All Bibles are not created equal, I recently learned. A few weeks ago I was sent the CSB Life Essentials Interactive Study Bible by renowned Bible teacher Dr. Gene Getz. This was my first time experiencing a study Bible so I was eager to understand what made it so different from any of the Bibles I had experienced in the past. In this post, we’re going to explore why this Bible is the best Interactive Study Bible, to include pros/cons and the different features of the Bible.
One of the questions I asked myself when I first saw this bible was, “What makes it interactive?” I’m glad you ask. Let’s get into some of it’s features.
Interactive Study Bible Features
- Commentary and application questions on 1,500 life principles.
- 250 hours of free in-depth video teaching to accompany each life principle
- Two-color interior design
- Smyth-sewn binding
- Presentation page
- Two-column text
- Topical subheadings
- Black-letter text
- 9-point type
- Textual footnotes
- Concordance
- Full-color maps
Pros
As mentioned in the features above, this Bible is filled with 250 hours of free in-depth video teaching to accompany each life principle. QR Codes are positioned throughout the Bible to allow you to access the interactive video teachings via a QR Code reader accessed through a smartphone or tablet. Because of this interactive feature, this Bible is perfect for family devotions, small group studies, or personal Bible studies.
If you’re anything like me, you’re always googling, “what does the Bible say about, *insert any Biblical principle here.*” While getting acquainted with this Bible, I learned that I don’t have to do that anymore. In the front of the Bible, there is a section called, Principle Finder that has, in alphabetical order, any topic or principle and were it can be found in the bible. Want to know what the Bible says about, Love, specifically, love in true friendships? Head to 1 Samuel 31 specifically page 352 in this bible.
Throughout each book of the Bible, Dr. Gene Getz has identified important principles to live by. These Principles to Live By are embedded immediately after the initial introduction in the text and include commentary to support it. But that’s not the best part. At the end of the Principles to Live By section, there is an application section called Refection and Response that allows you to reflect on the principle and respond to how it is applicable to your life.
Cons
As with anything great, there are some things that are not so great. Please remember, this is my personal opinion. And what I dislike may actually be a like for you.
I’m not a personal fan of any hardback books. And unfortunately for me, this Bible has a hardback. I understand that they tend to last longer and with this being a study Bible, you’re bound to get a lot of use out of it. I’m just not a fan.
As mentioned above in the features section, this Bible is equipped with two-column text. Although that within itself isn’t a problem, where I struggle is when there is a Principle to Live By section in the middle of the page. The text is now read from across the column as opposed to straight down the column as customary in most Bibles, as well as, here when there is not a Principles to Live By section.
Interactive Study Bible Conclusion
Overall, my opinion of the CSB Life Essential Study Bible is: it’s great. One of my new favorites actually. As I do with any translation that’s new to me, I will continue to use my New King James Bible in conjunction with my new Interactive Study Bible to cross-reference scripture. I definitely see this Bible being a staple in my study time.
What about you? Do you use a Study Bible? Have you ever tried and Interactive Study Bible? Would you like an opportunity to win your very own CSB Life Essentials Study Bible? I’m currently hosting a giveaway with the opportunity for you to win one just like this. The rules are simple, leave a comment below. Then head over to my Instagram page, follow me if you aren’t already, and type “I want a Bible.” on my latest post. And that’s it. You will be entered. The winner will be announced on Instagram on Wednesday, 6 May. Best wishes!
I’ve never used an actual study Bible… I can’t tell you the last time I owned my own physical Bible, either! Lol thank you for sharing the pros & cons! I’m an NLT girl, but different translations always give you a different perspective!
Nice! I’ll have to check it out.
I am really enjoying it!
I’m a NKJV girl so I understand what it’s like to have your preference.
Great review Tiffani! I’m definitely interested in getting a study bible to deeper my understanding and devotional time for sure.
This one is def. a good one for that.
I really enjoyed your blog very informative
I was looking for an interactive study Bible that would increase my knowledge without me having to search through tons of other sources. Sounds like this one might be a winner.
It is. The tools that are provided are helpful without all the fluff.
Thank you for your review! First time learning about study bibles, this looks very useful!
This looks like just what I need.
I’m looking for a new study bible! My original student life application Bible was misplaced when I let someone use it I haven’t found a new one since lol
I definitely have been wanting a new bible. I have felt very stagnant spiritually and have definitely been trying everything I can to dig deeper into scripture! I just been trying to find anything that would help with my prayer life. This is awesome! Life principle boxes?! I current bible is just strictly scripture doesn’t even have a concordance but I try my best not to complain and be content because God just doesn’t like it when you complain.
I need this.