WHAT IS THE WORST BIBLE OUT THERE?
What is the worst Bible out there? I will give you the three worst Bibles—and then I will give you two of my favorites.
#1: THE WORST BIBLE IS THE BIBLE YOU DO NOT READ
A translation cannot shape your life if it remains unopened. The most beautifully bound, academically respected, and expensive Bible in your home is of little practical use when you never read it.
#2: THE WORST BIBLE IS THE BIBLE YOU DO NOT KNOW
Reading is meant to lead to understanding. We should become familiar with the story, teaching, promises, warnings, and wisdom of Scripture. A Bible you possess but never learn will not form your thinking.
#3: THE WORST BIBLE IS THE BIBLE YOU DO NOT OBEY
Knowing Scripture is not the final goal. We read and study the Word so that, by God’s grace, we can trust and obey what He has spoken.
MY FAVORITE BIBLE FOR STUDY
I have many different Bibles in my library, but my favorite for the last fifteen years has been the ESV Study Bible published by Crossway. It places an excellent collection of study tools, notes, articles, maps, and theological resources in one volume. I spent a great deal on seminary training in Greek and Hebrew; for the price of one study Bible, you can have a remarkable amount of help right in your hands. There may be a little hyperbole in that comparison, but it is an outstanding resource.
MY RECOMMENDATION FOR CLEAR, ACCESSIBLE READING
For reading—especially for a new believer or beginner—I also recommend the New Living Translation. It is clear and easy to understand.
If you are beginning to read the Bible, you do not have to start on page one and force your way straight through. Genesis is fascinating. Exodus is fascinating. Then you may reach Leviticus and Numbers and suddenly have enough questions for an entire sermon series.
Start in Matthew. Begin with Jesus and the New Covenant, then continue reading through the New Testament. Most importantly, choose a faithful translation you can understand, read it consistently, learn what it says, and obey the God who speaks through it.
Bible References: Matthew 1:1-25 (ESV); 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV); James 1:22-25 (ESV)
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