book response: The Open Bible published by Thomas Nelson

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The Open Bible's subtitle on its book jacket says "Read and discover the Bible for yourself." I think this mission statement for the study bible committee is fulfilled in this type of study bible. I have and have had many study bibles. I have the kind with more notes and commentary on each page than scripture. I don't think that's a problem, that study bible committee had a different purpose. This study version stays out of the reader's way, trying to be silent as the reader encounters God through his word. The bulk of notes, commentary, and resources are in the beginning of the book or as an introduction to each book in the Bible. The verses themselves fill up most of the page, with small notes on translation with the New King James Version that they use, and cross references. Occasionally there is a key verse on an important Christian doctrine that is commented on. That kind of commentary encourages the reader to study further with reference to other verses that effect the doctrine, from demonology to sources of doubt to knowing God's will, etc. The editors want the readers to study the Bible itself. The closest in concept study bible that I own would be Kay Arthur's Inductive Study Bible, with similar goals. However, this Bible provides more gateways to learning more with its massive Biblical Cyclopedic Index and  Christian's Guide to the New Life and Visual Survey of the Bible. These tools are excellent for assisting the student of God's word.

I'm grateful to Booksneeze for providing me a free review copy.
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