What is a Study Bible?

FIND OUT IF YOU SHOULD GET ONE.

The purpose of a study Bible is to help you understand scripture more clearly as you read it. They usually contain notes for biblical interpretation, book introductions to provide context, and maps for visual pictures of locations. But there are a few things you should know before reading or purchasing a study Bible.

The resources are especially helpful for those just beginning to study the Bible for themselves. It’s like having a teacher right there with you helping you understand more of the background and the context for biblical books and passages. Study Bibles can be invaluable when beginning to  more deeply understand the meaning of scripture.

The notes in study Bibles can be incredibly helpful. When you’re having trouble understanding what a certain passage is saying, you can turn to the corresponding note and get more insight into its meaning. Since these notes are so helpful, you can begin to automatically stop after each verse and read its note. That’s not a bad thing when you’re studying a certain section in depth, but you need to remember that the Bible is meant to be read. You’re supposed to get a feel for the whole book and follow the author’s flow of thought. This is really hard to do if you’re getting bogged down reading each study note.