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Holy Bible: NIV Student Bible
The classic, best-selling NIV Student Bible—now redesigned, updated, improved, and ready to reach a new generation of readers with the promises it delivers. Now available in the large-print, red-letter edition that consumers and retailers have been requesting over the years.
1920 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 1982
363 people are currently reading
484 people want to read
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* They are officially published under that name
* They are traditional stories not attributed to a specific author
* They are religious texts not generally attributed to a specific author
Books whose authorship is merely uncertain should be attributed to Unknown.
See also: Anonymous
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
December 31, 2015
Okay: Just finished this. Read it cover to cover. Alpha to Omega. I've got a lot of thoughts on it, but I'm not going to hash them out tonight. ...I had been updating as I read, so I'll keep those here. I'll go through them later.
Job was fascinating. It was especially fun to read here in China with all we're going through. He really wasn't as patient as I remember him being. Also, my notes had a lot of criticisms for his friends... but I thought their only real problem was that they said he'd sinned when he didn't. Everything else seemed sound, or was I missing something?
Alright. I read Esther today with Liz. I don't really have anything to say about it. Well, I guess I could say Haman would be an interesting character study. Maybe a study in the number of times he doesn't see the train coming.
So, I just finished Nehemiah last night - which means I'm on to Esther. I know what you're thinking - Nehemiah's only 13 chapters, why did it take you so long to read it? Well, I fell back out of reading again. That's what happened. I promise never to judge people for not reading the Bible. Sheesh...
Nehemiah wasn't bad either. Although, gives a lot of the same information as Ezra. I got a little tired of reading the names of the people and their different jobs, but I loved Nehemiah's prayer interjections. They seemed so... Fiddler on the Roof.
I found the last chapter particularly interesting - the way he constantly says, "remember me" "remember me..." and at one point, "remember them..." He wasn't one to take things lightly either, "I rebuked them and called curses down on them. I beat some of the men and pulled out their hair..." (13:25)
I'm on Nehemiah. I got stuck on Ezra after Samuel/Kings/Chronicles to do that SS class on Joab. (What a guy.) But I'm back in.
Loved Ezra's prayer at Chap. 9.
Questions on his faith at 8:22 (NIV: "ashamed?")
Were they checking to see if the foreign wives converted at 10:16 when they "sat down to investigate the cases?" And were they taking them one on one, like a case by case basis?
Anyway, I'm back in.
Job was fascinating. It was especially fun to read here in China with all we're going through. He really wasn't as patient as I remember him being. Also, my notes had a lot of criticisms for his friends... but I thought their only real problem was that they said he'd sinned when he didn't. Everything else seemed sound, or was I missing something?
Alright. I read Esther today with Liz. I don't really have anything to say about it. Well, I guess I could say Haman would be an interesting character study. Maybe a study in the number of times he doesn't see the train coming.
So, I just finished Nehemiah last night - which means I'm on to Esther. I know what you're thinking - Nehemiah's only 13 chapters, why did it take you so long to read it? Well, I fell back out of reading again. That's what happened. I promise never to judge people for not reading the Bible. Sheesh...
Nehemiah wasn't bad either. Although, gives a lot of the same information as Ezra. I got a little tired of reading the names of the people and their different jobs, but I loved Nehemiah's prayer interjections. They seemed so... Fiddler on the Roof.
I found the last chapter particularly interesting - the way he constantly says, "remember me" "remember me..." and at one point, "remember them..." He wasn't one to take things lightly either, "I rebuked them and called curses down on them. I beat some of the men and pulled out their hair..." (13:25)
I'm on Nehemiah. I got stuck on Ezra after Samuel/Kings/Chronicles to do that SS class on Joab. (What a guy.) But I'm back in.
Loved Ezra's prayer at Chap. 9.
Questions on his faith at 8:22 (NIV: "ashamed?")
Were they checking to see if the foreign wives converted at 10:16 when they "sat down to investigate the cases?" And were they taking them one on one, like a case by case basis?
Anyway, I'm back in.
February 20, 2012
As a Christian, it seems quite odd reviewing a bible , as for me this is a book that is and should be my essential guidebook to life , and funnily enough when it comes to bibles I find that Zondervan is the best publishers and if you are just starting out as a Christian or have been one for a while and are a bit like me, then your preference for reading the word is in the language of NIV which translates into New International Version, this is the most common type of biblical language used in today's society. One thing that always stands out for me when it comes to bibles, is that no matter what you enjoy, whether you are female or male , old or young - there is a bible made especially for you and today's bible which is an appropiate topic to talk about as it's Sunday , is one made especially for all those students out there. .When you make the decision to purchase a bible, as there are so many out there now, you tend to scour through the different versions and types till you find the one that screams God's perfection for you and if you are studying and at the stage where you are just not quite ready to take the next step into buying a Dad's Bible/Mother's Bible or even the step of moving into a Men's /Women's Bible then the NIV Student Bible is the Book for you.
Something I was taught when I was younger was that Bible stood for Best Instructions Before Leaving Earth.
The NIV Student's Bible also includes:
Complete NIV text
Three-track reading plan
Book introductions and overviews
Insights provide background information on key passages
Guided Tours offer a bird's-eye view of the Bible
Highlights present short commentary on specific verses
100 People You Should Know
Indexes, glossaries, and study helps
Subject guide
Eight pages of maps with index
Something I was taught when I was younger was that Bible stood for Best Instructions Before Leaving Earth.
The NIV Student's Bible also includes:
Complete NIV text
Three-track reading plan
Book introductions and overviews
Insights provide background information on key passages
Guided Tours offer a bird's-eye view of the Bible
Highlights present short commentary on specific verses
100 People You Should Know
Indexes, glossaries, and study helps
Subject guide
Eight pages of maps with index
October 16, 2024
10/10, totally recommend!
First time reading through the Bible as an adult and it was eye opening and SO interesting!
I did miscalculate though. My plan was to spend the entire year reading. Obviously I finished early. That’s what I get for rounding up.
First time reading through the Bible as an adult and it was eye opening and SO interesting!
I did miscalculate though. My plan was to spend the entire year reading. Obviously I finished early. That’s what I get for rounding up.
December 14, 2011
Read this from cover to cover. I loved the way the beginning of each book explains the author, when he wrote it, and why he wrote it. Little interesting tidbits of info are dispersed throughout leaving me constantly saying, "Wow, I never knew that ..." I haven't found a Bible yet that I love as much as this one.
August 11, 2025
It feels a little like a joke to be reviewing the Bible but what else am i supposed to rate it? I mean a million stars obviously. Took me two and a half years but i did it lol
December 31, 2015
Okay: Just finished this. Read it cover to cover. Alpha to Omega. I've got a lot of thoughts on it, but I'm not going to hash them out tonight. ...I had been updating as I read, so I'll keep those here. I'll go through them later.
Job was fascinating. It was especially fun to read here in China with all we're going through. He really wasn't as patient as I remember him being. Also, my notes had a lot of criticisms for his friends... but I thought their only real problem was that they said he'd sinned when he didn't. Everything else seemed sound, or was I missing something?
Alright. I read Esther today with Liz. I don't really have anything to say about it. Well, I guess I could say Haman would be an interesting character study. Maybe a study in the number of times he doesn't see the train coming.
So, I just finished Nehemiah last night - which means I'm on to Esther. I know what you're thinking - Nehemiah's only 13 chapters, why did it take you so long to read it? Well, I fell back out of reading again. That's what happened. I promise never to judge people for not reading the Bible. Sheesh...
Nehemiah wasn't bad either. Although, gives a lot of the same information as Ezra. I got a little tired of reading the names of the people and their different jobs, but I loved Nehemiah's prayer interjections. They seemed so... Fiddler on the Roof.
I found the last chapter particularly interesting - the way he constantly says, "remember me" "remember me..." and at one point, "remember them..." He wasn't one to take things lightly either, "I rebuked them and called curses down on them. I beat some of the men and pulled out their hair..." (13:25)
I'm on Nehemiah. I got stuck on Ezra after Samuel/Kings/Chronicles to do that SS class on Joab. (What a guy.) But I'm back in.
Loved Ezra's prayer at Chap. 9.
Questions on his faith at 8:22 (NIV: "ashamed?")
Were they checking to see if the foreign wives converted at 10:16 when they "sat down to investigate the cases?" And were they taking them one on one, like a case by case basis?
Anyway, I'm back in.
Job was fascinating. It was especially fun to read here in China with all we're going through. He really wasn't as patient as I remember him being. Also, my notes had a lot of criticisms for his friends... but I thought their only real problem was that they said he'd sinned when he didn't. Everything else seemed sound, or was I missing something?
Alright. I read Esther today with Liz. I don't really have anything to say about it. Well, I guess I could say Haman would be an interesting character study. Maybe a study in the number of times he doesn't see the train coming.
So, I just finished Nehemiah last night - which means I'm on to Esther. I know what you're thinking - Nehemiah's only 13 chapters, why did it take you so long to read it? Well, I fell back out of reading again. That's what happened. I promise never to judge people for not reading the Bible. Sheesh...
Nehemiah wasn't bad either. Although, gives a lot of the same information as Ezra. I got a little tired of reading the names of the people and their different jobs, but I loved Nehemiah's prayer interjections. They seemed so... Fiddler on the Roof.
I found the last chapter particularly interesting - the way he constantly says, "remember me" "remember me..." and at one point, "remember them..." He wasn't one to take things lightly either, "I rebuked them and called curses down on them. I beat some of the men and pulled out their hair..." (13:25)
I'm on Nehemiah. I got stuck on Ezra after Samuel/Kings/Chronicles to do that SS class on Joab. (What a guy.) But I'm back in.
Loved Ezra's prayer at Chap. 9.
Questions on his faith at 8:22 (NIV: "ashamed?")
Were they checking to see if the foreign wives converted at 10:16 when they "sat down to investigate the cases?" And were they taking them one on one, like a case by case basis?
Anyway, I'm back in.
November 19, 2009
Although the King James authorised version is the most poetic it is something of a plod at times, and I found this one with its explanatory notes and easy-to-read text a lot more elucidating in terms of what's going on. I have to admit that what drew me to it in the shop two years ago was the recommendations by Melvyn Bragg and David Suchet, who I admire as writers and broadcasters. Suchet, a leading Shakesperean actor, tells how a few years ago he was lying in his bath in a hotel in America, when he had a sudden and impulsive desire to read the Bible. 'From somewhere I got this desire to read the Bible again. That's the most important part of my conversion... In the New Testament I suddenly discovered the way that life should be followed.'
I myself came to it from reading about the European Reformation and suddenly realising that the central book of those times, the one constantly being quoted and sifted through, was the one book I myself had never read from cover to cover. I got bogged down a bit in Numbers and Deuteronomy, but the rest was, to coin a phrase, a revelation, and I do consider myself to be a Christian, though hardly a good one. There is, as my teachers used to tell me, 'much room for improvement'.
I myself came to it from reading about the European Reformation and suddenly realising that the central book of those times, the one constantly being quoted and sifted through, was the one book I myself had never read from cover to cover. I got bogged down a bit in Numbers and Deuteronomy, but the rest was, to coin a phrase, a revelation, and I do consider myself to be a Christian, though hardly a good one. There is, as my teachers used to tell me, 'much room for improvement'.
February 6, 2009
Its the bible, whats more to say? Its the GREATEST BOOK ever written and everyone should read it. This is the Student NIV Bible and it is a great study tool for anyone that wants to grow with their knowledge of the bible. THUMBS UP!
October 28, 2008
Although I've read portions of the Bible in the past I am now reading it completely. Whether you look at it as a historical document, or God's word it's definitely a good read!
January 19, 2020
My friend gave me this particular Bible in high school and I still have it. A cherished Bible I hope to have forever.
Read
October 25, 2021From Genesis to Revelation, I read the Bible in its entirety. Small disclaimer, however, this is a Protestant bible, meaning it has the fewest books of the Christian bibles out there, so less than if I'd gone with a bible from one of the older churches with a larger canon (Catholic or Orthodox). I went with this particular one because it was the one I had... I bought it at Chapters when I was 14 or 15 after having gone to a bible camp and my main criteria at the time was to find a bible that didn't use antiquated language and that had study notes. Hadn't really cracked it open until my 30s...
I have many thoughts to share. First, the contents were not what I expected. If you think you know the bible, but haven't read it, I challenge you to actually read it. Second, I believe that it needs to be studied. This may go for many other ancient religious texts as well. This is not pop spirituality where you can crack open the book and get an inspirational feel-good quote. It is deep. It's a whole story. Lots of metaphors and symbolism that connect to various other parts of the bible. Over the course of my time reading it, I listened to various scholars, theologians, and laymen commentators to help illumine the text. I do believe that if one reads it in the most superficial, surface way, they will come away with little but ridicule for the text. However, if one digs deeper, there is quite a wealth of treasure in it. I wouldn't have thought this. Unfortunately, many fundamentalist bible thumpers out there are not the best showcase for the bible and give it a bad reputation. I should say with relation to biblical fundamentalists that contrary to what they may portray, much of the bible can be interpreted in many different ways.
I learned also a lot about bible translations in my journey through this copy of the bible. One is that this is a Protestant bible... since the Protestant religion rejects a number of books that were part of the Greek Septuagint (the Greek Septuagint was the Jewish scriptures translated to Greek for Jews living in diaspora in the centuries prior to Christ- Greek at the time was the common default language of the whole general area). When the Christian religion formed, the Jews removed a number of the books more supportive to the Christian claim that this man Jesus was the messiah. The Protestants in their reformation chose to only include in their canon the books that the Jews chose in their updated canon and not the additional books that were in the Septuagint.
I also learned about translation bias and commentary bias. Commentary bias is obvious to me. Most of the notes were helpful setting the context so that I could better understand. That said, occasionally they'd have somewhat off-putting comments reflective of the denomination that this translation supports (evangelical) such as what type of music do you like to worship to.Translation bias is something I'm just starting to learn about. These are the biases of the translators reflected in some way through the chosen ways to translate words, expressions, etc.. I'm not a scholar nor am I well versed in the various denominations of Christianity (or Judaism, for that matter) or the various translations to be able to say much about this, but I find this area interesting. All I can say, as an NIV translation, I found it very readable.
I don't believe in a concept that I came to learn in my research that accompanied my reading of the bible and that is the concept of "sola scriptura". This means viewing the bible as the sole source and informant on spirituality and God. It rejects that there were accompanying traditions that both were the impetus to forming the bible and the christian religion itself. In itself it also rejects the notion that anything is missing from the bible. I also reject the notion that the bible is inerrant. I know some people that have parents that follow some form of fundamentalist religion where they actually view the bible in a literal way. In reading the text these friends became atheist or agnostic because they couldn't relate to the bible in a literal way and found it ridiculous. But like their parents, I guess, couldn't see a spiritual life outside of that limited view hence they became atheists (or agnostic). What a pity. The bible has a lot to offer if viewed in a more symbolic manner. To reject it because it doesn't follow science doesn't make sense. It clearly is not a scientific text. Parts of it corroborate with history and those parts may be considered as historical texts (but not all are to be considered historical). It needs to be viewed in a spiritual light. Christians will argue that the Holy Spirit is needed to illuminate and bring meaning to the bible.
I have decided to continue pouring over the bible in different translations and commentaries as I continue on my spiritual journey.
I'd like to mention some highlights. I particularly liked Genesis, Job, a number of Psalms, Ecclesiastes, Jonah, the Gospels, some of the Epistles. Honestly, this is off the top of my head, I might be missing some others that I liked.
My favourite fully human character (lol) is probably John the Baptist. Anyway, he sticks out for his humility. I don't remember everyone obviously... and I just read the bible, I didn't study it, so I can't say I have a very meaningful or deep relationship with the characters, the stories, and their meanings.
I'm uncertain how to rate this. Do I rate based on the quality of the translation and the notes? Do I rate the bible on its story and how I relate to it? The writing itself is done by a whole bunch of different authors... different styles are reflected throughout some of which I liked and some of which I didn't really like at all. So for now I'll leave it unrated with this review of my current reflections on this first read-through of the bible.
I have many thoughts to share. First, the contents were not what I expected. If you think you know the bible, but haven't read it, I challenge you to actually read it. Second, I believe that it needs to be studied. This may go for many other ancient religious texts as well. This is not pop spirituality where you can crack open the book and get an inspirational feel-good quote. It is deep. It's a whole story. Lots of metaphors and symbolism that connect to various other parts of the bible. Over the course of my time reading it, I listened to various scholars, theologians, and laymen commentators to help illumine the text. I do believe that if one reads it in the most superficial, surface way, they will come away with little but ridicule for the text. However, if one digs deeper, there is quite a wealth of treasure in it. I wouldn't have thought this. Unfortunately, many fundamentalist bible thumpers out there are not the best showcase for the bible and give it a bad reputation. I should say with relation to biblical fundamentalists that contrary to what they may portray, much of the bible can be interpreted in many different ways.
I learned also a lot about bible translations in my journey through this copy of the bible. One is that this is a Protestant bible... since the Protestant religion rejects a number of books that were part of the Greek Septuagint (the Greek Septuagint was the Jewish scriptures translated to Greek for Jews living in diaspora in the centuries prior to Christ- Greek at the time was the common default language of the whole general area). When the Christian religion formed, the Jews removed a number of the books more supportive to the Christian claim that this man Jesus was the messiah. The Protestants in their reformation chose to only include in their canon the books that the Jews chose in their updated canon and not the additional books that were in the Septuagint.
I also learned about translation bias and commentary bias. Commentary bias is obvious to me. Most of the notes were helpful setting the context so that I could better understand. That said, occasionally they'd have somewhat off-putting comments reflective of the denomination that this translation supports (evangelical) such as what type of music do you like to worship to.Translation bias is something I'm just starting to learn about. These are the biases of the translators reflected in some way through the chosen ways to translate words, expressions, etc.. I'm not a scholar nor am I well versed in the various denominations of Christianity (or Judaism, for that matter) or the various translations to be able to say much about this, but I find this area interesting. All I can say, as an NIV translation, I found it very readable.
I don't believe in a concept that I came to learn in my research that accompanied my reading of the bible and that is the concept of "sola scriptura". This means viewing the bible as the sole source and informant on spirituality and God. It rejects that there were accompanying traditions that both were the impetus to forming the bible and the christian religion itself. In itself it also rejects the notion that anything is missing from the bible. I also reject the notion that the bible is inerrant. I know some people that have parents that follow some form of fundamentalist religion where they actually view the bible in a literal way. In reading the text these friends became atheist or agnostic because they couldn't relate to the bible in a literal way and found it ridiculous. But like their parents, I guess, couldn't see a spiritual life outside of that limited view hence they became atheists (or agnostic). What a pity. The bible has a lot to offer if viewed in a more symbolic manner. To reject it because it doesn't follow science doesn't make sense. It clearly is not a scientific text. Parts of it corroborate with history and those parts may be considered as historical texts (but not all are to be considered historical). It needs to be viewed in a spiritual light. Christians will argue that the Holy Spirit is needed to illuminate and bring meaning to the bible.
I have decided to continue pouring over the bible in different translations and commentaries as I continue on my spiritual journey.
I'd like to mention some highlights. I particularly liked Genesis, Job, a number of Psalms, Ecclesiastes, Jonah, the Gospels, some of the Epistles. Honestly, this is off the top of my head, I might be missing some others that I liked.
My favourite fully human character (lol) is probably John the Baptist. Anyway, he sticks out for his humility. I don't remember everyone obviously... and I just read the bible, I didn't study it, so I can't say I have a very meaningful or deep relationship with the characters, the stories, and their meanings.
I'm uncertain how to rate this. Do I rate based on the quality of the translation and the notes? Do I rate the bible on its story and how I relate to it? The writing itself is done by a whole bunch of different authors... different styles are reflected throughout some of which I liked and some of which I didn't really like at all. So for now I'll leave it unrated with this review of my current reflections on this first read-through of the bible.
December 28, 2025
I did it. I finally made it all the way through the Bible in a calendar year! Many times I’ve started, but life always got in the way and I never made it past April. What an incredible experience, to see the whole picture! I finally understand why it was so revolutionary that Jesus came. After spending nine months or more reading the Old Testament, when you get to the Gospels of the New Testament you feel like a terrible burden has been lifted. God be praised! I certainly don’t understand it all, but my faith has been deepened by this experience and I want to start again in 2026, to see what else I can learn.
January 17, 2020
I started in Genesis on 30 August 2017 and today I finally finished. It’s been a goal for a long time to simply read the Bible from cover—as an avid reader it seemed like that was the bare minimum I should be able to manage. Obviously not as easy as it sounds since it took me more than two years, but I can finally say that I’ve done it. I have read every word in here.
Now to go back through and take my time.
Now to go back through and take my time.
April 15, 2021
The notes and commentary in this student Bible offer the reader an excellent tool for deepening one's understanding not just of faith, but the historical circumstances that influenced and shaped that faith. As a pastor with thirty seven years of experience in leading Bible studies, I can whole heartedly recommend this study Bible for personal devotions as well as class room preparation.
November 20, 2020
One of my favorite Bible versions
May 22, 2023
This is one of my favorite Bibles to use for Bible study. Very easy to read. Many notes inside to help with Bible study. NIV. Compact and lightweight to carry.
September 28, 2024
I reread this every year
October 10, 2024
The most important read yet. The first time reading it from front to back. I look forward to many more read through and studies!
October 9, 2013
The New International Version, Faith Alive, Student Bible, edited by Rev. Carl C. Fickenscher II, has many features that help you to better understand God’s word. Key verses to memorize are in large print or shaded. There are sections that explain life in Bible times. “Let’s Live It!,” meaningfully personalizes passages with activities and/or devotions. “Did You Know?,” teaches tidbits about the Bible that most people won’t know. “People in Bible Times,” informs about people that you may not know much about otherwise. Book introductions tell who wrote it, where events happened, and demonstrates how the book shows us God’s love. There is an index of people and places. There is a dictionary-concordance, charts, and maps to give us a clearer picture of God’s word.
The 66 books of the Holy Bible were written by prophets (Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekial, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obediah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi), a scribe/priest (Ezra), Kings (David and Solomon), disciples ( John Mark and John), a tax collector/Disciple (Matthew), a physician (Luke), apostles ( Paul and Peter), brothers of Jesus (James and Jude), and some unknown authors. Receive the Word with meekness and it will save your soul (James 1:21). Do not add or take away from the Word, so that you are careful and able to follow the commandments God has given (Deuteronomy 12:32). The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). In the Law God commands good works of thought, word, and deed and condemns and punishes sin. In the Gospel, the good news of our salvation in Jesus Christ, God gives forgiveness, faith, life, and the power to please Him with good works. God loved us so much that He gave the ultimate gift, His only Son, so whoever believes in Him does not die, but lives and enjoys eternally peace with Him (John 3:16).
The Bible is the one and only source of all that we need to know about God. It is by His grace, not our good deeds that saves our souls (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is important to know what the Bible says, because you need to acknowledge and never forget that God is your one and only savior. It provides our foundation of faith. All we have to do, is accept His gift by faith and allow the Holy Spirit to enable us to do things in His name that are not humanly possible without Him.
God’s word should be the focus in times of worship and praise, so that we grow our faith and are reassured when doubting. The Bible teaches us how to pray. Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen (Matthew 6:9-13). It is a guide as you grow to become a better person. It teaches us what is right and wrong, and how to live a Godly life. Verses speak specifically to situations, and the answers can always be found in His word. The Faith Alive Bible’s extra features help find the answers more quickly.
The Bible helps me and other Christians reach out and explain why God is the only way to salvation (Acts 4:12). His light of the world shines through us as Christians. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:6-17). His word spreads His compassion and love. The Bible is love and teaches everybody how to love his/her neighbors and enemies. He loves everybody no matter what sins or misdeeds we’ve done. He wants us to be God-like and forgive others. If we follow His word, our behaviors will reflect how He wants us to live our lives. The “Faith Alive Bible” is an invaluable tool that we have as Christians to learn about Him and spread His word. There is no other way to understand God without knowing what is in the Bible.
This is a must read. It doesn't matter where you begin reading, because His word will guide you.
The 66 books of the Holy Bible were written by prophets (Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekial, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obediah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi), a scribe/priest (Ezra), Kings (David and Solomon), disciples ( John Mark and John), a tax collector/Disciple (Matthew), a physician (Luke), apostles ( Paul and Peter), brothers of Jesus (James and Jude), and some unknown authors. Receive the Word with meekness and it will save your soul (James 1:21). Do not add or take away from the Word, so that you are careful and able to follow the commandments God has given (Deuteronomy 12:32). The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). In the Law God commands good works of thought, word, and deed and condemns and punishes sin. In the Gospel, the good news of our salvation in Jesus Christ, God gives forgiveness, faith, life, and the power to please Him with good works. God loved us so much that He gave the ultimate gift, His only Son, so whoever believes in Him does not die, but lives and enjoys eternally peace with Him (John 3:16).
The Bible is the one and only source of all that we need to know about God. It is by His grace, not our good deeds that saves our souls (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is important to know what the Bible says, because you need to acknowledge and never forget that God is your one and only savior. It provides our foundation of faith. All we have to do, is accept His gift by faith and allow the Holy Spirit to enable us to do things in His name that are not humanly possible without Him.
God’s word should be the focus in times of worship and praise, so that we grow our faith and are reassured when doubting. The Bible teaches us how to pray. Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen (Matthew 6:9-13). It is a guide as you grow to become a better person. It teaches us what is right and wrong, and how to live a Godly life. Verses speak specifically to situations, and the answers can always be found in His word. The Faith Alive Bible’s extra features help find the answers more quickly.
The Bible helps me and other Christians reach out and explain why God is the only way to salvation (Acts 4:12). His light of the world shines through us as Christians. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:6-17). His word spreads His compassion and love. The Bible is love and teaches everybody how to love his/her neighbors and enemies. He loves everybody no matter what sins or misdeeds we’ve done. He wants us to be God-like and forgive others. If we follow His word, our behaviors will reflect how He wants us to live our lives. The “Faith Alive Bible” is an invaluable tool that we have as Christians to learn about Him and spread His word. There is no other way to understand God without knowing what is in the Bible.
This is a must read. It doesn't matter where you begin reading, because His word will guide you.
May 13, 2020
Whew this has been a journey to get this book read but I have finally done it while it was from cover-to-cover instead of from the NT to the OT, which was recommended to me many times by those who wanted to see me succeed. For those who are able to honestly claim they have read the whole Bible I tip my hat to you for there are very few books I have found as challenging to read and none that have taken me so long to complete without reason.
When I started off on my reading challenge I was going with this version of the Bible since it is from my church. I chose to tackle it head-on and read all the footnotes at the bottom while even going back over the verses it cross-referenced. I found on very on that at this particular pace I would never get done so I chose to stick with only reading the notes that either provided additional information to the information I was reading such as name translations and other suggested versions of the verses.
Unlike the digital Latter-Day KJV, which gives you audio pronunciation if you should need it, this book doesn't offer a pronunciation guide. But since it also is in Modern English instead of Early Modern English then it is a whole lot easier for the reader to read than the suggested KJV of many other churches.
At the same time due to it is a Student Bible there is a whole lot more background information included such as People You Should Know, a Guided Tour and the introduction to each book, which also has a how to read suggestion side. These sections provided other historical backgrounds for modern readers to connect with such as how Christians now are comparing with their earlier peers, information on Jewish customs and historical events. All gave for a much more interesting read in some certain circumstances than just the Bible as it allowed the reader to connect both to the present and the past.
I still had the same obstacles as I did with the digital KJV version with the genealogical records, the dry-toned law and Tabernacle descriptions, the constant warfare as well as some of the more repetitive passages. But unlike the digital format it is a lot more motivating to read a physical copy as it allows you to see just how far you have gotten in your reading.
What I did find out, though, from reading the Bible is how much I love seeing the different authors work together to present the same story of redemption as it allowed me to appreciate little explored books such as the Minor Prophets. It also allowed me to re-read favorite verses and find other new verses while getting answers that I hadn't thought about. The Bible is a slowly unfolding mystery where with each re-reading of chapters allows the reader to pick-up something they hadn't seen before.
All in all a good nice lengthy read and one that is best tackled in bite-size pieces while at your own pace.
When I started off on my reading challenge I was going with this version of the Bible since it is from my church. I chose to tackle it head-on and read all the footnotes at the bottom while even going back over the verses it cross-referenced. I found on very on that at this particular pace I would never get done so I chose to stick with only reading the notes that either provided additional information to the information I was reading such as name translations and other suggested versions of the verses.
Unlike the digital Latter-Day KJV, which gives you audio pronunciation if you should need it, this book doesn't offer a pronunciation guide. But since it also is in Modern English instead of Early Modern English then it is a whole lot easier for the reader to read than the suggested KJV of many other churches.
At the same time due to it is a Student Bible there is a whole lot more background information included such as People You Should Know, a Guided Tour and the introduction to each book, which also has a how to read suggestion side. These sections provided other historical backgrounds for modern readers to connect with such as how Christians now are comparing with their earlier peers, information on Jewish customs and historical events. All gave for a much more interesting read in some certain circumstances than just the Bible as it allowed the reader to connect both to the present and the past.
I still had the same obstacles as I did with the digital KJV version with the genealogical records, the dry-toned law and Tabernacle descriptions, the constant warfare as well as some of the more repetitive passages. But unlike the digital format it is a lot more motivating to read a physical copy as it allows you to see just how far you have gotten in your reading.
What I did find out, though, from reading the Bible is how much I love seeing the different authors work together to present the same story of redemption as it allowed me to appreciate little explored books such as the Minor Prophets. It also allowed me to re-read favorite verses and find other new verses while getting answers that I hadn't thought about. The Bible is a slowly unfolding mystery where with each re-reading of chapters allows the reader to pick-up something they hadn't seen before.
All in all a good nice lengthy read and one that is best tackled in bite-size pieces while at your own pace.
October 5, 2015
The book of Judges is a historical account of the people of Israel’s relationship with God. Throughout the entire book the Israelites betray God by worshipping idols and He allows their enemy nations to conquer them. Then after a time of waiting God would choose a “Judge” to rise up and lead the Israelites to defeat their enemies. The Judge the acted as a leader for the nation of Israel to keep them on track and rule over them. This book also gives you incite to ancient civilization and ancient war. You’ll discover that the Bible is not gentle children’s book but is in fact a very true account of ancient event. In this book especially there I chapter after chapter of gruesome, savage battles with cruel outcomes. However when you really read into this book you see its beautiful purpose of God’s unwavering love of patience for us. The people turn away from God time and time again, but He is always there for them. This book shows that God will never turn away from us.
I enjoyed this book because I am a fan of history and this is a book of the Bible that I had recommended to me to study. I feel like a lot of people only read the New Testament of the Bible and I like too not forget about the Old Testament. I enjoy studying these ancient document to find out about how these civilizations interacted with God.
Anyone who enjoys history would love this book and enjoy studying the history of it. I would also recommend this book for anyone who identifies as Christian or Jewish as a religious study
This is one of my favorite pieces of literature to study. It is most definitely one of my favorite books of the Bible because of the action packed stories it holds within it. It also contains my favorite story of the entire Bible which is the story of Samson. Samson has incredible strength which comes from a promise of the Lord which says, if he never cuts his hair he will have impeccable strength. I love the unique ways in which the Lord use him, because when you think of a servant of the Lord you think of a quiet, meek, humble person. However Samson is a boisterous, strong, anger filled warrior who strikes down any Philistine that questions him.
I enjoyed this book because I am a fan of history and this is a book of the Bible that I had recommended to me to study. I feel like a lot of people only read the New Testament of the Bible and I like too not forget about the Old Testament. I enjoy studying these ancient document to find out about how these civilizations interacted with God.
Anyone who enjoys history would love this book and enjoy studying the history of it. I would also recommend this book for anyone who identifies as Christian or Jewish as a religious study
This is one of my favorite pieces of literature to study. It is most definitely one of my favorite books of the Bible because of the action packed stories it holds within it. It also contains my favorite story of the entire Bible which is the story of Samson. Samson has incredible strength which comes from a promise of the Lord which says, if he never cuts his hair he will have impeccable strength. I love the unique ways in which the Lord use him, because when you think of a servant of the Lord you think of a quiet, meek, humble person. However Samson is a boisterous, strong, anger filled warrior who strikes down any Philistine that questions him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2019
I am agnostic at the time of reading this text, and any commentary I have is targeted to it as it is organized and translated by the writers, not based on the actual content of the text.
In this text the authors attempted to create a system that organizes the text in one of two ways in order to maximize an individuals understanding of it, allowing someone to tackle the text in such a way that is best fitting for their plan. The text states its purpose as this a number of times, I would argue the plan they put forward and their encouragement and reasons for usage of it are sound.
However, I find the actual execution on the bulk of the work around the text to be rather poor. The overall translation seeks to remove nuance and complexity that is present in other translations of the text, and while this increases the ability to understand it, it removes some of the messages and greater context that may be present otherwise.
I also find the notes given by the authors to be often less than helpful; the questions presented at the bottom of pages, combined with the massive walls of text they integrate that serve as a secondly explanation to the text that was just read, seems to quite simply be too much. Allow the text to breath on its own, and perhaps have some guidance; but most every important passage will be translated to simplicity twice, which I find quite redundant. I therefore question the title of the text as a 'Student' bible.
I also greatly dislike the examples they pull from in the explanation of different events in the text, as all of such examples are based on american politics, and reveal a political leaning of the writers. While such a leaning may be expected considering their considerable dedication to the faith, exhibiting such in their examples only serve to push a certain agenda or mindset, more so than what is present in the text they are translating.
If you really struggle with the text, this is a good option. Otherwise, there are better translations out there.
In this text the authors attempted to create a system that organizes the text in one of two ways in order to maximize an individuals understanding of it, allowing someone to tackle the text in such a way that is best fitting for their plan. The text states its purpose as this a number of times, I would argue the plan they put forward and their encouragement and reasons for usage of it are sound.
However, I find the actual execution on the bulk of the work around the text to be rather poor. The overall translation seeks to remove nuance and complexity that is present in other translations of the text, and while this increases the ability to understand it, it removes some of the messages and greater context that may be present otherwise.
I also find the notes given by the authors to be often less than helpful; the questions presented at the bottom of pages, combined with the massive walls of text they integrate that serve as a secondly explanation to the text that was just read, seems to quite simply be too much. Allow the text to breath on its own, and perhaps have some guidance; but most every important passage will be translated to simplicity twice, which I find quite redundant. I therefore question the title of the text as a 'Student' bible.
I also greatly dislike the examples they pull from in the explanation of different events in the text, as all of such examples are based on american politics, and reveal a political leaning of the writers. While such a leaning may be expected considering their considerable dedication to the faith, exhibiting such in their examples only serve to push a certain agenda or mindset, more so than what is present in the text they are translating.
If you really struggle with the text, this is a good option. Otherwise, there are better translations out there.
May 17, 2010
I've read the entire book a few times (portions of it many, many times) and the more I read it critically, the less convinced I am that this ancient collection of writings should retain any compelling moral relevance in society today. The book contains numerous contradictions, both factual and theological, which of course are completely ignored and glossed over by those who claim that the Bible is the infallible word of God himself.
One aspect in particular regarding the Bible that I find fascinating is its seemingly innumerable religious interpretations. Mormons, Catholics, Pentecostals, Baptists, Evangelicals, Jehovah's Witnesses, etc. all look at the Bible and see something different. They all possess the "true" interpretation of what the Bible says, and each of those interpretations differ (at least on some level) from everyone else's. I suppose its breadth of meaning could be considered one of the Bible's more beautiful qualities, if it weren't for the fact that many of these differing "interpretations" lead to divisiveness, judgment, hate, and even violence among otherwise rationally minded individuals.
Another similar concept concerning the Bible that I find intriguing is its context. Over the years, I've come to realize that the word "context" is being grossly misused in the religious community. When a teacher of the Bible explains the "context" of a particular passage or verse, it really only means they're conveying an "interpretation" of how that passage or verse is meant to be read. It's all a bunch of silliness.
The Bible itself is a great and interesting book; it's the people who use it as the foundation to impose closed-minded, illogical, contradictory, judgmental, arrogant, out-dated, and sometimes delusional beliefs that I find not so great.
One aspect in particular regarding the Bible that I find fascinating is its seemingly innumerable religious interpretations. Mormons, Catholics, Pentecostals, Baptists, Evangelicals, Jehovah's Witnesses, etc. all look at the Bible and see something different. They all possess the "true" interpretation of what the Bible says, and each of those interpretations differ (at least on some level) from everyone else's. I suppose its breadth of meaning could be considered one of the Bible's more beautiful qualities, if it weren't for the fact that many of these differing "interpretations" lead to divisiveness, judgment, hate, and even violence among otherwise rationally minded individuals.
Another similar concept concerning the Bible that I find intriguing is its context. Over the years, I've come to realize that the word "context" is being grossly misused in the religious community. When a teacher of the Bible explains the "context" of a particular passage or verse, it really only means they're conveying an "interpretation" of how that passage or verse is meant to be read. It's all a bunch of silliness.
The Bible itself is a great and interesting book; it's the people who use it as the foundation to impose closed-minded, illogical, contradictory, judgmental, arrogant, out-dated, and sometimes delusional beliefs that I find not so great.
March 2, 2012
"God's word is truth." Jeremiah 10:10a.
I have always wanted to read the entire Bible from cover to cover. I had never done it before. It took me a year and a half by reading 2 chapters a day. Yeah, when you read the Bible, you've got to go slow, otherwise you'll miss something important. Like the shortest verse in the Bible: "Jesus wept." Blink, and you'll miss it! So that's why I took my time. My favorite book of the Bible was Luke. I think it details the story of Jesus' life here on earth very interestingly. In all, there is no book better than the Bible because it's full of wonderful advice, and ultimately the roadmap to eternal salvation. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. Not even Walmart can match the price of Salvation: it's free! I highly recommend the Bible for everybody to read. :)
I have always wanted to read the entire Bible from cover to cover. I had never done it before. It took me a year and a half by reading 2 chapters a day. Yeah, when you read the Bible, you've got to go slow, otherwise you'll miss something important. Like the shortest verse in the Bible: "Jesus wept." Blink, and you'll miss it! So that's why I took my time. My favorite book of the Bible was Luke. I think it details the story of Jesus' life here on earth very interestingly. In all, there is no book better than the Bible because it's full of wonderful advice, and ultimately the roadmap to eternal salvation. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. Not even Walmart can match the price of Salvation: it's free! I highly recommend the Bible for everybody to read. :)
September 5, 2016
Bible Studying.
Proverbs - CONTINUALLY!
Genesis
Exodus
Leviticus
Numbers
Deuteronomy
Joshua
Judges
Ruth
1 Samuel (18-20 often!)
2 Samuel
1 Kings
2 Kings
1 Chronicles
2 Chronicles
Ezra 6/26 to 6/30/2016
Nehemiah
Esther
Job
Psalms
Proverbs - CONTINUALLY!!
Ecclesiastes 5/14/2016, 8/25/2016
Song of Solomon
Isaiah
Jeremiah
Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel 5/14 to 5/23/2016
Hosea - 6/2016 to 8/31/2016
Joel - 9/5/2016
Amos
Obadiah
Jonah
Micah
Nahum
Habakkuk
Zephaniah
Haggai
Zechariah
Malachi
Matthew
Mark 07/02 to 2016
Luke
John
Acts
Romans 5/23 to 6/25/2016
1 Corinthians - 2015
2 Corinthians - 2015
Galatians - 2015
Ephesians - 2015
Philippians - 2015
Colossians - 2015
1 Thessalonians - 2015
2 Thessalonians - 2015
1 Timothy - 2015
2 Timothy - 2015
Titus - 2015
Philemon - 2015
Hebrews - 2015
James - 2015
1 Peter - 2015
2 Peter - 2015
1 John - 2015
2 John - 2015
3 John - 2015
Jude - 2015
Revelation
Proverbs - CONTINUALLY!
Genesis
Exodus
Leviticus
Numbers
Deuteronomy
Joshua
Judges
Ruth
1 Samuel (18-20 often!)
2 Samuel
1 Kings
2 Kings
1 Chronicles
2 Chronicles
Ezra 6/26 to 6/30/2016
Nehemiah
Esther
Job
Psalms
Proverbs - CONTINUALLY!!
Ecclesiastes 5/14/2016, 8/25/2016
Song of Solomon
Isaiah
Jeremiah
Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel 5/14 to 5/23/2016
Hosea - 6/2016 to 8/31/2016
Joel - 9/5/2016
Amos
Obadiah
Jonah
Micah
Nahum
Habakkuk
Zephaniah
Haggai
Zechariah
Malachi
Matthew
Mark 07/02 to 2016
Luke
John
Acts
Romans 5/23 to 6/25/2016
1 Corinthians - 2015
2 Corinthians - 2015
Galatians - 2015
Ephesians - 2015
Philippians - 2015
Colossians - 2015
1 Thessalonians - 2015
2 Thessalonians - 2015
1 Timothy - 2015
2 Timothy - 2015
Titus - 2015
Philemon - 2015
Hebrews - 2015
James - 2015
1 Peter - 2015
2 Peter - 2015
1 John - 2015
2 John - 2015
3 John - 2015
Jude - 2015
Revelation
December 31, 2017
Got this Bible in middle school and used it regularly through college. Did most of a read-the-Bible-in-a-year plan this year using the ReadScripture app, which is ESV.
I grew up going to Sunday School and thought I was pretty well informed about the Bible until I actually tried to read all of it. Then I realized that there is SO MUCH in it that makes no sense, particularly in the Old Testament. Reading the Bible in a year felt like trying to pour a carton of dry oatmeal down my throat. The notes in this Student Bible helped a lot in explaining some of the extra-weird stories, putting things in context, and applying the verses to my life. I still don't understand most of the Bible, but this version got me up to 2 Corinthians before I abandoned the project.
I grew up going to Sunday School and thought I was pretty well informed about the Bible until I actually tried to read all of it. Then I realized that there is SO MUCH in it that makes no sense, particularly in the Old Testament. Reading the Bible in a year felt like trying to pour a carton of dry oatmeal down my throat. The notes in this Student Bible helped a lot in explaining some of the extra-weird stories, putting things in context, and applying the verses to my life. I still don't understand most of the Bible, but this version got me up to 2 Corinthians before I abandoned the project.
July 31, 2007
This book has been a constant companion for 10 years and i have treasured it and hated it and was bored with it and learned from it. although it is is in pieces, and so much of it is highlighted and underlined, i still will go to it rather than find a new copy.
All people should read the bible, in it's entirety, before feigning to know what God and faith in him is all about.
this edition served me well in high school and part of college because it includes extras such as book descriptions, historical and cultural background for the text, character analysis and a subject guide. it's good for people wanting to know more yet not ready for in-depth, scholastic study of the Bible.
All people should read the bible, in it's entirety, before feigning to know what God and faith in him is all about.
this edition served me well in high school and part of college because it includes extras such as book descriptions, historical and cultural background for the text, character analysis and a subject guide. it's good for people wanting to know more yet not ready for in-depth, scholastic study of the Bible.
March 26, 2007
This little known, anonymously-written literature text has amazing stories and thought-provoking parables that have transcended time and space. Growing up, I read this book over and over again (some stories more than others) and can attest to the power of it. Especially when defending one's self. For example, I definitely recommend this book for anyone who finds themselves constantly defending their political views against self-identified "experts" on this grand nuance of a text.
June 11, 2012
I found I outgrew this particular translation as I read through it - seeking deeper, more academic theological and historical commentary - but the commentary and layout are accessible to first-time readers. The three different reading tracks were especially helpful and enabled me to explore the Bible in both cursory and in-depth ways, as well as finally finish a complete read-through of the text.
May 24, 2012
I've read this before, numerous times- sometimes all the way through, sometimes a little at a time. I even took classes each on the New and Old Testaments. If you really need a glowing recommendation you're probably some sort of heathan.
It does have everything: action, romance, betrayal, deciet, mind-numbing boredom, loyalty, confusion, redundancies, dated anachronisms and prophecy. It's worth a go.
It does have everything: action, romance, betrayal, deciet, mind-numbing boredom, loyalty, confusion, redundancies, dated anachronisms and prophecy. It's worth a go.
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