Reader Appeal: Students, Parents, Pastors, Bible Study Leaders
Genre: Study Bible
FBSN Rating: B
It’s easy to appreciate the scholarship invested in the verse-by-verse commentaries that make up the bulk of The MacArthur Study Bible. From Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, John MacArthur delivers solid insights into the meaning, history, and background of Scripture—as we would expect. Still, the necessary brevity of these Bible-verse commentaries sometimes leaves a reader wanting more (and one annoying part of this commentary is the frequent use of “See note on…” directions that requires skipping to a different part of the Bible for exposition on similar topics.)
That’s why the real value this award-winning book will have for most Bible Study Nerds is in the wealth of its accessory materials. Students (of all ages and backgrounds) who are just beginning a lifelong discovery process of God’s Word will devour the clear, relevant, explanatory “Introduction to the Bible,” which gives an overview of the major themes on display in Scripture. The “How We Got The Bible” and “How to Study the Bible” introductory sections are also must-reading for just about anyone who desires a deeper understanding of Scripture.
From there, MacArthur offers surprisingly helpful references for keeping all of Scripture more understandably organized in your head. Old and New Testament chronology charts make it easy to flip back and forth between Bible history—without losing your place. “A Harmony of the Books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles” is an unexpected blessing, as is the brief overview to the latter parts of the Old Testament, “Introduction to the Prophets.” MacArthur’s coverage of the era between the end of the Old Testament and the birth of Jesus is both concise and informative, and includes yet another chronology of events that really helps bridge the gaps in history between the testaments. Finally, the end sections of this book (after Revelation) offer serious discussion and explanations on matters of basic theology and Christian doctrine, stated plainly and well-supported with Scripture. This end section is a great place to start family discussion on the Christian faith and everyday belief acted out in everyday lives.
Though some will view it as a little dense, and others will see it as lacking in detail, anyone who picks up The MacArthur Study Bible will still find a rich source of practical information about God and his Word.
The MacArthur Study Bible by John MacArthur
(Thomas Nelson Publishers)
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