Chronological Study Bible (a review)

There are many, many types of study Bibles available and each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. But The Chronological Study Bible: New King James Versionby Thomas Nelson provides a rich, multi-layered way to explore God's Word.

As the name suggests, the Chronological Study Bible orders the books of the Bible according to their place in history - or at least as closely as the writers were able to place them. They state quite frankly that some books or passages are difficult to place accurately, or that some are open to debate. But seeing how the various passages link together gives some fresh insights into the cultures and situations these books were addressing.

One of the real strengths of this Bible is the types of information it provides. Insets liberally scattered throughout add to the picture by addressing food & drink, architecture & building, industry, politics & government, geography & environment, science & technology, health & medicine, and beliefs & ideas of the relevant times and cultures. These snippets give some remarkable insights into the related passages.

Also included are transition areas - information that helps bridge the move from one passage to another. Time lines and time capsules, non-Biblical historical documents and much more information is provided throughout. Color maps and illustrations also add to the context of the Biblical passages. And, of course, there are plenty of indexes, topical studies and a concordance available as well.

The topical references become invaluable as sometimes different commentary sections will cover the same passage but with a slightly different focus. The net result is that it's hard to be sure you've found all the relevant material in just reading through the passage and the surrounding information. But through the many tools offered in this Bible, you will be sure to find much to add to your understanding of the passage you're studying. I might also add a couple different translations (NKJV is a more literal or word-for-word translation) just to round out some word studies or concept passages.

Overall, this is a tool that will help you dig deep into your Bible study. I might not recommend it as a daily reading Bible just because there is so much material that it's easy to get distracted from the actual passage, but as a study tool I would place the Chronological Study Bible high on the recommended list.

*This review was written through the Thomas Nelson Blogger review program. The Chronological Study Bible was supplied for review purposes but no other compensation was provided.