An HONEST review of the GRACE & TRUTH Study Bible (This should be fun!)

A viewer sent me a copy of the Grace & Truth Study Bible by Zondervan and asked me to review it. This is an openly Reformed Complementarian study Bible…and I am neither. So here are my HONEST (and surprising!) thoughts on it! The Grace & Truth Study Bible is available at - tinyurl.com/mua39bhx
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Followup resources:
* Disciple Dojo’s Top 7 Recommended Study Bibles - • Which study Bible shou...
* The Hebrew Bible’s Ancient Near East Background video series - tinyurl.com/yrd52y4y
* What is Eschatology? - • What is 'eschatology'?...
* The Old Testament Explained (in Under an Hour!) - • The Old Testament (in ...
* On the issue of Reformed/Calvinism and why I do not embrace it, see the video "Why I Can't Be a Calvinist" - • Why I can't be a Calvi...
* And be sure to check out my interview with Dr. Carmen Imes on the subject of women teaching the Bible! - • Can women teach the Bi...
* Mike Winger’s series defending Complementarianism can be found over on his Bible Thinker channel (I disagree with him on this issue for a number of reasons, but always appreciate his thoughtful approach and charitable spirit) - • Women In Ministry - EV...
* For a fuller and even more charitable discussion on the issue of Complementarianism and Egalitarianism, see the debate Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary hosted a couple of years ago (and which I helped organize as part of our Alumni Committee) called "Can Women Lead Men?" over on their channel - • Can Women Lead Men: Co...
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[@sherlockhomeless7138]

I'm glad you cover some of the notes. Most other reviewers only show the bible itself and talk about the quality of the paper. This has been helpful :)

[@DiscipleDojo]

Yes, those type of reviews are what I pledged to never do when I started making review videos. I'm glad this was helpful to you.

[@syncsseven]

I loved this video and bought this Bible... I'm now subscribed... I've lost track of how many of your videos I've watched (in less than a week)... I'm loving your website too :)

[@CanadianAnglican]

I love your videos. They really help me select what Christian books to get to help me learn more of the lords word. Thank you 🙏🏿

[@terridolecki8185]

I have this Bible in leathersoft and premium. I love it! I didn't expect to love it as much as I do because I'm not a Calvinist and also I like verse by verse commentary, or so I thought. I'm getting a lot out of groupings of verses being summarized. I definitely recommend it.

[@marystout1606]

I find it very helpful when you mention whether a version is supportive of Calvinism or free will. Maybe you could do a video just on this for all versions you have on hand?

[@jeremynethercutt206]

Calvinist support and affirm the will of man. Depends on how you define free, but it is in support of a biblical understanding of free will Free to make choices and have responsibilities according to being free moral creatures most definitely affirmed by Calvinist. You can’t hold to the doctrines of grace without saying man makes choices, it would be logically impossible. So just fyi Calvinist or ones who hold to the doctrines of grace do affirm a biblical view of free will, just not a humanist version of autonomy

[@LocaChoca]

I am thrilled to hear that you and Pastor Mike Winger may have this theological discussion. I have been wanting to see the breakdown of both sides clearly and concisely for a number of years now, and you and Winger are very solid teachers. I pray this happens.

[@DiscipleDojo]

I don't think Mike even knows who I am. Haha, but I appreciate his ministry and would be happy to talk to him anytime.

[@LocaChoca]

@@DiscipleDojo I remember him tweeting out that he wanted to have a theological discussion with biblical egalitarian awhile back. I would love to see this much.

[@DiscipleDojo]

I wish he'd do one with Nijay Gupta, personally.

[@kathya8421]

Good review. This is one of my top five study bibles.

[@gregparis8948]

Excellent review.

[@fredr7217]

Another nice one ☝️

[@andyanderson4918]

Hey I haven’t checked yet but Mike Winger just finished his big study on complementarionism and watching you guys discuss would be awesome!

[@DiscipleDojo]

I think Mike's wrong on this issue, but I appreciate his ministry overall and have great respect for him.

[@ChristcentredNaturalgee]

I would love to see you do a video on 1timothy 2:12, i would love to hear more of your theology and thoughts to do with this verse and the subject of complementarianism. It would also be interesting to hear why you lean more egalitarian. Any ways have a blessed day and great video as always😊! I really enjoy your bible reviews you always go in depth.

[@CounterC]

A very thoughtful review.

[@DiscipleDojo]

Thank you! That's my goal. :-)

[@pastornickmcrae]

Great review, JM! Thanks for this. By the way, just as a friendly note, Michael Bird is a Calvinist. (At least according to his “Evangelical Theology” lectures on Audible.) He’s not your typical Calvinist, but he is one, and I think a complementarian as well, but I’m not certain. If you’re not familiar with Sydney Anglicanism specifically, I’d recommend checking it out-it’s fascinating. Evangelical, Calvinistic, complementarian, biblical-theology-focused, surprisingly low-church. Some even practice lay presidency are the Eucharist, contra like every other Anglican body in the world. Of course, Michael Bird may not hold all of the standard Sydney positions. (I know, for instance, he’s more partial to Christus Victor than to penal substitution, but anyway.) There’s a fascinating book about Sydney Anglicanism by Michael Jensen that I highly recommend.

[@DiscipleDojo]

Yes, Bird is Calvinist but not a Complementarian. See his book "Bourgeois Babes, Bossy Wives, and Bobby Haircuts: A Case for Gender Equality in Ministry" :-)

[@michelleschoppe5390]

I’m flying to the beach and am thinking of packing this Bible. Does anyone know its weight ? I’m curious does everyone bring a Bible with them ?

[@sandracoombs2255]

Thanks JM - that was a really excellent review. You’ve probably done this elsewhere but can you please advise what is your recommended non-Calvinist study bible? I’ve got the Grace &Truth Study Bible and the ESV Study Bible which I think are both useful and comprehensive overall. But it would be nice to occasionally pick up a study bible without the Calvinist theme.

[@DiscipleDojo]

Hi Sandra, see the 7 that I recommended in the "Top 7 Recommended Study Bibles" video I linked in the description for my favorites. In particular, I'd say check out the Life Application, NLT Illustrated, Zondervan Archaeological, and Faithlife Study Bible.

[@sandracoombs2255]

@@DiscipleDojo Thanks JM 😊

[@photonjohnny]

Can you ever do a dishonest review, Sir? In sarcasm. Thank you for your videos. Wish I had the money to buy your recommendations. You are spot on every time.

[@paulklenknyc]

Cloth over board is much nicer; go with that.

[@KillerofGods]

Whats reformed and complimentarian?

[@pwalk4160]

Which study bible would you suggest to someone who is considering getting back to Christian faith (originally raised as Catholic) but still has many doubts and quite analytical mind, likes to dig deep but not to be overwhelmed, and doesn't want anything too biased one way or the other. Not sure where I stand theologically, but like to have a good overview of the Bible. Also, English is my second language. So far, I like NLT Illustrated Study Bible or NLT Life Application Bible. I'm going through your review playlist too to have a better idea. Thanks!

[@DiscipleDojo]

Life Application would be my recommendation for understanding the overall message and teachings of Scripture. If they wanted more on background, I'd recommend Zondervan's Archaeological Study Bible or Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible.

[@tigger55100]

Which study bible would you recommend or suggest to use since I am coming from. Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox tradition? I have a NIV Zondervan study bible, but I like to hear your thoughts and ideas on this topic. Thank you.

[@DiscipleDojo]

See my Top 7 Recommended Study Bibles 2023 edition video here on the channel.

[@Llllbbb.123]

I found answers in your other videos. Pls disregard my questions below. Don’t understand Calvinist, reformed, pre-millennialism, Oliver discourse, non complimentarian. Never heard like you read from this Bible which is those who are taken are taken in judged and those left behind experience Gods grace. I don’t understand that. I learned just the opposite as mentioned as a possibility also in this Bible. Hmm. 🤷‍♀️. So some important terminology I never explored. Do you cover these terms in your videos? Thank you for an extensive video about this Bible.

[@Kens1966]

I bought this study bible and the reason was Galatians 10 verse 1. I misinterpreted it thanks for your review very good

[@seanpendulum5121]

Which us easier to read... serif or sans-serif typeface? I personally find serif...

[@brotherarn]

You are recommending for me to watch a video on the 7 best study bibles. But I can't find your video. Can you give me the link to that particular video that you're speaking of so I can look at the 7 study bibles that you recommend?

[@DiscipleDojo]

It is right there in the video description under followup resources. Did you not see it?

[@brotherarn]

@@DiscipleDojo found it. Thanks ☺️

[@stard8631]

Do you have a recommendation of a Bible for someone that is Muslim but open to having Bible studies with a Christian?

[@DiscipleDojo]

That's a good question. I think anything that gives good historical/textual background notes would be helpful. Perhaps the NET Bible full notes edition, or the Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, or something like the Life Application Study Bible that shows the ongoing relevance of Scripture in our lives today. If they are Arabic-speaking as their primary language, perhaps letting them read along on an Arabic Christian translation would also be helpful. YouVersion app would be helpful in this regard.

[@christophekeating21]

Why are so many study Bibles complementarian and Calvinist? Is it the influence of crossway? Are they just more fond of putting their commentaries next to the text?

[@DiscipleDojo]

That's a good question. It may have to do with the fact that there aren't as many non-Reformed-Complementarian networks or organizations similar to TGC or T4G that put as much emphasis on publishing study Bibles that are limited to their particular theological views.

[@kingdomm88]

What do you think of Witness Lee? My take is he was sincere in his seeking and following God, and he did get off in later years. What do you think?

[@DiscipleDojo]

I don't know enough about him to say. I have tremendous respect for Watchman Nee and really enjoy his works I've read. But some of his interpretations of passages go beyond what the text itself actually teaches.

[@AM12378]

I recently purchased the grace and truth study Bible after watching this review. I came across a note I’m confused by. For proverbs 31:10-30, it finishes by saying, “ this wise woman, ultimately points the church to the new Eve, the queen of the true King Jesus.” What does this mean?

[@DiscipleDojo]

I think they're probably referring to the Bride of Christ (the Church). But that's a weird way of putting it.

[@dreamtlife0656]

Thank you for the awesome review! I have a maybe silly question, but in light of very recent events I am going to temporarily shelf my only full-size copy of the NASB. If you had to recommend an NASB specifically, which one of all the ones you have experience with would you recommend? (I try to keep an excellent copy of each translation, or more than one, on my shelf for personal study. I'm in the middle of doing a personal study on Jeremiah, and I'm feeling like it's time to graduate to another version of the NASB for the remainder of my study time!) Thank you for the awesome content!

[@DiscipleDojo]

I rarely use the NASB, honestly. So I have no recommendations in that regard.

[@dreamtlife0656]

@DiscipleDojo Gotcha! I knew it wasn't a favorite (I've watched several of your reviews), but I thought I may as well ask. Thank you! Hopefully, soon, I can find some comparison videos on the NASB. There really aren't many that I've found, and I'm trying to avoid person named publications. Probably going to just move my study into another translation already on my shelf! Thank you a ton for the swift response and your awesome channel!

[@l.l.martin2670]

Wow - pleasantly surprised by this review! Now I want a copy! But Albert Mohler...not sure I can get over my aversion to him. He says people like me are "selfish" with "a lifestyle alien to Scripture." I am secure in my identity in Christ, but Mohler sadly alienates many and mis-characterizes, even demonizes them. So what is my lifestyle alien to the Scripture? I am a woman married to a man (for almost 30 years) but we never had kids or adopted and always content that way. Our so-called lifestyle alien to the Scripture has actually helped us serve the Lord in a variety of ways that we could not have otherwise.

[@DiscipleDojo]

Mohler can be very alienating to many of us outside his camp, unfortunately.

[@IndianChristian19]

Can you do a review of the Reformation Study Bible?

[@DiscipleDojo]

If someone sends me a copy I'd be happy to.

[@IndianChristian19]

@@DiscipleDojo okay.

[@midnightdoxology]

From a reformed(ish) complementarian I feel the need to let you know you're my favorite KZbinr and Bible Teacher (other than the Holy Spirit... He's way better than you) But you do an awesome job on your videos, and I appreciate your content!!

[@DiscipleDojo]

Well that is quite encouraging to hear! I always want to be fair to my brothers and sisters in the Reformed(ish) Complementarian wing of the Christian household and from whom I continue to learn so much. Cheers! 😊

[@midnightdoxology]

great to hear.. keep the good videos coming! Also I know you've mentioned you're Wesleyan, and I've seen it seep through in a couple of your teachings (and your mentions of Ben Witherington III, who is one of my favorite commentators actually)... But I don't think I've ever caught you say a denomination.. are you Methodist? Nazarene?

[@danieljoshua4352]

@@midnightdoxology I remember him referring himself methodist. Please check out his video on nrsv Wesley study bible review. You may find his statement there

[@DiscipleDojo]

Yes, I am a lifelong United Methodist (but not for much longer).

[@midnightdoxology]

@@danieljoshua4352 Yeah that's the vid I was referring to ty :)

[@Llllbbb.123]

Hmm I just purchased this study Bible because it was NASB to go along with my NASB Bible. I knew nothing of Mohler. Seems this Study Bible differs from his reputation after reading comments and hearing your video. A lot different from Frisch perspectives take on it.

[@jamescaddell2923]

Is it kjv

[@DiscipleDojo]

No

[@karenwood2928]

Since you mentioned Mohler’s treatment, assumptions, and judgment toward non-complementarians, I’ll just go ahead and say I’ve snickered at this work by him that has grace in the title. I won’t be buying this but I do appreciate your open mind and unbiased review.

[@DiscipleDojo]

Yes, unfortunately some if the loudest or most prominent voices who use the term "Grace" don't do the best job exemplifying it toward fellow believers.

[@joest.eggbenedictus1896]

Wow thats a humbling review because I see Mohler and want to run. Those are good notes, and I am very surprised. Huge disagreement about that head not being "source" though because gets close to that perpetual submission of Christ in the Trinity debate. And your dead on about assumptions that complimentarianism take on Scripture. Lots of (nonbiblical) assumptions.

[@MO-bo2du]

Regarding Ro 7, if saints are not also sinners, then I am not saved. :( Seriously this is a really weighty claim, that Christians don't sin? This passage from Paul has always spoken to me in a visceral way and given me great hope through various struggles. The way I was taught is that this is one example (of so many) of partial fulfillment/inauguration in the NT. We are free from the power of sin through participation with Christ. Through the leading of the Spirit we are given a tool to battle our flesh. But we are still inflicted by our humanity until we are later glorified with new bodies.

[@DiscipleDojo]

@@MO-bo2du you can get there from Galatians...but not Romans 7. See the discussion here on the channel with Dr. Joseph Dodson where we do a deep dive on Rom.7.

[@MO-bo2du]

​@@DiscipleDojo Thanks, I watched it all. Helpful to understand that you weren't arguing for like entire sanctification or something. There was a quote, something like "don't get the right doctrine from the wrong scripture" which was helpful and appreciated the middle ground as presented. On another of your videos you also mentioned that this passage in Ro 7 mirrors contemporary pagan statements, which is certainly a compelling observation. I'm sure you've heard all the arguments and quite certain you are a much more accomplished biblical scholar than myself. :) But fwiw I am a current seminary student and just went through a class where studying Ro 6~8 was a huge component. We had to read, memorize, define terms, paraphrase, write some short papers, etc all on this section of scripture. We were definitely taught the "I describes Paul's life as a believer" perspective and in particular how this relates to the perils of legalism. I also just double checked 4 of my favorite commentaries and see that 3 of 4 take that approach as well. That is probably not surprising since (most of) my go-to resources naturally fit my own theological camp.. although I am a bit disappointed to say only 1 of those 3 clearly identified the alternative positions. Anyway, in my class there was also a visual provided which I found immensely helpful, and will try to describe below (these 2 positions were presented as columns next to each other and citations were provided for each "level".. which yes, included Galatians as well, among others): 1) "In Adam" -> slave to sin and the law -> leads to wickedness and death 2) "In Christ" -> conviction of sin is broken -> leads to eternal life..... but then on column #2 "flesh" was written with an arrow pointing back to #1, and then also "Holy Spirit" cutting off the flesh arrow and pointing away from column #1 Sitting here writing this, I guess the main point I'd make is that it isn't "sinning" (the individual acts) that are dead to us, but rather it's the POWER of "sinfulness" (the fallen condition) that is destroyed. So in your video when you say, "if I is Paul then Christ doesn't save us from sin, only death does" [paraphrasing], I would argue that our "new life in Christ" is still the ultimate regenerating event. We will later suffer physical death, but from this point forward we are ALIVE, and death holds no power over us (in a very similar way to how we will later sin, yet we are not slaves to it). Conversely, without this participation in Christ's death and resurrection, we would later die WITHOUT experiencing God's grace. Death comes in both cases, but life/freedom only from the first... Anyway I'm rambling, sorry lol. Ended up spending way too much time thinking about this today. Thanks again for the content.

[@DiscipleDojo]

Hey, I spent my entire seminary career thinking about it! So I'm glad you're doing so as well! I actually wrote a a little book to try and synthesize the various views on the nature of sin/spirit/sanctification that I arrived at. If it interests you, it's on Amazon for a few bucks and is called "Cleansed and Abiding" I compare and critique a number of views, including my man John Wesley's, with whom I don't completely agree, as well as Reformed and Lutheran views as well. Perhaps you'll find it of interest. Perhaps you'll find it as good kindling for your next fire. Who can say? :)

[@MO-bo2du]

@DiscipleDojo Maybe a bit of both. :) Just bought a copy. But in all seriousness, have benefited a lot from your content over the last year or 2, even in the fairly frequent times we don't see entirely eye to eye. Totally tangential point but just wanted to share that, like you, I grew up UMC. In ~2021, I took my family out of the church I had attended for 30+ years. My mom stayed a few years longer than me, but after hours and hours and hours of talking through things with her, she recently left as well after the last GC. We are back together now at a local non-denom (sorry lol) and are so happy to be in a place that we feel is on fire for Jesus in a way that somehow our old church lost sight of. But it has been a really hard/sad thing to go through for everyone involved.