Needless to say, we look for very different things in a new Bible. I've talked about journaling Bibles in the past, and I've shared some devotional journals throughout the year too, but today I'm sharing two great Bibles that will be ideal for the history buff on your list.
First up, the NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible:
The Bible was originally written to an ancient people removed from us by thousands of years and thousands of miles. The Scriptures include subtle culturally based nuances, undertones, and references to ancient events, literature and customs that were intuitively understood by those who first heard the Scriptures read. For us to hear the Scriptures as they did, we need a window into their world.
The NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, with notes from Dr. John H. Walton (Wheaton College) in the Old Testament and Dr. Craig S. Keener (Asbury Theological Seminary) in the New Testament, brings to life the ancient world of Scripture for modern readers.
Features:
- The full text of the NIV
- Targeted book introductions explain the context in which each book of the Bible was written
- Insightful and informative verse-by-verse study notes reveal new dimensions of insight to even the most familiar passages
- Key Old Testament (Hebrew) and New Testament terms are explained and expanded upon in two helpful reference features
- Over 300 in-depth articles on key contextual topics
- 375 full-color photos, illustrations, and images from around the world
- Dozens of charts, maps, and diagrams in vivid color
- Words of Jesus in red
- Additional study Bible tools: cross references, a concordance, indexes and other helps
This Bible is absolutely stunning. The graphics are certain to please not only the history buff but anyone at all with an interest in culture or archaeology. It truly helps to give the greatest possible understanding of not just WHAT you're reading, but the historical and cultural context of it all. My husband has definitely taken to this Bible better than any others in the past. If you're looking for the perfect study Bible... this is IT.
Next up is The Chronological Study Bible:
The Chronological Study Bible presents the text of the New International Version in chronological order - the order in which the events actually happened - with notes, articles, and full-color graphics that connect the reader to the history and culture of Bible times and gives the reader a dramatic, "you are there" experience. Features include full-color illustrations of places, artifacts, and cultural phenomena, contextual articles that connect Biblical times and world history and culture, daily life notes, time panels and charts that show the flow of Biblical history, and in-text and full-color maps.
Now, when it comes to ME and history, I must admit I get a little confused. Because the Bible is a series of books, we often find that they jump back and forth in time a bit. For me, I love the idea that I can get a better picture of where these famous events we read about happened in relation to each other. It gives me a better understanding and just makes more sense. This one is also packed full of history and culture that likewise helps gives us the full picture. As I said, I'm not even a history person, but I too could appreciate these resources.
Both of these Bible are ideal both for the history buff on your list, or anyone who wants to get a fuller understanding of Biblical times. Both are available to purchase now at your favorite Christian book retailers.
Oooh this is very interesting!! I like that they put things in a time frame!! I love history! Its all so interesting!
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