Do you have a good personal Bible?

When searching for a new Bible you will quickly realize there is a plethora of options. There are dozens of translations available, and then every translation has variations that focus on different segments of society. Not to mention the print size (the bigger the font the bigger the Bible), the binding (paperback to Goatskin) and the notes that can come with them, often written by an influential Christian leader. If this churchwide focus on the Bible has caused you to think about getting a new Bible, may I offer some suggestions.

1. Translation: While there are many good translations available, may I offer two good ones to choose from that are reliable and readable in contemporary English: the ESV – The English Standard Version and the NIV – The New International Version. Click Here for more information about translations.
2. Additional Notes: After you’ve decided on the translation you may want to consider a Bible with additional notes. These are often called Study Bibles and offer explanations of things in the Bible that are difficult to understand in our present day. They usually will have introductory pages to each book of the Bible, character studies, maps, word definitions and theological commentary. This is largely a personal preference but considering the person or group that compiled the notes is important. The Publisher of the Bible is something to consider. Crossway, Thomas Nelson, Tyndale, Lifeway, and Zondervan are all good publishers. Caution: a large print Bible with notes can be very large and heavy. 
3. The Binding: This is where cost will come to play. As with all books, a paperback version will be the most cost effective, but they will wear out the quickest. If cost is a factor for you, a hard cover Bible usually will last longer than a paperback and not cost much more. A leather-bound Bible is the best all around for looks, feel, ease of use and durability. A word of caution: not all leather Bibles are equal. A bonded leather is not much better than a hard cover Bible and will wear out quickly. If you want a leather Bible, make sure it is “Genuine Leather” as that will check all the boxes of a good leather Bible.  
4. Personal Preferences: After you have decided on the three above, look for the ones that meet your preferences: color, font size, single column or two. The Bible you choose should be personal to you so take the time to choose wisely and enjoy it for years to come. In my adult life I am now on only my third Bible and every time I have gotten a new one it has been a major decision for me. 

Online Digital Bibles – You Version is the most popular one and is what we use for our Sunday service scripture reading. This app has lots of capabilities to help you study the Bible well. 

If you do find a store that sells Bibles, they may not have much to choose from. Here is a link to an online Christian bookstore where you can shop for a new Bible. They have an extensive inventory and are designed to help you find the best Bible. I am also available to offer advice if you need some extra guidance in choosing a Bible. Helping people find a good Bible is one of the things I love to do as a Pastor.

YBIC – 

Pastor Andrew Matthews