I don't have just one favorite. Let me show you why! |
There are so many Study Bibles to choose from, each offering unique features. You can get Study Bibles that have: - question-focused notes, providing answers to those questions
- insights from trusted pastors
- devotional content with relatable stories from real-life
- deep dives into the language, culture, or history of the Bible
- notes tied to a specific Bible translation
Honestly, I love digital study tools! When I use physical books, I'm hunched over for hours and my body hurts. I've completely adapted to using digital tools for study. |
I no longer limit myself to just one resource when I study the Bible. |
I love variety, having access to everything all at once and using all the resources on Bible Gateway Plus. Now, going back to the plethora of Study Bibles… Here's what Bible Gateway Plus offers: 30 Study Bibles for less than $5 per month and, they are there to support my Bible reading. When I was new to the Bible and Study Bibles, I couldn't grasp the organization. I asked myself and my coworkers (shout out to Britt!): - Why are the notes in this order?
- Why aren't these notes the main focus? Isn't the Bible text ancillary?
- Why isn't the text bigger than the Bible text?
It took me some time to realize that the notes are there to support reading the Bible. It's not the other way around. The Bible text does not support the notes. Scholars, authors and Bible publishers are trying to help everyone understand the meaning behind God's Word. |
Study Bibles, no matter what kind, are there to support your understanding of Scripture. |
I want to give you some examples that demonstrate how this works, but first, allow me to talk a little bit our goals. What Bible Gateway Plus provides is breadth… We know that studying the Bible is not simple or easy. It's a lifelong commitment. We have 30 Study Bibles from various pastors, Study Bibles tied to different translations, devotional Bibles, and those that focus on history – and some do more than one of these things! First and foremost, we provide quality resources from trusted sources. Some of the resources have been around for a long time and are best sellers. Others are from beloved pastors, and some simply help people understand the Bible. Bible Gateway Plus is here to help you study on your own, to help you minister, and to be there for you wherever you are. And, let me reiterate that. We are there for you "wherever you are." It's part of our mission statement, and we see it as having layers of meaning. And, I LOVE that it is part of our mission! Wherever you are… Spiritually, Physically and Digitally. |
Let's look at some examples of how Study Bibles work with Bible Gateway Plus! |
Luke 2:11 is a verse that beautifully captures the essence of Christmas. Let's use it as an example, and read it together. Then I will show you a few excerpts from the Study Bibles available with Bible Gateway Plus.
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (NKJV)
When I read this verse I tend to focus on what I think is most important, that a "Savior" was born. After all, Jesus' birth is the most important thing that's happened in this world. Let's dig in and learn more about what that means.
First, let's read what the NKJV Lucado Encouraging Word Bible, with the warmth and charm brought by Max Lucado, says about this verse. He reminds us that, "You have been given a perfect personal gift. One just for you." If you read further, you'll have his encouragement to "Share the news of God's gift with [those who have not received Jesus] and tell them how much God's grace has changed your life."
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When I think of gifts that we give during the holidays, there is no greater gift from God, than our savior, Jesus Christ. Perhaps you are wondering if we really deserve this gift. So, let's take a step back, and remind ourselves more about how this announcement was presented. In verse 8, "shepherds living out in the fields," saw (in verse 9), "an angel of the Lord."
Are we like the shepherds? The NIV Quest Study Bible answers the question of why the birth of Jesus was announced to Shepherds. It says, "Shepherds may have been chosen because they represented all who needed cleansing; that cleansing was now available to even the lowliest people." |
With this additional background, the Spirit of Christmas comes to life. To dig in even further, and reflect more deeply on the holiday, I highly recommend taking another look at our Bibles, this time with the NKJV Bible Study Bible.
It not only walks you through reflection questions, but you can expand this to any gathering during the holidays, and study Jesus' birth together and maybe start a new tradition with your family. |
To answer the question above, no, I don't have a single favorite Study Bible. Our needs can change with the season, and sometimes we are looking for something that captures our emotions, and sometimes we want to dig into the factual history of the Bible. You can do both when you have access to a variety of resources. And, I love that there are 30
Study Bibles available for as low as $4.17/month with Bible Gateway Plus. |
When you upgrade to the Bible study experience with Bible Gateway Plus, you'll have powerful tools at your fingertips. You can keep it light, and just use the resources to get answers to questions, or you can dive deep! Blessings, Jody P.S. you can compare up to five versions of the Bible, and read the notes from your favorite Study Bible at the same time! |
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Gain Ad-free access to 30 Study Bibles and more with Bible Gateway Plus! ✓ 30 Study Bibles (valued at $600) ✓ 13 Commentaries (valued over $2,050) ✓ 6 Dictionaries, Encyclopedias, Bible Studies (over $350 in value!) ✓ Maps, Devotionals, and more (another $100 in value!) Answer all your questions with trusted resources for each verse you're reading with Bible Gateway Plus. |
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Thank you for using Bible Gateway to read and study the Bible! If you have any questions, please contact us at support@biblegateway.com.
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