The editors at Lord’s Library have compiled this list of the best study Bibles for beginners on our reading list.
Study Bibles are special editions of the Bible written specifically for students of the Bible. Study Bibles provide scholarly information designed to give the reader context and a more complete understanding of God’s Word. Scholarly information can come in several forms, from annotations that explain complex passages, articles and biographies of key characters, illustrations and other visuals, and more.
With this in mind, the editors at Lord’s Library have compiled this list of the best study Bibles for beginners (adult) to consider. The one that is right for you will largely depend upon which features are most important. Each listing includes author and publisher information, some basic facts about the version, and links to any alternative versions that may be available.
Note: We only included the best study Bibles for beginners with a 4-star or better rating and a minimum of 50 reviews. Titles are organized by the total number of reviews at the time of our publication.
NIV, Starting Place Study Bible
Author/Publisher: Zondervan
Material: Hardcover
Key Features:
- 282 Q&A notes
- 146 context notes
- 138 Bible truths and book introductions
From the publisher: “An introductory exploration into studying God’s word, the NIV Starting Place Study Bible includes approachable, easy to use features that will guide readers through Scripture while building their confidence and knowledge in the Scriptures. Featuring book introductions, context notes and character profiles, this is the perfect NIV study Bible for those beginning their Bible journey, and a great gift for new believers.”
NIV, Quest Q & A Study Bible
Author/Publisher: Zondervan
Material: Hardcover
Key Features:
- More than 7,000 insightful notes arranged in Q and A format
- 350 articles that investigate popular questions
- Single-column Scripture text
From the publisher: “The NIV Quest Study Bible features over 7,000 notes written in an engaging question and answer format that give insight into the common, uncommon, and sometimes perplexing passages from the Bible. The only question and answer Bible is now available with exclusive Zondervan NIV Comfort Print for smooth reading.”
Related to Consider:
Note: Inclusion criteria are the same as above (4-star or better rating and a minimum of 50 reviews).
Bible Study Guide for Beginners: Each of the 66 Books Explained for Getting Started
Author/Publisher: Brian Gugas
Material: Paperback
Key Features:
- Details on the authors of each book and the time frame in which it was written
- Key themes for each book
- Summary of the messages in each book
From the publisher: “This Bible study book serves as a road map for the beginner to develop an appreciation of the Bible and make it a part of their daily living. A devotion for contemplation and further exploration Immerse yourself in the stories, prophecies, and messages of the Bible and discover anew the awe-inspiring force, mercy, and healing power of God and Jesus Christ.”
30 Days to Understanding the Bible
Author/Publisher: Max Anders
Material: Paperback
Key Features:
- The “Arc of Bible History”
- The “Story of the Bible”
- A 13-week plan that provides tools for teaching
From the publisher: “If you’ve ever confused the ark of the covenant with the ark of Noah, or Jericho with Jeroboam, Max Anders’ classic book, 30 Days to Understanding the Bible, is for you. In just fifteen minutes a day, you’ll learn the Bible’s key people, events, and doctrines to get more out of God’s Word. This simple-to-use, straightforward guide has been recommended by Bible teachers and pastors for thirty years, and now it’s available in an expanded thirtieth anniversary edition—with the most requested topics from the original edition restored and updated for today’s readers.”
How to Study The Bible for Beginners
Author/Publisher: HowExpert Press
Material: Paperback
From the publisher: “How to Study the Bible for Beginners” is great tool for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the Word of God. Jane Rodda realizes that even though people want to study the Bible more, at times it can seem overwhelming and confusing, especially for someone who has not done much study before. In the guide, Jane breaks it down into small, easy to understand steps that will help anyone learn a little more.”
The Bible: A Beginner’s Guide to Study and Understand Scripture
Author/Publisher: Edward Carbey
Material: Paperback
Key Features:
- A beginner-friendly introduction to the Bible
- Detailed history of “The Patriarchies”
- A thorough look into the era of judges, kings, and prophets
From the publisher: “Enhance your knowledge of the Bible, strengthen your faith, discover how to connect with God on a deeply personal level, and apply the teachings of the scriptures in your daily life with this bible guide! In this straightforward book, you’ll uncover a chronological order of biblical events with clear, lucid explanations for each significant event, from the Old Testament to the New Testament that is sure to fill you with divine inspiration and acquaint yourself with the core teachings of the Bible.”
Know Your Bible: All 66 Books Explained and Applied
Author/Publisher: Paul Kent
Material: Paperback
Key Features:
- Easy-to-understand guide
- Data on author and time frame
- Thoughts on what makes each book unique or unusual
From the publisher: “Know Your Bible is a concise, easy-to-understand guide to God’s Word–giving you a helpful and memorable overview of all 66 books. For each book of the Bible, Know Your Bible provides data on the author and time frame, a ten-word synopsis, a longer (50-100 word) summary, thoughts on what makes the book unique or unusual, a listing of key verses, and a “So, What?” section of practical application. It’s a fantastic resource for individuals and ministries!”
Growing In Christ: A Thirteen Week Follow-Up Course for New and Growing Christians
Author/Publisher: The Navigators
Material: Paperback
Key Features:
- Tear-out Scripture memory verse cards
- 13 total Bible lessons
From the publisher: “This perennial best-selling discipleship tool contains the classic Bible studies Lessons on Assurance and Lessons on Christian Living in one package―13 lessons in all! These Navigator Bible studies are a great leader’s resource to explain the fundamentals of the Christian life. An ideal gift for a new believer or someone who has an interest in Jesus. Tear-out Scripture memory verse cards are included in KJV, NIV, NASB, and NRSV.”
The Beginner’s Guide and Workbook: How to Read and Understand Your KJV Bible
Author/Publisher: F.D. Sparkman
Material: Paperback
Key Features:
- Tear-out Scripture memory verse cards
- 13 total Bible lessons
From the publisher: “If you want: something different, you have to do something different! This workbook is a compilation of scriptures structured in such a way so that the reader is drawn into the word, thus causing them to ask questions and have them answered by scripture. A radical departure from the normalized approach to being taught the bible. This workbook was designed to be eye-opening and informative, to fully equip the reader with the necessary tools to finally “get it” and know “what” the scriptures are actually saying.”
Study the Bible – Six Easy Steps
Author/Publisher: Dennis Stevenson Jr.
Material: Hardcover
Key Features:
- Bible study methods and practical tools
- An approach to understanding any passage of Scripture
From the publisher: “This easy-to-read book starts with the basics and guides you through the Bible study process one step at a time. You’ll find practice questions, sample exercises, and a guided study that walk you through the process and teach you the skills you need. Using this step-by-step approach and simple instructions, you’ll gain the boldness to explore God’s Word and become a Bible student for the rest of your life.”
Genesis Study: A Beginner’s Study Guide
Author/Publisher: Crystal Sparks
Material: Paperback
Key Features:
- Commentary for beginners
- Historical references
- Journaling sections
From the publisher: “This study walks through the book of Genesis, chapter by chapter. It is for anyone that has ever wanted to read the Bible and truly understand it better. The Genesis Study is for everyone that has started to read through the Bible and felt overwhelmed. From Genesis to Revelation the Bible tells us the story of redemption. It reminds us of who we are, and teaches us of the God who has pursued us from the beginning of time. Despite all the times we have failed-He has remained Faithful.”
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