As I prepare for this review I ask myself, “How in the world do you review a Bible?” I’m in a tough spot here because I can’t be neutral in my critique because I can’t criticize the author… That may not turn out well for me. So I have decided to touch on some of the highlights to the newest Study Bible from Crossway Books. The English Standard Study Bible is quite possibly one of the best study Bibles I own. Being a pastor myself, I have my fair share of study Bibles and this one wins hands down. The ESV Study Bible has two things from the start that makes it a great resource. First, I think the English Standard Version is by far the best translation out on the market today. It is easy to read, literal and accurate. This translation was first published in 2001 with over 100 scholars and advisors working together who were committed to “historic Christian Orthodoxy”. Second, a group of 95 well respected scholars and teachers provided the study notes that are in depth and helpful to anyone ranging from pastors to a casual reader of the Bible. General editor is Wayne Grudem, Theology editor is J.I. Packer, O.T. Editor is John Collins and N.T. editor is Tomas R. Schreiner.
Some of the primary features include nearly 20,000 notes, 80,000 cross references, 200 full color maps, 40 illustrations and over 2,500 pages. As you can imagine this Bible is a big book! The best feature I believe is the online ESV Study Bible that Bible owners can access for free. This makes it nice for when you travel and you don’t have the room for this Bible (did I mention it was big?) you can access the same Study Bible online. Of course you can purchase the hardcover version, Genuine or Bonded leather, or even premium Calfskin.
Personally the ESV Study Bible has been a wonderful addition to my resource library. I have had it for a week already and it has been invaluable for my sermon preparations. I would HIGHLY recommend this Study Bible to all Pastors, church leaders and even lay people. So, if you are in the market for a new Bible or you would like to get a Bible filled with helpful resources and insights, then I would suggest you get yourself an ESV Study Bible. You will be glad you did.
Reviewed by Jeff Holton
