Maybe it’s time you replaced your really old Bible. Maybe you’re looking for your very first one. Or maybe, with the holidays coming up, you’re looking to give one as a gift. No matter the case, you’re going to face a variety of options, and this guide will help you make sense of all those Bible selection options.
A lot of times, Jessica and I just walk in and out of local mom and pop shops just as a way to get out of the house…or go on a cheap date. Our first choice is usually something like Barnes and Noble, or any other store that makes us look like we’re aware of where the cool kids hang out.
If it was really up to us though, we really just prefer going into something like World Market, for example, to sample some free coffee, and then really “live it up” as we stroll through some downtown strip looking all hip and savvy (with our miniature coffee cups in hand and all).
On our most recent trip “out” this past week, she and I went into a Lifeway Christian bookstore.
Talk about options!
Bible selection today has become more of a beast than a blessing. I couldn’t help but think that among so many options, I’ve never taken the time to figure out all the major differences between them all.
Then I thought you may feel the same way.
Here are 10 Bible types I’ve been able to categorize and the major advantages of each one.
1. Study Bibles
Study Bibles are filled with tools and resources that are meant to help you dig deep into passages. Many of them come standard with background blurbs, commentary, maps, charts, concordances, graphs, and other insights. Some even describe Bible characters and/or provide chronological histories. These are best for your in-depth studies at home.
2. Reference Bibles
Reference Bibles usually include just the text, though many of them also include cross-references. The compact and “thinline” reference Bibles are good for traveling or when attending worship.
3. Devotional Bibles
Devotional Bibles have the unique feature of providing some sort of regular reading plan(s). You’ll also see some that help you read through the entire Bible in a year. These are your best bet for finding inspirational nuggets to apply in your daily life.
4. Large Print Bibles
Large print Bibles increase the size of the text, making it easier to read. The trick with these is that they’re often organized in bookstores according to translation, as opposed to being placed in a “large print section” of the store. Expect to find large print study Bibles, large print reference Bibles, large print devotional Bibles, among others. You can also find compact Bibles that have large print text.
5. Outreach and Ministry Bibles
Outreach and ministry Bibles are best for special occasions like awards and recognition for accomplishments. These are typically made with mission trips in mind, or any other occasion where you’d like to give away a purchased copy.
6. Specialty Bibles
Specialty Bibles are Bibles that are made for unique reasons. A parallel Bible, for example, will put multiple translations into one volume. An interlinear is another example; sometimes a bookstore will organize these under the “Reference” section of their store, but other times you’ll find it among the other Bible translations.
Other specialty Bibles are those that are meant for specific audiences like men’s Bibles, women’s Bibles, Bibles for brides, military Bibles, and more.
7. Audio and Electronic Bibles
Audio and electronic Bibles present Scripture in another form besides visual text. Some is software that’s meant to be uploaded to mobile devices, while some comes in audio formats to be taken and listened to on the go.
8. Children’s Bibles
Bibles for children are meant for anyone 12 years old and younger (generally speaking). Many of these include age-specific helps that encourage lifelong study habits and better learning for young minds.
9. Student Bibles
Student Bibles help teens and young adults better understand, relate, and apply Biblical principles. These are often treated with engaging cover designs and “hip and groovy” page layouts. The most unique feature, however, is that they tend to hit on “big” moral issues with honest, practical, and easy-to-understand answers.
10. Journaling Bibles
Journal Bibles are making a comeback. These provide fill-in-the-blank lines in the margins of the pages next to the text of Scripture. This makes it nice and convenient for jotting down notes, sermon outlines, prayers, meditations, and more.
Conclusion
Bible selection doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Just be aware of what your major needs are, which Bible fits those needs the best, and which bookstores offer the most choices.
Discussion Question: What Bible is your favorite to use?
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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