How Do I Use My Study Bible?

A study Bible is more than a Bible, but it's not less. Any good study Bible starts with the Bible as its foundation. Then, it will add tools that help a student of the Bible to study better. You may find an introduction to each book of the Bible. There may be a timeline so you know where you are in history at any point you're reading. There is likely a cross reference that will help you find other passages that pertain to the one you are reading and help interpret and make sense of what you are studying. Short commentary notes are typically the most popular part of a study Bible.

Some study Bibles are a bit light on the tools. Some only speak to specific issues such as end times or apologetics. Those are much less helpful than the more robust study Bibles.

A vast pool of top scholars produces the top-quality study Bibles, which include a whole toolbox of tools. The CSB Study Bible and ESV Study Bible (Christian Standard Bible and English Standard Bible, respectively) not only contain the essential tools, but you'll also find definitions of unique or particular words, word studies, articles and essays that help flesh out themes and bring matters to contemporary examples, concordances, maps, illustrations, photos, charts, and all sorts of other tools.

If you've never used a study Bible before, it might be intimidating to open it up. Bryan Catherman has recorded a short overview video to help you. He cracks open the CSB Study Bible and looks at the tools. He moves from the helpful introduction to specific spots in the study Bible so you can see what's there and be less intimidated. If you're thinking about getting a good study Bible or you are new to using a study Bible, this video may be just right for you.

If you haven’t yet selected a study Bible or you don’t know the difference between a “good” study Bible and one that’s “less helpful,” then “How to Pick a Study Bible” is the video for you.