Selecting a Bible That is Right For You

A new Bible is probably the most-preferred item wanted by new converts to Christianity. A new bible also makes a great gift for the seasoned Christian. There are many variations of Bibles, and it is helpful to know what is available to you. Making the selection of a new Bible that is right for you can help to cultivate a desire to read more from God's word. Here are some features to consider when selecting a new Bible that's right for you.

The size of your new Bible is important. Some people don't like to carry large Bibles because they feel they are intimidating. For example, many ministers and church staff make home visits to those who visited their church on the prior Sunday. If they show up to the door with a huge Bible, it might be a turnoff to those seeking out Christianity and a church. Also important in terms of size is the font. As you get older, you more than likely will need larger fonts.

You may be interested in historical references for your new Bible. Do you like to read the Bible and get an understanding of the historical context it is in? It could be that you are a Christian educator and need this information for teaching Biblical history. If so, you'll need a Bible with plenty of archeological and chronological notes. Maps are also good in that they help in understanding of the geological context at the time of the passage writing.

The version is of utmost importance in your new Bible. There are many different versions of the Bible available today. Versions include the King James (KJV), New International Version (NIV), Revised Standard Version (RSV), and many others. You'll probably want to get a version that is easy for you to understand. Your age is also an important factor in the version you choose. For example, a version like the NIV is in a more modern-day dialect and makes it easier for teens and adults to understand and apply to life situations.

Durability helps preserve your new Bible. If you plan to keep the same Bible for many years, durability is very important. For example, gift and award Bibles are very inexpensive but their cover and pages wear out quite quickly. Of course if you don't read your Bible much, then it is not a problem. But if you are one to open your Bible each day and attend church carrying it weekly, your Bible will experience wear and tear. It may be very wise in this case to invest in a Bible with a leather cover.

Red letter editions preserve the words of Jesus. If you're like most Christians, you find the words of Jesus to be fascinating and powerful. A new Bible that is a red-letter edition prints the words of Jesus in red. It highlights his words without you having to go through the trouble of using a highlighter.

Commentaries make a new Bible very interesting. Many Christians do not just carry a Bible to church. They also read it daily and would like apply what they read to every day situations in their lives. Having a Bible with commentaries gives you quick access to someone else's insight without having to reference additional material.