Having the right resources can completely transform and invigorate your Bible study. In this article you'll see a list of some of my favorite Bible study tools. Some are specific to studying the Bible, like my favorite Bibles. Others are not necessarily specific to Bible study, but are tools I love to use.
I'll list these by category: Bibles, notebooks, Bible studies, Commentaries, and other.
The first on the list is the Bible I've had for many years. Well... sort of. It's Crossway's updated version and if I were buying today, it would be the one I would get. This is the Bible I study from and preach from most often. I like how compact it is, and it has a lay-flat design that keeps the pages from flipping when you don't have your hands on the pages. The font is a bit small, but that helps it to stay compact. I pretty much always have this one on me - in my bag, my car, or on my desk.
The second Bible I'd recommend is the ESV study Bible. It's a great step up for a bit deeper study. It's got some serious heft, so it's probably not one you'd want to carry to church with you (unless you like people wondering if your Bible is more useful as a book or as a weapon). The commentary in this one is good, especially for historical detail. I haven't read all of the commentary, but most of what I have read has been reliable and insightful.
Third is a Bible I was recently given by one of my followers on Instagram. As soon as I opened the package I knew this would be a resource I would return to over and over. It's the John C. Maxwell Leadership Bible. It takes the stories of the Bible and applies them directly to leadership principles. I can't overstate how helpful this Bible has already been.
Finally, this list wouldn't be complete without a journaling Bible. This Bible is single column so it reads more like a story than a reference book. There's something psychological about single column Bibles that keep my attention much better - maybe it's because novels are single column and dictionaries are two-column books. What makes a Bible a journaling Bible is the margins. The margins leave plenty of lined space to take notes with your favorite pen. These notes are especially helpful once you have years of notes.
I'll list these by category: Bibles, notebooks, Bible studies, Commentaries, and other.
Bibles
The first on the list is the Bible I've had for many years. Well... sort of. It's Crossway's updated version and if I were buying today, it would be the one I would get. This is the Bible I study from and preach from most often. I like how compact it is, and it has a lay-flat design that keeps the pages from flipping when you don't have your hands on the pages. The font is a bit small, but that helps it to stay compact. I pretty much always have this one on me - in my bag, my car, or on my desk.
Links: Softcover
The second Bible I'd recommend is the ESV study Bible. It's a great step up for a bit deeper study. It's got some serious heft, so it's probably not one you'd want to carry to church with you (unless you like people wondering if your Bible is more useful as a book or as a weapon). The commentary in this one is good, especially for historical detail. I haven't read all of the commentary, but most of what I have read has been reliable and insightful. 
Third is a Bible I was recently given by one of my followers on Instagram. As soon as I opened the package I knew this would be a resource I would return to over and over. It's the John C. Maxwell Leadership Bible. It takes the stories of the Bible and applies them directly to leadership principles. I can't overstate how helpful this Bible has already been.
Finally, this list wouldn't be complete without a journaling Bible. This Bible is single column so it reads more like a story than a reference book. There's something psychological about single column Bibles that keep my attention much better - maybe it's because novels are single column and dictionaries are two-column books. What makes a Bible a journaling Bible is the margins. The margins leave plenty of lined space to take notes with your favorite pen. These notes are especially helpful once you have years of notes.
Links: Softcover
Notebooks
Having a notebook to record your thoughts about what you're learning can be more helpful than just about anything else. For me, I use Google Docs most often. But, sometimes this technophile still needs some good old fashioned notebook and pen action. Here are a few notebooks I've used and liked.
Bible Studies
Below is a list of some of the Bible studies I've done over the years and really enjoyed. A few good books may have slipped in too :)
- This Changes Everything - Bible Study Book: Lessons from James by Ben Stuart
- David - Bible Study Book (Updated Edition): Seeking a Heart Like His by Beth Moore
- Beloved Disciple (Bible Study Book): The Life and Ministry of John by Beth Moore
- Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God, Revised and Expanded
- More coming soon!
Commentaries
Coming soon!
Other
Coming soon!
gbgbg
ReplyDelete