20 Best Bible Reference Books (2023 Update)

Study the bible deeply, faithfully, and effectively there is a big difference between simply reading the bible and studying the bible well, so it transforms your life. that difference often boils down to having the right resources not just to read but to understand and apply what you are reading to your life. in macarthur's quick reference guide to the bible, noted pastor and teacher john macarthur takes you through the key aspects of the bible. this valuable companion to reading the bible has been prepared to help you develop good bible-reading habits and a better understanding of the depth and breadth of god's word.

The macarthur bible handbook is the ultimate book-by-book survey of the bible, including charts, graphs, and illustrations from today's leading expository teacher. a unique reference tool that is committed to quality and biblical teaching–will help you easily understand each book of the bible, its historical context, and its place in scripture. bible book basics at a glance! the meaning of each bible book's name who wrote it the date and setting the theme and purpose its key words, verses, and chapters how christ is presented (even in the old testament) its contribution to the bible as a whole a broad summary of the events and highlights it records a detailed outline of the book macarthur has put in over 60,000 hours of sermon preparation time in his 35 year ministry!

Holman illustrated bible dictionary, revised and expanded for 25 years the holman illustrated bible dictionary has been the go-to bible reference resource for lay bible students, teachers, pastors, academic courses, and libraries. those who have used it have praised its comprehensiveness, conciseness, and clarity. over 6,500 articles from aaron to zuzite are written to equip the reader for greater competence in understanding and interpreting the scriptures. each article is structured to begin with a concise definition followed by a thorough development of the topic. some 700 full-color photos, maps, reconstructions, and charts enrich the experience of those who use the dictionary for personal study, academic work, and preparation for teaching and preaching the bible. contemporary bible readers are separated from the original documents by 2,000 to 3,500 years. bridging this chasm requires linguistic, literary, geographical, historical, and cultural information that the holman illustrated bible dictionary provides. this third edition of the dictionary makes available up-to-date archaeological information that illuminates the biblical text.

Red letter 35,000 commentary notes 3-column format text and notes side-by-side 500,000 cross/chain references 9,000 headings dividing text complete concordance lists every bible word 8,000 sermon outlines summary at end of each book key hebrew and greek words defined 2,352 pp.

Connect the dots to a deeper understanding of god's word with the open bible. – the bible is a collection of 66 books written by many writers over a vast time period, and yet it's the unified word of god. available for the first time in the widely-read new international version translation, the open bible offers clean and easy navigation through the connectivity of scripture with a time-tested reference system trusted by millions. plus, the niv open bible gives you even more access to the truths of the word with book introductions and outlines that provide context and themes from beginning to end. if you are longing for a deeper understanding of scripture, this is the bible for you. – features include: topical index to the bible–this easy-to-navigate feature quickly displays the scriptural connections between more than 8,000 names, places, concepts, events, and doctrines. – the visual survey of the bible–the detailed 24-page visual overview of the bible unfolds the people, events and themes of scripture at a glance. life application notes crystallize central spiritual truths. – bible book introductions–extensive at-a-glance outlines plus a detailed overview of the overview help broaden your perspective of each book. – how to study the bible–expert advice for both personal and family bible study, plus helpful principles of bible interpretation. – the christian's guide to the new life–a complete doctrinal overview of scripture divided into 32 "christian guides," supported by hundreds of scripture references. – a guide to christian workers–powerful motivation and practical guidance for sharing the gospel–from contact to conversation, conversion, the certainty of salvation, and more. – and more: the scarlet thread of redemption, 82 prayers of the bible, read your bible through the year, between the testaments, teachings and illustrations of christ, prophecies of the messiah fulfilled in christ, the parables of jesus christ, the miracles of jesus christ, the laws of the bible, detailed maps, and still more! the exclusive thomas nelson niv comfort print at a readable 9-point print size

An easy-to-learn, easy-to-use tool for in-depth bible study – with a patented reference system beloved and acclaimed for more than five generations, the thompson chain-reference bible is unparalleled in its ability to enrich personal devotions, topical study, and sermon preparation. this easy-to-learn, easy-to-use system enables you to see the breadth of scripture's teachings on thousands of topics. with over 100,000 references listed in the bible's margins, covering over 8,000 topics, the chain-reference system is an ideal tool for comprehensive topical study. you can also expand your bible study with even more tools, including biographical sketches, an archeological supplement, and outlines of each book of the bible. the thompson chain-reference bible allows scripture to interpret itself without commentaries. – features: full text of the english standard version (esv)easy to understand chain-reference system with over 100,000 references in the margins – references cover over 8,000 topics, each with its own pilot number for exhaustive topical study – complete alphabetical and numerical indices listing all 8,000 topics with corresponding pilot numbers and bible references for comprehensive topical study bible study aids such as biographical sketches of the most prominent people in the bible, an archeological supplement, glossary, concordance, bible harmonies, and outlines of each book of the bible – key verses and key thoughts provide basic information you can use to develop your own study – verse analysis shows the topics and themes of every verse and provides easy reference to other verses with the same topics or themes16-page full-color map section – words of christ in red – satin ribbon marker – presentation page for gift-giving – gold gilded page edges – bonded leather cover lies flat when open – thumb indexed tabs to help you find each book of the bible8.3-point type size

This illustrated beginner’s guide to the bible features essential information on the old testament in a straightforward and easy-to-read format.brush up on the bible with this full-color guide to the most important ideas and figures of the old testament. featuring fully illustrated infographics of key events such as the story of creation, the exodus from egypt, the wisdom of king solomon, and much more, the infographic guide to the bible will entertain and educate all readers!

Complete bible text with 25,000+ cross references, 6,500 contemporary notes, plus 100+ pages of powerful study helps barbour's kjv study bible has informed and inspired more than 350,000 readers since its initial release. now the kjv study bible is even better with an exciting cross reference edition this bible includes many additional features on top of all the study helps you love in the kjv study bible 6,500 study notes, individual book introductions, words of christ in red, a dictionary/concordance, and full-color maps. plus the kjv cross reference study bible includes many new study features, including: center-column cross references more than 25,000 entries point you to related passages throughout scripture. – character profiles: fascinating information illuminates 33 of the most important scriptural people spanning the breadth of god's word. – bible background articles: 28 full-page articles answer questions like "who were the hittites?" and "what happened between the old and new testaments?" questions and answers: 58 unique questions appear alongside interesting or confusing passages in scripture, giving context and answers that help you grasp a fuller understanding of the bible. – charts and lists: 20 visual aids provide understanding in a new way. – messianic prophecies: dozens of promises of the coming messiah and the fulfillment of these promises are clearly marked as a helpful study feature. – parallel passages: passages that appear more than once in the scriptures are highlighted as a great new study tool.

The turquoise reference bible was originally created in the 1920s and has stood as a superb and well-loved example of classic cambridge typographic design for ninety years. the text is presented in a large, bold, traditional typeface, with cross-references and the words of christ while on earth are printed in red. for this edition the concordance has been freshly typeset, and it also includes a map section and the translators' preface, their compelling account of the principles underlying the publication of the kjv in 1611. the bible is printed on fine india paper and fully sewn, allowing it to lie flat when in use and adding extra durability. it has gilt-edged pages and is bound in black calf split leather. the large format, superior materials and manufacturing excellence make this a perfect choice as a family bible or a desk or presentation bible for those in christian ministry.

Dake annotated reference bible large note edition burgundy bonded leather. 35,000 commentary notes 500,000 cross/chain references 9,000 outline headings

Complete bible text with 25,000+ cross-references, 6,500 contemporary notes, plus 100+ pages of powerful study helps barbour's kjv study bible has informed and inspired more than 350,000 readers since its initial release. now the kjv study bible is even better with an exciting cross reference edition! this bible includes many additional features on top of all the study helps you love in the kjv study bible: 6,500 study notes, individual book introductions, words of christ in red, a dictionary/concordance, and full-color maps. plus the kjv cross reference study bible includes many new study features, including: center-column cross references: more than 25,000 entries point you to related passages throughout scripture. character profiles: fascinating information illuminates 33 of the most important scriptural people spanning the breadth of god's word. bible background articles: 28 full-page articles answer questions like "who were the hittites?" and "what happened between the old and new testaments?" questions and answers: 58 unique questions appear alongside interesting or confusing passages in scripture, giving context and answers that help you grasp a fuller understanding of the bible. charts and lists: 20 visual aids provide understanding in a new way. messianic prophecies: dozens of promises of the coming messiah and the fulfillment of these promises are clearly marked as a helpful study feature. parallel passages: passages that appear more than once in the scriptures are highlighted as a great new study tool. thumb indexing: cut-ins help you turn quickly to the bible book you're seeking.

Willmington's bible handbook gives a verse-by-verse commentary of each book of the bible and is written with both new believers and seasoned students of the bible in mind. this special bible handbook also includes many special features that provide fresh, new insights into the most inspirational book ever written. special features focus on the unity of the bible shows how each part of the bible relates to the whole." – emphasis on the historical accuracy of the bible explores how thousands of archeological discoveries verify scripture." people to remember" brings the stories of bible people to life. – lists and background material give an overview of scripture through comprehensive, comparitive lists and charts – indexes to topics, scripture references, bible people, maps, charts, harmony of the gospels – chronology of bible events. . . and more!

If you've been wanting to get a better handle on the bible this helpful reference book pulls the sweeping story, the timeline, the key terms, and much more into a clear, concise, yet surprisingly comprehensive summary of biblical information. what's the main idea of each bible book? where can you quickly locate christian worldview themes? how can the shadow of christ be seen in each old testament book? what are the big verses that every bible student needs to know? how can you sum up the biblical story in six simple statements? the answers to these and many other questions begin to surface as you confidently walk your way to "big picture" bible understanding. one-sentence summaries, colorful maps and charts, quick-hitting details on who wrote what and why-you get all this and more with a graphic flow and design that makes the reading easy… and makes the knowledge your own.

The king james bible with classic center-column cross references that's just the right size to take with you wherever you go. this edition is published in large kjv comfort print type, which was designed exclusively for thomas nelson to be the most readable at any size. – the literary beauty of the king james version, handy and easy to carry, with the readability of thomas nelson's custom kjv font. the slim design of the kjv thinline reference bible means you can bring it along, wherever your day takes you. and with features like a center-column reference system, book introductions, a concordance, words of christ in red, and full-color maps, you'll have the tools you need to get more out of god's word without having to pack more. – features include: center-column cross references allows you to find related passages quickly and easily – satin ribbon markers are a useful tool to easily navigate and keep track of where you were reading – presentation page allows you to personalize this special gift by recording a memory or note – bible book introductions provide an overview and context for each book – words of christ in red quickly identify verses spoken by jesus – reading plan guiding you through the entire bible in a year – concordance for looking up a word's occurrences throughout the bible – miracles and parables of jesus call out important events during jesus' earthly ministry – full-color maps provide a visual representation of israel and other biblical locations for better context – clear and readable 8.9-point kjv comfort print

A fresh approach which not only offers trustworthy exposition, but also provides a book-by-book, chapter-by-chapter tour through the glory of the bible. this highly readable personal "conversation" with scripture guides you through each book, helping you reap the rich, life-changing applications on every page. you will be encouraged to develop your own personal bible reading program and learn the power of meditation on its truth.

The net bible, single-column reference edition, presents the bible text in a stunning, line-matched single-column format, with extensive cross-references in the roomy margins. featuring the new english translation–the newest translation of the biblical languages into english, based on the most up-to-date manuscript discoveries and research–this cross-reference edition of the net bible is ideal for students, teachers, and lay-readers alike. features include: complete text of the transparent and accurate new english translation – extensive set of cross-references help reveal the connections within scripture – full-color maps – thomas nelson's net comfort print 8-point typeface

A book to accompany every copy of god's word! through 66 separate books, 1,189 chapters, and hundreds of thousands of words, the bible shares one extraordinary message: god loves you. 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!

This first-of-its-kind bible handbook offers charismatic and pentecostal christians a major reference tool that provides easy access to a wealth of biblical and practical information. with an informative survey (with kingdom life insights) for each book of the bible, the unique spirit-filled life encyclopedic dictionary, the visual survey of the bible, and kingdom keys for applying the principles of the spirit-filled life, hayford's bible handbook will enrich bible study and help readers discover practical insight into living their faith.

Informed answers to your most troublesome questions about the bible. – what do you make of the difficult areas in the bible—those puzzling passages that make you stop and scratch your head? the seeming inconsistencies or moments that make you uncomfortable? did god approve of rahab's lie? why are many of the old testament quotes in the new testament not word-for-word? does the bible class abortion with murder? where did adam and eve's sons get their wives? does 1 corinthians authorize divorce for desertion? the seeming incongruities of scripture actually have sound explanations. but unless you're a bible scholar, you probably don't know about them. the new international encyclopedia of bible difficulties gives you informed answers to your most troublesome questions. many explanations include an eye-opening look at linguistic, cultural, numerical, relational, and other considerations of which most bible readers are unaware. – referencing both the new international version (niv) and the new american standard bible (nasb), this handbook makes scholarly insights accessible to everyone. whether you're a student, pastor, everyday bible-lover, or even a skeptic, the new international encyclopedia of bible difficulties will show you why the bible is believable and dependable, with a message you can live by. —zondervan's understand the bible reference series—this four-volume series supplies users of today's most popular modern bible translation, and new international version, with scholarly, economical, and uncompromisingly evangelical study tools. it includes:new international bible commentary

The complete jewish study bible pairs the updated text of the complete jewish bible translation with extra study material, to help readers understand and connect with the jewish roots of the christian faith. the complete jewish bible shows that the word of god, from genesis to revelation, is a unified jewish book meant for everyone jew and non- jew alike. stern with new, updated introductions by rabbi barry rubin, it has been a best-seller for over twenty years. this translation, combined with beautiful, modern design and helpful features, makes this an exquisite, one-of-a-kind bible. unique to the complete jewish study bible are a number of helpful articles and notes to aid the reader in understanding the jewish context for the scriptures, both in the tanakh (the old testament) and the b rit hadashah (the new testament). features include: – twenty-five contributors (both jewish and christian), including john fischer, patrice fischer, arnold g. fruchtenbaum, walter c. kaiser, jr., rabbi russell resnik, and more – thirty-four topical articles ranging from topics such as the menorah (or candelabra of god ) and repentance (t shuvah) in the bible, to yeshua s sermon on the mount and the noachide laws (the laws given by god to noah and subsequent generations) and their applicability to gentiles – in addition to these topical articles and detailed study notes, there are twelve tracks or themes running throughout the bible with 117 articles, covering topics such as jewish customs, the names of god, shabbat, and the torah – new bible book introductions, written from a jewish perspective – bottom-of-page notes to help readers understand the deeper meanings behind the jewish text – sabbath and holy day scripture readings – offers the original hebrew names for people, places, and concepts"