Monday, October 12, 2009

BOOK REVIEW - The Expanded Bible from Thomas Nelson

ABOUT THE BOOK


The Expanded Bible: New Testament reflects the latest scholarship, current English, and the needs of contemporary students of the Bible. This new testament includes a multitude of study aids and expanded translations right in line with the text making it possible for you to study the Bible while you read!
  • Expanded translations bring out the meaning of words and offer alternatives.
  • Literal meanings of terms from the original languages are included where they can provide more understanding.
  • Traditional wordings assist recollection of familiar terms and expressions.
  • Comments explain passages that can be understood better with a brief remark.
  • Useful references supply rewarding opportunities for comparing other Scriptures.
  • Variants display additional wording in some of the original language texts.

JEN'S THOUGHTS

The whole idea behind The Expanded Bible is that you can study the Bible while you read. Sprinkled among the text are expanded meanings, comments, cross references, etc., all meant to enhance your Bible reading experience. The result is that there's a whole lot of stuff going on withing each passage. Thankfully, a section at the front of the Bible explains what each symbol means. But until you memorize the symbols, you'll probably spend a lot of time flipping back and forth.

I took The Expanded Bible out for a test drive by bringing it along to my Monday night Bible study. I found that while this Bible is good for an at home, personal study, it doesn't work so well in a group setting. Trying to read passages aloud and explain them along the way - "That's the traditional meaning," or "That's an alternate meaning," - got very confusing. Plus, it's only the New Testament.

If you're looking for a Bible that will enhance your personal study time in the Word, you may enjoy The Expanded Bible. If you're looking for a Bible to use in a group setting, this one probably won't do it for you.


 
Full Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing. I am not a paid reviewer. The opinions in this review are mine and mine alone.

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