Best Study Bibles - My Top 5 Recommendations

[@timwildsmith]

Pre-order my book about Bible Translations! timwildsmith.com/bt4e

[@johnenglish4652]

Done

[@LanceA72]

Pre-ordered the other day

[@tutti316]

Done, but ordered it on Kindle as I am moving house and preordering can be difficult with changing addresses

[@VijayPathak-fs3uf]

😊

[@AntonioNunez-oh2en]

​@@VijayPathak-fs3uf😊

[@vodka7]

I bought the ESV Study Bible based on this video for my first study bible and was absolutely blown away when I got it. This is what I've needed. Thank you!

[@timwildsmith]

Wonderful!

[@darktrhone63]

Which specific esv study bible did you buy?

[@WhatsinyourBible]

Since you are looking to study the Bible, be sure to have a King James to compare it with.

[@traviscrawford6516]

@@WhatsinyourBible why? the kjv is less clear and less accurate. Not hating the translation, but its definitely not a necessity for deep study

[@WhatsinyourBible]

@@traviscrawford6516 Really? Like in Hebrews 9:4 where the ESV blasphemously puts the Golden Altar of Incense in the Holy of Holies? They don't even know where the temple furniture goes! NO Jew would EVER accept the ESV or any translation that puts the Tabernacle furniture in the wrong place.

[@lizramirez7020]

I love the ESV study Bible. I wanted one for a while and it was expensive at Barnes and Noble. Well, I happen to go to our local city yard sale and our library had a brand new one still in a wrapper for $1! I knew that was a blessing from the Lord. I would recommend ESV to everyone.

[@hcltami]

I have been using the Life Application Study Bible for 40 years. I have it in two translations; in standard and large print; in various bindings - including one I've "rebound" myself just to hold it together. Love this study Bible!

[@RapidL.]

I really love love love the NIV Life Application Bible. I’ve had mine probably since it was first published and I gave one to each member of my immediate family for Christmas this year. I pray they get as much from it as I have over the years. It is an absolute treasure.

[@DianeStrickland1]

My favorite bible (for many years) is the Life Application Study Bible NLT. I have recommended it and gifted it to others several times. I own the ESV and NIV study Bibles and love both. I find the NIV a bit easier to read as a lay person. This video made me really want the NET Full Notes Bible and the Holy Land Illustrated Bible. Both are going on my wish list. Excellent video!

[@nancyoffenhiser4916]

Okay, I am an old Fogey. Thompson Chain Reference Bible, KJV or 1977 NASB is still my most used and favorite Bible, though I use all of the Bibles you mentioned! ❤ P.S. Bible Collecting is a REAL thing!!😊

[@leslieannestiles7026]

I can get you to the best study Bible and it costs nothing. It is accessed on line and if you reply to this and not want to fill anynones coffers, please reply to this post and I’ll send you the link.

[@detronbrian]

I think the Thompson is unique in its ability to be "just Bible text" when you want that.

[@vickyburton2434]

I love my Thomson Chain Study Bible because it is not opinion but a tool that lets the reader study.

[@CharlesRussell-zj3jp]

Yes Thompson chain KJV

[@davesherwood211]

Just found this channel I've been buying Bibles for decades and one day I looked at them all and wondered if I was crazy a Bible Geek Geek 😅😅

[@moo_poo288]

I started my bible reading journey with the NIV study bible. Got the glued paperback version which was destroyed in my hunger for learning more. This is my number 1 choice. Have been vacillating between getting the the CSB Holy Land or the ESV study bible as my next purchase. Either way, I can’t lose. Thanks for this video Tim. God bless you and your work.

[@loveisall5520]

Thank you as always for a great video! My first study Bible, over half a century ago, was the Thompson chain reference. I have owned at least a couple of dozen study Bibles. What I learned over the years is that in general I would rather have a study Bible as a reference on the shelf as opposed to a daily reader. I love the ESV study Bible. I love the Holy Land Bible. You know what I miss? Zondervan came out with a Bible around 20 years ago, called the archaeological study Bible. I gave my copy away years ago and I still miss it, though I don’t like the NIV but yes, Tim, I prefer my daily read to be a Bible without the distractions of a study Bible. Plus, I have found over the decades that a study Bible is no substitute for a good Bible commentary. Thanks for what you do for us!

[@paulvail2850]

I have so enjoyed your excitement for these study Bibles. I am a retired pastor and for the last 25 years of ministry, I gave a copy of the "Life Application Bible" to each couple for which I performed a wedding. Thank you for these "study" Bibles that will stand the test of time.

[@elsaruiz-qf3bg]

Thank you Pastor… as I am in need of a Great Bible to teach my soul in more Godly ways as all this can be overwhelming to decide as they all are highly recommended, as your choice for married couples is where I’m heading, even though bf just dumped me for my best friend after 10 yrs As a widow I will lead myself to God only .. your choice is my choice! Thank you & may your retirement be a success in all your endeavors.

[@brennanarmacost1762]

You are not a widow, because your boyfriend left you for your best friend. You are a single person. A widow has been married and their spouse has DIED. It's totally different!

[@brennanarmacost1762]

P.S. If you go to church, you can find a better class of friends and receive spiritual direction. Please don't think you have to go out on your own, like you said. There are so many godly people who can be a part of your life and enrich it. Some people say they have learned a lot from volunteering in the children's Sunday School program. If you are an absolute beginner, this may also help you. Some churches also have teen programs, so you can sort of graduate to the more advanced stage as you progress.

[@RogerYoung-f4k]

I recently picked up a copy of the NIV Archaeological Study Bible and cannot get over how wonderful it is to read. The insights and historical context it provides bring the text more to life for me. I have others I own and enjoy but that's currently at the top of my list.

[@sbosch12]

The NIV Cultural Background Study Bible is very similar. I love both of them and use them both daily.

[@WildflowersCreations]

I am currently looking / saving up for a copy of the NIV Archaeological Study Bible since it is out of print. Is there enough material in the Cultural Background one to warrant owning both if you have limited space and funds? I tend to approach things scholarly.

[@e.m.8094]

The Archaeological Study Bible is great! I pair that with the Old and New Testament IVP Bible Background Commentaries for "full effect". LOL

[@timthomas924]

This is one I really want to get, thanks for the review.

[@timthomas924]

1. NIV Zondervan Study Bible; D.A. Carson, general editor. 2.Reformation Study Bible; R.C. Sproul, general editor. 3. Reformation Heritage KJV Study Bible; J. Beeke, general editor.

[@nancynelson7253]

It would be great if you could include which bibles are available in LARGE print!😊

[@ccna101]

I am not sure about the others but the NIV study Bible shown in the video has a large print version. Bought one this month and absolutely loving it. Edit: I bought large-print, lay-flat Burgundy version.

[@ilandgrl]

ESV Study Bible comes in large print. That’s what I use :)

[@johnwyatt2846]

My List. 1 - ESV Study Bible. 2 - Life Application. 3. - NIV Study Bible. 4. - NET Full Notes. Not familiar with the CSB Holy Land Illustrated. Missing - MacArthur Study Bible ( I would put it #2 on my list )

[@Mr.C-Mister]

MacArthur is Calvinism False Doctrine. It's missing for a reason.

[@oliviap.y5368]

What is your #1 vote?

[@johnwyatt2846]

@ ESV Study Bible

[@res6769]

Yes, I love my MacArthur Study Bible. God bless.

[@judygardiner86]

I have been using NLT as I belong to BSF study Maybe I could get more from say NIV as that seems to be the go to for many..but I am comfortable with NLT as a fairly newbie to bible study

[@RevJacobDavis]

Great choices, Tim! I have benefitted from the NIVSB, ESVSB, and Life Application SB so much over the years. The only change on my end is replacing the Holy Land Illustrated Bible with the Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible (ed. by John Walton and Craig Keener) for the extensiveness of its notes. I still props there because both of those bibles lean into the same focus: the historical context of scripture (and the CBSB sadly doesn't have the extensive remarkable photography, though it has great full-color imagery).

[@chrismendezva]

Love this! 🎉 1. ESV Study Bible 2. Life Application Study Bible 3. NIV Study Bible 4. Holy Land 5. NET

[@justindeharlingen]

In addition to your stack, I'm a big fan of the Ancient Faith [CSB] Study Bible. Lots of fascinating early church commentary, and it looks gorgeous. The editors even include some comments on verses that are unique to the LXX OT or Byzantine NT, even when those variants aren't contained in the CSB or its footnotes. A neat glimpse into early church manuscripts through early church perspectives.

[@shawngillogly6873]

Love the Ancient Faith Study Bible. Whether I like their allegorizing or not, it helps to see Scripture from a lens much closer to the events.

[@agwats85]

I would love to see Tim review this Bible

[@agwats85]

Oh, he did

[@js3511]

Great options all the way around that you presented. The resources that we have available now is truly amazing. The Life Application is a wonderful option for people just getting into the Bible and seeing truths that will impact their life. The Holy Land is a supplement that brings forth more information. The NIV & ESV, I think you nailed it on their value. Personally I think I would recommend the NIV as a first "study Bible" mainly because of the color and the articles. The ESV to me is for someone that has been reading and has a grasp of the layout and the overall history, but is looking for more information. The NET is for people that really want to parse through the words and understand why different translations take the direction they do. Wonderful job on the video as always.

[@629lrogers]

I have the NLT Application and the ESV study Bible. I love the NLT one more. Also, I have the NLT Illustrated Study Bible that you didn't mention. Thank you for the review

[@captiosus_77]

I’m surprised you didn’t throw an honorable mention to the Filament app enabled Bibles. For me, the Filament app has been a game changer because it gives me all the study notes, maps, devotionals, cross references and infographics in my pocket. Sure, they’re not “study bibles”, strictly speaking, but their free app content make them as feature rich as any study Bible out there. I will say your video has made me curious regarding the CSB Holy Land Bible as it marries two major interests of mine - faith and history. A major reason why I like the CSB Apologetics Study Bible for Students is because it includes so much extra historical and cultural content which brings the Bible to life.

[@exagem]

This is going to be an interesting video, particularly because of all the differences of opinion in the commentary notes. Young earth versus old earth, complementarian versus egalitarian, etc..

[@maryellenminyon3686]

I am going to check out the Life Application Bible and the NIV and ESV study Bibles in that order. Thanks for doing this video!

[@Steve_Blackwood]

Glad you mentioned the Holy Land Illustrated Bible! Was looking at that a year or so ago and forgot all about it. Just ordered as Lifeway has them on big discount ($13.97 for LeatherTouch).

[@jobjoseph1815]

Late 2021, I purchased the ESV Study bible, I love it and since then I have purchased many other versions as the NIV, KJV etc...which I have not read yet. Thank you Tim for the advice back in 2021 to purchase the ESV study bible! I love it!

[@carolynpestilos7747]

ESV Study Bible is wonderful. It is so in-depth, helping me understand God's word better. Last year, I decided to start my journey but was overwhelmed as I found it difficult to relate and fully understand God's word. I came across your channel recently and have been motivated to look for the right bible translation for me. Right now, I am very satisfied with the ESV Study bible and I am looking forward to enriching my life with God. Thank you to this channel and may God bless you more.

[@ccna101]

I bought NIV study Bible after I found this video. I got the large-print lay-flat Burgundy leathersoft edition. Absolutely loving it. It's all I wanted and more. Will hope to get the life application study version and CSB Holy land illustrated Bible in the future as well. I think they also make for really gifts for weddings and birthdays. Thank you for your video. 🙂🙏

[@Back2theWord]

ESV Study Bible #1 for me! Have heard great things about the others too. So no surprises here, thanks for sharing!

[@ashleytunny]

The only one that I’ve used is the Life Application but I recently bought the illustrated edition on your recommendation/review and I have been loving it. As a visual learner it is so helpful!

[@vanessarongstad8576]

@@ashleytunny good to know. I’m a baby Christian and 2024 was the first time I made an attempt to read the Bible. I made it halfway through the Bible reading chronologically and am continuing and hope to finish it this year. I have to admit, a lot of it I don’t understand which is why I intend to begin over again once I finish reading it all the way through. Leaning towards the NLT Life application for my next Bible. Currently reading a basic ESV from crossway single column with lined margins to write notes.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you, Tim. When you opened with the ESV and NIV Study Bibles you hit a home run. I have all but the CSB bible you presented but I do have the CSB Study Bible. Glad you included the Life Application Study Bible. Mine has the NIV translation. Also, I've had NET Bibles with full notes since its Beta introductions.

[@timwildsmith]

Thanks for sharing!

[@doffymingo2187]

My all time favorite study Bible is The Macarthur Study Bible 2nd Edition. I have yet to come across a study Bible that was as thorough as the Macarthur Study Bible. Literally tens of thousands of commentary notes, thousands of cross references, and key study portions spread throughout the pages- and much more. I highly recommend you get a copy, you won't regret it! (Please remember that we are Christians and I hope we react as such... you may not like John Macarthur but I have found the study Bible to be faithful to the Biblical texts.) To God be the Glory!

[@lookinglistening09]

Amen. I use his NASB 2nd Edition. I'm going to get the LSB coming out this fall.

[@ccslice2453]

Dakes’ Study Bible makes the John MacArthur look like a pamphlet!

[@davidwhunt]

I also like the MacArthur SB. But one advantage of the ESVSB is the multi-scholar approach, where scholars who specialise in studying individual Bible books have made their contributions. It's good to have both! One thing I like about the MacArthur SB is he is consistently premillenial.

[@WhatsinyourBible]

Imagine having a Bible with no notes so that the Holy Spirit can teach you instead of a man. Wouldn't that be amazing!

[@adorp]

@@ccslice2453 there are plenty who claim that studying Dakes will send you straight to Hell because he teaches tritheism and other related heresy.

[@christinajeans7325]

I have a variety of study Bibles and I love to compare them all when studying. However, my number one go to is the MacArthur Study Bible. So many times it provides the clearest understanding out of them all.

[@joleneblake7807]

Excuse my ignorance but I'm coming back to my faith after a long time (5 years) away and what is the MacArthur Bible?

[@bookmaniac7992]

​@@joleneblake7807It's a Study Bible with notes from a pastor called John MacArthur

[@JacobHumbach]

What version is the best? I heard pastor McArthur talk about the NASB was more of a direct translation? Which would you suggest? I've always wanted to get an NKJV.

[@beckyhenderson9013]

I have many translations! My favorite is a Thompson Chain KJV and NKJV. I recently saw a Thompson Chain reference in ESV! Thinking about investing! I have always used Amplified Version to aid study! I love studying the Word of God, knowing it is His voice to me!

[@TruthLivesNow]

Tim, I know this was from 5 months ago, yet I left comments on your short video for this subject, and it seemed like the poster could not get what I was talking about. I DO NOT dislike Study Bibles. I know the Life Application Study Bible and NIV Study Bibles are excellent. Every Study Bible you mention looks super to me! I would put, interestingly, as Gary just posted, The New Open Study Bible as my favorite Study Bible. I had a Bonded Leather one of those for years, it fell apart since like Gary, I used it so much, and like Gary I was able to go on Ebay and get one of the older, Genuine Leather ones, and I am happy. I also like the Thompson Chain Reference Study Bible. What I was trying to communicate to one of your posters is that when a Study Bible puts the Author's interpretation, their own doctrines on the same pages as the Word of God, then that is when I start having problems. I have problems I can point to with the doctrines of men put on the same pages of the Word of God in the Scofield Reference Bible, The John MacArthur Study Bible, and The Spirit-Filled Study Bible, (Jack Hayford as head Editor). There are places in all three of these that are man's doctrines that I know are not the Truth!

[@tonyaelijio5196]

I love the ESV study bible, but it does sometimes feel overwhelming whenever I engage with it. I'm currently reading Thomas Nelson NKJV study bible and I'm in love. I hope one day I will dive into the ESV.

[@rickiecash8155]

Tony Evans Study Bible is one of my favorites. It was the last one my bought me before she passed away.

[@yvetteborden776]

My #1 has been for years the Life Application. Recently, I found the esv at a thrift store..I think I scored!! Just placed an order for the NIV study bible. Thank you

[@nicolecarlson8629]

The NIV study Bible was the recommended Bible when I started college… I would rank the ESV Study Bible #1 out of the 5 that you mentioned though.

[@Mike_W78]

1. ESV 2. Life application 3.holy land study Bible 4. NIV 5. NET since it’s not really study Bible but extremely helpful.

[@ecomexillennial2244]

1. ESV Study Bible 2. CSB Holy Land Illustrated Bible 3. NLT Life Application Study Bible 4. NIV Study Bible 5. NET Bible My favorite bibles not mentioned here are the CSB Study Bible, the CSB Life Connections Study Bible, and the ESV Archeology Study Bible.

[@ashrael37]

I like the ESV Archeology Study Bible also.

[@7Dorie]

Hi, Tim! Great video as usual! You mentioned all three of my daily use study Bibles ( 1-3 in my list)!!! There is one in your top 5 that I do not use (but my husband uses it) - the NIV study Bible. SO, my ranking would be as follows: 1. ESV Study Bible 2. Holy Land Illustrated Bible 3. NET Full Notes Edition 4. Serendipity Bible for Study Groups 5. Life Application Study Bible. #4 is an old NIV study Bible that uses question to encourage you to consider, dig deep and reflect upon the passage. I enjoy using such questions to help 'jump start' my own thoughts and meditation. This way, I think, the Holy Spirit is given some reign over my own study and understanding. I did add the Life Application Study Bible at the end as my #5. However, it is almost an add on as I like the concept and feel that it adds a dimension to the top 5 group. BUT Personally, I have not used this study Bible extensively. I own a copy, but it has been so long since I referred to it that I am not sure where it is anymore. (LOL) That is probably due too the fact that I automatically read the Bible with a predisposition toward life application and I primarily use study Bibles to increase my knowledge of what the text means and is saying in a more general sense. Thank you so much for this video. It has made the benefit of various study Bibles clear to me and presented a grouping that will give an overall balanced insight into the precious Word of God. I may have to find that Life Application Bible! I love that it also brings the student of God's Word into so many great translations! Perhaps a future video could focus on your top 5 Bible helps, such as the Rose Publishing Then and Now Bible Maps?

[@benjames5972]

Tim, I love the ESV Study Bible it’s my all over favorite and my tie with it is the John MacArthur NASB95 Study Bible, 3. Charles Ryrie NASB95 Study Bible, 4. NET Full Notes Study Bible. 5. NIV84 Archaeological Study Bible. Honorable mention NIV most recent update of their Study Bible. As a SBC pastor and seminary professor love using these and use many other great ones.

[@cmangaudis]

I own the ESV study Bible and the Holy Land Illustrated Bible. I love them both so much and they have helped me so much in my journey. I also have an NKJV study Bible that I sometimes use. This was a great episode, thank you 😊

[@timwildsmith]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@joep6023]

I have the big 3 of the 5 you picked. But I think the one I’ve used the most is the McArthur Study Bible.

[@tgleo1]

Separate from my ranking note: I appreciate hearing a video from you focused entirely on the contents of these Bibles! Good stuff! Looking forward to more along these lines!

[@Colorado_Native]

Thanks for doing these reviews. I went to Amazon and selected the ESV and the NET.

[@timwildsmith]

Enjoy!

[@jimyoung9262]

For my personal use, the NET full notes is always open on my desk for when I'm studying to teach. The ESV is hands down the best "Study Bible" ever made. I think the concerns about reformed theology are overblown. Not listed here, but the CSB Study Bible and the NLT study bible are both surprisingly good.

[@jamesbarksdale978]

Yes, my NET is always within reach. I'll have to disagree with you about the ESV. It's a great resource, but heavy Calvinist leanings. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who doesn't have a good grasp of theology.

[@dpgallen]

I think one that you missed is the Word On Fire Bible. True it's more of a series than a singular book, but the content is phenomenal and varied. It incorporates both new and ancient sources, has word studies, and incorporates famous works of art to add another layer when contemplating the Scriptures. In my opinion, I don't think there is anything comparable and I would have to rank this as the #1 study Bible by a mile.

[@maxrkmrose]

I have the Word on Fire series. The paper is exquisite. Well done Word on Fire Ministries, well done!

[@caroleblanks1355]

I agree. I have the Word on Fire Bible and it is unlike any other Bible that I have. It is exquisite in every aspect.

[@tammylewis6296]

This was exciting!!! 1. NIV Study Bible. All these Bibles are sooo amazing! Would love them all. 😍

[@ThePaulKM]

My own top five list looks like this: 1) LSB MacArthur Study Bible 2) ESV Reformation Study Bible 3) NKJV Evidence Study Bible 4) KJV Matthew Henry Study Bible 5) CSB Charles Spurgeon Study Bible

[@lookinglistening09]

Do you have an LSB MacArthur already? I thought they were only on preorder. I use a MacArthur NASB. I also have the KJV Spurgeon, but I haven't used it in depth yet!

[@CaptJackSpade]

@@lookinglistening09 A study bible list without the MacArthur Study Bible isn't a good list

[@lookinglistening09]

@@CaptJackSpade True.

[@BenHowe-d9m]

ESV is my number one! I love all the Study Bible’s you selected and have all of them. I think the CSB Study Bible should have been included. It’s has a great layout, color scheme and features that I think are great! My first study Bible was the revised NIV study Bible that my grandparents bought me. I still have it and use it in my rotation of Bibles.

[@IndianaJoe0321]

I agree -- the CSB Study Bible would be my second choice too.

[@angelakeene402]

I just recently got the ESV study Bible. I am currently reading the NLT Fire Bible & really enjoying it. The commentary & extra articles are a great read and resource.

[@DustinCook-r7t]

Tough one Tim, so many great ones out there. I do look at them in two categories, devotional and academic. Out of your choices I would have to say the best all around would be the NIV (2) & ESV (1) Bibles. Then (3) Life App, (4) NET, AND (5) CSB Holy Lands. I really like my NLT study Bible, my Biblical Theology study Bible and the Archeological study Bible. We are truly blessed to have so many awesome choices for specific “deep dives” that no one should ever be able to say Bible study is boring.

[@tracywilborn]

My first study bible was the NIV. I still have it today although it's not my primary bible anymore, I did switch to ESV. I do use the NIV from time to time.

[@gunstarzero]

You nailed the order already. We need a premium version of the NET with full notes!

[@452Rob]

I have a very nice genuine leather version with quality paper and such. I’d rank it in the premium catagory but it’s under a large stack of Bibles on my shelf so can’t easily pull it out and see if it’s edge lined or paste down. It’s at the bottom of the stack because I don’t read it but I use the notes a LOT from the app on my phone while using my LSB.

[@megangranados1073]

Surprised to see that the NLT illustrated study bible didn't make the list. It's gorgeous and has meaty content.

[@sbosch12]

It’s so good. The only issue is the binding for the leather soft versions. There’s so much to it that the binding doesn’t always hold up. At least, mine hasn’t.

[@DarylMoriyama]

Totally agreed. The NLT illustrated study bible is useful for visual learners

[@hazel1eyes]

They re-released the NLT illustrated study Bible with sewn binding in the leather soft version. Much much better than the original glued version.

[@barbs1298]

@@sbosch12 They have finally made a Smyth sewn binding version. Tim Nichols did a video on it. Order from the publisher.

[@PreacherPaul71]

Nlt is a dangerous paraphrase

[@chetansexna2750]

Happy to see our choices meet a lot. Niv esv life applcation in nlt version and net full notes edition in turquoise colour my personal favorite. Man God bless you for channel and your church. Happy to subscribe

[@pvsamorgan9803]

Thanks a lot, Tim! 🙂 I have these so far: (no ranking) 1. ESV Study Bible 2. NLT Chronological Life Application 3. NIV Faithlife Illustrated Study Bible 4. NIV Open Bible 5. NLT Student Life Application (going to give it to my nephew) I bought 5-6 NIV Faithlife Illustrated Study Bible as gifts since its release in 2017. They are now completely out of print. Really simple and cool illustrations.

[@jacob_he_reads]

Great picks!!! I enjoy reading 1) Every Man's Bible-NLT and 2) The Everyday Life Bible-AMP with Joyce Meyer commentary. I think these two are really cool because they focus on behaviors, attitudes, and thoughts. They are not so academic heavy as they are super practical. I also feel like I'm getting advice from grandparents when reading these two separate gender-specific Bibles. Great video, Tim!

[@ladyrnt1]

I agree about the Joyce Meyer, Everyday Life Bible (AMP) ! ❤️

[@josephstokes3280]

My favorites are The Spirit Filled Bible (NKJV) i have neen through twice and Dr David Jeremiah Study Bible. I went also through Perry Stpne Study Bible but Spirit Filled is by far the best. I am looking forward tonRick Renner’s Study Bible when complete

[@Ladydarlene17plus]

My favorite are. 1. ESV study Bible 2. Thomas Nelson KJV full colored edition 3. HSCB Study Bible 4. CSB Tony Evans Bible 5. Charles Swindell NLT Bible.

[@donaldsproson2494]

I use the ESV, NIV, CSB and Macarthur study bibles. I also use the NKJV and NLT illustrated study bibles

[@IndianaJoe0321]

The CSB Study Bible is outstanding!!

[@TheRudieLibrarian]

I would definitely include the NRSV Oxford Annotated Study Bible, Word on Fire Bible, Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, Ancient Faith Study Bible. Would love to see a video where you discuss the best study bibles for new Christians. I know the NLT New Believer’s Bible would be on that list for me.

[@nanotoj]

The NRSV Oxford Annotated Bible was the one my church gave me when I graduated HS and also the one I used for Bible study in college classes. When thinking study bible, I literally see that one in my head.

[@acetheta]

@@nanotoj It’s the one I have.

[@corneliathomson3580]

It’s the one I used in Disciple classes

[@danielleblakelydesigns8619]

I agree with all of your 5. I’ve also really enjoyed the NKJV Spirit Filled Life Bible a lot recently. It’s got study notes, word definitions, prayers, etc.

[@sumpursun]

The best Study Bible is the one that is read ✨ But we all know the ESV is Top Shelf! 😜 Not a Study Bible but an Honorable Mention to The Amplified Bible (AMP) translation from Zondervan. Would be great to see a review of it. 🙌🏻

[@theadventurerfred]

Thank you so much for the video Tim! Been looking for a really solid and full study Bible, so this is a great resource!

[@timwildsmith]

My pleasure!

[@tgleo1]

The two you open with (NIV, ESV) are my big two, for the first reason you state: they are both fully loaded study Bibles. Also, both are new enough to be pretty current. Both sit on my home office "library table." The two are first and second (counting from the left) among the seven study Bibles in a tabbed section of my Logos Bible Study layout set up for personal Bible study.

[@wardonwords]

Excellent choices.

[@timwildsmith]

Thanks, Mark!

[@duaneschultz9230]

I can’t really say which one is the best or rank them because I don’t have experience with each of those. I personally like the NIV all color study Bible. I’ve read the NIV Bible and study Bible for a long time almost 3 decades. God bless you and your family. Duane

[@spomed04]

I would add the Reformation Study Bible. It is my current favorite. Also the ESV Archaeology SB is really helpful.

[@bradypatterson9]

My first was the NIV, which has been passed on to a curious friend of mine. Now I’d like to get another study bible for myself, and am thinking the ESV!

[@kris.1095]

For me: 1. CSB Holy Land Illustrated 2. NET Full Notes 3. NLT Life Application 4. NIV Study Bible 5. ESV Study Bible My current favorite is The NLT Parallel Study Bible. It’s a great way to combine both types of study bibles in one volume.

[@Dracapalley]

Your videos are just great. I've been thoroughly enjoying your channel over the past week, and you've helped me to make some decisions about which path I want to take. Thank you!

[@timwildsmith]

Great to hear!

[@sharonyoung8251]

The life application Bible had one that was parallel with both NLT Study Notes and the Life Applications Study Notes. I really like it as well.

[@Thegoodinfluencer247]

Thanks Tim! I can't wait to purchase one of these and study!

[@daltonburroughs3811]

I always recommend the CSB Apologetics Study Bible to people especially if they are new Christians or skeptics. (Also comes in KJV)

[@davidgno]

Yes totally agree. The full Apologetics and the Student Apologetics editions are both great at explaining, providing notes and highlighting "twisted scripture" - where some denominations and non-Christian religions misinterpert scripture. I found both editions extremely helpful in my faith journey.

[@sounddoctrine54]

@@davidgno I found it on eBay in the HCSB, which I prefer. It's third on my list!

[@zackanderson3848]

Great video! Another one I really like is the NIV Cultural Backgrounds study bible. My first go to study Bible is the NET (online only) and then the NIV Cultural Backgrounds.

[@SandyWylie-lg2vh]

The NRSVue should be high on our list. The TANAKH is a must where the Old Testament is concerned. It gives us the best understanding as to how Jews interpret their own scriptures.

[@kansaslanko5475]

Thank you so much for your review of your top 5 study bibles. Of course, once again, I had to buy the ones I did not have in my bible resource collection. I don't have the NIV study bible, but I do have the ESV, so by the sounds of your review, they balance each other out. I did purchase the NET and the Holy Land Illustrated Bible. 😃

[@Hebrews2.1]

My personal ranking: 1. ESV Study Bible 2. NET Bible with Full Notes 3. NIV Study Bible 4. CSB Holy Land Illustrated 5. NLT Life Application One of my favourites (though not really a study bible) is the NASB-NIV Parallel New Testament In Greek And English. Though it is a bit outdated (NASB 1977, NIV 1984, book from 1986) it's amazing as it has two translations on both sides and then an interlinear text of Koine Greek in the middle!

[@sologmomma2494]

The NET notes is quite tantalizing😃🙌🏽 Im currently in HCSB for my study, I have great appreciation for those who put it together.❤

[@joycewithrow8929]

Ranking - 1. Life Application 2. Holy Land 3. NIV 4. ESV 5. NET As my number one and two study Bible is the CSB Study Bible and the MacArthur Study Bible.

[@clannard1]

My all time favorite is the 1985 first edition of the NiV Study Bible. This bible was fundamental to unlocking the mysteries of Christianity, the Bible, understanding, growth and developing a relationship with God. The concordance, study notes and cross references made it so easy to navigate and find whatever verse, topic or explanation I was looking for. My main bible is now the Orthodox Study Bible, but I wish it had all the features of my first favorite.

[@tbelsom]

1-ESV 2-NLT 3-CSB 4-NET 5-NIV I love the CSB Women’s bible. My main bible, study and everyday, is the ESV version. However, I’ve never met a bible I didn’t like. I own way too many. 😂🎉

[@jamesbarksdale978]

LOL! Don't we all! I got the CSB Women's Bible for my daughter. 🙂

[@knotslip8862]

Great video Tim. I only own 2 of the ones you talked about here and they are the ESV study bible and the Life Application study bible. I'm actually new to the bible and reading it for the first time and the study bible I chose is the NLT Illustrated study bible and it is awesome (lots of timelines, maps, pictures, notes, etc.). I'm so glad that I chose that one to be my first read through of the bible. I have several others that I think are great too. The Archeological Study bible, the Cultural background study bible (similar to the Holyland study bible and the Biblical Theology study bible by Zondervan and that one is great for anyone wanting to get much deeper into the biblical theology aspects. I love them all and they all offer something different. Thanks for the great video.

[@thomasmoore734]

One of my favorites Charles Stanley Life Principles Bible ✝️

[@ScottJ175]

You only have one in common with me. That ESV was my first study Bible purchased in 2014 when I was first asked to teach and discovered to my surprise I have a gift for it. By 2019 I found myself very close to John MacArthur theologically so I wanted one of his study Bibles. Went with NASB 95 since I'd drifted back to using that translation more. My 3rd (don't have 5) is the Thompson Chain I decided to look into in 2023. It's great for doing topical study. I don't use it as much because I do more expository study and teaching than topical. I won't rank them because I see them more as a right tool for the right job kind of thing.

[@rachaelnuchols764]

LOVE my life application ❤

[@pattimachugs1945]

I love the Holy Bible and have many in my posession for reading & for studying. So I love your channel.

[@robertmac6063]

1.ESV 2.Johnny Mac SB 3. Reformation SB

[@cindymccall-m5x]

I ordered your book, I watch your videos all the time. I trust your advise

[@preachermanko]

1 ESV Study Bible 2 NIV Study Bible 3 NET Full Notes 4 CSB Holy Land Illustrated 5 NLT Life Application Study Bible

[@weeb9332]

I am really happy to hear your favorable review of the ESV study Bible as I am considering purchasing it soon. I love that I can get the personal size. I wish more serious study Bibles came in smaller footprints for female hands. Also I would like thoughts on the student ESV study Bible as it is the same just pared down. It is lighter still and comes in some pretty colors like the ESV New Testament in berry tru tone I just got. I love it! It is pretty and small enough to go with me EVERYWHERE! I never had a ESV before and am comfortable that it is faithful to Scripture as the KJV and NASB. My only complaint with your channel is that as a result of your videos, I have bought more Bibles in the last year than I want to admit (most given away). I still love the Open Bible and the Thompson Chain Reference. On my future list is the Key Word Greek/Hebrew NASB and perhaps the Ryrie.

[@philtheo]

Another good if underrated study Bible that's worth adding as an honorable mention is the NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible. It studies the Bible from Genesis to Revelation as the single unified storyline of redemption in the Messiah, along with many sub-stories feeding back into the main story. Such as the whole of creation as a temple for God to dwell with his people (e.g. see the book titled God Dwells Among Us which is a series of sermons based on the scholar Greg Beale's work by a pastor named Mitchell Kim), the theme of the kingdom of God which is God's rule over God's people in God's place (e.g. see the recently published The Message of the Kingdom of God by T. Desmond Alexander or Vaughn Roberts' God's Big Picture), the cross and atonement, etc. At any rate, the NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible is outstanding when it comes to seeing Scripture as story. Better than even so-called literary study Bibles in this respect. The general editor for the NIV Biblical Study Bible is Don Carson, so if one is familiar with Carson's work, then one can expect much of the same high quality. My only criticism of the NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible is it's not available in other translations (e.g. I wish there was an ESV or CSB version). But content-wise it's rock solid and faithful to the gospel. It is a theologically conservative evangelical and slighly tilted Reformed work (though less obviously Reformed than the ESV Study Bible and a lot less so than the Reformation Study Bible). It is an edifying study Bible that makes both heart and mind sing with praise for the Lord. 😊

[@jdan45680]

Thank you, I just ordered the study notes from Logos. Great notes!!

[@jrobbiep1]

The only study Bible I have used that you presented is the Life Application Study Bible. I will look at the other study Bibles. Right now, my five "go to" study Bibles (in no particular order) are the HCSB Study Bible, Life Application Study Bible, MacArthur Study Bible, Ryrie Study Bible, Jeremiah Study Bible, and Charles Stanley Life Principles Bible.

[@JeridScottShelton]

1a. ESV Study Bible 1b. NET Full Notes Editon 2. Life Application SB 3. NIV Study Bible 4. CSB Holy Land Super honorable mentions: NLT Illustrated Study Bible CSB Baker's Illustrated SB

[@MO-bo2du]

A while ago I was weighing between those honorable mentions, and ended up getting the limited edition hardcover of the NLT Illustrated SB. I don't regret that purchase per se, but I do whish I had that Baker SB now that it isn't a ghost, totally impossible to find. I hope they reprint it some time down the line.....

[@jenniferperry8038]

@@MO-bo2duI am lucky enough to have both those honorable mentions. The NLT was a Christmas gift. The CSB Baker I found on Pango books. I found out after the fact that it isn’t being printed anymore. So I am definitely lucky to have stumbled across it. They are both some big boys!

[@mlash7258]

ESV Study Bible is one of my go to bibles. I have had a couple versions of the Life Application Study Bible; I passed those on to each of my daughters when they got into high school. I am very interested in the CSB Holy Land Illustrated, it has been on my wishlist.

[@logan_oleary]

Okay, I know I joked around in the live chat. But here's my opinion: 1. ESV Study Bible 2. NIV Study Bible 3. CSB Holy Land Bible 4. NLT Life Application Study Bible 5. NET, Full Notes Edition My # 1 would be replaced with the 'traditional' CSB Study Bible if it was in the video. But y'all, all of these Bibles are good. 2 Tim 3:16-17 says "All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." Watch Dr. Mark Ward for translation questions... all of that to say... they're *all* good Bibles.

[@johnturpin8777]

So as an inductive Bible student we work the method before consulting the “experts”. I have to say I own the first three but they aren’t in my rotation. Love the LAB since we focus on application anyway. The NET when I’m geeking out on word studies. I like the CSB study Bible. The MacArthur one volume commentary and Tony Evans’s commentary. Occasionally dip into Thomas Constables notes but he’s soooooooo deep! Bottom line whatever you use just get in the Word and get the Word in you! Blessings ✝️

[@JohnHCarlin]

I prefer the MacArthur Study Bible and the Reformation Study Bible, but I do have an various other study Bibles, including several of the ones you mentioned, but at the top of my list of the ones you mentioned would be the ESV.

[@lukewoodard3189]

I don’t know much about the reformation study Bible, I am assuming that it’s about the reformation? I have like over 50 Bibles. I’m thinking about getting that one as well lol. I also have the John MacArthur study Bible.

[@user-rw4pb4wt6l]

I wish the macaurthor Bible was red letter

[@lukewoodard3189]

@ I agree with that. I have one too only thing I don’t like about, It is the fact that is not red letter.

[@richardmatley8784]

5. Life Application Study Bible 4. Holy Land Illustrated Bible 3. NET 2. NIV Study Bible 1. ESV Study Bible Like you, Tim, my first study Bible was the NIV. When the ESV Study Bible came out, it became my go to. I use the NET online often. I have been recently enjoying the Archaeology Study Bible from Crossway.

[@markeggers3416]

1. ESV Study Bible 2. Full Notes 3. Holy Land Illustrated 4. Life Application 5. NIV Study Bible My personal list would be as follows. 1. ESV Study Bible 2. Reformation Study Bible 3. Thompson Chain-Reference 4. MacArthur Study Bible ESV 5. NKJV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible. It is extremely difficult to pick just 5.