Recommended Resources for Studying the Bible 

Often when we read the Bible, we spend time reading and reflecting prayerfully on the text itself.  There are other times, however, when we need to study the Bible intentionally and in more detail.  We may need to prepare a lesson for Church school, a sermon, or a small group Bible study.  Or we may simply wish to study the Bible for our own learning.  

For these purposes, reading the words of the biblical text is only a portion of the study.  It is also helpful to look behind the words of the Bible to their context, to explore the meanings of certain words and phrases, to compare what others are saying about a particular passage or verse, or to locate a place mentioned in the text.  That's when we need to turn to additional biblical resources to enhance our study.  

The number of resources written by prominent biblical scholars available today is almost overwhelming!  To help you get started, below is a list of recommended resources for studying the Bible, whether for yourself, a small group, or a larger class.  These are a few of the more standard resources arranged by various types.  

Most of the resources listed below should be available at a local library or in a church library.  Use a variety of them to help you get familiar with the approaches and styles of each one.  And if you choose to purchase any of them, visit a local bookstore or search online for the book.  

May God bless your reading and study of the Scriptures.

English Translations of the Bible
It is no secret that there are more English translations available today than ever before.  Remember that no one translation is superior for every purpose.  It is important to find the translations that will provide you with the most help you need for your study.  Keep in mind that there are two primary approaches to Bible translation, and these result in two very different types of translations.  The more traditional, word-for-word translation (or formal equivalent) tends to result in a more stilted English that can be difficult for some readers to understand.   In most cases, a formal translation will strictly follow the word order and syntax of the original language (whether Hebrew or Greek).  On the other hand, a more contemporary, meaning-for-meaning translation approach (or dynamic equivalent) tends to result in a smoother and more natural translation.  A meaning-based translation will try to avoid awkward literalness while striving to achieve the closest equivalent between the original language and modern English.  The nine translations recommended below include both formal and meaning-based translations:

Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Good News Translation (GNT)
New American Bible (NAB)
New International Bible (NIV)
New Jerusalem Bible (NJB)
New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
Revised English Bible (REB)
Revised Standard Version (RSV)
Tanakh, the Holy Scriptures (Jewish Publication Society)