The Necessity of the Berean Study Bible (BSB)

Another translation of the Bible?! Is it necessary? YES. Here's why. For a blog post about some of the content, read here:
Some history of translations centered around the NIV84. kevinrkdavisbl...
My blog post on the BSB
kevinrkdavisbl...
Cheapest place to order a BSB (plus lots of free downloads)
bereanbibles.com/
I don't care if you like, dislike, subscribe, or throw your laptop or phone in anger at this video. I don't make money here.

[@Carol-nv6py]

I bought the Berean study Bible in 2020. I was previously mostly a ESV reader. Personally, I'm a woman. If the original languages translate correctly to male pronouns, I prefer the accuracy foremost. (AND, I'm a woman) I like my leather too, but for 30 years of my life I could not afford a leather Bible and wore the cardboard off the Bible from use. Literally, all that held together was the inner pages. I'm a Bible snob, so what. I love the Lord and His word is my life blood keeping this old lady in the comfort of His word. Thank you. Enjoyed your talk/video. Thanks so much !

[@jakevermillion]

Glad you mentioned at the end the BSB is the product of the NIV84 and the NKJV! When you started describing the specific features (gender specificity, deity capitalization, textus receptus) it sounded so much like what I love about the NKJV

[@kevindavis3010]

Many NKJVers have said they liked it.

[@rosalynforte509]

Hi Kevin! I just recently bought the Berean Bible. It’s the same exact one you’re holding and I love it! I’m reading from it now and I’m really enjoying it. I love the translation, the font and the paper. It’s an awesome Bible. Thanks for the wonderful review. Good luck with your KZbin channel. I liked and subscribed to it. God bless! 💜✝️🙏🏻

[@jettbuster6661]

Lol! Love this guy’s attitude. Straight to the point and no cares given! Keep it up home slice!

[@waynestevens79]

That was the best concise analysis of what has become my go-to Bible! And yes, I would like a leather one, perhaps in black.

[@kevindavis3010]

Getting my rebound as we speak!

[@waynestevens79]

@@kevindavis3010 delayed reply... Please share when you have it rebound. I'm interested in doing that. Thanks, brother!

[@kevindavis3010]

@@waynestevens79 Oh yeah, you best believe I'll be making a video on it!

[@kevindavis3010]

@@waynestevens79 I invite you to join the Berean Study Bible Bible group on Facebook if you haven't yet

[@waynestevens79]

@@kevindavis3010 Cool. I'll check it out.

[@ancalagon0216]

I am super excited about this translation. I’m even more excited about the Berean Literal Bible to be fully translated and published. I’m more of a word-for-word translation type of gal, but very occasionally experimenting with slightly more “conservative-leaning” thought-for-thought translations… if that makes sense LOL. And I’m totally with ya, gender inclusive wording is annoying at this point. More and more translations are heading that direction, unfortunately, as if that’s what everyone is actually looking for in an “ideal” bible - while completely ignoring the fact that many (including women!) do not care for that kind “accuracy”. Great review!!

[@catch1884]

I just got my BSB and I’m hooked. Thanks for doing this video.

[@kevindavis3010]

I'm so glad this video seems to be helping people!

[@roannemandap9150]

Oh, that´s why I like the BSB! Because it´s so close to the NIV 84 which is my preferred translation for Scripture memorization. I grew up with it.

[@SirMillz]

May have to pick up one of these BSB physical copies. The smaller updated one, particularly.

[@maureenharrah931]

My husband loved a particular quote .....and the Bible that HAD it perfectly was a Berean.....and on a LARK, I ordered one. I LOVE MINE.

[@kevindavis3010]

It's a great Bible!

[@maureenharrah931]

@@kevindavis3010 I just recently decided to underline in red Jesus' words..... I DO wish they did print a RED LETTER ....maybe they will with the annotated one ....????

[@seansimpson485]

Awesome insight. I lean more toward the KJV/MEV but I Started reading the BSB yesterday and really like it. Really wish the 1984 Niv wasn't done away with. It was the first bible I was ever given. Still have it to this day but its falling apart. Would like to get my hands on a new one.

[@kevindavis3010]

Ebay has many NIV84s. Sometimes a good deal pops up, like $30 for a hardly used one.

[@sylviafriessen9124]

I do love the CSB... My mains are NKJV/CSB ... I leave most all other translations be, gave away most of my other translations .. may try the BSB at some point

[@kevindavis3010]

As I said, the BSB is like if a NIV84 married the NKJV. But that could be said, since NIV and CSB share a lot of similarities. I think you'd like the BSB.

[@thecrew777]

Wow. You actually answered the main question, and quite soundly! Thanks! (Now I have to find BSB somewhere online, cuz I'm all about the insides....)

[@kevindavis3010]

bereanbibles.com/shop/ Cheapest and best place. I've had both a hard cover and two soft covers, both are good quality.

[@WgB5]

I just got my 2022 copy. I wish they had used a bolder print. The text is so faded it's hard to enjoy reading.

[@---zc4qt]

I have seen this Bible for sale on various websites. I wish there was a way to get a copy at the BEST/LOWEST price.

[@kevindavis3010]

Check out bereanbibles.com... but also, reach out to their contact page and see if you could get a discount.

[@suiko2fan2]

Just got my BSB last week and it’s def becoming my favorite.

[@sphtu8]

I just found the BSB late 2022, and I'm loving it as a TRUE central (centrist?) type version. ✝️

[@karmiclaugh]

I enjoyed this video, funny and also interesting. Thanks for posting.

[@gregsquire9704]

There is a second printing available. Only 2 major. The name it's now the Berean standard bible and it's a little smaller in size. Also a book block is available. So you can get a rebind of your choice

[@kevindavis3010]

Yes I’ve made a few updated videos since then!! Thanks!

[@gregsquire9704]

@Kevin Davis just after posting I noticed the one you did 10 months ago. :)

[@sdhute]

I like the freedom of using the text BSB gives you more control of using the text outside of the Bible. The 2nd additions are smaller and they even sell just the block which is perfect for a rebind. I love my original however it’s a bIGGEn

[@billiamnotbob]

I got mine a few years ago. I got it in the Burgundy leather. I just wasn't a fan of the CSB. I rotate Bibles that I read through the year and this year it's the BSB. I only wish it had more footnotes.

[@michelle5936]

This is so spot on. Thank you for this.

[@Stevenw92]

Thanks for the vid brother. God Bless you

[@Phillipmurr]

I’m a victim of the NIV update. The NIV 1984 was my main Bible for 20 years. I’ve been on a hard-core translation search myself I tried moving over to the NIV, 2011. But I just can’t. I basically settled on the Christian standard Bible I love that they use an optimal equivalency Trying to be word for word until it’s beneficial not to Makes a whole lot of sense to me. The gender neutral language isn’t like that and I have a 2011 They hold strong to mail only teachers, and when it’s clearly stating a particular gender, they go with it But I’m going to check out berean study Bible. Sounds like it might wind up being perfect. Thank you very much

[@catfinity8799]

My only problem with the BSB is that it has one and only rather than only begotten. And a compelling reason to not use the NET Bible that you mentioned is that it doesn't believe that the NT renderings and interpretations of OT passages should impact our translation of OT passages.

[@GoldenWarriorMTL]

Great review 👍for a Great Bible 👍, i love my BSB! ❤️

[@aa0ni]

Best summary of your assessment... BSB = NIV84 + NKJV

[@scottbeldi5826]

Can I buy a vowel?

[@TheMik579]

I moved from the KJV to the NKJV, then the NIV and ESV. Recently, The CSB has been my go to translation. I've just become acquainted with the BSB. I find that it reads most like the CSB. But I find that I'm preferring the BSB renderings.

[@kevindavis3010]

All good translations really. The BSB is a great mediating and accurate translation.

[@jovondeonte89]

BSB is the future

[@aranza1221]

Bahaha… love it! I never heard of this translation until a few days ago. I ordered a copy. I agree they need to think about better presentation, more colors, etc. I love the blue color on the hardcover wish it was leather…

[@kevindavis3010]

Leather in the 2nd edition comes out this November.

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

Loved your review - facial expressions included. 😄👍🏻 Am looking forward to getting the next printing…also my understanding is it will be called the Berean Standard Bible instead of Berean “Study” Bible as it’s not really a Study Bible as it’s missing all the notes, maps etc.

[@pinkdiscomosh2766]

I’m glad I’m not the only one that has these thoughts about translations. I grew up on KJV/NIV84 and eventually adopted the ESV in 2012 or so. It’s been my core translation since but I am yet again on the hunt for something closer to my roots which you would think the ESV would be it but I’m actually loving the Legacy Standard Bible as it reads a lot like the KJV in many ways that the ESV just doesn’t. As much as I’m sure the BSB is worth its salt, it feels very much like the MEV. A great idea that most likely won’t go anywhere. It’s a diamond in the rough for sure but when the rough is actually pretty good and it’s just another diamond but smaller.

[@Ldgreggbell]

I checked out the BSB recently. It's a really good translation and I do enjoy it. As you say it sticks to the NKJV style whilst being very readable. At the moment I'm in the MEV, NKJV, and NET camp.

[@kevindavis3010]

All great translations themselves. I think I have a few MEV videos on my channel too. BSB currently has online the MSB, Majority Standard Bible. It's a BSB with Majority Text renderings.

[@JohnnyMacs-BibleNightInCanada]

2016 - NT 2021 - Full bible ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ - great review

[@kevindavis3010]

Thank you sir for the correction!

[@John-jk9rz]

Hi! I'm actually using my husband's phone now, so different name ... but I have been spending time whenever I can trying to find a study Bible in a translation without the God-awful "brothers and sisters" replacing "brothers." I purchased a super cheap NIV somewhere in the neighborhood of 30 or so years ago (I think I paid $4.99 or $5.99 for it at the time) and I wanted to replace it with a nice premium copy, but horror of horrors, there is was ..."brothers and sisters." I started researching. It appears that the majority of Bibles have gone this sad route. I stumbled across the BSB in my recent searches, and this video of yours tonight. Do you still like this Bible? It looks like it's maybe had a second printing and some new leather colors since you did this video (yes, I hanker for premium leather), so do you still like this Bible and is there anything I should know that was unknown to you in this video? Thank you in advance 🙂

[@kevindavis3010]

The Berean Study Bible updated to the name Berean Standard Bible, because the "Study" was throwing people off. If you purchase one all you get is a translation with a few footnotes for translation notations but no study notes like an old NIV Study Bible. If you want something close to an NIV84 that has traditional pronouns, the only translation I know of that fits that and has a study Bible is an EHV Lutheran Study Bible, available at NPH.net. The Lutheran organization that puts it out is conservative, and won't have super off notes. An eBay purchase of either an HCSB Study Bible or NIV Study Bible 1984 might run you just as high for a good copy. If you've never checked out the ESV Study Bible its really good, and though the ESV might be a slightly harder read than the NIV84, it's still got traditional pronouns and it's not impossible to read. Hope this helps you on your journey!

[@John-jk9rz]

@kevindavis3010 Thank you very much! I really appreciate you taking the time to help me with this. I pray that God will richly bless you.

[@Americanninjaman]

I love the BSB translation.

[@Dwayne_Green]

Very well presented and easy to understand history of the gender neutral issue. The one thing that kills me in the TNIV is the one textual variant where the commitee made Jesus 'angry' in Mark 1 on the basis of ONE manuscript... where everywhere else He was "Filled with compassion". Like.... WHY?!?!

[@kevindavis3010]

Kind of like the usage of "Jesus," in Jude v5. There is another just one manuscript usage - but I've read a few translations, BSB included, that do it. I'm not put off by that as say what you mention, but still.. translation committees have it tough.

[@DJRoll15]

I love the BSB. The main issues is I wish the Bible was smaller and had cross references and I wish more people read it.

[@kevindavis3010]

I admin the BSB group on Facebook and am in communication with the Translation Team - a second printing is underway due to drop this year, hopefully in the next few months. A new smaller portable edition is among the new printings. Keep an eye out!

[@DJRoll15]

@@kevindavis3010 sweet dude that’s awesome. Thanks for the reply

[@WgB5]

I have a super cheap cardboard/fake leather 1984 NIV. The cover is stiff. ut if the CSB is just another NIV then what is the point of getting a CSB?

[@kevindavis3010]

There are subtle and or notable differences of course. Here is a blog post where I thoroughly examined and compared the BSB, NIV84, CSB and ESV. kevinrkdavisblog.wordpress.com/2022/04/04/a-case-for-the-berean-standard-bible-bsb/

[@WgB5]

@temiongcecilio At one point I owned all the editions of the NIV, including the original, which was later given to a die hard NIV fan. I bought the 1984 version about two years ago, through Amazon. I recently replaced this with a 2017 version of the CSB. It seems to be more accurate. KJV array, is almost complete (just can't afford an original 1611), as well as an array of Catholic versions of the Bible. Among other oddities is a 2005 edition of the NCV, which took me several years to warm up to.

[@stephenchittenden2703]

Great video, Kevin. I appreciate your explanation. Could you comment on how the BSB compares with the LSB? Thanks.

[@kevindavis3010]

Stephen, while I have not read the LSB at all, what I know about it is this: it purports to be a literal Bible, in fact I think John MacArthur (who commissioned it) sees it as "the most literal Bible out there today." This puts it along the lines of NASB, in fact I know the LSB is a NASB95 revision (contrast from Lockman's own NASB2020, which uses gender neutrality / gender accuracy). Thus, the LSB will be in the "literal" category, and the BSB will be more into that center column, a "mediating translation." Thus we are comparing two translation philosophies here. What I will say is that I'm reading the NASB77 a lot, and it flows fairly easy. I'm sure the LSB will flow just as easy. What I will say is that LSB uses Yahweh for LORD, since Lord in the Old Testament in most traditional Bibles (BSB included) is actually Yahweh (YHWH) in the original Hebrew. Why don't most Bibles just use Yahweh like LSB does? For good reason, the NT authors, when they quote Old Testament passages that have YHWH in them, use "Kyrios," the Greek form of how we would use Lord / Master. So Bible translators have traditionally went with the Biblical authors, and used 'LORD' (small caps on 'ORD') for YHWH. All that being said, Yahweh in Bible translations is not a hill for me to die on either. I have felt, in quick, that LSB was a quick reaction of the MacArthur crowd when they heard NASB2020 was making certain decisions (isn't it interesting how many translations are born out of reactions?). And apparently, largely unnecessary, as it seems Zondervan has only geared up their NASB95 production in recent years, instead of try and transition everyone to the NASB2020 (maybe they learned from the NIV84 -> NIV11 transition). I hope this was helpful. Any preference of the BSB over the LSB will be more of a decision based on one's philosophy over mediating versus 'essentially literal' translations. I encourage folks to read at least 2 Bible translations (1 from each of these categories - literal and then mediating). Both I think are helpful.

[@stephenchittenden2703]

@@kevindavis3010 thanks for your thoughtful reply. I’ve been on a translation journey, too. NKJV guy for a lot of years. Then I got an HCSB and liked the freshness. The sometimes/sometimes not use of Yahweh made me wonder why. But I still missed a bit of the classic-ness of the NKJV wording. Earlier this year I got an ESV because I wondered what I was missing, that it seemed like most of the modern Christian world was lauding in this translation. Almost done with my read-through, but gotta be honest, I had a hard time for a lot of weeks, with the ESV’s use of “steadfast love” to translate chesed. This may sound dumb and maybe a little trite, but compared to the “lovingkindness” and “mercy” flavor of the NKJV, the ESV rendering seemed so clinical and muted to me. So I got through the “steadfast love” in the Psalms and read through the New Testament, and I really liked the classic sound of the ESV. Actually, too, my tripping over the ESV’s “steadfast love” prodded me to do a word study on chesed, and gave me a better appreciation of the word and the ESV rendering of it.

[@jeffreyjourdonais298]

Great video! My new favorite is LSB in fake leather !

[@brendaboykin3281]

Thank you, Kevin.🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@joesbibles5636]

So good! Thanks for this video. Still undecided about this translation and admittedly it’s because that BSB layout sucks. It’s ugly. So I’m looking forward to what they’ll do next.

[@kevindavis3010]

I was informed by BSB creators a second edition is upcoming. More covers, leather included. I don't know about the layout. But I would encourage to make use of BereanBibles.com's many use digital formats, I use the ePub a lot on my devices. The layout isn't an insurmountable barrier if the text is worth it in my mind.

[@jiminybobbosa]

I initially was turned off by the BSB layout as well. I love double column Bibles, but the spacing between the words threw me off. I eventually broke down and bought a BSB, and after some usage I have come to appreciate it more. I love the translation, and the layout itself has helped when reading for an extended period for me, as it helps prevent me getting mixed up. I believe that the 2nd edition will condense the layout somewhat, which is OK with me. If the 2nd edition is as good as it sounds, it'll become my new preaching and carry around translation

[@kevindavis3010]

@@jiminybobbosa in the last month I've moved over to BSB behind the pulpit. Pew Bibles headed my way right now. It's worth it I believe.

[@RUT812]

Is there a free version of it on Kindle? Or on an app?

[@kevindavis3010]

YouVersion Bible app has it free. Free downloadable ePub bereanbibles.com!

[@RUT812]

@@kevindavis3010 Thank you

[@Sola_Scriptura_1.618]

Love the intro!

[@amyneff7866]

I appreciate you!

[@kevindavis3010]

Thanks!

[@samanthagraveswalters8443]

Have you see the LSB?

[@kevindavis3010]

I've seen and heard. Haven't really read. But I do enjoy the NASB77 which is extremely close to the LSB.

[@sluggo562]

A detriment, it is not. For me, the tendency to sound like Yoda is a perk of the ESV, it is. Where the NRSV-89 employs gender neutral language it breaks with the KJV but not the source manuscripts, correct? Unlike the new updated version which just whole hog crams modern sensibilities everywhere from what I've seen in line-by-line comparisons with the 1989 edition.

[@kevindavis3010]

I've read the NRSV89 a lot more since I've made this video, and I would be willing to admit that NRSV'89 is a lot more literal than I've let on. In fact, NRSV'89 was my one and only for awhile. I agree with your assessment of the ue, too.

[@TheFragileFeline]

which of the translations for my highly analytical pastor husband? the NASB 1995, NASB 2020, Legacy Standard Bible, Berean Literal Bible, Beran Study bible

[@kevindavis3010]

I'm a verse-by-verse Pastor and like to unpack words too, and really, the NASB77, and ESV have been my favorites to unpack with. But the LSB, NASB95 would get the job done too. And, I have preached from the BSB. The odds are, any pastor is going to find something in any translation their preaching from that needs a different rendering. But I'm happy with the NASB77, so my commendation to you right now would be NASB95 or LSB. I personally would refer 1995 between those two.

[@jerem0621]

Good Video Bro!

[@priscillaprescott1357]

NIV has left whole scripture verses out of the Bible. They did not touch the Old Testament. The New Testament, is where they are leaving scripture verses out, and they are all JESUS’S words. I started out reading the NIV I loved it. I read it every day, until I found out they had taken scripture verses out of the Bible. Now I will not have that evil Bible in my house. I was a KJV only. But the KJV have added words Matrix, Wine bottles and omitted the word homosexual. I’m a BSB only now. The BSB reads like the KJV use to, minus the thee’s and thou’s. I love the BSB and I’m thankful they are un compromising. I’m planning on buying one in the leather next.

[@kevindavis3010]

While I appreciate your concerns over "added words" and "words taken out." I think understanding why the translators did what they did is paramount. For explanation of this, look under the heading in my blog here, "Two categories of manuscripts...." kevinrkdavisblog.wordpress.com/2021/10/22/the-nkjv-finally-considered/ I believe you'll find reasons why Bible translations make the choices they do, and the reality is nothing sinister in my estimation. Thanks for the kind words on the video, and glad you're enjoying the BSB!

[@normmcinnis4102]

I found the BSB too unstable

[@kevindavis3010]

Over two years later, I can say the same. I don't use it that much anymore. It couldn't decide to be literal or dynamic, and often made choices in one category or other much to the annoyance of myself. That being said, it is a great translation for those who use it, and I hear its around to stay. Besides the 2nd Edition release, more editions are on the way. Maybe further revisions will make better choices here and there.

[@SEL65545]

@@kevindavis3010 Wait, you're not allowed to feel differently about the BSB now. You'll already influenced me enough to buy one. Just kidding. So, would you say you've settled into another "primary" translation contender now?

[@kevindavis3010]

@@SEL65545 I wish I could say I had a 'primary' translation now. Vying for that spot is honestly the HCSB 2003 text (less Yahwehs than the 2009 release, and more literal renderings). And, much to the opposing viewpoints of *this* video of mine 2 years ago, I've eased up on criticism of gender language in translations. Further to my surprise, I've found the NRSV to be a surpirisingly enjoyable read. I have a blog that's much more active than my youtube channel if you're really interested. kevinrkdavisblog.wordpress.com/

[@SEL65545]

Thanks, I'll definitely check your your blog. God bless!

[@Outrjs]

KJV Listening to you explain versions gave me a headache. The versions did, not your voice. Lol

[@adrianlee3635]

What a intro effect from your mouth...but at 2:59 mins you said the KJ of the nineties was the NIV84? I don't think three KJ has any thing to do with NIV...Anyway, with so many version in the market, why don't you use the PSB that way you won't have to worry about the leather quality aspect.😏😎😁

[@kevindavis3010]

I was making a connection, stating that for its popularity, the NIV84 enjoyed a day where among many Christians it was revered. It didn't have a cultic following like the KJV enjoys, nevertheless there are a lot of NIV84 diehards I know out there.

[@adrianlee3635]

@@kevindavis3010 PSB - Phone Study Bible, no need for leather...😃😎, unless EMP hit the state...then book will come in handy.

[@dalex60]

The necessity of a book that doesn’t prove itself to be factually correct and true. A book that doesn’t prove a god exists, or that any particular set of beliefs are correct and true above all other 3,999 brands of world religions? Ok…

[@kevindavis3010]

Thanks for your insight brother. God bless and have a good one!

[@johnbeckett51]

talk to much

[@marianneneal5120]

If you were a woman you might feel differently about gender accuracy.

[@kevindavis3010]

One of the ways I've said it in my sermons is this: in that culture, it wasn't about anatomy, whose better than who or who's more able than who, it was about inheritance. When the Bible calls you a son, the Bible is saying you're inheriting everything sons did back in Biblical days. You are a son of God. My convictions are not from a male-chauvinist perspective, ti's from a theological perspective. I'm not saying you'll agree, but I'm not here to argue, just to explain my stance. Much love, sister. Be blessed!

[@marianneneal5120]

@@kevindavis3010 It is painful to feel left out all the time. The way the language is used it appears to exclude women. Erase them. I am aware of the prerogatives of a son with respect to inheritance. I do not know what the answer is in translating an ancient language to a modern one.

[@kevindavis3010]

@@marianneneal5120 A good book to read, eye-opening, is Leonard Ryken's The Word of God in English. It's a cheap buy for used versions on Amazon. He gives a lot of straight, no-nonsense remarks on Bible translation. Stuff that I personally felt I should've known better, like, "Well, yeah. Of course that makes sense when you say it that way." I think for folks who are near and dear to God, they will know that they are not excluded. In Christ there is no male or female.

[@marianneneal5120]

@@kevindavis3010 Thank you for your kind response. I agree with you that we are all one in Christ. But you try reading a book, any book, that uses almost exclusively female pronouns, and I guarantee that you will have a visceral reaction. I don't expect you to understand. I am just stating that there are a lot of women who feel dismissed, diminished, undervalued, and excluded. Not your problem to fix, I know. It has been this way for thousands of years. I will continue to read my Bible and pray. P.S. I got a Barnes & Noble gift card for my birthday and used it to buy a BSB. It is currently en route from New Jersey. That is why I tuned in to your KZbin talk.

[@kevindavis3010]

@@marianneneal5120 I have children. Many books I've received use "she" and "her" a lot almost exclusively when talking about baby-care and so forth. I survived just fine, and while I thought "something" of it, I thought very little of it. I'm not diminishing your feelings. I know it's out there obviously. This is why CSBs, NIVs and so forth are great translations, and glory to God if they're used and appreciated for these very reasons.