It’s not very often that I get to review a Bible, but I’m excited to be able to do so today. The ESV has been my go-to translation for years. I like the attention to the original languages that it gives whilst also maintaining a relatively easy to read translation of God’s Word. Therefore, I was excited to receive a review copy of the new ‘ESV Search the Scriptures Bible’.
I’m going to say from the outset; I like this Bible. The cover is a simple and sleek white and gold contrast with a cool crossword design that catches the eye. Inside the Bible, the fun continues. Each book has a short introduction and an analysis of the book itself. The introductions to the books are helpful; outlining some of the big theological or literary discussions about the books. For example, the introduction to the book of Joel describes the differences in opinions around the dating the book. This is helpful because it keeps you up to date with the recent scholarly discussions about each book of the Bible. But the information is only a brief introduction, so you’re not being dragged into lengthy discussions on dates and debates.
But the main feature of this Bible, after all that’s what it’s marketed on, is the ‘Search the Scripture’ element of it. This Bible comes with a reading plan that will take you 3 years to complete. After each short section of reading come a series of short questions designed to get your head into the text and to help you apply it. These questions are great because they don’t put words in your mouth but they helpfully get you wrestling directly with the text of the Bible. In addition to helpful questions, there are also some notes that accompany the readings. These notes are not extensive, but designed to help you understand crucial points of the text and to help you think about the text’s implication for your life.
I think that this could be a helpful Bible for those starting out in the Christian Life and who are trying to learn what having a quiet time / Bible study looks like. You can buy a copy of the Bible here. I’d really like to hear your thoughts if you buy a copy. I really enjoyed it, but I’d love to hear your thoughts about it.
*** I received this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. This does not change the way I rate the book, my views are my own. ***
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