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Apologetics Study Bible For Students, Hardcover
Like the acclaimed Apologetics Study Bible that has sold 115,000+ copies, the Apologetics Study Bible for Students will anchor younger Christians in the truths of Scripture by equipping them with thoughtful and practical responses for whenever the core issues of their faith and life are challenged.Multiple research studies have shown that spiritual focus often weakens among teenagers as they head into the attention-dividing realm of young adulthood. Up to 66% of them leave church altogether. The Apologetics Study Bible for Students works against that trend by helping this audience begin to better articulate its beliefs. In addition to the complete HCSB text and dozens of articles collected from today’s most popular youth leaders, including general editor Sean McDowell, this new study Bible also includes:• Two-color design-intensive layout on every page for the visual generation• Sixty “Twisted Scriptures” explanations• Fifty “Bones & Dirt” entries (archaeology meets apologetics)• Fifty “Notable Quotes”• Twenty-five “Tactics” against common anti-Christian arguments• Twenty “Personal Stories” of how God has worked in real lives• Twenty “Top Five” lists to help remember key apologetics topics
1440 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2010
134 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Sean McDowell
143 books177 followersDr. Sean McDowell is a gifted communicator with a passion for equipping the church, and in particular young people, to make the case for the Christian faith. He connects with audiences in a tangible way through humor and stories while imparting hard evidence and logical support for viewing all areas of life through a Biblical worldview. Sean is an Assistant Professor in the Christian Apologetics program at Biola University.
Sean still teaches one high school Bible class, which helps give him exceptional insight into the prevailing culture so he can impart his observations poignantly to fellow educators, pastors, and parents alike.
Read more about Sean on his website.
Connect with Sean on Facebook.
Sean still teaches one high school Bible class, which helps give him exceptional insight into the prevailing culture so he can impart his observations poignantly to fellow educators, pastors, and parents alike.
Read more about Sean on his website.
Connect with Sean on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 28, 2020
I really like this Bible edition because it has a lot of footnotes that explain things, a glossary for difficult or ancient words, and dozens of essays on Christian apologetics that give great information for how to explain the Bible to non-believers or just people who have questions.
December 29, 2011
Easily deemed one of my favorite go-to-sources, I loved this Bible translation. The use of language was familiar and comfortable, and I found myself referring to it quite often.
September 28, 2020
It took us 2 years to finish but we did it!
October 24, 2015
The Apologetics Study Bible For Students (Hardcover Edition) is an attractively designed Bible that actually looks more like a text book than a Bible (except for the telltale ribbon and black and red indexed tabs).
This Bible contains the full text of the Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB) translation – a literal translation that’s endorsed by well-respected pastor-teachers such as Dr. Tony Evans, Dr. Charles Stanley, and Dr. Charles Colson!
What I love about the Apologetics Study Bible For Students is that it’s an easy-to-read, solid biblical resource that provides students of all ages the information they need to better understand their faith from an intellectual perspective and to share it more intelligibly and effectively with others.
Key Features of the Apologetics Study Bible For Students include:
* Book Introductions with Timelines of what’s going on elsewhere in the world.
* Study Notes with evidence on the reliability and truthfulness of Scripture.
* Articles that address culturally significant questions accurately yet sensitively.
* Bones & Dirt segments that feature archaeological discoveries of apologetic value.
* Twisted Scripture Notes that highlight Scriptures that other religious movements distort to support doctrines that run contrary to historic Christian teaching.
Other features include notable quotes, tactics to help students withstand attacks against their faith, and personal stories about how God has dramatically worked in people’s lives!
If you are looking for a highly practical Study Bible that helps students solidify, share and defend their faith, you cannot go wrong with the Apologetics Study Bible For Students!
To read this review in its entirety, visit Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. However, the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
This Bible contains the full text of the Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB) translation – a literal translation that’s endorsed by well-respected pastor-teachers such as Dr. Tony Evans, Dr. Charles Stanley, and Dr. Charles Colson!
What I love about the Apologetics Study Bible For Students is that it’s an easy-to-read, solid biblical resource that provides students of all ages the information they need to better understand their faith from an intellectual perspective and to share it more intelligibly and effectively with others.
Key Features of the Apologetics Study Bible For Students include:
* Book Introductions with Timelines of what’s going on elsewhere in the world.
* Study Notes with evidence on the reliability and truthfulness of Scripture.
* Articles that address culturally significant questions accurately yet sensitively.
* Bones & Dirt segments that feature archaeological discoveries of apologetic value.
* Twisted Scripture Notes that highlight Scriptures that other religious movements distort to support doctrines that run contrary to historic Christian teaching.
Other features include notable quotes, tactics to help students withstand attacks against their faith, and personal stories about how God has dramatically worked in people’s lives!
If you are looking for a highly practical Study Bible that helps students solidify, share and defend their faith, you cannot go wrong with the Apologetics Study Bible For Students!
To read this review in its entirety, visit Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. However, the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
August 15, 2017
I’m very impressed with this study Bible for students. It is peppered throughout with many, many articles that tackle tough questions in a straightforward manner. There are also focused sections throughout this Bible that cover “Twisted Scripture”. These sections cover various scriptures that people take out of context and twist for their own uses. I like the way these sections point back to and explain the way the scripture is being misused, then clearly helps the reader to uncover what the intended meaning is. The “Bones and Dirt” sections are also interesting and highlight archeological evidence throughout the scripture.
Two other helpful note sections that can be found throughout this Bible are the Fast Facts section and the Challenge and Tactics sections. The Fast Facts sections simply give facts about certain beliefs in a quick reference area. The Challenge and Tactics sections are helpful areas for students to view a question or challenge to something in the Bible. These are statements that the students will likely face from nonbelievers who are trying to confuse the student. These sections help point out the tactics being used to confuse the situation and point to whatever fallacy the argument is based on. Very illuminating!
This Bible is packed with helpful guidance and answers to confusing and difficult questions, always pointing to scripture to back those answers up.
I received a complimentary copy of this Bible. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Two other helpful note sections that can be found throughout this Bible are the Fast Facts section and the Challenge and Tactics sections. The Fast Facts sections simply give facts about certain beliefs in a quick reference area. The Challenge and Tactics sections are helpful areas for students to view a question or challenge to something in the Bible. These are statements that the students will likely face from nonbelievers who are trying to confuse the student. These sections help point out the tactics being used to confuse the situation and point to whatever fallacy the argument is based on. Very illuminating!
This Bible is packed with helpful guidance and answers to confusing and difficult questions, always pointing to scripture to back those answers up.
I received a complimentary copy of this Bible. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
November 11, 2015
After going through the Apologetics Study Bible for Students my first thought was, where was this Bible when my kids were teens? First, it is the version that I enjoy reading and studying from. The HCSB version is easy to understand but also accurate to the original text.
The next thing that I liked was how easy it is to find what you are looking for. Not only are there thumb tabs on the spine so that you can easily flip to the book you are wanting, there are also indexes in the front that give detailed descriptions so you can turn to the exact portion you are looking for according to topic.
My very favorite thing about this Bible is how interactive it is. While it of course contains the complete text of the Bible, it also has articles throughout that allow the student to learn and absorb the facts pertaining to apologetics. Our kids are increasingly faced with tough situations and questions from nonbelievers and teaching them apologetics is an important part of helping them put on the armor of God.
Did you also know that there is a video based Bible study using the Apologetics Study Bible for Students? It is a 16-week study that can be used with youth groups, Christian or home schools, or as in our case your personal home studies. You can find more about it at www.ApologeticsBible.com
I received a copy of this Bible to facilitate my review.
The next thing that I liked was how easy it is to find what you are looking for. Not only are there thumb tabs on the spine so that you can easily flip to the book you are wanting, there are also indexes in the front that give detailed descriptions so you can turn to the exact portion you are looking for according to topic.
My very favorite thing about this Bible is how interactive it is. While it of course contains the complete text of the Bible, it also has articles throughout that allow the student to learn and absorb the facts pertaining to apologetics. Our kids are increasingly faced with tough situations and questions from nonbelievers and teaching them apologetics is an important part of helping them put on the armor of God.
Did you also know that there is a video based Bible study using the Apologetics Study Bible for Students? It is a 16-week study that can be used with youth groups, Christian or home schools, or as in our case your personal home studies. You can find more about it at www.ApologeticsBible.com
I received a copy of this Bible to facilitate my review.
Want to read
March 7, 2013I am on Exodus
February 27, 2020
Lets be honest... This by far is one of the greatest bible studies ever! Apologetics basically it's science vs the bible.
August 15, 2015
Hard Questions. Straight Answers.
For Students!
I recall back in 2008-2009 or thereabout when I first really heard the term apologetics and I was intrigued as I did not know it. Over the years I have come very familiar with the term and have incorporated it into my own studies as well as the plans for my own studies, young though they now may currently be in our studies with the Apologia What We Believe series. About that same time while participating in a blog tour I was introduced to Apologetics for a New Generation as well as The Unshakable Truth . It was later that I also found a documentary on Netflix and then the release of the Case for Christ Study Bible from Lee Strobel and Apologetics Study Bible , both of those for adults. At the time I reviewed the Apologetics Study Bible I already knew I wanted to get my hands on the Apologetics Study Bible for Students one day and now that day has finally come!
B&H Bibles using the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) translation takes their appropriate to provide a useful tool for every student within the pages of the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, and succeeds. Sean McDowell is a popular speaker at schools, churches, and conferences nationwide. He is the author of the previously mentioned Apologetics for a New Generation book I discovered. Sean is the General Editor and one of more than 45 contributors to articles and features included within the Apologetics Study Bible for Students.
It was in 2010 when I first starting using The Apologetics Study Bible as my own go-to for deep session Bible studies. That same year, B&H released the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, but now they have newly for 2015 released a hardcover edition, with ribbon and indexed tabs. This is what I have in my thrilled to the bone hands! This is, indeed, such a valuable resource! Both to parents of students, but also to students alone - be it high school, college, or beyond.
My oldest daughter and I sat and watched through a bit of the videos on YouTube and I think they are well done and would work well in youth fellowship meetings. They are definitely discussion starters. Although for our own home studies, I doubt we'd view them more than once. I definitely think they are best for a group setting to grab the attention of youth students.
As I said with the original Apologetics Study Bible, this Bible is gorgeous. I commented then that the jacketed hardcover edition is attractive inside and out and I have the blue one on my wishlist for someday as it is completely gorgeous - then one day it silently showed up and I was ecstatic! (Still am! Still thankful!) This one, the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, indexed edition is gorgeous. Honestly, the cover images online do not do it justice. The colors and hues externally are very attractive with it's embossed title. The index tabs along the side are just plain awesome-sauce and the interior pages with a soft-tone blue are so pretty/handsome. *quirked grin* Over all this Bible is completely aesthetically appealing to any eye.
This Bible is really a great find. With my experience of being a perpetual student, this Bible is a fabulous addition to my library and I am delighted to have it on hand for studying now with my students both now as we go through the Apologia What We Believe series and for planning when they do in depth apologetics student in the higher courses. It's a text book and Bible in one. This Bible edition even interests my Enginerd.
My experience...
As I've said in the past, there are so many questions out there - and usually we are fairly equipped with the answer of " just because" and "it's by faith". Yet within the pages of these two Bibles more firm and explainable answers are available for some of the hardest questions of history and science combined. Now you may be wondering if the STUDENT EDITION is just a reprint with a new cover of the other Bible, that's not the case! While yes, the scripture is the same, the articles, features and insert details are unique. There is a little overlap in some material, but for the most part it is all new and would totally behove you to have the Student Edition for study. Even the illustrations are different or with a different twist. (See the introduction pages of Mark in the image below. The Student Edition is a two-page in-depth spread, while the original is just one page and an image taking up half of it.)
Confident Faith
The placement of the articles and features makes so much sense and is not just another unused appendix or stuck in any place as some "study Bibles" have made do with in the past. To me, this Bible would be great for personal study and I love it for that. I love the idea of this Bible for an apologetics class. This Bible could be it's own homeschool curriculum. I knew this would be an awesome Bible version even before I had my hands on it, but now I know it to be so! We all need to learn to be able to prove, defend, refute opposing and persuade others for the Christian faith and this, too, is an incredibly valuable tool to use to do so.
The Articles on a vast array of topics can challenge and support you, as well as answer questions you might have. The Twisted Scripture Notes show examples of how people have twisted a scripture and altered it to meet their ultimate needs. The Bones & Dirt Notes provide a deep look at history related to scripture while the Personal Stories provide examples of the life of a Christian and their need for scripture coming to life. The Fast Facts cover the basic and first facts that people often as questions about and there is so much more in these pages. Oddly, one notable difference between the Student Edition and the original is that the Student Edition lacks the insert of charts and maps galore - and that I find odd, especially for students. Yet it still does include the important fabulous introduction to the Holman Christian Standard Bible and Plan of Salvation. Oh and of course! a ribbon book mark is attached as well.
This version of the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, indexed edition is a great tool for indeed reading Real Questions and finding some straight evidence and Biblical based Straight Answers. It is durable, fairly heavy - but totally tote-around-able, filled with images (of the past), testimonies to relate to and learn from, and best of all a readable contemporary English Bible of the 66 books with footnotes. It is truly awesome and feels so good to hold! I think this is one that will last the test of time with lots of study.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This review was originally posted on www.CreativeMadnessMama.com
For Students!
I recall back in 2008-2009 or thereabout when I first really heard the term apologetics and I was intrigued as I did not know it. Over the years I have come very familiar with the term and have incorporated it into my own studies as well as the plans for my own studies, young though they now may currently be in our studies with the Apologia What We Believe series. About that same time while participating in a blog tour I was introduced to Apologetics for a New Generation as well as The Unshakable Truth . It was later that I also found a documentary on Netflix and then the release of the Case for Christ Study Bible from Lee Strobel and Apologetics Study Bible , both of those for adults. At the time I reviewed the Apologetics Study Bible I already knew I wanted to get my hands on the Apologetics Study Bible for Students one day and now that day has finally come!
Apologetics may be simply defined as the defense of the Christian faith. The simplicity of this definition, however, masks the complexity of the problem of defining apologetics. It turns out that a diversity of approaches has been taken to defining the meaning, scope, and purpose of apologetics. 2. What is Apologetics? | Bible.org
B&H Bibles using the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) translation takes their appropriate to provide a useful tool for every student within the pages of the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, and succeeds. Sean McDowell is a popular speaker at schools, churches, and conferences nationwide. He is the author of the previously mentioned Apologetics for a New Generation book I discovered. Sean is the General Editor and one of more than 45 contributors to articles and features included within the Apologetics Study Bible for Students.
The wonderful people at B&H Publishing Group have partnered with Sean McDowell (son of Josh McDowell, assistant professor, author, co-author, editor, husband, and father of 3) and a host of talented contributors to create The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB. You can learn more about this amazing Bible here. Press Release
It was in 2010 when I first starting using The Apologetics Study Bible as my own go-to for deep session Bible studies. That same year, B&H released the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, but now they have newly for 2015 released a hardcover edition, with ribbon and indexed tabs. This is what I have in my thrilled to the bone hands! This is, indeed, such a valuable resource! Both to parents of students, but also to students alone - be it high school, college, or beyond.
Also, this summer, the gift of Confident Faith is being celebrated with 16 brand new, but energetic and brief videos featuring Sean McDowell, free resources like Bible studies and articles as well as wonderful specials on apps and Bibles. There are new resources every week - a full 16 weeks of resources when it is all done. AND, if that weren't enough, a Confident Faith Sweepstakes is being offered to give away Bibles, free mini libraries of B&H's best apologetics resources and even a trip for two to the National Conference on Christian Apologetics (NCCA) being held October 16-17, 2015 in Charlotte, NC where some of the world's leading thinkers will offer insights and teaching.
My oldest daughter and I sat and watched through a bit of the videos on YouTube and I think they are well done and would work well in youth fellowship meetings. They are definitely discussion starters. Although for our own home studies, I doubt we'd view them more than once. I definitely think they are best for a group setting to grab the attention of youth students.
As I said with the original Apologetics Study Bible, this Bible is gorgeous. I commented then that the jacketed hardcover edition is attractive inside and out and I have the blue one on my wishlist for someday as it is completely gorgeous - then one day it silently showed up and I was ecstatic! (Still am! Still thankful!) This one, the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, indexed edition is gorgeous. Honestly, the cover images online do not do it justice. The colors and hues externally are very attractive with it's embossed title. The index tabs along the side are just plain awesome-sauce and the interior pages with a soft-tone blue are so pretty/handsome. *quirked grin* Over all this Bible is completely aesthetically appealing to any eye.
No matter your personality for appearances, there is a version of the Apologetics Study Bible for Students for your student!
It has been a few years now and I have become accustom to the HCSB translation (which was new to me in 2010) and I appreciate it. I grew up on NIV and have had NRSV and NRIV on my shelves mostly over the years, but after my college studies where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Religious Studies I have tried many translations. This translation is very pleasing to me. There are a couple variances that take some getting used to, as I said in the past, but all and all it is a good translation.
Just like with The Apologetics Study Bible, to truly tell you in detail all of the features of this Bible it would take an entire website with various pages and links. Luckily B&H Publishing Group already has one of those and I urge you to check it out see what's inside. Click through and read about some of their featured articles and what-not. (You can see details on the original Bible as well as this delightful Apologetics Study Bible for Students version.) There are also PDF printables and now even apps for your favorite mobile device available.
Tools for a Confident Faith
In addition to the complete HCSB text and dozens of articles collected from today’s most popular youth leaders, including general editor Sean McDowell, this new study Bible also includes:
Two-color design-intensive layout on every page for the visual generation
Sixty “Twisted Scriptures” explanations
Fifty “Bones & Dirt” entries (archaeology meets apologetics)
Fifty “Notable Quotes”
Twenty-five “Tactics” against common anti-Christian arguments
Twenty “Personal Stories” of how God has worked in real lives
Twenty “Top Five” lists to help remember key apologetics topics
ApologeticsBible.com
This Bible is really a great find. With my experience of being a perpetual student, this Bible is a fabulous addition to my library and I am delighted to have it on hand for studying now with my students both now as we go through the Apologia What We Believe series and for planning when they do in depth apologetics student in the higher courses. It's a text book and Bible in one. This Bible edition even interests my Enginerd.
My experience...
As I've said in the past, there are so many questions out there - and usually we are fairly equipped with the answer of " just because" and "it's by faith". Yet within the pages of these two Bibles more firm and explainable answers are available for some of the hardest questions of history and science combined. Now you may be wondering if the STUDENT EDITION is just a reprint with a new cover of the other Bible, that's not the case! While yes, the scripture is the same, the articles, features and insert details are unique. There is a little overlap in some material, but for the most part it is all new and would totally behove you to have the Student Edition for study. Even the illustrations are different or with a different twist. (See the introduction pages of Mark in the image below. The Student Edition is a two-page in-depth spread, while the original is just one page and an image taking up half of it.)
Confident Faith
The placement of the articles and features makes so much sense and is not just another unused appendix or stuck in any place as some "study Bibles" have made do with in the past. To me, this Bible would be great for personal study and I love it for that. I love the idea of this Bible for an apologetics class. This Bible could be it's own homeschool curriculum. I knew this would be an awesome Bible version even before I had my hands on it, but now I know it to be so! We all need to learn to be able to prove, defend, refute opposing and persuade others for the Christian faith and this, too, is an incredibly valuable tool to use to do so.
The Articles on a vast array of topics can challenge and support you, as well as answer questions you might have. The Twisted Scripture Notes show examples of how people have twisted a scripture and altered it to meet their ultimate needs. The Bones & Dirt Notes provide a deep look at history related to scripture while the Personal Stories provide examples of the life of a Christian and their need for scripture coming to life. The Fast Facts cover the basic and first facts that people often as questions about and there is so much more in these pages. Oddly, one notable difference between the Student Edition and the original is that the Student Edition lacks the insert of charts and maps galore - and that I find odd, especially for students. Yet it still does include the important fabulous introduction to the Holman Christian Standard Bible and Plan of Salvation. Oh and of course! a ribbon book mark is attached as well.
This version of the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, indexed edition is a great tool for indeed reading Real Questions and finding some straight evidence and Biblical based Straight Answers. It is durable, fairly heavy - but totally tote-around-able, filled with images (of the past), testimonies to relate to and learn from, and best of all a readable contemporary English Bible of the 66 books with footnotes. It is truly awesome and feels so good to hold! I think this is one that will last the test of time with lots of study.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This review was originally posted on www.CreativeMadnessMama.com
October 18, 2017
Enlightenment
This Book has helped enlighten me on many levels. It has helped me understand the Book of Revelations most of all and for that I am most thankful.
This Book has helped enlighten me on many levels. It has helped me understand the Book of Revelations most of all and for that I am most thankful.
August 15, 2015
“I can’t read the Bible. It just doesn’t make sense to me. Too many Thee’s and Thou’s and references to things I just don’t understand.” I’ve had this thought myself and I have heard it echo’ed in comments from my friends. What do you do? The Bible is an important part of our Christian faith. It is important for us to not only read, but to understand what is contained between it’s covers.
I started out reading the King James version, it was like reading Shakespeare to me. Sounded beautiful, but made little sense. Then I moved on to a Student Bible. It has helped me study the scriptures but over the years it’s Study Notes and Personal Stories have become outdated (It still references ‘Cassette Tapes’). It has been time for an “upgrade” for some time, but because I have had this particular Bible for so many years, I am reluctant to part with it. My study notes, highlights, and even notes from friends are contained within it’s pages. Since the scriptures haven’t changed over time, I have held onto it and just purchased outside books for study.
“The Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB” is a new Study Bible for today’s Christian. The HCSB was born of the need to have a Bible that reflected today’s English. There is a great introduction in the front of the Bible that explains what the Holman Christian Standard Bible is and explains their translations philosophy and other important features. To learn more about the HCSB translation please visit their website.
The within it’s pages you’ll find several features that will make your bible study easier and more fulfilling. There is an introduction to each of the sixty-six books for the Bible. This is one of my favourite features. It gives you some insight into what is happening in the world at the time. This helps me understand why people are acting the way they do and why certain things that seem insignificant to me are extremely important to the story.
There are 120 Articles that deal with life’s tough questions, written by leading Christian thinkers. Sixty Twisted Scriptures that show how and why people distort Christian teachings. I love when science proves that the stories in the Bible actually happened. Explore some of these discoveries through the 50 Bone and Dirt features outlining archaeological discoveries. It also includes 20 Personal Stories to show us how God has worked in the lives of others and 20 Top Fives that are bullet points to help you remember significant apologetics topics.
“The Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB” is a Bible that anyone would be proud to carry. It has a hard-cover in brown tones. It is something that anyone can use and will not go “out of style” in years to come.
I do find the pages, like many other Bibles, very thin. I haven’t tried highlighting any text in it, I am at the campground with no access to to a high-lighter, but I feel that the colours may bleed through. I also find the pages a bit difficult to turn, but I believe that is only due to the fact that it is a brand new book and I haven’t had the chance to flip over each page.
There are foot notes on virtually every page that help explain the scriptures. I find myself referencing these more and more as I explore the Bible. Each page is clearly numbered on the bottom and the upper corner contains the Book and starting/ending verse. Each chapter is clearly number with large number and title, which helps you understand what you are about to read. They have also payed extreme attention to the line breaks. I notice this the most in the Book of Psalms, where each line ends in a logical place instead of what sometimes seems random in other translations.
I disliked the way the quotes are displayed. They are inline with the text only differentiated by a font colour. I feel new Christians will find it difficult to immediately tell if it’s scripture or a quote. After using the Bible for a bit it will become easily identifiable but initially it may be confusing.
“The Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB” is a great translation and an excellent resource using today’s English, while remaining true to the scriptures. Here is a small example of a verse we all know and cherish.
“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
For me there are a few simple changes, but the meaning is still there in it’s entirety. The HCSB also includes a footnote for this verse (and the next) which helps me to further understand it’s meaning.
Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing a complimentary copy of the product in exchange for this review.
I started out reading the King James version, it was like reading Shakespeare to me. Sounded beautiful, but made little sense. Then I moved on to a Student Bible. It has helped me study the scriptures but over the years it’s Study Notes and Personal Stories have become outdated (It still references ‘Cassette Tapes’). It has been time for an “upgrade” for some time, but because I have had this particular Bible for so many years, I am reluctant to part with it. My study notes, highlights, and even notes from friends are contained within it’s pages. Since the scriptures haven’t changed over time, I have held onto it and just purchased outside books for study.
“The Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB” is a new Study Bible for today’s Christian. The HCSB was born of the need to have a Bible that reflected today’s English. There is a great introduction in the front of the Bible that explains what the Holman Christian Standard Bible is and explains their translations philosophy and other important features. To learn more about the HCSB translation please visit their website.
The within it’s pages you’ll find several features that will make your bible study easier and more fulfilling. There is an introduction to each of the sixty-six books for the Bible. This is one of my favourite features. It gives you some insight into what is happening in the world at the time. This helps me understand why people are acting the way they do and why certain things that seem insignificant to me are extremely important to the story.
There are 120 Articles that deal with life’s tough questions, written by leading Christian thinkers. Sixty Twisted Scriptures that show how and why people distort Christian teachings. I love when science proves that the stories in the Bible actually happened. Explore some of these discoveries through the 50 Bone and Dirt features outlining archaeological discoveries. It also includes 20 Personal Stories to show us how God has worked in the lives of others and 20 Top Fives that are bullet points to help you remember significant apologetics topics.
“The Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB” is a Bible that anyone would be proud to carry. It has a hard-cover in brown tones. It is something that anyone can use and will not go “out of style” in years to come.
I do find the pages, like many other Bibles, very thin. I haven’t tried highlighting any text in it, I am at the campground with no access to to a high-lighter, but I feel that the colours may bleed through. I also find the pages a bit difficult to turn, but I believe that is only due to the fact that it is a brand new book and I haven’t had the chance to flip over each page.
There are foot notes on virtually every page that help explain the scriptures. I find myself referencing these more and more as I explore the Bible. Each page is clearly numbered on the bottom and the upper corner contains the Book and starting/ending verse. Each chapter is clearly number with large number and title, which helps you understand what you are about to read. They have also payed extreme attention to the line breaks. I notice this the most in the Book of Psalms, where each line ends in a logical place instead of what sometimes seems random in other translations.
I disliked the way the quotes are displayed. They are inline with the text only differentiated by a font colour. I feel new Christians will find it difficult to immediately tell if it’s scripture or a quote. After using the Bible for a bit it will become easily identifiable but initially it may be confusing.
“The Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB” is a great translation and an excellent resource using today’s English, while remaining true to the scriptures. Here is a small example of a verse we all know and cherish.
“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
For me there are a few simple changes, but the meaning is still there in it’s entirety. The HCSB also includes a footnote for this verse (and the next) which helps me to further understand it’s meaning.
Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing a complimentary copy of the product in exchange for this review.
September 28, 2015
The Christian walk of faith is certainly one of that requires a lot of faith, but also a trust in a God that we, as a generation has never seen. The world for most students who are attending public school and colleges are those in whose faith will be put to the ultimate test, to stand for the truth in an ever changing world that is growing more hostile to the Christian faith. Will our generation of children be able to stand strong in the coming storm? Will they have all the answers they need to defend what they believe? Is there a tool that can help them with the challenging questions that will be asked of them? I believe there is!
Sean McDowell is the general editor for the Apologetics Study Bible for student, a tool I believe will be useful for answering those difficult and heartfelt challenges about their faith and the life that they have chosen. It is designed to help students be equipping them with the truths of Scripture that enables them to articulate their faith. A better way to think of it, is Christian apologetics 101, which isn't about apologizing for their faith, but helping them understand how to defend it in today's growing and changing world.
The HCSB or Holman Christian Study Bible edition offers them introductions into each of the sixty six books of the Bible along with some amazing study notes to provide evidence of the reliability and truthfulness of Scripture. There are also 120 articles scattered throughout written by today's leading Christian thinkers like Sean McDowell, Bayard Taylor, Daryl Rodriguez, Alison Thomas, Frank Turek, Steve Russo, Ryan Sharp, and many, many more that deal with such topics like "Why Are Some Christian's Hypocrites, How Can I Be Sure I am Saved, If God Made Everything, Why Shouldn't I Smoke Pot, Why Would A Good God Send People to Hell and so many others that deal with the kinds of questions being asked by people today that our children and teens deal with. What better way to answer them than with the right tools and scriptures to reference!
There are also those Scriptures that other religions and people try to twist to make us question our own understanding of the Bible, along with 50 Bone and Dirt features that highlight important archaeological discoveries with an apologetics value with quotes from influential people throughout history. There is also 25 tactics to equip students to withstand opposition to Christianity by outlining tactics and strategies for handling frequently heard anti-Christian arguments. Finally there are also 20 personal stories that will help encourage and strengthen readers in their faith by describing how God has worked dramatically in other people's lives and 20 Fast Facts that compare such differences as the Bible versus the Koran, Atheism, America's Christian Heritage, Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Darwin's Evolution Theory as well.
This is the perfect gift for your middle school student and up because it is more than the Bible it is a tool that will enable them to stand up for what they believe in and know right where to go for the answers. A wonderful graduation gift for any student of the Christian Faith and one that I highly recommend. It comes with indented tabs to enable quick reference into the Bible, and my favorite is how it is written to appeal to students in each section such as "What is going on here?" helps them to understand why a particular book of the Bible was written and what had been happening in the land as it was addressed! My 16-year-old daughter LOVES having this Bible to use in her youth group and loves the videos that you have access to by picking up a copy of this Bible as well. They have encouraged her in ways reading articles would never reach her for defending her faith! I would rate this one a 5 out of 5 perfected stars and think every student should own one! I received The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB compliments of B and H Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review aside from a free copy of the Bible. The opinions contained here are my own.
Sean McDowell is the general editor for the Apologetics Study Bible for student, a tool I believe will be useful for answering those difficult and heartfelt challenges about their faith and the life that they have chosen. It is designed to help students be equipping them with the truths of Scripture that enables them to articulate their faith. A better way to think of it, is Christian apologetics 101, which isn't about apologizing for their faith, but helping them understand how to defend it in today's growing and changing world.
The HCSB or Holman Christian Study Bible edition offers them introductions into each of the sixty six books of the Bible along with some amazing study notes to provide evidence of the reliability and truthfulness of Scripture. There are also 120 articles scattered throughout written by today's leading Christian thinkers like Sean McDowell, Bayard Taylor, Daryl Rodriguez, Alison Thomas, Frank Turek, Steve Russo, Ryan Sharp, and many, many more that deal with such topics like "Why Are Some Christian's Hypocrites, How Can I Be Sure I am Saved, If God Made Everything, Why Shouldn't I Smoke Pot, Why Would A Good God Send People to Hell and so many others that deal with the kinds of questions being asked by people today that our children and teens deal with. What better way to answer them than with the right tools and scriptures to reference!
There are also those Scriptures that other religions and people try to twist to make us question our own understanding of the Bible, along with 50 Bone and Dirt features that highlight important archaeological discoveries with an apologetics value with quotes from influential people throughout history. There is also 25 tactics to equip students to withstand opposition to Christianity by outlining tactics and strategies for handling frequently heard anti-Christian arguments. Finally there are also 20 personal stories that will help encourage and strengthen readers in their faith by describing how God has worked dramatically in other people's lives and 20 Fast Facts that compare such differences as the Bible versus the Koran, Atheism, America's Christian Heritage, Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Darwin's Evolution Theory as well.
This is the perfect gift for your middle school student and up because it is more than the Bible it is a tool that will enable them to stand up for what they believe in and know right where to go for the answers. A wonderful graduation gift for any student of the Christian Faith and one that I highly recommend. It comes with indented tabs to enable quick reference into the Bible, and my favorite is how it is written to appeal to students in each section such as "What is going on here?" helps them to understand why a particular book of the Bible was written and what had been happening in the land as it was addressed! My 16-year-old daughter LOVES having this Bible to use in her youth group and loves the videos that you have access to by picking up a copy of this Bible as well. They have encouraged her in ways reading articles would never reach her for defending her faith! I would rate this one a 5 out of 5 perfected stars and think every student should own one! I received The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB compliments of B and H Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review aside from a free copy of the Bible. The opinions contained here are my own.
August 14, 2015
This is actually more than a review of just the Bible, but I will review it first:
I am not familiar with the regular Apologetics Bible, so I don't know how much this one for students differs from the one for adults. I personally didn't find this one "dumbed down" for lack of a better way to put it. I found everything on a level that I could appreciate, but then it is geared for kids that are almost adults.
I liked all of the features in the Bible, but the one I liked the best is the Twisted Scriptures feature. It takes 60 passages that are often twisted by skeptics and shows that the verses do mean what they say and not what the skeptics say. The other features are also helpful and inteesting, and are what I would expect out of a Bible geared for apologetics.
The Bible itself is the Holman Christian Standard Bible, which is a newer version but is very reliable and easy to understand without straying from the original manuscripts. It is hardcover and has the tabs for the books of the Bible to make the books easier to find. Sean McDowell, son of Josh McDowell, is the general editor of the Bible and is one of many contributors to the features of the Bible. I would recommend it for any teenager, as they can find answers to questions they may have and find answers to questions others are throwing at them, though as I said adults can use it also.
There is a website for the Bible at ApologeticsBible.com. It has more information about the Bible, and also has study guides, videos, and other resources. As part of my review, I was asked to watch a few of the videos and share what they are like. I watched three: pornography, homosexuality, and is it OK to have doubts. (videos at this link). The videos are short, most of them coming in at 3 1/2 minutes or so, and I assume all are done by Sean McDowell since he did the 3 I watched. I thought they were great. He addresses the issue in a compassionate and knowledgeable way, and in a way that will connect and resonate well with teens.
They are putting up a new video each week in the Gift of Confident Faith line, and are archived at the link above with the newest one on the homepage.
In both the ones about homosexuality and pornography, he makes a quick case for why they are wrong, yet offers compassion for those dealing with it, and in the case of homosexuality he discourages joking about it and making fun.
In the one on is it OK to have doubts, he makes an interesting case that it is OK to have doubts, as anyone intent on finding the truth will find their way to Jesus on their search.
I am impressed with not just the Bible, but also with the resources available on the website. A lot of work was put into this, and it shows.
October 20, 2015
The new Apologetics Study Bible For Students is a beautiful Bible for young people. My son will be 14 next month and he especially liked several aspects of this Bible.
Right away, he noticed that the print is dark and easy to read. This Bible is well-constructed, easy-to-use and read.
Then, each book of the Bible has an introduction that includes a summary of the book, the author of the book, when the book was written in time and what else was going on in the world at that time.He found that helpful in learning about the book and placing it in its proper time in history.
Most importantly, for this Bible, there are a number of helpful articles included within the text. There are answers to 120 of the most commonly asked questions about the Christian faith. About any question facing both young people and adults in today's world that you can think of has been addressed here: What's the big Deal with Yoga? Are UFOs real? How do I know God's Will for my life? And many, many more. Other articles within this Bible share Scripture verses that are often twisted and how they are clarified. Personal stories of some of the great defenders of the Christian faith are shared in such a way that young people can relate to them in today's world. Specific tactics are shared in various places to help the reader to be prepeared to handle many common challenges Christians hear to challenge Christianity.
Both my son and I were impressed with how thoroughly the Christian faith was studies, shared and communicated to better help Bible students understand the faith for themselves and to better share that faith with others when opportunities arise. I would recommend it to any young person to better ground their faith in the Bible to last a lifetime.
I received this Bible from Broadman and Holman. I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for the book.
Right away, he noticed that the print is dark and easy to read. This Bible is well-constructed, easy-to-use and read.
Then, each book of the Bible has an introduction that includes a summary of the book, the author of the book, when the book was written in time and what else was going on in the world at that time.He found that helpful in learning about the book and placing it in its proper time in history.
Most importantly, for this Bible, there are a number of helpful articles included within the text. There are answers to 120 of the most commonly asked questions about the Christian faith. About any question facing both young people and adults in today's world that you can think of has been addressed here: What's the big Deal with Yoga? Are UFOs real? How do I know God's Will for my life? And many, many more. Other articles within this Bible share Scripture verses that are often twisted and how they are clarified. Personal stories of some of the great defenders of the Christian faith are shared in such a way that young people can relate to them in today's world. Specific tactics are shared in various places to help the reader to be prepeared to handle many common challenges Christians hear to challenge Christianity.
Both my son and I were impressed with how thoroughly the Christian faith was studies, shared and communicated to better help Bible students understand the faith for themselves and to better share that faith with others when opportunities arise. I would recommend it to any young person to better ground their faith in the Bible to last a lifetime.
I received this Bible from Broadman and Holman. I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for the book.
August 13, 2015
In today's world faith and Christianity is more important than ever for our teens. When they are challenged about what they believe or just asked by fellow peers why they believe what they believe they might need a bit of help being steered in the right direction for the answer. With the Apologetics Study Bible they have a valuable resource that will make finding those answers easier. One of the stand out features of this Bible was the numerous articles included that answered a multitude of questions, and those answers included solid scripture reference so the user can look it up for themselves.I am far outside the age range that this Bible is intended for and found that the topics were relevant to me! The twisted scriptures was another feature that I really enjoyed reading, they are scriptures that people often try to twist to fit their own agenda, or perhaps make you question why you believe what you believe. The personal stories feature stories about teens, stories that the user just might relate too. There are so many useful features in this Bible,from the study notes, to the great articles and the easy to use layout making it a great study aid for teens, but truthfully this is a Bible that will appeal to older adults as well, whether they are just beginning their walk in faith or looking to learn more.
A complimentary copy of this Bible was provided for review.
A complimentary copy of this Bible was provided for review.
August 14, 2015
Apologetics Study Bible
I loved it. I wish it had been here when I was a new Christian been so helpful. But it is awesome now too. I think Everyone needs this Study Bible. Very well laid out for easy studying. Here are a few features you will just love.
Articles Almost 50 authors answering questions
Study Notes Notes at the bottom of each page for difficult questions
Twisted Scriptures Passages that are most commonly distorted by cults and others
Bones and Dirt Key archaeological finds relating to both old and new testaments.
Notable Quotes Short quotes from present and past apologists
Challenges & Tactics Tactics to help equip you to be prepared to handle the most common challenges
Personal Stories Personal stories of some of the great defenders of the Christian Faith
Fast Facts Twenty most important apologentics topics are put into brief bullet point lists for easy memory and access
Through this study we can feel more secure about our beliefs and to be able to help others see God's word as true. Loved it and plan on study through it all the time. Thanks for letting me be a part.
I loved it. I wish it had been here when I was a new Christian been so helpful. But it is awesome now too. I think Everyone needs this Study Bible. Very well laid out for easy studying. Here are a few features you will just love.
Articles Almost 50 authors answering questions
Study Notes Notes at the bottom of each page for difficult questions
Twisted Scriptures Passages that are most commonly distorted by cults and others
Bones and Dirt Key archaeological finds relating to both old and new testaments.
Notable Quotes Short quotes from present and past apologists
Challenges & Tactics Tactics to help equip you to be prepared to handle the most common challenges
Personal Stories Personal stories of some of the great defenders of the Christian Faith
Fast Facts Twenty most important apologentics topics are put into brief bullet point lists for easy memory and access
Through this study we can feel more secure about our beliefs and to be able to help others see God's word as true. Loved it and plan on study through it all the time. Thanks for letting me be a part.
February 28, 2014
The translation itself is fine. I was put off a bit by the use of 'slave' for 'servant' because 'slave' in our culture has negative connotations, and those connotations can be distracting.
The 'articles' were what disappointed me though. I was hoping for deep study, actual apologetics on the questions that thinking people ask about Christianity, and I think although some of them were good and very interesting, many of the 'answers' were not well thought out or supported by scripture. I know I bought this bible understanding that there were commentaries added, but I feel like the commentators did not truly seek answers with prayer and study and it didn't seem like comments so weak belonged in something as holy as the Word of God....maybe a book on doctrine. Yes, I know...I know....like I said I knew that there were articles added to this bible and that was why I bought it. But I came away feeling insulted and thought of Psalms 69:9. It isn't only unbelievers who insult God...
The 'articles' were what disappointed me though. I was hoping for deep study, actual apologetics on the questions that thinking people ask about Christianity, and I think although some of them were good and very interesting, many of the 'answers' were not well thought out or supported by scripture. I know I bought this bible understanding that there were commentaries added, but I feel like the commentators did not truly seek answers with prayer and study and it didn't seem like comments so weak belonged in something as holy as the Word of God....maybe a book on doctrine. Yes, I know...I know....like I said I knew that there were articles added to this bible and that was why I bought it. But I came away feeling insulted and thought of Psalms 69:9. It isn't only unbelievers who insult God...
July 12, 2018
Quality Bible
I like it but it definitely need to fix the table of content take a page out of the you version website link all the Bible verse into its respective chapter so its not an eye sore
I like it but it definitely need to fix the table of content take a page out of the you version website link all the Bible verse into its respective chapter so its not an eye sore
September 8, 2014
Love this Bible. I especially like the summary listed before each book with a brief description and a timeline. Includes articles written by Apologetic heavy-hitters, as well.
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