The Morality of Premium Bibles

[@tacticaltradingpennystocks7206]

Nothing wrong with premium Bibles AT ALL. You’ll pay $500 for a phone, $125 a month for internet, $7 a coffee at Starbucks but not $250 for a premium Bible? Ridiculous. I spent a ton on bibles that fell apart. $30 to $50 a piece, that only lasted 6-8 months until the tape & super glue came out of the drawer. I have a Cambridge WM that has held up perfectly for over a year so far. I’m grabbing an Allen handy size next week. I love premium bibles

[@tacticaltradingpennystocks7206]

Got my RL Allen Blackface 2weeks ago. It is the absolute Perfect handy size Bible. A work of ART. Now I have to get me an Allen 5WM now. Allen makes the best Bibles IMO

[@hightide1500]

People invest hundreds of thousands on the stock market or real estate...but can't drop a couple hundred bucks on a Bible? 🤔

[@nobodyspecial1852]

I've made that point to buddies that are into guns and cars, the grands you drop on stuff you trade or sell soon after and don't miss.... but you trip on $100+ books!? Absolutely illogical. Cheap books that aren't trash are a very recent thing, we should be thankful we're able to even have tiered options.

[@snackyxchan]

Agree, plus you get what you pay for, it's more environmentally friendly anyway and keeps clutter down in your house to have something that can last and to pass down

[@RyuBateson218]

Are there really normal prices? Is a 500 dollar phone m, 125 dollar internet connection and a 7 dollar coffee really something do now and why?

[@immolder]

If you look at the cost of a Bible around the 1790's it cost months of your wages. Yet people sacrificed for His Word. Was that wrong? It was a treasure to the family and passed down. As you stated let your conscience guide you.

[@custerranch]

I'm a lifelong tightwad, so when several of our bonded leather Bibles began to fall apart, I decided last year to learn to rebind them because we really like the text blocks. I already dabble in leatherwork, so it wasn't a huge stretch. But in the Bible groups online, I've been in shock at how many of the premium owners in those groups have whole shelves of expensive Allans, Cambridges, and Schuylers. And the way they post constantly about the NEXT purchase that's on its way. I really do feel that several of those folks are excessive, and inadvertently promote covetousness and pridefulness over leathers, ribbons, paper weights, and corner pleats. So, hopefully when I get better at rebinding, I can use my powers for good and do repairs and recovering worn Bibles instead of only cutting perfectly good covers off new Bibles.

[@CharlesSeraphDrums]

Judas also complained that the fine oils could’ve have been sold to feed the poor. It’s the word of God and it is precious and a premium will hold for a long time.

[@tmorganriley]

I was just going to cite to that! So long as the excesses are for His glory, and not our own.

[@carmennooner2027]

I have a limited budget so I do my best to stay within it. I own several Bibles, none of which cost me more than perhaps $80. I use them all and enjoy them tremendously. If I could have spent less, I would have. But the love of the content between the cheap paperback or premium leather is what's important. :)

[@eliaswalker7512]

I realize this was posted 9 months ago, but I just now stumbled upon it I apologize for the delay. How I started out was just buying the cheapest Bibles that I could. Then one day I realized that I could save myself money by buying a premium Bible one time. So I saved and I saved and I saved. I did buy an inexpensive one while I was in the middle of saving for a premium Bible to tide me over until I could afford the premium Bible. But eventually I saved up enough. I believe it took me 7 months, maybe 9 months. I bought this Bible. I've had it ever since. But to be honest I didn't really save any money in the long term because I've purchased several inexpensive Bibles for other people. Although I believe this money is invested better. I have yet to have to replace this one of mine. We purchase what we can afford. And fter all what matters are the words that are contained within. The words of God. God bless you.

[@jamesgant8496]

Thanks for this topic. I agree that you can’t make a blanket statement one way or the other. A free Bible prominently displayed but never read is worse than a premium Bible which is read daily. I bought my first premium Bible a little over a year ago (possibly right around the time this video originally aired). The reason for purchasing the premium Bible was for an improved reading experience. My vision has declined over the years and about two years ago I started having difficulty reading the Bible I bought a decade before. After checking my local bookstore, the solution for me at that time was a premium Bible. With its 40gsm bright white paper the black text appeared crisp and clear. I did learn later through these Bible Review channels that there actually are a lot of inexpensive Bibles that have premium readability. These Bibles are not readily available at my local bookstore but are easy to find online, so I am grateful for this and other channels that can help people find the right Bible for their needs.

[@GodsPoetryProductions]

All of my bibles are imitation leather bound that you buy at the christian book store and throughout the years I have to keep buying them because the cover breaks apart and even deteriorate so I invested in a goatskin premium Bible with no commentary for my alone time with The Lord and the difference is night and day and I liked it so much that I also bought a premium Study Bible that will replace my broken one. I thank the Lord for providing especially they were on sale.

[@danielb1877]

My only Christmas gift from my wife (its all I wanted) was a premium goat skin, Smyth sewn, MacArthur study Bible (in a larger font for my aging eyes). I love it. My last Bible has pages falling out due to it being glued and not sewn. I took that one in to work to read on breaks.

[@kikibelle8265]

I bought a humble lamb because Jesus’ word is in blue not red - color blind people have great difficulty with red. As far as I know, they are the only bible printers to use blue so that’s why I bought a premium bible. I could have stuck with all black printing but I wanted Jesus’ words in a different color.

[@coltonyarbro]

I love the concept of Jesus words in blue! I’ve never seen a humble Lamb Bible, but one day.

[@gottschalk4662]

As a missionary it’s hard to get the Bible in the language I am learning so when I got one it was expensive but the cover was cheap. So I paid good money to have it rebound so it would last me a long time.

[@terrycairl5479]

I have a good variety of budget Bibles-paperback, hardcover, leathersoft, etc. While I don’t currently own a premium Bible, I am looking at a couple. I see absolutely no problem buying good quality products that will last for a long time.

[@AngelaIsaza-xy3mu]

Hi, I live in south America, and I became a bible believing Christian about 3 years ago. Basically the plan demic was one of the things that made me really think about what did I want to do the rest of my earthly life. Anyhow once I decided to read the bible, I knew that the word of God/Elohim was translated since 1611 in the English language; and when I began to do the research about buying a KJV, I was shocked to see how rich you people are when it comes down to bibles and all that stuff. And I'm going to be real honest here, if you think is not ok to pay 200 or 300 dollar for an amazing beautiful bible, that you truly know that it is the true word of God/Elohim, but you rather to buy other expensive stuff like Iphones or things like that. Then you really are not in love with the word of God. Actually to me is just mind boggling when I see, or hear people that the only language that they know is English say that they don't like the KJV because the English is old. I'm so happy and blessed that The Lord Jesus Christ has helped with that. And there's nothing in this world more important, or valuable than my KJV Premium bible. I love it and for me to be able to buy one I have to work for one whole month. I hope this is helpful to someone out there.

[@openlybookish]

Amen Angela. 😊

[@israelrivera3009]

Hi! I can relate to your story…….You mentioned that you live in South America, also is your native language spanish or portuguese? Im asking because im mexican and live in mexico so my native language is spanish and exactly everything that you mentioned happened to me. And even though my english is far from superb, non to mention the “old english”, I bought two KJV and for my main Spanish bible i bought by recommendation of Robert Breaker (youtube KJV only preacher) a “Valera 1602 purificada” because it is the closest thing to a KJV. Pd. Also i have bought a lot of study bibles and bible commentaries, is my vice nowadays. 🤖🤖

[@AngelaIsaza-xy3mu]

@@israelrivera3009 hi, that's great, my husband is mexican too, we lived in mexico for couple of years back in 2016 through 2018; listen (Robert Breaker has his issues) the only bible in spanish that you should read from is reina valera gomez 2010. Also I have been listening to a lot of English American preachers and the only one I can recommend 99 percent is Bryan Delinger his channel is Born Again barbarian, please check it out, he's way better than Robert Breaker. Now if you are born again like my husband and I, we love to get to know you better, because it is not easy to find true born again believers. Y yo hablo español, but I rather to speak English, I love this language because thanks to it I came to know the truth, the Lord Jesus Christ and to his true word the king James bible. Looking forward for your reply.

[@CoveredandCommitted]

Thank you for providing a wider perspective on this!

[@josephw.manissr.6934]

Well said sir. I do not have a “premium” Bible. However, that does not mean I won’t ever have one. Thank you for your channel.

[@Trenton2k6]

Certainly believe it’s a heart issue. If the premium bible becomes an idol, that’s an issue. If it’s a tool to met the Lord in his word, I don’t care what you paid for it.

[@kevincrystalwallace9919]

I heard the You Tube creator you’re speaking of. I disagree she was stating owning premium bibles are a sin. I understood her to be saying you don’t HAVE to have a premium Bible if you’re on a budget. You don’t HAVE to spend more than $50 to get a good Bible. Again. I never understood her to say it was a sin.

[@johnlong5899]

Quality pulpit size family bibles from the 60's and 70's in excellent to like new condition are all over ebay for $20 to $40. Many sat on coffee tables for decades and rarely got opened and never written in. You just have to be patient and shop around. You get thick pages, quality binding, text size and spacing that is easy on the eyes, loads of color paintings and a good size concordance,

[@SanaSana_626]

I unintentionally started a Bible collection. I’m a heavy note taker and I appreciate a good font size. Trial and error in finding the one I like for the way I like to study. Current favorite is NKJV journal the word. I had no idea premium bibles were a thing. 😅

[@coltonyarbro]

Journal the Word series is awesome!

[@nobodyspecial1852]

You can still use whatever but your standards will go up.... and you won't feel like screaming when you have an oops with a $50.

[@LuisHernandez-ec5nf]

i have the same haha !!! love it for note taking!

[@chrisazure1624]

I have a bible collection, mainly to get more study bibles and translations. I have started taking extras and putting a sticker of my church's address and putting them in Little Free Libraries. They keep getting taken, hopefully by people who use them.

[@gtgodbear6320]

My absolute favorite Bible is the recent KJV Bible I bought for $17.00 brand new. It's a Leather Touch binding but has a 16 point font. I want to rebind it in calfskin. Or I can order the exact same copy with genuine leather. I don't like putting my credit card information on the internet so I'd rather pay someone to rebind my existing Bible.

[@lunchandlearn]

I recently discovered Cambridge and Schuyler Bibles and have enjoyed acquiring them. I plan on gifting a number of them.

[@Trex-zm9gh]

Hi Colton, as this was posted a year ago, you may not see this post. I am a senior who could never afford one of those premium Bibles. That doesn't mean I wouldn't love one. I feel there is nothing wrong with owning and showing a premium Bible-unless it's to boast about being able to afford one, and we can't. From what I see watching your posts, you not only love the outside you also love the inside. I spend my days reading the Kindle version of the NLT Life Application Bible with the Mathew Henry commentary in unison. So in conclusion I believe it doesn't matter what the Bible looks like as long as you are studying God's word. Bless you, Colton, and continue your great content ' Your Brother in Christ Rex

[@damongreville2197]

The most precious and valuable thing we have on this earth is God's Word. This being case, there should be no reason why it should not be beautifully bound in a durable way, so that it will stand up to much handling, but also can handed down to your descendants. Two hundred and fifty years ago all Bibles were premium Bibles. For the average working man, a Bible was a huge purchase. Bibles at that time were also very robust and made to last. I have a 1663 King James, still in its original binding. It will probably last several hundred more years. Rebinding your favourite Bible is also a good option. I have been restoring Bibles for about 30 years. Have done hundreds. Three tips for buying a new Bible: 1. Make sure the sections sewn together, NOT just glued. 2. Make sure it is top quality paper. Usually, if a manufacturer is going to the expense and trouble of sewing the sections then the paper quality will be good. 3. Ideally it should be bound in good quality genuine leather, not "bonded leather" or "leatherette" or other fake leather. Leather can last for hundreds of years. Finally brethren, read your Bible, daily! Feed on His word.

[@linjicakonikon7666]

"Full grain" and "top grain" is better quality than "Genuine" leather.

[@OrlandoVergelJr]

Excellent video. We earn our money and we are free to spend it as we see fit. The Bible is a tool for every believer and if someone wants to buy a better quality Bible we are free to do so. I’ve never heard anyone who complains about how much money people spend on a Bible also complain about their mechanic not using tools from the dollar store so that they can feed the world. I’m just saying.

[@ericballi4701]

Interesting topic. I think anything that keeps us in God's word more is the right answer. If that is a tattered, $20 bible you have owned for 20 years, then great. If it is a $200+ premium bible, then great. But let's not judge each other for it.

[@armandocastro4548]

Thanks for the wisdom brother! I have several premium Bibles, I read them, enjoy them and I don’t feel guilty about it, as long as I am fulfilling my financial responsibilities with my family and my church. Thanks again for the video!

[@thomasandrewphd.5844]

I have a bible I paid to have done in an exotic animal skin , it cost me over $700 Canadian dollars . It is not ever going to be written in, highlighted , marked on. It is open in the room of my home And able to read …. I really love it ..I have study bible for my daily studies. An investment for me And I will have it for life. …..book binders art. I agree with you on this points. I never thought of spending on a bible as a sin. Omg. It is a crazy idea to me …I have spent Much more on a Harley , or a guitar….it is all relative ….

[@joshuabissey]

I wouldn't shell out for the premium version, myself, but I was recently given a Bible beautifully bound in goatskin. It feels so nice to hold, and is so nice to look at, that I completely understand why people buy so many of them. I think if it encourages you to read more often, it can be worth it. That being said, I also have a cheapo, paperback, NASB95 that I love the look and feel of for no apparent reason, so...

[@coltonyarbro]

Right on. One of my absolute favorite Bibles I own is very inexpensive.

[@nobodyspecial1852]

​@@JC-sj2pdi don't think he criticized it

[@CoveredandCommitted]

I actually have a children’s KJV that I got for $12 because I thought the page gilding was cool. Inside it’s the same KJV as any other!

[@_quiara_]

I have invested a lot in fountain pens and planner covers. I finally decided I wanted a Bible I could leave to my nieces. I have a premium NRSV on the way; it will be here this week. I hope it will stick around for generations.

[@megalyon]

I have both kinds, I have some premiums and I love and some budget editions I love. I agree with you - the most important thing is spend time in the word!! :-) If a premium helps that and you can afford that then go for it. If not get yourself a budget edition you enjoy. There are so many options for all budgets. We are blessed with an abundance of versions of Gods sacred scripture in a wealth of translations and formats, probably more than any time in history and publishers and Christians keep coming out with new ones. For the record I am a Bible collector with an extensive Christian library but also a heavy user. I really do use and enjoy my Bibles and other Christian books I own. Great topic to address. Of all the things Christians could be shaming each other for in this day and age loving and investing in keeping and reading God's word for wisdom, inspiration etc in beautiful and pleasing formats just seems like a minor issue when you consider all the other problems in the world that we could be working towards improving but is just my opinion. Blessings.

[@coltonyarbro]

Right on! Agree with you and love that you have a library full of God’s word.

[@nickspitzley8539]

Yep. Most people think hardcover is sanctified enough, but actually, only those cheap gift editions with glued binding are. Anything with Smyth sown is automatically an idol.

[@coltonyarbro]

😂

[@Runningtherace51]

Oh...ok

[@dekka213l]

I dig your perspective. I think the ultimate issue is when anything becomes a gripping compulsion or obsession.

[@Manateesmile66]

Premium Bibles can be a good investment when you plan on using it a lot and if you want it to last. I have a Cambridge KJV I purchased for $100 in 1979. I was 21 years old. I am now 66! I used it a lot for several years until the church I attended used the NIV. Except for a little yellowing of the pages, it is in really good shape and would hold up if used again. ❤

[@jeffcarlson3269]

back in 2005 I had a 35.00 bonded leather re bound for 69.00 in goatskin....I still use it practically every day.. it is a KJV Study bible.. Jerry Falwell the managing editor..

[@MrJsteed2009]

First time viewer. Great subject. I have been a Bible-lover for over 50 years! I have examined my conscience over this issue, although I wouldn’t say that any of my Bibles truly qualifies as ‘Premium’. First, I take Paul’s admonition about judging another man’s servant, seriously. Then other thoughts arise: we have our Bibles because they were transcribed on Premium Materials, whether papyrus, vellum or whatever. They were transcribed by hand until Gutenberg, but even then remained very costly. I purchase my shoes, jeans and shirts with certain minimum standards of quality, and additional features that reflect positively; why wouldn’t I choose my Bible in the same fashion? I have criteria for my cars that I don’t feel guilty for, and the same for my home, my tools, my haircut etc. With the wrong attitude/motivation any of those could be sinful. OK, from my conversion I’ve followed stories of people, who only could acquire a single page of the Bible; my first Bible was won in a Sunday School Contest in my Teen years. Context causes that argument to fall apart; why don’t we hand transcribe 📝 our own Bibles? King James Premium Bibles are often less expensive than those in Modern Translations (Copy-write fees, etc.); should we all revert back to 17th-18th century English, until everyone gets a common level of Bible? What was Paul doing with his own scrolls? If someone is really using their Bible, they should get one that does the job and holds up. Also, by supporting Bible Publishers, we may help them bring God’s Word to more people. That being said, I am in awe of people with a garage of nice cars (hopefully their treasure is in heaven), and the same for someone with a good Christian Library replete with an assortment of good Bibles. I think we ought to support our church, care for those the Bible instructs us to, and donate to Missions and other worthy causes. That is a reflection that needs to take place with God’s Word in hand, with much prayer and with godly counsel. Further Christian discipline (discipleship) and sanctification are the way to grow in these areas. I think this is a good exercise that we should be reminded to pursue from time to time… in season and out of season. Blessings!

[@seanbrittmusic]

Catholic here! Our options are notoriously cheap and flimsy. Grateful for the couple premiums I have (Cambridge ESVCE and Cameo KJV w/apocrypha) and wish more Christians would save up to spend money this way rather than on worldly expenses.

[@Elisa-b3e]

I agree with you completly. Thank you. I own premium Bibles too. I live in Denmark and its very expensive to buy Schuyler Bibles and ship it here. But that’s something i prioritize. But i own others too. Agree…. If you are going to hoard something, hoard Bibles. God bless you.

[@LilliansStory]

I just "happened" on your channel this morning. I agree with what you are saying. I subscribed to your channel. Keep up the good work.

[@coltonyarbro]

Thanks for the sub!

[@Guitarpreacher]

Amen brother - I struggled with paying a ton for a Bible and then it hit me - Jesus is everything to me. His word is therefore everything to me. I have been a preacher for 24 years now and have always had a $10 Bible I got at Walmart. Problem is they fell apart. Most important to me is can I read it - need bigger print and is it comfortable? Sure the cheap ones work and it’s the same words and we definitely need to be good stewards of our finances - but way was I going cheap with something that I go to all day - every day. The caution for me is to avoid just collecting them. But having great tools matter and for me (and this is personal) it says something to how I view the Word. I am also a guitar player and would never feel bad about paying way more than $500 on good, usable gear and then go to get a Bible (which is way more important) and think I can’t spend more than $40? Doesn’t make sense. I only have one premium Bible and i know it will serve me for many many years and perhaps be passed on to my kids when I go to be with Jesus. Thanks for this video. Very helpful.

[@CoffeeBreakSomewhere]

I agree! I own more Bibles than I need , I've had bad buys and good buys. I have multiple different versions and read them all. Some I don't read and will likely give away. I sometimes think it might be idolatry but people also collect guns, cars, trinkets to set on a shelf and other ridiculous things and no one bats an eye but if someone buys expensive Bibles, we want to criticized them! That's hypocritical

[@LuisHernandez-ec5nf]

i totally agree, when i first heard someone say that, my first thought was, why is it bad to invest in a good quality bible that you just want to last a while? especially if you write notes in it, you want to have those around for a while.

[@sufiameen6093]

People complain about any and every thing! Yet, they have No Problem with new expensive phones, cars etc. 😮

[@jenniferwright8355]

Right! A $1,000 cell phone is ok but a nice, lasting Bible isn't? That would be silly lol.

[@openlybookish]

I think Bible buying can become a big addiction. 🙋🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️🥺 I think I'm up to 15. You are right about finding 'the one.' I think that can become a distraction from reading the Word.

[@coltonyarbro]

It certainly can become that. But I do think it is up to the conscience of each person. I know I own more than 15 Bibles and I am not bothered by it in the slightest. Not all of them are “premium” of course. But nonetheless, our God is Lord of the conscience on this one.

[@richardvoogd705]

I, too, own more than 15 Bibles in a variety of translations and a variety of editions. I even have Bibles in multiple languages! Having said that, I tend to gravitate to a small number in regular use.

[@M-JACOY]

Would you consider making a video about all ways you use your different Bibles? Thanks

[@coltonyarbro]

Absolutely!

[@M-JACOY]

@@coltonyarbro Looking forward to it! Have a blessed weekend

[@emilyvasilakes3805]

​@@coltonyarbroI really look forward to that video!

[@PennyThompson618]

New sub here. Thank you for this. I do have a lot of physical Bibles, both premium and non-premium, as well as Bible software, and Kindle Bibles. I've always preferred to have multiple translations because one always helps me to understand what I'm reading. I did once purchase a premium Bible simply because it has purple art guilt but I do occasionally pull it out as part my study/reading time. Obviously, I see nothing wrong with investing in a premium type of Bible. Whatever the cost, the important part is cracking it open and digging in.

[@KelaNellums]

My having premium Bibles help in aiding my engagement in the Word. I like the "pretty and frilly" of fonts, devotional pages, and other things that, dare I say, enhance my time in the Word.

[@linjicakonikon7666]

Remember when the young woman used expensive oil to wash Jesus feet, wiping them with her hair? She was criticized harshly for wasting such a rare item, yet Jesus corrected them. Where your money goes is where your heart is. However, if the Beautiful Bible turns from an expression of adoration of God into an indulgence, then some self correction is prudent.

[@tmorganriley]

Amen!

[@Mrsg730]

I have bibles in most modern translations but would love to own the Schuyler Quentel for my daily reading. Unfortunately my budget doesn’t allow for it. I did buy the ESV wide margin in genuine leather for under $100 that I plan to leave for my children with notes that I make.

[@coltonyarbro]

I ❤️ wide margins for that very reason.

[@poewitx]

Just bought a genuine leather RSV center column reference , lived in but in great shape, for $1 at a library used bookstore. Which left me $20 to buy a meal for a homeless person

[@alanmunch5779]

Of course it is okay… it’s like buying decent shoes, or a good watch, which will last a lifetime… especially since a Bible is arguably much more important! But buying lots of them might not be wise, if they’ll never be read.

[@eladiocofresi5202]

Funnily, this video popped up after buying a leather bound Biblia Las Americas/NASB for my mother and rebinding my old NASB in lamb Napa leather. As to the idea of collecting Bibles and premium ones, I believe you hit the nail right on the head. Or as my pastor taught the congregation, adiaphora.

[@davecrawford4377]

Thank you very much. God Bless

[@mat99rich]

It just depends I have a bible collection. Different editions and different study helps. All for being able to go somewhere if I need help with a verse or topic. I also have just about every modern English translation with a few missing that came out in the last few years. I have 4 bibles that I would guess people would consider premium. I don't see it that way as most of the time you are spending more on the durability of the bible than "oh that looks great" yeah when you start paying more you get extra frills like art guilding and edge lining. But even cheap bibles now have a lot of what makes premium bibles premium. At this point it is more about the binding. And lets face it imitation leather looks better now than it did in the past. But you forget your bible in the dash of you car and your imitation leather bible is going to not be doing so hot. Do that same thing with a goat skin or calf skin bible and your still doing fine. So I see the extra money as more of a buying a better tool than buying for status. I didn't buy my Cambridge wide margin to show it off but for my own private study.

[@tacticaltradingpennystocks7206]

Im with you. I will have only 2 premium Bibles as of next week. My Cambridge has been used every day since I got it last year

[@tsukareppi]

I think if you’re using something every day, it makes sense to make it the most durable, long-lasting that you can. Especially if you like a translation that’s hard to find. I’m thinking of re I ding an HCSB, because they are so scarce and it’s my favorite translation.

[@lonnieclemens8028]

Thank you for sharing this bible review.

[@offroad5798]

I absolutely love my Schuyler PSQFY and I appreciate knowing it will last a long time. The idea of that being a sin is ridiculous. I'd question a lot of the things a person says if they hold that belief

[@j.woodbury412]

It would be nice to have a Premium Bible, but I'm totally happy with my Thomas Nelson Leathersoft KJV Center Column Reference Bible that I got for my birthday last May. I got it at a Christian bookstore where I live and paid $95.00 for it. Whether you have a "budget" Bible or a "Premium' Bible, the important thing is the word inside.

[@joshuaj50]

Shop online..you would have paid half.

[@vigilante1202]

This is an interesting question and a good response. A question I would have for the asker is: is it morally justified for a Christian to splurge on ANYTHING? If so, what is the most God honoring thing to splurge on? In all seriousness I would caution the asker against asceticism, a mindset that is condemned in Scripture. I suspect this person was asking this question on a more expensive than needed phone or computer from a more expensive than needed house with a more expensive than needed car in the driveway, which is ironic 😁

[@JoeWimsatt17]

I am late to seeing this video. Appreciate your perspective. I bought a premium bible in goatskin. Weirdly enough, the first passage i read in it was the right/left sheep/goat and it made me feel uncomfortable for some reason. We want to be the sheep but wrap his words in goat. I ended up getting rid of it and now I will only buy calfskin. Outside of my own stumble of consciousness, I do not see a problem investing your money in the Word. The Word is our guide to the everlasting with our creator.

[@scottswoodcraft1026]

I just bought my first premium bible from money that was given to me as a gift. It took me a while to shop for the perfect one and I do have to admit that I may have gotten a little carried away in the process of finding one. There is no way I would pay full price for one. Amazon had a selection of some marked down from 20-60%. The last few bibles I've had are now falling apart and twice as thick from when I first got them. My wife was constantly trying to fix the pages and sections that fell out of the binding that was splitting pretty badly. I decided I wanted one that would try to avoid this. I miss my old bible with all my notes that I collected over the years. I hope my new bible will last me the rest of my life. I don't regret it at all and I certainly don't feel guilty about having it. If I have any guilt it was more from the process of finding one. I think if someone wants to try and say you shouldn't have one then maybe they should really pray about their own heart vs worrying about whats in yours.

[@philtheo]

What I like to do if available is to purchase affordable versions of the same layout or typesetting of a premium Bible. For example: * CSB. There's a super nice and expensive edition of the personal size single column CSB coming out March 2024 called the CSB Personal Size Single Column in the Holman Handcrafted Collection. But a far more affordable personal size single column CSB is also available. Same layout or typesetting, but minus the nice leather, the nice paper, the beautiful colors. It's only about $20. * ESV. My favorite ESV is the Heritage. The Heritage is one of the most beautiful layouts of any Bible! I just wish they had the same layout in other translations. Anyway, the Heritage is available in a super expensive Heirloom line as well as a much more affordable TruTone that just came out this month. Such a beautiful layout, typeface, everything. Quite affordable for around $35 as opposed to over $200 or even $300 for the ESV Heirloom Heritage. * NIV. My favorite is the NIV Heritage Bible in single column. This is available in a more affordable version as well as a premium version. But the premium version of the NIV Heritage Bible is probably the most affordable premium version of any Bible I've ever seen! Well under $100 (I paid around $50 or $60 on Christian Book during a sale); it should be worth like $200+. And I paid under $20 for the affordable version of the NIV Heritage. * NLT. My favorite is the original single column Filament! I think of it as the poor man's version of the Schuyler Caxton and the Tyndale Select (both of which are out of print at this time). But actually I like the Filament version better than the Caxton or Select because the Filament doesn't have references off in the margins (which both the Caxton and the Select do) and I prefer not having references in the margins. And it's a two for the price of one Bible because the NLT Filament Bible looks like a reader's Bible and it also has a study Bible online that you can use on your phone, iPad, or other device. I just want to underscore that the original NLT Filament Bible is single column, whereas all the newer editions of the NLT Filament Bible seem to be double column. At least I haven't found any newer editions that are single column, but I'd be super glad to hear if anyone knows whether there are single column editions among the newer NLT Filament Bibles. Anyway it is around $20 or $30. Again, much more affordable than the $200+ Caxton or Select.

[@biblecornerreviews]

Thanks for this video. I’ve had to think through this being a hobby Bible reviewer. As far as the collection idea goes I went the exact rout you did (it’s cheaper than cars and so much better)! That said I am totally willing to give away a bible if I know someone who needs one. I like to see all the options, and love sharing them with people. And yes, I read my Bible(s)❤

[@Nanster-gv8nf]

I would like to see the taxes and credit card receipt of people that say paying more than a certain amount is a sin. Then they can cast the first stone.

[@ThecrosseyedTexan]

Yeah I wonder if some of those people who say you shouldn't own a very nice Bible have an 1800 dollar set a tailor-made golf clubs. Lol

[@jenlovesjesus]

Good video. I’m Catholic, and we’re taught that it’s okay to have nice things provided you don’t become enslaved to them. Think of the costly ointment that Mary poured over Jesus’ head. The only one who complained was Judas.

[@ThecrosseyedTexan]

I have to use giant print Bibles 13 14 and 16 point font because I'm legally blind. If I find one that I like since they don't make those in premium I will have it rebound with a nicer more sturdy cover on it

[@openlybookish]

Love your humbleness.

[@jeffcarlson3269]

I really appreciate your honest heartfelt honesty..... you have really put your sincerity out there in the public view... I agree.. with your views... No we don't perhaps... NEED to have a premium bible.. but.. what is wrong with having 1 or 2 or a few...? I have several.. BUT... I have bought some premium bibles very cheap... and some I have paid a lot more for... I have found that many times on sites such as E-bay or Amazon.. I can pick up a premium bible for 1/4 the cost of what the originally cost.. was.... to me.... this is being thrifty with the talents the Lord has entrusted me with. those same people complaining about spending too much for a premium bible.. are probably spending MORE on their plain bible than I am spending on a top grain premium one.. so if.. I buy 2 premium bibles for less than what they spend on 2 of their plain ones... who is actually being the most...like Jesus?.. I find No fault in someone owning premium bibles... nor do I find fault anyone for owning too many bibles...(at this time I have over 250)...they will all go to good homes one day after I am gone.. and so my effort to purchase have Not been done to no avail.... I used to spend my money buying guitars... isn't money spent on a good premium bible better than spending it on that?..

[@eliaswalker7512]

People who think that it is a sin to have premium Bibles have absolutely no idea of the concept of giving God your best. When they go to church they dress in their best clothes. But having the word of God wrapped in premium material is a sin? how is that logical? You buy the best Bible that you can afford. You save up for better. The object is not premium, but rather that the Bible will last your lifetime. Be careful of people who say that premium bibles are a sin. because they're probably guided by the wrong spirit. Also, I bought cheap Bibles my whole life, and I bought a lot of them. because they keep wearing out. the premium Bible that I have, has lasted me a decade. It still has much much, more life in it. I spent well over $1,000 on cheap Bibles. spending one time $300 on one Bible that will last the rest of my life, explain to me how that's bad management of my resources. because now I have a little extra money that I can buy Bibles for other people.

[@tmorganriley]

"Firstfruits"

[@jasonmarshall5730]

I had that same value thinline, and I also wore it out!

[@coltonyarbro]

It was a fantastic Bible!

[@innovati]

As a non-premium-bible enjoyer who has mostly hardcover pew editions, you make some great points for buying or even collecting premium bibles. Could be worse items to collect, hopefully they are enjoyed and used, and maybe for some people it motivates them to read more like how you might enjoy driving a supercar compared to a cheap car. I know I enjoy my hardcover reading experience more than paperback even though paperback has all the same words.

[@trumpetprofessor]

I used to think that spending so much money on a Bible was wrong, and then realized later how often I would wear a Bible out. Currently, the Bible I used sells for $154.99 and lemme tell ya that thing is DURABLE!! I also spent 58 on it, because I love to get deals. I love rebinds,.especially when it comes to those made by people who are artistic in who the rebind them. It's like I'm also supporting an artist at the same time

[@MrMann-gt1eh]

I used to spend my money on drugs and video games. I’m a born again Christian now. I spend it on the needy and the Word of God that I will have forever and consider it a valuable “weapon of war” (spiritual). I love my bibles but I don’t idolize them. I will still buy more. Whatever keeps my heart focused on things above.

[@joselimjoco3367]

I have only one premium bible. I also have several pre-loved bibles all of which I use.

[@kndvds1492]

Is a seamless garment (the most expensive clothing in biblical times) as sin. If so, then were ALL in trouble because Jesus had a seamless garment.

[@JonHuhnMedical]

Just bought a $22 "premium value" NLT off of Amazon. My favorite Bible so far. The language is so easy, reading it is like cutting through butter, and the lack of study notes means it's a thin book and very lightweight to carry and set on my chest to read while lying down. But after reading the comments here, I wonder if the binding will last a year. We'll see...

[@coltonyarbro]

If it is sewn you will get a while out of it.

[@RoyalPineapple-dk2vg]

Nothing wrong with owning a great quality made bible as long as owning it doesn’t own you! I am looking now for what I can afford but I am shopping around for best value on a good Bible. I like Colton Yarbro’s recommend of Rustic Leatherworks, one day ever I need it, I would consider going there for a favorite, much used Bible to be rebound, I just have to start saving now is all. :)

[@purplemav]

It’s no different than choosing a piece of furniture that is made of wood vs pressboard. They are both functional but the wood is going to last longer and is going to cost more. People wouldn’t bat an eye if someone chose to spend more on the wood furniture but somehow are unable to apply the same reasoning when it comes to a Bible. The most important thing is actually use our Bibles and keep within our monetary limits. If you are ever in doubt as to whether you should buy something or not, that may be your cue to pray and ask God if that something you ought to do.

[@BunnyWatson-k1w]

You can find decent Bibles in bookstores for $25. You can also find premium style Bibles for $150. I even saw a Cambridge UP Bible for $350. There's a lot worst things you can buy with your money.

[@RachelLWolfe]

Very true!

[@isactoriguevara6030]

I like how you approach the subject. There has to be a little bit of Christian liberty. Depending on how well you are doing monetary wise. But you can’t condemn, that’s God’s place. I personally can’t afford anything higher than $120, but I do wish I could own a nice goat skin or bison leather. Maybe one of this days lol. God bless you!

[@SaneNoMore]

We waste money on so many nonessentials in life I find it ridiculous that anyone would condemn someone for paying more for bibles that will last for a life time.

[@shawnglass108]

Is a $5 coffee a sin? That’s over $1,800 dollars a year for coffee. A $200 Premium Bible would cost you 55 cents a day for a year..Stretch that cost out over all the years you will use that Bible and compare it to other things you spend money on. Buy a Premium Bible if you use it and carry it proudly without a penny’s worth of guilt.

[@useupwearout5029]

I have enjoyed watching a particular content creator that has recently moved to mostly featuring premium Bibles. I HAVE found it off-putting....more focused on the leathers and stitching, rather than the variety of presentations of the Word. I had to check myself, remembering...judge not, lest ye be judged. So, I am thankful you brought this subject up. I believe you summarized the proper view perfectly..."we aught not bind other Christian's consciousness" each Christian has the liberty of their conscience. I am fortunate enough to have several Bibles. It has taken me many years to choose them carefully for their various study perspectives. None of them are premium. Yet, they are also not trade-paperback in style. They have 'nice to the touch' paper with a good smell (a strange importance to me.) and a decent "leather-touch" cover. Usually in the $35 to $65 range. Those are things that are important TO ME. I have also collected many from deep discount sales...to ferret away to give away when the need arises. Personally...I enjoy seeing the lovely premium Bibles. I'd just rather be able to save the money to get The Word out to others... BUT...a caveat.....I have one Study Bible that I use daily (years now). As it wears over time...with all my notes...all my letters to my sons....I do plan on having it (plus a copy of it so each son has the exact same Bible)...bound nicely. The church is of many parts...each with it's ability and purpose. There is only one judge. Leave that work to Him.

[@dloveofgod8269]

So well said 💕

[@mikehoward455]

Thank you Colton for a very thoughtful dialogue on what can be a sensitive subject. Appreciate your wise words. 👌👍🙏.

[@coltonyarbro]

Thank you Mike.

[@RandyBuildz]

I buy cheap, paperback, bibles because I know I'm hard on them. Carried in a backpack while traveling, used extensively. But this is just me, anyone else's situation might be different.

[@bobbylibertini]

For 20 years my favorite Bible was one of those $10 KJVs from the dollar store. Cheap pleather binding; newsprint paper; large print...and it was great 'cause it just had an "old feel" to it, even when it was new. You don't have to worry about ruing it- so can take it outdoors, etc. These days I'm using a 1957 Collins Fontana: S,mall, very thin; amazingly thin India paper, with no bleed through, and real leather...but I still have the dollar store one as a back-up! Nothing wrong with fancy Bibles- but they're just not for me- especially the modern ones, with their stark white paper and modern fonts and fancy bindings...they just feel so pretentious and sterile- I doubt people who own them even use them much (Like RH Allans and Schuylers...looks like they're more for show than for reading- but kudos to those who enjoy them)

[@HeavyHeartsShow]

The Best Book deserves the best treatment. I think it becomes an issue if one becomes haughty about their ownership of premium bibles. Boasting is the problem I've seen, but premium Bibles themselves are one of the greatest things on earth. Book binding is a craft, and all crafts have its masters which are worth appreciating by patronage. I understand if someone does not appreciate the craftsmanship in this particular niche, but perhaps they do in another? Food for thought. Premium Bibles are a more pleasant experience beyond just the cover. The font is designed for easier reading, and the durability lasts for generations. As with anything, there is a market for varying price points. A free Bible is worth more than the most expensive secular book though. I think a good point was made 6:30 that Bibles are a better thing one could collect.

[@badsmac]

Comes down to your heart. Why do you want to own a premium Bible? Is to say you have them (oh look at me) or is it because of the quality a long lasting Bible gives you? If it’s the later, then go for it. Don’t be haughty about it. Great video.

[@coltonyarbro]

Well said! Thanks for watching!

[@WildflowersCreations]

Know the video you are referring to. My opinion with any Bible or reference material you are investing in IF you are going to USE it BUY IT! Don't buy things to sit on a shelf or be a status item, USE THEM. If you are using them the investment is up to you, what you think you can afford and what you are willing to invest in that Bible or reference material you will be USING. Because you are using it and it is making a difference in your life. On a completely different note how much have you / I spent on pens, pencils, highlights, and other materials to write notes in our Bibles and references materials? I say Bibles because I work with 3 different transitions.

[@chrismueller1328]

God has blessed me and I have a lot of nice things in my life. I'm not rich but God has blessed me with the desires of my heart. Recently I decided I wanted an older publishing of the KJV (not the 1611). I was using a $15 dollar NASB which was fine but it was getting scraggly. I saw some of these premium flagship bibles as they call them and I saw the price and it blew my mind for a moment. But yet I found some I was really interested in because they had exactly what I was looking for, I got a Cambridge turquoise Black Calfskin full yap 10/11 pt font red letter 28 gsm red art gilt 3 red ribbons, very nice in my hands, super easy on my eyes. It feels right and it's encouraging to read. I want to spend time in His Word and I have been. It makes sense, why is it that I have nice things but my Bible is a 15 dollar mess? It reminds me of Mary who poured out her Alabaster Jar of Nard perfume on Jesus' feet. And we remember what Judas said. Point is Mary understood what was better. But I agree there is a danger. Because remember the Pheresee's loved these nice religious items. But they didn't follow the God those items spoke about. Great video

[@sandsleeper3124]

I don't own premium bibles but I have genuine leather bibles for translations I use frequently. The last one I purchased I had to decide between paying almost double for genuine leather over bonded leather. I chose to spend the extra money because I thought about the tremendous amount of wealth that went into Salomon's temple. I felt justified in spending a very small portion of my wealth on a better quality bible. It's a personal thing though. In a way I envy people at church who bring a beat-up hardcover because they are free from the idea of having a bible made with higher quality materials.

[@joestfrancois]

I am a non-believer in Christianity but have an interest in the Christian and Hebrew Bible. I have a $10 NRSV I bought on Amazon, a 1970 NEB purchased at the Goodwill for $1.24, and a NIV compact Bible purchased at the Goodwill for $3.25. I want a physical copy of the NKJV Bible, but can read that on BibleGateway anytime I want. The study of the Christian Bible is not enhanced by premium bibles. I like larger font, single column and hardcover, preferably cloth over cardboard. Past that, it doesn't matter.

[@Jerry-vx2kj]

Many peoples have the hobby of acquiring latest premium smartphone.. why not to premium Bible/s? Anyway you will only aquire new one when you have the capacity to do so. Excellent topic brother.

[@rocko100able]

As far as custom Bibles I can say I bought a custom Bible, I got a Thompson chain reference block, it was a an original version of the Thompson's an original not a zondervan, and I had a custom custom leather with a full Yap, and it wasn't cheap it was more than 200 hundred dollars, and I also think it's a matter of the conscience, and like you said if it just sits there on the shelf and you don't read it, it might be kind of be unproductive if you're not in the word, An the word is our daily food, and just like a regular human if he doesn't eat something he's going to starve to death. 👇 Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” 👇 Hebrews 4:13 “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.”

[@DivineKnight_115]

I see them as an investment for a family to have a high quality Bible that can last generations if taken care of. My family always have family bibles and little personal ones they know will get tossed around in bags or else.

[@JordanVillarreal]

Everybody says it’s because they can’t afford them. I can’t afford to get attached to another cheap Bible that will fail me. I can’t afford to invest 100s of hours in study and note taking to end up having to retire a Bible when it finally feels perfect. Most people can buy one if they save up, and it is an investment that is worth it. Most people are typing from a smartphone worth double a very expensive Bible. Most people claim the Bibles are too expensive, but really they would rather spend the money on something they enjoy more. It’s crazy that people get angry over this. If a leather bound Bible was the cheaper option, I’d still go with it because it is better in every way.

[@veseyvonveitinghof9593]

...premium Bibles may be unnecessary but are not inherently bad...

[@RNDist]

I have 10 premium bibles and I love them all

[@ravonaf]

If spending too much money on a bible is immoral then so is everything else you spend money on. Your expensive car when you could have bought a cheap used car. Your house worth hundreds of thousands of dollars when you could have lived in a much smaller house. Going out to dinner with your family when you could cook dinner at home. All unnecessary but not a sin.

[@tomlavelle8340]

Nice Bibles are great. The Word doesn’t change. No harm in nice binding.

[@Rev.DavidJTowns]

Great video and a great topic.

[@coltonyarbro]

Thank you brother

[@jeffcarlson3269]

I think the most I have spent on a premium bible is a used Allan bible in Meriva red goat skin.. for 250.00... but that is Not an every day occurrence for me.. I have been retired for the last 3 years so I can't.. before I retired I was spending my money on finishing my penny collection... I had to spend 900.00 to purchase a decent 1909 s VDB..... so what I spend on premium bibles pales compared to THAT..!

[@veedub95]

Do we Need Premium House, Car, clothes, Food, Education, etc. Are we suppose to be Monks?

[@coltonyarbro]

Good questions. I don’t think we “need” any of those things but it is permitted that we have them. As to Monks, I’m not Roman Catholic so I would say no 😅

[@tmorganriley]

Even monks spent their years making and illuminating the most premium Bibles in history!