, and understand better what is being read. Within each chapter study are three sections to go through – Start, Grow, and Go. We will be looking at Isaiah 44 as an example below.
What is the purpose of the NKJV Bible Study Bible?
I appreciate the heartfelt explanations that are included at the beginning of this study Bible. There is a message from Sam O’Neal who wrote all of the study material in the NKJV Bible Study Bible, and he explains that his vision for this study Bible is that it be used for personal Bible studies, as well as group Bible studies. It is designed to be flexible and helpful for any number of people reading and studying God’s Word together or alone.
Who is the NKJV Bible Study Bible designed for?
The NKJV Bible Study Bible was created for those who wish to dive in and truly explore and learn from God’s Word. As someone who studies a lot on my own, with my husband and child, leads groups of adults and teens, and teaches younger children I am excited for the NKJV Bible Study Bible to become a go-to in all of these groups and on my own. I especially believe the NKJV Bible Study Bible would be an amazing resource for teens and new Bible readers.
A study of Isaiah 44 with the NKJV Bible Study Bible
Isaiah 44 is the chapter we find the verse our name, Water On Thirsty Land, comes from. I love to review study Bibles by doing an actual Bible study with them. The NKJV Bible Study Bible provides chapter studies for every chapter, so we will walk through a study of Isaiah 44 using only the NKJV Bible Study Bible to get a hands-on look at how to use it. As explained above, this study Bible includes 3 sections for every Bible study – Start, Grow, and Go. I invite you to read Isaiah 44 with me, and feel free to walk through along with me! I will be on pages 1072-1074 of the NKJV Bible Study Bible.
Start
The Start section is a nice little “on-ramp”, as they call it. I would describe it as a nice little icebreaker to the chapter that causes you to think about something in your own life and experiences that has something to do with the content of the chapter. I have a big pet peeve about people reading themselves into scripture where they should not, and so far after looking through many chapter studies, I greatly enjoy the Start section. This section is formulated in a way that just kind of opens our minds up a bit, which I believe opens us up better to what God may be trying to speak to us.
In a group study, this Start section can be a great way to start a conversation as you embark on your study. Most studies include some activities as well, which are a really cool way to look through a new lens or perspective regarding the main topic of the given chapter. The Activities are designed for those who are visual and hands-on learners, which I really appreciate!
“Start: On a scale from 1 (poor) to 10 (great), how would you rate your ability to build things with your hands?” (pg 1074)
I love to build things with my hands but am honestly not always that great at it – especially with my wrist injured for over a year. I would give myself about a 6, maybe even a 5.
“Activity: Imagine you are getting a tattoo. What would it be? Draw what it would look like. Write what you would like to communicate and why it would be important to you.”
I actually personally love tattoos and believe that if we do get them, they should bring God glory. It is His temple we are marking up, so we should honor Him with every single thing we do to our bodies. I have had a vision for a tattoo for a long time that includes a mountain range, a forest, and a cross. Embedded in this beautiful scene would be Psalm 46:10. The mountains remind me that God is my strength and fortress, bigger than anything I can ever face and that faith in Him can move mountains in my life. The forest reminds me of stillness, peace, and joy that come from God because that is how I feel when I am in His beautiful forests. Psalm 46:10 is basically my life verse. As someone who was wrought with depression, abuse, and darkness so much of my life, Psalm 46:10 reminds me of the incredible, indescribable peace I have in Him and how beautiful and necessary it is to make time to truly rest in Him for who He is, not just what He does.
Grow
The Grow section is what they call the “meat” of the chapter study. It goes from a nice ease-in with the Start and Activity, to a chewier Grow section that gets your mind moving and engaging with the given chapter. Sometimes, like in our study today, there is an Explore section to work through some additional relevant passages, and sometimes there is a section for Groups.
To pour water on those who thirst and on dry ground
To give His Spirit to the descendants of His people
To bless the offspring of His people
To multiply His people like willows by the water
“Explore: In verse 3, God declares “I will pour out My Spirit on your descendants.” Read Acts 2:1-12 to see the moment that prophecy began to be fulfilled. How would you describe the Holy Spirit’s role in your life?”
When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all [a]with one accord in one place.And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them [b]divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each in our own [c]language in which we were born? Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and [d]Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.”So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “Whatever could this mean?”
In my own life, the Holy Spirit is my guide and is who convicts me. I am growing in my awareness of the Holy Spirit, and learning to listen when He speaks and recognize His voice and ways. I am always craving to learn more about how to bear His fruits and strive to be watchful of the fruit I produce. I certainly get it wrong, but I love having the Holy Spirit and desire for everyone to know how it feels to be filled with the Holy Spirit and led by Him.
“Groups: Pass around a few pens to your group members. Encourage everyone to write “The Lord’s” on their hands as a reminder that they are part of God’s Kingdom and members of His family.”
This is another fun way to be more hands-on. This also feels like an area you can easily take an idea from to implement in whatever way you feel called to by the Lord. For example, I would love to design a picture versus draw on my hand. If you’re into Bible journaling make a picture in your Bible or on another piece of paper.
“Verses 6-8 declare that Yahweh alone is God. What evidence helps you trust that declaration?”
I see evidence all over my life that God alone is the one and only true God. A huge part of my testimony is how God proved Himself to be truly God. I should not be alive but God proved His very existence to me, as well as His sovereignty, by keeping me alive when in all human sense I should not be alive. Later in life, He proved again that He is the only God when I strayed, struggled, and looked for love in all the wrong places, yet in both of the darkest times of my life, He rescued me. He saved my life literally, then I finally gave Him my life, and the way it feels to have Him in my life and the way He provides even when it makes no sense is evidence that He alone is God. Nothing and no one else could do what God has done for me. It feels like going from a dry, parched heart and life to a flood of refreshing, living, rushing water coming into my very being. Or like not realizing you’re drowning underwater until you’re brought to the surface and breathe in a gulp of air for the first time.
Isaiah 44:19-20 is what it is like to worship idols, worldly things, and manmade things, and be hardened because you fail to see God yet worship created things in His place. This very much reminds me of what it was like before I knew God. I did not realize that I was deceiving myself while I chased people, money, hobbies, and a career… all the things that tempt a teen and young adult in this culture. I did not stop to consider for a long time that there was a different way of doing things or different things that were actually important. I saw things the way people around me saw them and obsessed over the things people around me obsessed over. Like verse 19 says, “no one considers in his heart” that they are worshiping created things, idols, and that there is Someone worthy of our worship instead of these things. These things will never save you – only faith in Jesus can do that.
“How can we tell if we are worshiping idols today?”
If we are not worshipping God alone, the Creator of the universe, then we are worshipping something else. The “something else” is an idol. If it takes our focus off of God and onto itself, it is idolatry. For a time, I struggled with worshiping video games. I was utterly obsessed. I was focusing more on gaming than praying, reading the Bible, or my relationship with the Lord. I just wanted to game as much as I could. Later, I was reminded by my family that my focus was all wrong – I needed to turn back to God. If we are not running to God first in all things, chances are we are giving our worship to something else – it could even be stress, worry, a job, family, friends, finances, hobbies, sports, and so much more. I tend to filter myself by asking “is what I am doing bringing God glory? Is this what will bring God the most glory? Does this line up with what God says will bring Him glory?” If it’s a no to any of those questions, I am failing to worship God alone.
“What can we learn about God’s nature from this chapter? And His character?”
God is our Creator and longs to have a relationship with us. This chapter is written for the nation of Israel, but is also relatable for me, too. He longs for all of us just like He has for Israel, His chosen people. He wants to refresh us, fill us, indwell us, bless us. God’s nature is to love and care for His people, and His character is to provide and protect His people. He is our Helper no matter how disobedient and idolatrous we are – He still desires us to be restored to Him, just like the Israelites.
Go
The Go section focuses on doing something with what you have learned in the chapter. This section helps us to see why the chapter is important, and sometimes how it does apply to us personally. Sometimes there is an encouragement to pray in this section, and honestly, it seems like whether there is or is not it gives you some things to pray about.
“What would you like to learn or experience when it comes to the Holy Spirit’s work in your life?”
Sometimes I struggle with knowing when it is the Holy Spirit speaking to me, or something I desire. I personally would love to grow in my ability to discern the Holy Spirit over my own desires and plans, and also grow in aligning my desires and plans with that of the Holy Spirit.
“What are some sources of fear in your heart and mind?”
I definitely struggle with the fear of accidentally mishandling God’s Word, and also with going in a direction I wasn’t intended to. I am a “do-er” I love to serve the Lord, but I don’t always know when to slow down and back off, so sometimes I worry that I am not doing what I am supposed to.
Conclusion
While the NKJV Bible Study Bible is not a typical study Bible with commentary to explain the verses of the Bible, it is a study Bible for those who want to learn to study the Bible or add structure to their study time. After doing a study of Isaiah 44 I see how the guided chapter study was helpful in guiding me through the chapter and also connecting me to other passages in scripture.
Do I recommend the NKJV Bible Study Bible?
I believe the NKJV Bible Study Bible is an outstanding Bible study tool that I recommend for new Bible readers, teenagers, and anyone who desires to add some structure to their Bible study time. Even as someone with a shelf filled with wonderful study Bibles, the NKJV Bible Study Bible is an exciting addition to my collection which I will definitely be using regularly.
I received a complimentary copy of this in exchange for an honest review as a member of theBible Gateway Blogger Grid. All reviews are my honest opinions based on my experience with the product.#BibleGatewayPartner
How to study the Bible using the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible
It can be difficult to know how to study the Bible. As believers, we should be in the Word daily, reading the Bible, and learning what it means. Sometimes, though, we just don’t know where to start or how to understand the meaning behind the text. There are several types of Bible studies that the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible can help with and better equip you for the life the Lord is calling you to live.
Learning additional context to help understand specific verses
Studying doctrinal truths and learning how it applies nowadays
Learning more about places written about in the Bible
Studying apologetics and learning how to answer important life questions biblically
Learning from a chain of reference verses that relate to other passages or verses
How to use annotations and footnotes in the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible
Annotations and footnotes are commentary that add insight to the text you are reading. There are many notes throughout the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible that associate with specific verses in order to explain context, history, and other doctrinal principles. There are also separate Doctrinal Footnotes that dive deeper into a topic relevant to the story on that page. For instance, in 1 Kings 8:27 talks about the immensity of God and on page 566 of the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible, where 1 Kings 8:27 is found, there is a special footnote in a grey box with green text, accompanied by the symbol of the Trinity. This special footnote teaches further on the immensity of God, and references other passages in scripture as evidence for the lesson.
This type of footnote can be incredibly helpful for understanding concepts that are challenging to process. Using the same example, think about the immensity of God. God is so big we cannot wrap our heads around it. We cannot fathom the vastness of our God. This footnote helps tie together many things the Bible has to say about how big God is, but also where God is and can go. We can learn that God is near and far all at once, cannot be contained in a building, yet He is in us. God is incomparable to literally anything. Through this Doctrinal Footnote, we can read more about each point made through the verse references and study the vastness of God more deeply.
How to study Bible characters with the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible
Another way to study the Bible using the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible is through the Personality profiles. On the first page of the book of Job we see a Personality Profile for Job. This, for example, teaches us that Job was in fact a real person, and gives us scripture verses to back that up. The profile ties together the things we know about Job from around the Bible, and also some of what we can learn from him – such as how he handled his immense suffering and emerged from it with a “deeper perspective of God’s sovereignty, transcendence, and wisdom.”
I personally love to learn all I can about the people God chooses to tell us about through His Word. They are named or described for a reason, and these Personality Profiles help me to better understand those reasons. It also helps to relate to some of the people in scripture, and learn more from their part in God’s story.
How to better understand the geography of the Bible
There are a lot of physical places written about all over the Bible, from cover to cover. Scholars have worked hard for many generations attempting to locate and map out all of the locations named and described in the Bible. Many of them have actually been found, and many prospective locations have been identified. The NKJV Evangelical Study Bible includes a incredible Archeological Sites articles explaining what there is to learn so far about different Bible locations.
For instance, Sodom is a famous city written about in the Bible for being specifically destroyed by God for its wickedness. On page 33 of the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible under Genesis 13 and 14, we find an article about Sodom. Here we get to learn that there is a place that archeologists think may be the destroyed city of Sodom, with historical information to explain why this is speculated.
Not only this, but on page 1812 of the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible we find an article about the city of Trye, from which we get to learn some historical context, as well as a photo of the remains of the present-day city! We can read the verse references where this city is named, and find out more about what the Bible says about it.
Some sites include speculation based on discovery and Biblical stories, others offer us some insight about what these places were like back in Bible times and where they are or might be on our current maps, and occasionally we get a map with some helpful explanations and labels. This can offer us some additional context for studying the stories these places are named in. If we know that Tyre was a major trade and shipping center, then we would have a better understanding of the hustle and bustle of the city, and maybe shed some insight into why Acts 12:20 names Tyre as a city King Herod was angry with. This helps us better understand the details of the story, and to learn why these places are listed. Every detail matters, so knowing what we can about the places in the Bible will broaden our understanding of what the Bible is teaching us.
How to answer life questions according to the Bible
We all have questions we long to find God’s answers to. One of my favorite things about the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible is that it also includes Apologetics Articles to help answer many of these kinds of yearning questions. On page 204 in Exodus 19, we see an example I find extremely important. The question is “is it appropriate for Christians to seek guidance from mediums of psychics?” I saw this and was honestly a little bit wary, as I take spiritual warfare and the spiritual realms insanely seriously. As I read the answer provided in this article, I was relieved to find exactly the answer I would hope any believer would give for such a question. The spiritual realm is important, but attempting to contact the spiritual realm is highly condemned in scripture and no believer should have anything to do with such things other than talking to the Lord Himself.
There are a wide variety of questions to help us find God’s answers for so many of the things we long to better understand, and I am very much looking forward to studying more of these Apologetic Articles in the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible. They will also help me to be better equipped for answering these questions when others ask them. I work with a range of age groups and there are many questions each age group has had. I am confident this will be a valuable resource for me, and that I recommend to others who wish to learn for themselves but also for the sake of helping others learn as well.
Lots of incredible resources in the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible
Not only does the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible have all of these wonderful resources within its pages, but it also has the following additional Bible charts and other Bible study tools to help you in your Bible study:
Topical Index to Christ and the Gospels
Tables of monies, weights, and measures
The Jewish calendar
Prayers of the Bible
Concordance
Tutorial for using references
About the Bible and How to study the Bible
God’s answers to our concerns
Introduction to the Old Testament
Between the Testaments
The Jewish Sects
Bible chronology
Harmony of the Gospels
Introduction to the New Testament
Book Overviews
Words of Christ in red
Who is the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible for?
The NKJV Evangelical Study Bible is a Bible study tool I highly recommend for anyone wishing to study the Bible, teach the Bible to others, and broaden their library of Bible study resources. This is definitely a study Bible intended for older readers. It includes a lot of information younger readers would likely struggle to understand but that an older reader could use alongside them. Anyone who has been called to evangelize in any way (spoiler alert, all believers are) would benefit from the NKJV Evangelical Study Bible.
Is the NIV Student Bible a good study Bible for teens?
I recieved a free copy of this Bible as member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid and as a Bible Gateway Partner in exchange for an honest review. #BibleGatewayPartner
The NIV Student Bible is a study Bible designed for students. It includes notes and commentary from Philip Yancey and Tim Stafford. There are a variety of resources included in the NIV Student Bible to help students in their biblical studies. The title of the Bible acknowledges that it is for students, but what students is it for? Is it a good Bible for youth, for college students, or any age of Bible student? That is what I wanted to focus on while reviewing this particular Bible.
Why was the NIV Student Bible made?
The NIV Student Bible was put together to help believers who struggle to read the Bible every day. The aim is “to produce an edition that ordinary people could – and would – read on a regular, sustained basis.” There was a lot of research done to find out why people don’t read the Bible every day, and then resources were implemented within the pages of the NIV Student Bible to help answer those questions and steer Bible readers to the Bible more often.
The reasons for not reading the Bible every day were lumped into 3 categories, and each of the 3 categories were then tackled by the developers of this Bible.
“I get discouraged”
“I can’t understand it”
“I can’t find it”
How does the NIV Student Bible encourage people to read the Bible regularly?
To tackle the discouragement factor, there are 3 levels of reading plans built into the NIV Student Bible that basically take the Bible reader through the Bible in different levels. The first level is a beginner level in two-week increments to help you get your feet wet, get a bit more familiar, and get you into more than just the more comfortable and familiar passages like Psalms and the gospels. The second takes you through the “best-known” books of the Bible over 6 months. The third level walks you through the entire Bible over three years.
These reading plans are to help with the different stages people go through with getting into reading the Bible. As a new Bible reader, I remember how lost I was and really didn’t know where to start. Even now, many years into reading and studying the Bible it can be easy to feel a bit burned out if I do the same thing for too long. These reading plans are a wonderful way to help people, no matter where you are at in you’re Bible reading journey.
I wanted to explain my favorite thing about each of the reading plans, which the NIV Student Bible calls “Tracks”.
Track 1: My favorite thing about the first reading plan is that it is 2 week reading plans to guide through different themes. There are plans for learning the basics of different major pieces, like the Old Testament, the Gospels, and Paul’s letters. There are also 2 week reading plans on things like men and women of the Bible, Holy Spirit, Prayer, and becoming a Christian.
Track 2: This reading plan is appropriately named the “guided tour” of the Bible. It is not a plan to read the entire Bible, but to read through the major themes and events in order to tackle the “underlying story of the Bible.” All of the Bible is important, but this helps you eat the elephant one bite at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed branch out into each part and book a little bit.
Track 3: My favorite part here is that it feels like so much less pressure to read 1 chapter a day and still make it through the entire Bible, every single word. This plan spreads the Bible out a chapter a day over 3 years to help you read the whole Bible and actually understand what you read, versus the Bible-in-a-year plan (which I have done twice now) that leaves you questioning “did I read [blank] book? I must have, because I read the whole thing…” Sometimes I know I read a book, but cannot remember what it was about. This 1 chapter a day whole-Bible reading plan is a major winner if you want to read the whole thing, but take your time to understand what you are reading and not just read it to say you read it.
How does the NIV Student Bible help people who struggle to understand the Bible?
There can be a lot of reasons people struggle to understand the Bible. When we have a hard time understanding, it can surely make it harder to want to keep reading it. This is another area the NIV Student Bible tackles! It gives insight throughout to help navigate. From things like grasping the times and culture of the story, to knowing why we should be learning let alone reading about things we find in scripture, there are notes and articles to guide us.
Some of the guides offered include:
Book introductions
Insightful articles
Guided Tour articles that accompany the second reading plan style
“100 people you should know” articles
Commentary highlights
I love that these articles ask some guided questions to help me think deeper about what a passage is teaching me. It broadens my scope a bit and helps me think beyond my personal view to better understand what God is revealing in His Word. These articles make scripture relatable, but not in a way that feels too self-applicable. The different types of articles and commentary is balanced – it isn’t just short little blips, but it isn’t massive either. The NIV Student Bible truly offers a great mix for beginners learning how to read the Bible and make it a habit.
How does the NIV Student Bible help me find what I am looking for?
The third most common reason that people fail to make Bible reading a daily habit is that it can be a real challenge to find what you want to find. There is a list of people to learn about, places to know, key events throughout scripture, some timetables, and an entire subject index. All of these have passage references to help you read more with ease.
The subject guide is the main feature to help readers find what we’re looking for. It is a whole list of topics that scripture covers and passages of where to read about that theme. Want to learn more about ambition? There is a topic guide for that! Want to read what God teaches about the Sabbath? It has that, too! Struggling with temptation and need some encouragement? There is a section for that as well.
Additionally, there is a whole overview section before the Preface that gives a simple 1-2 sentence summary of what every book of the Bible is about. This is awesome because it is another way to help you find what you are looking for in the Bible. Sometimes you need to have a surface-level understanding of a book of the Bible to know what one to jump to. I know when I first started reading the Bible, God led me to Philippians and 1 Peter because that was what I needed. Those are definitely not the books I hear most Christians recommend to new believers and new Bible readers, but what was right for me when I started my journey may not be the right place for you to start. Having a basic understanding of what each book is about, and where to locate passages on a certain topic can help new believers and Bible readers at any place in their journey to jump into the passages they need right now.
Is the NIV Student Bible a good study Bible for teens?
The NIV Student Bible is a great study Bible for Bible students of all ages and experience levels. As someone who works with youth, I will be recommending this Bible frequently to the kids I work with. I also recommend the NIV Student Bible to adults who are either new to reading the Bible, or need to spice up their Bible reading habits. So yes, the NIV Student Bible is a good study Bible for teens, as well as adults!
Who is the NIV Student Bible actually for?
The NIV Student Bible is for any Bible student. Literally any. I have been studying the Bible for several years now, and do a lot of it, but this is a valuable addition to my Bible library and will get well used. It is also a fantastic Bible for people who get stressed out and discouraged about how difficult a routine in reading the Bible can be. No matter if you are looking for something specific, or just looking for a complimentary Bible study resource, I recommend the NIV Student Bible to help take your Bible study to a deeper level and make Bible reading a daily habit you enjoy.
Where can you get your own NIV Student Bible?
You can get the NIV Student Bible at many places online! Check out these shops below and grab your own, or even one for a friend or family member you want to encourage. This would make an amazing gift for sure! You could be accountability partners and study together for an even deeper Bible reading experience.
There are many Bible study tools and methods out there and it can be challenging to decide which method is right for you and each study you dive into. One tool I have found incredibly helpful for studying the Bible is the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible. This helpful resource comes in several translations of the Bible. The NKJV is a wonderful literal translation that has been updated with more modern English, and the KJV offers a slightly different feel with its older English. It also comes in other popular translations such as the ESV, NIV, and NASB. With more than 8,000 topic chains and over 100,000 total references, the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible allows you to follow a topic all throughout the whole Bible and explore topics in scripture more thoroughly.
Easy-to-understand chain-reference system with over 100,000 references
Alphabetical and numerical indexes highlight study materials for over 8,000 topics, each with its own topic number, for exhaustive topical study
An extensive study resource section includes biographical sketches, illustrated studies of the Bible, a concordance, Bible harmonies, and many other helpful study tools
Fresh, two-color page design
66 book introductions
16-page full-color map section with map index
Line-matched text for enhanced readability
Words of Jesus in red
Two double-sided satin ribbon markers, each 3/8-inch wide
Exclusive KJV Comfort Print typeface
Print size: 9.5
This extensive Bible study tool not only comes in several popular Bible translations, but it also comes in a variety of cover options, as well as with and without thumb indexes. The resources within the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible are well organized, and I appreciate the cleaner, easier-to-navigate feel of the newly revised KJV translation of the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible.
Thompson Chain-Reference Bible is a challenge worth accepting
When I first received a Thompson Chain-Reference Bible it was such a unique study Bible that it took me a while to navigate. I immediately saw its value and knew it would add a lot to my Bible studying and was determined to figure out how to get the best use out of it.
The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible has a learning curve – there is no getting around that. I recommend grabbing your own copy and spending some quality time getting to know it. In the meantime, I want to take some time to teach you how to get started with it to help you decide if this is a Bible study tool you want to add to your bookshelf.
Learning a new Bible study method can be a challenge, and for some of us it is daunting. While learning to use the patented chain-reference system is no exception, this is a challenge well worth accepting and taking full advantage of. Let’s explore how to use it to help you decide if the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible is right for you, and to help you navigate it if you have your own already and are wondering what to do with it.
How to use the KJV Thompson Chain-Reference Bible
No matter the type of Bible study you are doing, the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible is sure to be a welcome addition that will help you grow in your faith and relationship with the Lord, as you grow in your understanding and application of His Word.
The primary method of using the Thompson Chain-Reference system is through Topic Numbers. Along the margins on each page of the Bible, there are topics listed next to passages within that topic. Toward the back of the Bible, after the book of Revelation and a handful of other helpful study tools, there is Numerical Index of all of these topics.
Start with the Numerical Index
Using the Numerical Index you can search for the topic you would like to study and then find the passages that correlate with that topic. To learn how to do this, let’s use the topic of Prayer to give it a try using the newly revised KJV Thompson Chain-Reference Bible.
Notice that within the Prayer category in the Numerical Index, there are quite a few sub-categories that cover Prayer. You can use these subcategories to further narrow down your search and study a more specific niche in scripture.
Within the entire Prayer category, locate the specific sub-category you would like to study. We will look at Prayer Postures for this example.
Once you have located the verse in the Bible’s pages, look at the margins right next to the verse. You will see the sub-category “Bowing” with the Prayer Category Index Number, 2829. Right after this, you will notice a different verse listed. This is the next verse in this particular Bowing Prayer Posture chain.
Next, head to the next verse in the chain, which in this instance is Exodus 4:31.
In this next verse of the chain, the reference in the margin directing you to the next link in the chain is 12:27, indicating that it is also within the current book of Exodus.
To continue locating and studying the passages within this chain, you just continue to follow along these chain links in the margins to find the next passages.
Start with a verse or passage
Studying the Bible based on a specific topic you already have in mind to delve into is not always what you are looking for. Another option is to begin with a verse. To learn this method of studying using the KJV Thompson Chain-Reference Bible, we will head to page 1175 and find Matthew 28.
Studying an event throughout scripture
Once you locate Matthew 28, check out the chain reference in the margin. There is a red reference that says “The Resurrection of Christ”. This is followed by several verse numbers, each in one of the gospel accounts. If I am reading through the gospels of Jesus and want to easily locate the passages in the other accounts that line up together, I would be able to find these kinds of references and follow their chains. Starting at Matthew 28, I can find all of the gospel passages that tell about the Resurrection of Jesus.
From Matthew, I can head to the coordinating passage starting at Mark 16:1, then Luke 24:1, and finally John 20:1 and read each account of the Resurrection consecutively. This would work for a study such as chronological gospels, and I could also use it as I am reading any passage in which I want to explore more relevant scriptures on the same theme.
Studying a topic throughout scripture
To use the chain-reference system while you are reading any passage in the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible, let’s go back to page 1175 and locate Matthew 28 again. Next to verse 16, where Jesus begins giving the Great Commission, the verse begins with “Then the eleven disciples went away…”. Lets look up who the 11 disciples are, and read more passages about them. On the right-side margin next to this verse there is a chain-reference which says “Apostles’ Names 2081”. This tells me that there is a chain of references for the Apostles names, and the Numerical Index identifier is 2081.
From here, I could head to the Numerical Index and find number 2081. Once there, I can find a list of verses that tell me about the Apostles names. I can also find other types of passages that have to do with the apostles. There are additional sub-categories here such as general references to them, and then passages about apostles being called to do special work. The chain-reference system allows me to dive into whatever specific theme I want to explore deeper.
Other ways to use the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible
Using the Numerical Index in one of the ways explained above is how I recommend beginning your adventure with this incredible Bible study tool. With that said, the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible not only utilizes these methods for studying the Bible, but also offers a handful of other helpful Bible study tools and resources. Among these tools are character profiles for studying Bible characters more specifically, detailed explanations of major Biblical journeys, such as Moses, the Israelites, Jesus’s life, Paul’s many ministry journeys, and more. Additionally, there are a plethora of helpful maps, Messianic prophecies and their fulfillments, unique book and Bible history overviews, and much more.
Within the pages of the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible you will find an impressive toolbelt of resources to take your Bible study deeper, helping you to draw closer to the Lord and what He wants to reveal to you through His Word.
How have I personally used the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible?
Some of the ways I have personally benefited from using the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible are as follows:
Creating Bible reading plans. Many of our free Bible reading plans were made using the chain-reference system to help me find the right verses for the topic of the reading plan. You can make your own Bible reading plans using the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible as well!
Book Overview Studies. I have definitely benefited from the Book and Bible character overviews in the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible and have used them when doing my Book Overview studies for the blog and printables.
Character Studies. When I want to know more about a character in the Bible, I will use the character profiles in the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible as one of my key resources. In 2022 I studied Jesus in depth all year long, and this year I am revisiting the Epistles of Paul at a deeper level and the information in this Bible is incredibly helpful to understanding their journies and the chronology of many different events.
There are many other ways I have used the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible, and I am sure there are many more ways I will use it over time as well. It has transformed my Bible study time and helped me launch deeper into the Word. It has actually been a really helpful stepping stone, taking me from basic surface-level reading and studying into deeper waters of what the Word of God is saying and means. If you are looking to take your Bible study deeper, I cannot recommend this Bible enough.
Who would benefit from the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible?
If you are ready to dive into the meat of scripture and further quench your thirsty soul with a deeper understanding of the Bible, then the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible is for you. The KJV is a wonderful option, and there are several other translations available for you to choose from.
If you would like to get a copy of the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible, you can do so at the following locations online. I highly recommend it to help you take your time in the Word to the next level.
How the Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible encourages a daily Bible routine
Getting into a routine reading the Bible can be a challenge even for believers who are well experienced in reading scripture. It is easy to fall in and out of the habit, and make excuses for not making time for the Lord. I suspect we are all guilty of this to some degree, at one point or another. Sometimes we need some structure and motivation, and often times the more convenient the better. The easier the structure is to follow, the more likely we are to adhere to it. This is why the Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible is so helpful.
The Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible is a Bible in the New King James Version (NKJV translation), published by Thomas Nelson, that includes a daily devotional for every day of the year. It has an annual list at the beginning of its pages that provides the page number for each day’s devotional, which allows you to begin at any point in the year.
What makes the Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible special?
There is a wide variety of devotional-style Bibles, and it can be challenging to choose one or even determine if a devotional Bible is right for you. They are an incredible tool that can truly help you make a habit of reading the Bible every day, but some designs come with some challenges that discourage and overwhelm Bible readers.
Some of the main concerns regarding devotional Bibles:
Devotional Bibles are usually difficult to start anytime during the year.
Devotional Bibles are difficult to keep up with.
Many devotional Bibles are annual plans that walk you through the entire Bible, making it difficult if you miss a day.
Some devotional Bibles are strategically scheduled so that you will benefit most by reading them in order, again making it difficult if you miss a day.
The Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible is a rare gem and the publishers seem to be quite in tune with these common complaints since this particular devotional Bible answers these concerns so well. The Matthew Henry Devotional Bible provides a list of pages assigned to each day, and the readings bounce around the Bible. Sometimes they are consecutive, and sometimes they go from the New to Old Testament, or vice versus. The devotionals also pinpoint a certain verse or a couple of verses rather than a whole chapter or longer passages, but they are within the pages of the verse for that day making it convenient and natural to read as much or little of the passage as you feel led through.
I have been going through the devotions for several days since I received my copy in the mail and have already missed a couple of days, but it was incredibly easy and not overwhelming to go back in and catch up on the days I missed. I also felt like I could just pick up on the day I came back, and knew I could go through the missed days at any time.
Some of the features of the Matthew Henry Devotional Bible that tackle the primary concerns about devotional Bibles:
Light, yet deep and convicting, devotionals focusing on a single verse or a couple of verses, rather than longer passages and chapters each day.
Devotionals bounce around the Bible, making it easy to jump in on any given day and catch up in whatever way works best for the reader.
Devotionals are in line with the verses for the day, making it convenient and natural to read as much or little of the passage as the reader desires.
A dated list with page numbers makes it easy to mark off the days the reader has completed each devotional.
Two ribbon bookmarks make it easy to mark your current day, and maybe tomorrow’s devotional, or even a missed day or a particular day you want to go back to.
Who is the Matthew Henry Devotional Bible for?
I am someone who loves studying the Bible. I have a bookshelf full of many different Bibles of many types and translations. I use each for a different purpose and recommend each of them to different people for different needs. The Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible is one I expect to recommend quite frequently to a variety of Bible shoppers.
I recommend the Matthew Henry Devotional Bible for people who:
Want to make a habit of reading the Bible every day.
Read the Bible often, but are looking for a structured long-term plan for personal daily devotion.
Are new to reading the Bible completely and are not sure where to begin.
Have been reading the Bible for years but want something light to start their day with.
Looking for a Bible reading plan that will give them a starting point that is easy to go deeper with.
I do NOT recommend the Matthew Henry Devotional Bible for people who are looking for:
A study Bible with notes and commentary throughout the Bible.
A journaling Bible with lots of places to write your own notes within the Bible pages.
A standard Bible with no additions included.
An in-depth devotional that takes you through lengthy passages every day.
A Bible-in-a-year style devotional.
Where can you get your own Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible?
The Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible is a wonderful addition to anyone’s Bible collection and can be helpful and encouraging for new and seasoned Bible readers alike who want to make reading the Bible a daily routine. While it does not suit every need, it is by far my favorite devotional Bible I have used so far and look forward to continuing to use it over the next year.
How can the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible help young women grow closer to the Lord?
The NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible is a Bible specifically designed for young Christian women who want to grow in their faith and relationship with the Lord. It has many wonderful and unique features that encourage young women to explore scripture deeply and read and engage with God’s Word often. This beautifully designed and laid out Bible was made with the goal of encouraging young women to love God greatly by studying His Word and knowing His character.
The NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible starts out by providing some vital truths all Christians should stand on and believe. It talks about God’s love, our sin, Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection, and what it means to accept Jesus as your savior. This is at the very beginning, helping readers to know these truths so that as they read the Bible they will have these truths to hold onto and guide them throughout God’s Word.
Information about the spread of the gospel in various countries and how to pray for them
Reflection and challenging questions to get readers thinking more deeply about the scriptures
Encouraging devotions
Maps and timelines
Mentor letters from seasoned women of faith
Profiles and testimonies of various faith heroes throughout history
Verses in the margins that focus on God’s heart
What is the SOAP Bible Study Method?
One of the most unique features of the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible is that it puts emphasis on using the SOAP Bible Study Method. This is a very popular method of studying scripture that is designed to help Bible readers dive in deeper to discover the meaning of what they are reading.
SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. In the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible there is not only a full explanation of the method, but each book of the Bible includes a special reading plan after the overview. The reading plan includes a chapter-by-chapter plan to guide you through the whole verse, but also offers a suggested focus verse to use with the SOAP Method.
Using these reading plans is a wonderful way to learn how to read and study the Bible because you are given reading plans to read through the whole Bible, each book, and various topics, but also in tandem given a Bible study plan as you read it. You are also encouraged and taught a method of incorporating prayer into your Bible reading and studying. This encourages readers to go beyond reading and begin learning and applying what it says. This method encourages young women to truly engage with God’s Word and grow in their love, understanding, and relationship with Him.
One thing I have been teaching my kiddo is that when you have learned one method of doing something well, you then are better equipped and have a better understanding of how to do it well in a different way. Learning a preformed method of studying the Bible that has been helpful and successful for others can give you a better grasp on how to read and study the Bible more deeply in other ways. Even if the SOAP Method is not what you want to stick with it is a wonderful teaching tool to help you understand how to study scripture more deeply and prayerfully and help you to grow in your relationship with God.
Who is the NET Bible translation designed for?
The NET Bible translation is acclaimed to be the newest English translation of the Bible. This is a new translation to me personally, but I am excited about a couple of particular highlights this translations is unique for. While the NET was being translated, the editing was actually made public worldwide for people all over the world to participate in the process by reviewing and offering questions and comments about each draft before it was finally published in 2005. It was then given another update in 2019.
Bible scholars, ministers, and laypersons around the world helped in the editing process helping the NET translation to become not only the newest, but claiming to be the most accurate because of all of the feedback that helped it to become what it is. While the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible does not have commentary notes included outside of the many types of articles and testimonies, there are more than 60,000 notes available online and in many other print copies of the NET Bible. Many of these notes document the challenges of translating into English which helps readers to better understand translation decisions and alternative word choices. The NET is also much looser on copyright, desiring to make it easier for people to use and share it in a variety of ways.
Can the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible help young women read and understand the Bible?
I personally find learning about various translations incredibly valuable when choosing a Bible. It is important to know who translated it, why they translated it, and what methods and sources they used. This can help Bible readers determine if a particular translation is right for them, if it is better as a companion or a primary Bible translation, or if it is not what they are looking for at all.
The NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible is a wonderful translation for women at any stage in their Bible reading experience and can be truly valuable as a companion or a primary. It is easy to read and understand, and has a great balance between thought-for-thought and word-for-word. This Bible would definitely be a helpful translation, and the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible a helpful Bible for young women to better understand the Bible.
With the combination of the NET translation, the many wonderful resources and features, and the gorgeous layout and wide margins, the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible is a Bible that helps young women to discover and dive into new and deeper perspective throughout scripture. This will help them learn and understand God’s Word better and grow in their faith and relationship with the Lord.
Do I recommend the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible?
Overall, this Bible is an exciting, fresh, new Bible I am extremely pleased to own and have as a resource for my Bible reading and studying. I am anxious to recommend this particular Bible and strongly recommend it for women just beginning to read the Bible, learning how to study the Bible, as their new daily Bible, and even to help you read through the whole Bible for the first time or even if you have read through it many times before. No matter how experienced you are with reading and studying the Bible the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible would be a fantastic refreshing addition.
Where can I buy the NET Young Women Love God Greatly Bible?
You can find this Bible at the following locations, and more.
How Max Lucado’s John 3:16 The Numbers of Hope Bible study challenged my faith
Max Lucado’s John 3:16 The Numbers of Hope Bible study has been a wonderful blessing. I have done many studies and read many books written by Max Lucado and so far I have not completed one I did not enjoy and was not challenged by. He has a graceful and humble approach while not neglecting to teach about important topics and issues with blunt, unfiltered truth. The Numbers of Hope Bible study, an updated version of the original published in 2007, is by far one of the best I have done altogether, let alone from Max Lucado.
When considering any Bible study there are important factors we all must evaluate. We need to ensure we are learning from godly teachers and examples who are rightly dividing the Word of Truth, and that the way they teach is founded on scripture and in the correct context. We all have a responsibility to filter what we learn directly through the Word of God and not ever just take someone’s word for it, and that is exactly how I approached this study and therefore the filter I have used for this review.
Is the 3:16 Numbers of Hope Bible study Biblically accurate?
The very first question we should always ask about any Bible study or Bible teacher is whether a Bible study is being taught in a biblically accurate manner and whether a Bible teacher is teaching biblically accurate lessons. We are instructed to filter all things through the Word of God and to rightly handle the Word of God.
Throughout Max Lucado’s John 3:16 The Numbers of Hope Bible study, Max does a great job explaining passages in context. He defines many of the words and phrases within the passages using the original languages in the applicable context, sometimes explaining how the same word is used in other passages of scripture as well to help us understand the meaning throughout scripture. He also provides relevant examples from his life, other people’s testimonies, and the testimonies and experiences found in the Bible. He identifies and explains connections between passages, as well as New and Old testament connections to help us understand what we are reading and studying in context and in-depth.
Max Lucado primarily uses the NIV translation throughout this study. I encourage every individual to research the different Bible translations in order to understand the background, sources, purpose, and other key information about each translation they use. It is important to understand how each translation should be used and know how it came about. NIV is a translation I highly recommend using as a companion to other more literal translations. With that being said, the use of NIV should not deter anyone from this study.
Max does exactly what I would do myself, as well as what I encourage others to do – research the original language and use other translations as well to dive into the original context and meaning of the passages being studied. Over-reliance on any one translation, especially without looking back at the original language in the correct context, can easily cause us to miss key information and lack the full understanding God wants to reveal to us.
I am confident that Max Lucado’s John 3:16 The Numbers of Hope Bible study has been well researched and is being taught in a biblically accurate manner, in the correct context, and does well to help participants understand complex lessons from scripture. He uses scripture as the foundation and source, and uses examples from scripture and his own and other’s lives to help explain.
How did the Numbers of Hope Bible study challenge me?
If a Bible study does not challenge you, it cannot change you. The point and goal of any Bible study should be to challenge the participant and lead them to grow in their faith as well as their knowledge, understanding, and relationship with God. Sometimes a study will reaffirm what you already know, believe, and understand. Sometimes it will provide a fresh perspective, or teach you something totally new. This Bible study by Max Lucado is no exception. Wherever you are on your journey, the Numbers of Hope Bible study will challenge you if you approach the study ready and willing to grow.
Through Max Lucado’s John 3:16 The Numbers of Hope Bible study, I have personally been challenged in several ways. Max covers so many vital topics in this 5-week study series that encourage participants to check the conditions of our own hearts, identify sin in our lives, handle idols we have placed over God, and learn the importance of being saved and born again in Christ.
There are so many truths throughout this study that God knew I needed to be reminded of. There are also many truths I needed God to help me understand on a deeper level. The Numbers of Hope Bible study progresses each week to help us understand step by step, word by word, deeper and deeper about what salvation really means and is, where it actually comes from, why we need it, and what we should do in response to it. I absolutely love and appreciate the powerful ways Max explained being saved, being born again, having a hard heart, and the two eternal outcomes for believers and unbelievers.
Max Lucado does not shy away from the topic of sin, repentance, or Hell, but gracefully and lovingly encourages all of us to truly evaluate the reason for our faith and the condition of our relationship with Christ. He challenged me to think seriously about what I know and believe about Jesus, God, salvation, faith, and eternity. He also challenged the way I see myself as a child of God.
One of the main lessons he hits over and over is that Christ is the one with the authority over all of His creation. While I often want to do things my way, His way is always best but my way will lead me away from Him, His promises, blessings, and the hope I have in Him when I am not aligned with Him and His desires.
Max plants seeds all over this study that can leave us thinking about our own ways, hobbies, choices, and condition and whether or not they align with the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Not only does this study convict, but it provides and explains the reason for hope, and that is Christ and Christ alone. For anyone with questions, doubts, concerns, worries, or uncertainties this study helps combat them all strictly on the firm foundation of scripture and the hope we have in Jesus Christ as our Savior.
For anyone who does have confidence in Christ, this study identifies so much that we often take for granted and need reminders and encouragement about. No matter if you are a believer, unbeliever, new Christian, life-long Christian, or anywhere in-between this study will leave you with much to consider, pray about, and evaluate in your own life and condition.
How does the Numbers of Hope Bible study apply to my life?
Throughout The Numbers of Hope Bible study, he asks a variety of questions that left me thinking about my own life, faith, and condition. There are many ways this study definitely applied to my own life and that will surely apply to yours as well. Some of the questions I gained or was reminded to ask and pray over are:
What is the true reason for my faith and hope in Jesus?
What am I really doing with my faith?
How do I honestly feel about admitting my own sin and guilt?
How can I share my faith with others more often?
Am I really looking to Jesus as the guide and authority over my life?
What do I really believe about the crucifixion of Jesus and its relevance to me personally?
What do I honestly believe about eternity?
How can I help others know and believe the truth about eternity?
Am I producing good fruits because of my faith?
Do I look at and see other people the way God does?
There are many more ways this John 3:16 Bible study challenged me to apply what I learned to my own life, and countless ways I am sure it will do the same for you. This study will leave you checking your own heart condition, your life, your faith, and your relationship to and with the Lord.
Where to find Max Lucado’s John 3:16 The Numbers of Hope Bible study
There are a lot of different programs available to use for social media posts, t-shirt designs, wall art, stickers, printables, documents, and so much more. I have used many different programs and have found Canva to be my absolute favorite above all others for my day-to-day designing needs. Whether you are a professional designer, a social media influencer, content creator, or homemaker, Canva is an incredible tool that can truly help simplify the design process and save you time and money.
Canva Pro versus Canva Free
I have used several graphic design programs over the years, both are free and paid. First of all, this program is much more than just a graphic design tool. Both the paid and the free versions of Canva are wonderful and easy to use. You can use the free version for all kinds of great designs without having to buy the subscription, purchase individual elements within the library, and also order products with your designs on them straight through Canva.
The free version of Canva comes with:
250,000+ templates that are easily custumizable
100+ design types for social posts, presentations, documents, resumes, planners, and more
Thousands of stock photos and different graphic elements to use in your projects
Collaboration tools to have a team help with your designs
5GB of storage on the cloud
The paid version of Canva includes:
The paid version, of course, has much more to offer than the free version. It is one of the only premium design programs I have used that I find worth paying for. I am a big advocate for lifetime upgrades, and I am extremely picky about annual or monthly subscription-based programs, but Canva takes the cake for me with their subscription features.
Everything in the free plan
100+ million stock photos, videos, audios, and graphic elements
610,000+ custumizable templates for all kinds of projects
Upload and apply your own fonts, logos, branding, colors and brand kits
Image background remover
Instantly resize your images with intuituive tool for minimal manual resizing
Save your designs as templates to share with your team or sell
100GB cloud storage with ability to organize in lots of folders
Canva Pro is $119.99 per year or $12.99 per month. The annual plan saves you $35.89 per year which is extremely generous and I am all for the savings if you can afford to invest $119.99 at one time. It is a yearly investment worth making for your business, but also for many personal uses!
Compare Canva Free and Canva Pro:
How I use Canva Pro for my Christian business
For businesses, Canva Pro has a whole suite of options that I absolutely love. Whether you are designing blog images, product designs, social media posts, logos, or even content planners and to-do lists, Canva has you covered! I use Canva for the following business tasks, and more, on a regular basis and it has helped me get organized and work more efficiently on my various ideas whether on the go or at home.
Featured images for my blog
Social medial images for blog posts
Designing and scheduling Bible verse graphics for social media
Designing banners and branded materials for shops and sites
Designing website graphics and materials
There are many things I use Canva for, both on their awesome and highly rated App or online on my desktop or laptop, and it has so much potential for your business. Canva allows me to create my products, design graphics, organize projects, and easily schedule posts on my social media accounts all in one service. Some additional reasons I love to use this graphic design program are:
Templates
Premium images
Mockup images
Instant resizing
Saving brand kits
Uploading fonts
Uploading graphic elements from my computer
Sharing projects for others to help design
Selling and sharing template versions of designs
There are countless graphics, elements, fonts, and stock images to use right in the program, but you can also upload your own that you bought or created, such as from programs like Affinity, CorelDraw, or Adobe. Sometimes I create part of an element in a vector design program then bring it into Canva to include in bigger designs and projects. This saves me lots of time and streamlines so much of the design process with the easy-to-use editor and available elements, branding, color pallets, and more. The fact that all of my designs are saved on the cloud is a huge bonus as well!
How I use Canva Pro for personal and household designs
I also love to use Canva for many personal projects. As a mom, wife, homemaker, crafter, and so much more I have been able to create many items for my home with ease, such as:
Designing matching family tshirts to make with my Cricut Easypress
Designing SVG for car decals and stickers
I absolutely love to plaster Bible verses around my home and any piece of clothing my family will let me print on. I desire for anyone coming into my home to be encouraged by the gospel, and I want my home to be a place of worship. I love to craft and I love for my home to be orderly and organized. I am NOT super talented at graphic design, though, (or interior decorating for that matter) so Canva helps me combine all of this in a convenient way that lets me focus more on worship while I work, design, plan, and organize my life, home, and family.
Conclusion
I am all for practical, and the fact that I can use this incredible graphic design program for so many of my professional AND personal projects is huge for me. I appreciate that I don’t need to be experienced with graphic design to use Canva. I am able to spend less time designing my projects here than I do in so many other programs. This means I have more time for the more important tasks. I am able to use this program for both my business and my personal needs, and it helps me draw others to God, organize my home and family, and even worship the Lord as I spend time designing in Canva.
I highly recommend using Canva whether you are a business owner, stay-at-home or work-from-home mom, homemaker, housewife, college student, influencer, or if you just want to make some awesome designs with minimal effort and a lot of fun. As a Christian woman, Canva is a wonderful graphic design program to help me focus on glorifying God in the design process and draw others to Him through my creations.
If you are anything like me you have a difficult time coming up with Christmas gift ideas for the people in your life. We all know that Christmas is not about the gifts, but is about Christ. Christ is the ultimate giver, and we are called to imitate Him. Giving is a generous sacrifice and it is still such a blessing to get to be generous to the people in our lives.
Again, Christmas is not about stuff or gifts, but I encourage you to prayerfully consider how you can be generous and bless those in your life this year. I have come up with some fun gift ideas to help inspire generosity and encourage you to bless your loved ones this year in some way.
35 In every way I’ve shown you that it is necessary to help the weak by laboring like this and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, because he said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
I would love to hear what you plan to get or even make for your loved ones this year! Share with us in the comments how you will give generously to the people in your life.
The NIV Radiant Virtues Bible is a beautiful Bible that focuses on the virtues which the Apostle Paul focuses on in 1 Corinthians 13. It is designed with faith, hope, and love brought to focus all throughout God’s Word. This Bible comes in the NIV translation and, as I often recommend for NIV Bibles, it would make an excellent companion to a literal translation study Bible.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
I received a complimentary copy of the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid in exchange for an honest review of this Bible. You can find even more information about this Bible here.#BibleGatewayPartner
This Bible is published by Zondervan, a company that specializes in publishing and providing Christian resources. Zondervan is the publisher of the NIV translation, which is the translation used for the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible.
As with any Bible, the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible isn’t for everyone, but there are many qualities to appreciate. To help you make a more informed decision about whether to get this as your first or next Bible, or as a gift for a loved one, we will walk through some key points together that I like to consider when shopping for a Bible as well as some information I believe to be helpful when making your decision.
What purpose does the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible serve?
The purpose of the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible is to help Bible readers find, focus on, and grow in understanding of the virtues of faith, hope, and love throughout scripture. All over this beautifully designed Bible are passages highlighted in coded colors for each theme, a reading plan focusing on these virtues, and articles that cover each topic along the way. These are all designed with the purpose to study the virtues of faith, hope, and love and to draw readers closer to God.
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
The NIV Radiant Virtues Bible reading plan begins and ends with love because love is the first and the last virtue listed in 1 Corinthians 13, and because it is the greatest of these virtues (1 Cor. 13:13). The emphasis on these themes is what this Bible is all about. Faith, hope, and love are the key traits Christians should live in and live out. Growing in our understanding of each can help both new and seasoned Christians develop a stronger understanding of faith, hope, and love throughout scripture and therefore apply them to your own life and relationship with God.
I find it important to point out that the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible is an addition to the NIV Beautiful Word Coloring Bible collection. I have the Inspire Journaling Bible, which is the NLT equivalent of the Beautiful Word Bible, and I personally love coloring and journaling Bibles. They are an incredible way to worship, pray, and study while using creativity in scripture.
Along with the focus on faith, hope, and love the NIV Radiant Virtues Biblegives creative Bible readers lots of opportunities to express their creativity while reading and studying the Bible. You will find ample space and inspiration for journaling and art throughout the key features.
What are the key features of the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible?
There are many wonderful features in the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible to help Bible readers focus on the themes of faith, hope, and love throughout scripture in creative ways. Some of the features include:
Highlighted verses color coded for faith, hope, and love
Blank calendar page to fill in Bible reading plan
Lined prayer pages
Note-taking margins
Bible verse art throughout the Bible
Bible verse coloring pages
Table of Weights and Measures
Perforated Bible verse art pages
It also comes with several Bible reading plans, which I personally think is amazing. You not only have the specific virtues reading plan at the front but several in the back to keep you coming back through the Bible and focusing on several important themes in scripture. The following reading plans are included, and again keep in mind the fancy blank calendar in the front to help you plan out your study schedule.
Virtues Themed Bible Reading Plan
30 Days with Jesus Reading Plan
30 Days of Great Faith Reading Plan
60 Day Overview of the Bible Reading Plan
On Year Through the Bible
There are quite a few features, but I find this Bible so balanced in its design that it does not feel crowded or over-filled. It is a wonderful balance of creative space, note-taking margins, articles, and inspirational artwork. This Bible would be a great option for a lot of people, no matter your creative abilities or desires.
How do you use the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible?
With its full list of key features, the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible is designed to encourage consistent reading of the Bible. You can fill out the blank calendar to map out your reading plan using the included plans or come up with your own, record your prayers in the prayer pages, and read through the passage planned and their accompanying articles to help you study deeper. It certainly can be used as a Bible that holds a starter prayer journal, Bible study journal, and reading plans.
I personally love the features and layout. I appreciate that this Bible is laid out to encourage a reading schedule as well as prayer, and has many juicy features to help Christians artistically dive deeper into the themes of faith, hope, and love every day.
Who do I recommend the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible for?
I highly recommend the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible. As I said above, I typically recommend the NIV translation be used as a companion to a literal translation, but the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible could certainly make an excellent first Bible for someone just getting started. I also see it as a wonderful Bible for someone who wants to begin prayer journaling or begin a Bible reading routine.
If you are someone with a growing inventory of Bibles, this would definitely be a nice addition to your study Bibles or a standard Bible in other translations. I really enjoy using my NIV Bibles side-by-side with an NKJV, ESV, or even a CSB to use together. The NIV Radiant Virtues Bible is one I will enjoy pairing in this way, and I will be glad to add it to my morning routine as well to coordinate with my NLT Inspire Bible for Bible journaling.
I believe the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible is best for those who want to learn more about the virtues of faith, hope, and love and are committed to following a Bible reading plan. If you prefer more as-you-go reading methods of reading scripture then you will likely find many of the features to be unhelpful, but even then I would encourage you to give the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible a chance.
The art-journaling features of this Bible make it fantastic for those who like to add some creative flair to their time in the Word, as well as for those who are wanting to get started in Bible art journaling. If you prefer to completely do your own art in your journaling Bible, this can be a nice Bible but it does have a lot of its own art which may take away from the space you want to use to create your own.
The NIV Radiant Virtues Bible might just offer the encouragement you need to spend intentional time in the Bible and in prayer every day. This, combined with the purpose of this particular Bible and the extras included, makes the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible great for those well established in Bible reading and prayer routines, as well as those looking to start new habits to strengthen their faith and relationship with the Lord.
I personally LOVE to read a plethora of books. As a mom, I love to find all kinds of great books for my kiddo to read, which as a Christian family can be very difficult. I enjoy finding books I can read with my family, as well as look for books I can read on my own, but I especially look for books that honor God. Today I want to tell you aboutmy top 5 Christian books to read as a family.
Some of my favorite books have been those I can read with my family. My kiddo is getting older, as they do, and she is also an avid reader herself. We love to read together at bedtime every night and need books that we can all understand as well as that we can all learn from. I would love to share my top 5 Christian books that I have read with my family.
#1 Unshakable Hope by Max Lucado
Unshakable Hope by Max Lucado has quickly become one of my favorite reads. I enjoyed it so much that we have started going through a 12-week study with it in our Vineyard Women’s Group. The way the world is right now, the state of our economy, the effects of the pandemic, all added on top of everything else we were already facing have caused so much panic, a shaking of hope and faith. This book was so helpful to my family and I am loving the study with the ladies as well.
Nothing lifts us out of fear and weariness like hope. An anchor through life’s storms, hope buoys our spirits and seeks to make a way when we face tough times. After 40 years of ministry and speaking to hurt hearts, Max Lucado has learned that the promises of God will give you the strength you need. Each chapter in Unshakable Hope explores one Biblical promise that will help equip you to face every day with courage. Includes reflection questions for individual or group study.
#2 The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
I read the entire series of the Chronicles of Narnia this past year and my kiddo has also read it. We didn’t read this one together, yet, but I loved it so much I plan to reread the whole series as a family before long. It is such a wonderful 7-book series by an acclaimed Christian author, C.S. Lewis, that truly gets you thinking about the Bible story. I highly encourage this series to adults and children. It is a pretty easy read but incredibly enjoyable no matter your age.
Once your children have followed Lucy through the back of a magic wardrobe – and met Aslan, the Christlike lion – they’ll never be the same! Kids adore these classics for their imaginative story lines and adults appreciate the rich Christian symbolism. This softcover set is perfect for young children and families that are on the go.
Each volume in this 7 book softcover set includesstunning new cover art by Cliff Nielsen. The individual books include approximately 200 pages and measure 4.25″ by 7.25″. This set also includes an attractive slipcase in which the books can be safely stored and attractively displayed.
#3 How Happiness Happens by Max Lucado
How Happiness Happens by Max Lucado is actually what we are currently reading as a family, and we are enjoying it immensely. Max Lucado has become one of my favorite authors to read with my family as his books are so thorough, yet written in such a way that the whole family can grasp easily and be edified and encouraged by. This one is definitely toward the top of my list of books I recommend for everyone to read.
We live in a world that teaches all kinds of things about happiness, but through How Happiness Happens Max Lucado walks us through practical applications of Biblical teachings and principles for the true meaning of happiness.
In a world searching for happiness, bestselling author Max Lucado provides a personal plan for a life filled with lasting and fulfilling joy, supported by Jesus’ teaching and modern research.
Do you feel happy?
How long has it been since you felt a level of contagious, infectious, unflappable, unstoppable happiness? Maybe your answer is, “All the time.” If so, God bless you! (And consider suggesting this book to someone who needs it.) For many of us the answer is, “Well, it’s been a while. I used to be happy, but then life took its toll.”
Only one-third of Americans surveyed said they were happy. How can this be? Education is accessible to most. We’ve made advancements in everything from medicine to technology, yet 66 percent of us can’t find an adequate reason to check the “yes” box on the happiness questionnaire.
Worldwide, people profess that happiness is their most cherished goal. Marketers get this. “Want to be happy?” they ask. Eat at this restaurant, drive this car, wear this dress. Happiness happens when you lose the weight, get the date, find the mate, or discover your fate. It’s wide, this way to happiness. Yet, for all its promise, it delivers a fragile joy; here one day, tomorrow scattered by the winds of comparison, disappointment, or unmet expectations.
Max writes, “There is another option. It requires no credit card, monthly mortgage, or stroke of fortune. Age and ethnicity aren’t factors…an unexpected door to joy.”
In this book Max shares the unexpected path to a lasting happiness, one that produces reliable joy in any season of life. Based on the teachings of Jesus and backed by modern research, How Happiness Happens presents a surprising but practical way of living that will change you from the inside out.
#4 Grace by Max Lucado
Grace by Max Lucado was definitely one of my favorites because Max Lucado really puts grace into real perspective and applicable examples. My family and I definitely had a fire as well as a better understanding of the grace of God after reading this book and encouraged me to learn how to display grace and even explain grace better to others.
In Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine, Max Lucado calls readers back to consider the abundant richness of God’s offer. It’s an offer to live a changed life, a call to genuine transformation and the courage to see it through. Don’t let grace pass you by. When you let it in, it will rock your world, and change your heart.
As believers in Christ, we claim to understand grace. From Sunday school to adulthood we’ve been taught that we’re saved by grace. We know the Bible verses and the sinner’s prayer, but have we really taken hold of it? Or rather, has it taken hold of us?
Grace isn’t a nice idea. It’s not a song lyric, or a warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s the radical life of Christ lived in you. Grace gives you the freedom to love the unlovable, and forgive the unforgivable, because you know how much you’re loved, and know how much you’ve been forgiven. Softcover.
#5 God Will Carry Your Through by Max Lucado
God Will Carry You Through by Max Lucado was one of the first books we read as a family. It ignited the desire to make it a nightly routine, and it also helped us in a stressful point in this crazy pandemic. With so much happening around us this was such an encouraging read for us to go through together.
Looking for answers to replace your tears? Running low on hope for the future? Spending more time with discouragement than joy?
Sooner or later, life turns us upside down. Sooner or later, we all encounter the pain and disappointments of life. When life gets hard, the road to peace may not be painless. It may not be quick. But God will use your struggle for good. Trust him. God will carry you through.
Includes a presentation page for gift-giving. Hardcover.
How do we read as a family?
We love to read as a family. I also love to use my Kindle Oasis while my kiddo uses her kid’s Kindle or reads along on my phone using the Kindle app. This lets us read along together better, or gives us the flexibility to trade off reading turns. Sometimes I read, other times my husband or child read, but having multiple devices has been really helpful for us to allow whoever wants to read to do so while the rest follow along.
For those who have Amazon Prime, you may not know that it includes Prime Reading which allows you to basically “check out” books for free like you would from a library. There is also Kindle Unlimited which is a monthly subscription that unlocks tons more books and can be incredibly cost-effective for a nightly family reading routine. And of course there is also Audible which is awesome for those who prefer to be read to.
Whatever you love to read, and whether you prefer digital or physical books, I hope you will find these recommendations helpful for your family. I would love to invite you to share what your favorite books to read are, whether with your family or on your own.
What encouragement would you like to share with fellow parents looking for Christian books for our kids?
What recommendations would you make in looking for books to read on your own?
What authors do you love to read that encourage you in your faith and relationship with Jesus?
I received a complimentary copy of the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid in exchange for an honest review of this Bible. You can find even more information about this Bible here, and I'd love for you to check out the Bible for sale here. #BibleGatewayPartner
Types of studies the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible best for
Do I recommend the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible?
While its uses are specific, as soon as I discovered this Bible I recognized the insane potential for my studies. I spent hours drooling over this Bible and telling my family over and over “oh my lanta, look at THIS, and THIS, and THIS…” Honestly, I’m so impressed with this Bible and would love to share with you why, as well as what I would recommend using this unique study Bible for.
What is the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible?
This Bible was pioneered by Dr. Frank Charles Thompson, who according to Bible Gateway was “a deep Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek scholar”. The goal of this Bible was to help Bible students organize their research and references to help with in-depth studies. This Bible is designed to encourage Christians to study scripture deeply and entirely.
The pages are jam-packed with resources to help Bible students with a variety of different types of study. The explanations at the very beginning should definitely be reviewed in depth before diving into the contents. Once you learn how to use the reference system the pages don’t feel as scattered, but at first, it can feel a bit confusing and intimidating. You can then explore over 7,000 themes and 100,000 references in a variety of ways.
This reference Bible is available in KJV, NKJV, NASB, and ESV Bible translations. KJV was Dr. Thompson’s Bible of choice where his work began in the margins of his own personal Bible.
Included in the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible
Introduction that includes a detailed explanation of the Cross-Reference system and how to use it
100,000 references in the margins
An alphabetical topic index with over 7,000 references
A numerical index to connect the marginal references with special numerical codes
Bible book outlines
Bible character profiles
Contrasts between Old and New Testament
Historical analysis articles
Archeological Supplement
Abridged Concordence
and much more
Types of studies the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible best for
Topical Bible Studies
Chapter or Book Studies
Passage or Verse Studies
Character Bible Studies
Timeline and Geographical Bible Studies
Key Theme Bible Studies
Verse Mapping Bible Studies
I love to have many different study Bibles on hand to tackle any type of study. Having physical Bibles at your fingertips is invaluable. With over 7,000 different topics, 100,000 marginal references, and multiple ways to use the reference guide in this intensive Bible, this chain-reference Bible can guide you through seemingly countless different themes in scripture.
Whether I am doing a word study, diving into a specific person in scripture, researching timelines, chronology, or geography of Bible times, and more, I find this an incredible companion to the others in my inventory. I will gladly be taking advantage of this regularly as I study monthly themes and build reading plans around specific topics and words, as well as other more challenging studies. The opportunities for this Bible study tool are extensive.
Do I recommend the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible?
I highly recommend this study Bible to anyone who wants to take their studies seriously and dive deeply into scripture and its countless themes, characters, and context. It is one I recommend pairing with other resources and types of study Bibles, but can certainly pack an incredible punch on its own as well.
This very well may become one of my most highly recommended Bible study tools. It may be a bit overwhelming to someone new to Bible study, but there is still so much value for anyone no matter how familiar they are with studying scripture.
As a mom, finding appropriate Bibles for my kiddo is really important. Each age group and reading level requires something different, and different kids are engaged with the Bible in unique ways. The NASB Adventure Bible is a fantastic Bible for helping answer the many questions kids have about the Bible and for inspiring a genuine interest to learn about scripture.
Table of Content
NASB Translation
Features and Layout of NASB Adventure Bible
NASB Adventure Bible Extras
In the Back
Do I recommend the NASB Adventure Bible?
I’d say it is great for elementary to middle-school-aged kids, depending on the reading level of your kiddos and I want to highlight a few specific points about this Bible that may help others determine whether this may be the right Bible for the kids in their lives.
I received a complimentary copy of the NASB Adventure Bible as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid in exchange for an honest review of this Bible. You can find even more information about this Bible here, and I'd love for you to check out the Bible for sale here. #BibleGatewayPartner
NASB Translation
I have taken some time to read through a lot of the material and dive into the offerings, layout, and translation. I did a study of the NASB translation a while back and it is said to be one of the “most literal” translations of the Bible in modern English. The NASB was updated in 2020, and it is important to note that this NASB Adventure Bible is in the 1995 version of the translation.
I think translation is one of the most important questions we should explore when choosing a Bible for ourselves as well as our kids. The 1995 NASB seems easy for kids to read and understand, making it a more fruitful experience for them when reading the Bible.
Features and Layout of NASB Adventure Bible
I am really impressed with all that this kid’s Bible has to offer. It starts off with an explanation of how your kids will use it which is an immediate encouragement for an endeavor that can feel really intimidating to young Bible readers. It explains to them where to find key items and what they are, such as the page number, book name, chapter, section headers, verse numbers, and footnotes. For any new Bible reader, this can be incredibly helpful!
The very next page is a “How to know you are a Christian” page. I love this! This is such a wonderful explanation that is written at a level children will be able to easily grasp. Considering who this Bible is for it is perfectly simple yet concise. Its inclusion of Bible verses to explain and back up each point is stellar and very important. If it is going to explain this vital question I want my kiddo to be directed to the scripture that the point stems from.
Moving on, it includes the typical Contents page with the list of all the books of the Bible and their page numbers, as well as an alphabetized list, and then a section explaining the different special features exclusive to this children’s Bible.
Pin me for later!
NASB Adventure Bible Extras
One thing I look for in a kid’s Bible is whether they really help break things down at the level my child needs while obviously keeping the Bible itself the focus and adhering to strict accuracy of the Word. This Bible does an excellent job of this balance. The pages are not overtaken by the “extras”, but the whole book is scattered with helpful information to help explain different things at a child’s level of understanding.
The categories of extras include:
Words of Treasure
Did You Know?
Life in Bible Times
People in Bible Times
Live It!
Book Introductions
These break down just as they sound, and are well written and helpful for the kids in our lives to better understand what they are reading and how to apply it to themselves. It also helps teach them the importance of culture in Bible times and different aspects of self-application early on which is fantastic.
The NASB Adventure Bible includes Book Overviews you would expect to find in a lot of Bibles geared toward older readers but in a format that is intriguing to kids. (My own kiddo was REALLY excited about this part. She told me she wished her other Bibles had such great introductions. We’ve since done a couple of overview studies together and she used this Bible).
There are so many incredible resources within the pages of this Bible. It maintains the focus on the Word itself and helping guide kids through the Bible. I am truly pleased with the balance they present. The helpful explanations and articles are not overly worded risking losing kid’s attention.
In the Back
I am thrilled at this children’s Bible inclusion of a topical index and a dictionary concordance in the back! This is truly impressive to have in a children’s Bible and another aspect my kiddo was extremely excited about.
Maps in full-color glossy pages are also included. These can help give your kids an idea of the geography of Bible times.
Do I recommend the NASB Adventure Bible?
Overall I am incredibly impressed with this Bible. I can’t say that enough, to be honest. It feels like a Bible geared for older readers but designed with kids in mind. It can definitely help encourage, inspire and motivate kids to read, understand, and apply scripture early in their lives.
Book overviews, maps, concordance, index, and articles about Bible times and self-application will truly help kids get excited about scripture. This children’s Bible can help your kids grow in their faith and understanding of the Bible earlier in their lives.
As a parent, I definitely highly recommend the NASB Adventure Bible for the kids in your life. Add the NASB Adventure Bible to your gift ideas for kids.
I am a wife, mom, writer, crafter, and above all, a Child of God. I love to study the Bible, fellowship with other Christians, and serve God. I am thrilled to invite you to join me in seeking to satisfy our thirsty souls with the Living Water of Christ, which is what Water On Thirsty Land is here to do.
