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CSB Apologetics Study Bible
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible helps today’s Christians better understand, defend, and proclaim their beliefs in an age of increasing moral and spiritual relativism. This edition includes new articles and extensive apologetics study material from today’s leading apologists that has been revised and updated to reflect relevant apologetics issues and questions being discussed today.
Includes commentary from over 90 of the best apologetics thinkers of our day in one resource, including: Ted Cabal, Lee Strobel, Chuck Colson, Paul Copan, Norm Geisler, Hank Hanegraaff, Josh McDowell, Albert Mohler, J.P. Moreland, Ravi Zacharias, and many more -- plus a lead article by Lee Strobel (The Case for Christ).
Features include: Presentation page, Book Introductions, Study Notes, Apologetics articles from leading apologists, “Twisted Scripture” explanations for commonly misunderstood passages, Profiles of Christian apologists, Two-color interior, Two-column text, 9.75-point type size, Smyth-sewn binding, Ribbon marker, Full-color maps, and more.
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible features the highly reliable, highly readable text of the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), which stays as literal as possible to the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity. The CSB’s optimal blend of accuracy and readability makes Scripture more moving, more memorable, and more motivating to read it today — and share it always.
Includes commentary from over 90 of the best apologetics thinkers of our day in one resource, including: Ted Cabal, Lee Strobel, Chuck Colson, Paul Copan, Norm Geisler, Hank Hanegraaff, Josh McDowell, Albert Mohler, J.P. Moreland, Ravi Zacharias, and many more -- plus a lead article by Lee Strobel (The Case for Christ).
Features include: Presentation page, Book Introductions, Study Notes, Apologetics articles from leading apologists, “Twisted Scripture” explanations for commonly misunderstood passages, Profiles of Christian apologists, Two-color interior, Two-column text, 9.75-point type size, Smyth-sewn binding, Ribbon marker, Full-color maps, and more.
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible features the highly reliable, highly readable text of the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), which stays as literal as possible to the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity. The CSB’s optimal blend of accuracy and readability makes Scripture more moving, more memorable, and more motivating to read it today — and share it always.
1728 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2007
758 people are currently reading
1915 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 85 reviews
September 6, 2017
One of my sons is feeling God’s call to go into the ministry. We are all praying for him and are proud of him for obeying God. I wanted to give him something to help him now and in the future. So after some thought and prayer, it hit me – a Bible! Now to find the right Bible. There are so many to choose from, where to begin!
First I knew I needed to pick the right translation. CSB (formally known as HCSB) is one of the translations that stays as literal as possible to the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity. It’s a reliable text that is also easy to read and study.
When I started looking at the different CSB Bibles on the market I came across the CSB Apologetics Study Bible. I knew that it was the one to get.
So why did I pick this Bible? Whether or not he goes into the ministry I feel a Study Bible would be very helpful to him as he studies the different passages. Being that this is an Apologetics Bible makes it an even more valuable study tool. This Bible presents a historical as well as a reasoned and evidential basis for Christianity written by some of the most respected pastors and authors. When I was flipping through it the first time I ended up sitting down and reading several pages. I found it informative but easy to understand. I like how the commentaries and articles are written. That along with the CSB translation of the Bible make this a wonderful Bible to read, study and to give it as a gift. I enjoyed reading it so much I am going to have to get a copy for myself!
First I knew I needed to pick the right translation. CSB (formally known as HCSB) is one of the translations that stays as literal as possible to the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity. It’s a reliable text that is also easy to read and study.
When I started looking at the different CSB Bibles on the market I came across the CSB Apologetics Study Bible. I knew that it was the one to get.
So why did I pick this Bible? Whether or not he goes into the ministry I feel a Study Bible would be very helpful to him as he studies the different passages. Being that this is an Apologetics Bible makes it an even more valuable study tool. This Bible presents a historical as well as a reasoned and evidential basis for Christianity written by some of the most respected pastors and authors. When I was flipping through it the first time I ended up sitting down and reading several pages. I found it informative but easy to understand. I like how the commentaries and articles are written. That along with the CSB translation of the Bible make this a wonderful Bible to read, study and to give it as a gift. I enjoyed reading it so much I am going to have to get a copy for myself!
November 3, 2013
I must admit my biases up front. I lean towards a presuppositional apologetic. Seemingly, I would take issue with many of the articles, but I really don't. The editors sought those who are recognized in the evangelical world for the skill in both philosophical theology and applying the bible to tough questions. They did not let us down.
Pros of the Study Bible:
1. Some of the articles are simply outstanding. I can't say more. The ones by Frame, Russell Moore, Copan, and Walt Kaiser are quite good.
2. The study notes are decent, if one understands the context. It is not aiming to give an exposition of each passage, but to focus on the apologetical application of passages. Still, it gives interesting historical, archeological, and contra-cultist insights. Interestingly as a side-note, the Study Bible takes a premillennial approach to Revelation 20.
3. Wide margins. I applaud the formatters on this one. This bible has wider-margins than most. This was a huge plus in my opinion. One can legibly write thorough notes in the margin.
Cons:
1. Some of the study notes take an almost facile approach to some really hard questions. But this doesn't happen too often.
2. It assumes and asserts the validity of natural theology. This is worse question-begging than what presups are accused of!!
Neutral:
The translation is the Holman Christian Standard Bible. This should be evaluated independently of the Study Bible. I sort of like the translation.
The notes of the study bible take a mildly Calvinistic slant. It is not as Calvinistic as R.C. Sproul but is more Calvinistic than Geisler, Moreland, and Lane Craig (even though the last three are contributors).
I have the hardback quality. The binding is very good and quite durable. I thoroughly recommend this study bible.
Pros of the Study Bible:
1. Some of the articles are simply outstanding. I can't say more. The ones by Frame, Russell Moore, Copan, and Walt Kaiser are quite good.
2. The study notes are decent, if one understands the context. It is not aiming to give an exposition of each passage, but to focus on the apologetical application of passages. Still, it gives interesting historical, archeological, and contra-cultist insights. Interestingly as a side-note, the Study Bible takes a premillennial approach to Revelation 20.
3. Wide margins. I applaud the formatters on this one. This bible has wider-margins than most. This was a huge plus in my opinion. One can legibly write thorough notes in the margin.
Cons:
1. Some of the study notes take an almost facile approach to some really hard questions. But this doesn't happen too often.
2. It assumes and asserts the validity of natural theology. This is worse question-begging than what presups are accused of!!
Neutral:
The translation is the Holman Christian Standard Bible. This should be evaluated independently of the Study Bible. I sort of like the translation.
The notes of the study bible take a mildly Calvinistic slant. It is not as Calvinistic as R.C. Sproul but is more Calvinistic than Geisler, Moreland, and Lane Craig (even though the last three are contributors).
I have the hardback quality. The binding is very good and quite durable. I thoroughly recommend this study bible.
January 11, 2008
This Bible is a nice addition to the apologist's library. Since the contributors are so varried in their apologetical and theological convictions, you will certainly not agree with everything in this Bible (other than the inspired text!). Nevertheless, it is chalk full of mini-articles on myriad philosophical, scientific, theological, and apologetical issues. These articles are written by some big names, e.g., Frame, Nash, Craig, Copan, Moreland, Blomberg, etc. You're sure to find some good info in at least some of the articles.
The articles range from: anthropological dualism, days of creation, reliability of the Old and New Testaments, alleged Hellinistic influences, Jesus' resurrection, and much more. The copious notes are also helpful in at least getting your mental juices flowing when searching for an apolgetical answer (perhaps on the spot) in response to popular level criticism.
Finally, the translation is also decent (being geared more toward a word-for-word translation). Thus, not only are the above treats included, but in getting this Bible you will also have God's holy word in your possession. Perhaps a desire to find out what the various scholars have to say about the Bible will spur you on to spend more time studying God's revelation to, and for, man. Or, perhaps knowing that you have many great minds to help explain (though, they aren't to be treated as Popes!) those passages you usually have difficulty (whether intellectual or emotional) with will make you more confident in approaching Bible study. That can't be a bad thing!
The articles range from: anthropological dualism, days of creation, reliability of the Old and New Testaments, alleged Hellinistic influences, Jesus' resurrection, and much more. The copious notes are also helpful in at least getting your mental juices flowing when searching for an apolgetical answer (perhaps on the spot) in response to popular level criticism.
Finally, the translation is also decent (being geared more toward a word-for-word translation). Thus, not only are the above treats included, but in getting this Bible you will also have God's holy word in your possession. Perhaps a desire to find out what the various scholars have to say about the Bible will spur you on to spend more time studying God's revelation to, and for, man. Or, perhaps knowing that you have many great minds to help explain (though, they aren't to be treated as Popes!) those passages you usually have difficulty (whether intellectual or emotional) with will make you more confident in approaching Bible study. That can't be a bad thing!
Want to read
July 23, 2010This book is amazing! Essays, introductions, maps, chronologies, comparison charts of religions, and so many more goodies to make your understanding of God's Word that much deeper, richer and sweeter.
September 2, 2010
*Today an angel from B&H sent me a copy of the version of this Bible I have been dreaming of. Pure bliss! Thank you for this blessing!!!*
My background contains a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. Unbelievably, the first time I encountered Apologetics was when I was substitute teaching at a Classic Christian Education school. Their juniors had just started an Apologetics class and I did not know what it was. I was in for quite a surprise and I was astonished that I had never been exposed to apologetics before, especially since it seems to be an essential part of living in faith and participating in evangelism. Now that I have gotten my hands on The Apologetics Study Bible, I'm so excited and thrilled. I cannot wait to see the new forthcoming Apologetics Study Bible for Students. What a valuable resource!
This Bible is gorgeous. It is completely aesthetically appealing to any eye. I have been curious about this for a while now, as it was about the same time that I was teaching when this Bible was first announced as soon to be published. But I have to admit it was after an email from http://www.christianbook.com/Christia..." ChristianBook.com about some http://www.creativemadnessmama.com/2010/... Bright & Bold Bibles that I really put it on my wishlist. The colors of the black, silver, and blue hues are so attractive it is a visually pleasing experience to dwell in the pages of this Bible.
The Apologetics Study Bible is another first for me in that it has introduced me to the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) translation. I did not know even know about this one, but I'm really thrilled about it. It has not been long so I cannot tell you with absolute certainty, but for someone who grew up on NIV and went with NRSV and similar translations during my most thick into Bible Study years, this translation is very pleasing to me. There are a couple variances that take some getting used to, but all and all it is a good one. I'm eager to see other Bibles they come up with in the future.
To really tell you 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. Click through and read about some of their featured articles and what-not. This is fabulous. I feel like it's a gold mine to me. As someone who once has the dream of being a perpetual student for a career, this Bible is a fabulous addition to my shelves. Easily I am already have issue with whether to jump back into one of my fiction novels, play with my daughter, or spend more time studying with this Bible. Even my Enginerd, who hardly picks up a Bible was interested in the inset articles within the pages of scripture. He said that he learned new things within a few minutes of perusing the pages.
There are so many questions out there. And usually we are fairly equipped with the answer of "just because" and "it's by faith". But within the pages of this Apologetics Study Bible more firm and explainable answers are available for some of the hardest questions of history and science combined. Check out this list of http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/apologe... articles included. What I love is that these articles are in place within the pages of scripture that make sense as part of a study. Not just stuck in anywhere, and not just another appendix. Another great listing at the beginning of this Bible is a list of "Twisted Scripture Notes", this has scripture reference where within the pages as a reader you will find examples of how people have twisted a scripture and altered it to meet their ultimate needs. There are also a good few handfuls of Notable Christian Apologist Biographies that I find fascinating and a cause to look for more of their works elsewhere. Then on top of all that there are even more material such as a fabulous Introduction the the Holman Christian Standard Bible, Plan of Salvation, Concordance and Charts and Maps galore. The charts are like I have never seen. So resourceful and educational. It give me chill bumps.
I love this Bible for personal study. I love the idea of this Bible for an apologetics class. Easily this Bible would fit right into a homeschool curriculum. Our children (and adults) need to learn to be able to prove, defend, refute opposing and persuade others for the Christian faith and this is a valuable tool to do so. Now I cannot even imagine how cool the Apologetics Study Bible for Students will be!
*Thanks to Robin Patterson of B&H Publishing Group for sending me a copy*
My background contains a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. Unbelievably, the first time I encountered Apologetics was when I was substitute teaching at a Classic Christian Education school. Their juniors had just started an Apologetics class and I did not know what it was. I was in for quite a surprise and I was astonished that I had never been exposed to apologetics before, especially since it seems to be an essential part of living in faith and participating in evangelism. Now that I have gotten my hands on The Apologetics Study Bible, I'm so excited and thrilled. I cannot wait to see the new forthcoming Apologetics Study Bible for Students. What a valuable resource!
This Bible is gorgeous. It is completely aesthetically appealing to any eye. I have been curious about this for a while now, as it was about the same time that I was teaching when this Bible was first announced as soon to be published. But I have to admit it was after an email from http://www.christianbook.com/Christia..." ChristianBook.com about some http://www.creativemadnessmama.com/2010/... Bright & Bold Bibles that I really put it on my wishlist. The colors of the black, silver, and blue hues are so attractive it is a visually pleasing experience to dwell in the pages of this Bible.
The Apologetics Study Bible is another first for me in that it has introduced me to the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) translation. I did not know even know about this one, but I'm really thrilled about it. It has not been long so I cannot tell you with absolute certainty, but for someone who grew up on NIV and went with NRSV and similar translations during my most thick into Bible Study years, this translation is very pleasing to me. There are a couple variances that take some getting used to, but all and all it is a good one. I'm eager to see other Bibles they come up with in the future.
To really tell you 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. Click through and read about some of their featured articles and what-not. This is fabulous. I feel like it's a gold mine to me. As someone who once has the dream of being a perpetual student for a career, this Bible is a fabulous addition to my shelves. Easily I am already have issue with whether to jump back into one of my fiction novels, play with my daughter, or spend more time studying with this Bible. Even my Enginerd, who hardly picks up a Bible was interested in the inset articles within the pages of scripture. He said that he learned new things within a few minutes of perusing the pages.
There are so many questions out there. And usually we are fairly equipped with the answer of "just because" and "it's by faith". But within the pages of this Apologetics Study Bible more firm and explainable answers are available for some of the hardest questions of history and science combined. Check out this list of http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/apologe... articles included. What I love is that these articles are in place within the pages of scripture that make sense as part of a study. Not just stuck in anywhere, and not just another appendix. Another great listing at the beginning of this Bible is a list of "Twisted Scripture Notes", this has scripture reference where within the pages as a reader you will find examples of how people have twisted a scripture and altered it to meet their ultimate needs. There are also a good few handfuls of Notable Christian Apologist Biographies that I find fascinating and a cause to look for more of their works elsewhere. Then on top of all that there are even more material such as a fabulous Introduction the the Holman Christian Standard Bible, Plan of Salvation, Concordance and Charts and Maps galore. The charts are like I have never seen. So resourceful and educational. It give me chill bumps.
I love this Bible for personal study. I love the idea of this Bible for an apologetics class. Easily this Bible would fit right into a homeschool curriculum. Our children (and adults) need to learn to be able to prove, defend, refute opposing and persuade others for the Christian faith and this is a valuable tool to do so. Now I cannot even imagine how cool the Apologetics Study Bible for Students will be!
*Thanks to Robin Patterson of B&H Publishing Group for sending me a copy*
April 6, 2013
This Bible is concise and translated from the original Greek. I love the "Twisted Scripture". They tell where cults and various other religions get their basis in the Bible. In just about every book, some two or three in the longer books, is an article by one of the many listed apologists. They explain why God allows pain and suffering and whether or not a certain religion is authentic or a cult. It reads very easily, as it is written in modern english. Yet no translation is lost. The notes are plentiful. I have a Kindle version and you touch the little cross and you get an explanation of the verse or the circumstances suroounding said verse. I recommend this book to any serious Bible scholar and anyone who is interested in futhering their knowledge of the Holy Bible. I'm not going to add a finished date, because I hope to study this book in perpetuity.
February 18, 2013
Numerous, excellent articles interspersed throughout, written by top-notch apologists. Also, inter-textual "Twisted Scripture" notes that explain how various passages are used erroneously by unorthodox belief systems such as Mormonism, New Age, and Jehovah's Witnesses.
August 13, 2012
My wife Kari had the duo tone leather copy of this Bible embossed with the words "My Beloved Husband" and she gave it to me for Christmas. I love her so much.
August 16, 2010
My background contains a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. Unbelievably, the first time I encountered Apologetics was when I was substitute teaching at a Classic Christian Education school. Their juniors had just started an Apologetics class and I did not know what it was. I was in for quite a surprise and I was astonished that I had never been exposed to apologetics before, especially since it seems to be an essential part of living in faith and participating in evangelism. Now that I have gotten my hands on The Apologetics Study Bible, I'm so excited and thrilled. I cannot wait to see the new forthcoming Apologetics Study Bible for Students. What a valuable resource!
This Bible is gorgeous. It is completely aesthetically appealing to any eye. I have been curious about this for a while now, as it was about the same time that I was teaching when this Bible was first announced as soon to be published. But I have to admit it was after an email from http://www.christianbook.com/Christia..." ChristianBook.com about some http://www.creativemadnessmama.com/20... Bright & Bold Bibles that I really put it on my wishlist. The colors of the black, silver, and blue hues are so attractive it is a visually pleasing experience to dwell in the pages of this Bible.
The Apologetics Study Bible is another first for me in that it has introduced me to the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) translation. I did not know even know about this one, but I'm really thrilled about it. It has not been long so I cannot tell you with absolute certainty, but for someone who grew up on NIV and went with NRSV and similar translations during my most thick into Bible Study years, this translation is very pleasing to me. There are a couple variances that take some getting used to, but all and all it is a good one. I'm eager to see other Bibles they come up with in the future.
To really tell you 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. Click through and read about some of their featured articles and what-not. This is fabulous. I feel like it's a gold mine to me. As someone who once has the dream of being a perpetual student for a career, this Bible is a fabulous addition to my shelves. Easily I am already have issue with whether to jump back into one of my fiction novels, play with my daughter, or spend more time studying with this Bible. Even my Enginerd, who hardly picks up a Bible was interested in the inset articles within the pages of scripture. He said that he learned new things within a few minutes of perusing the pages.
There are so many questions out there. And usually we are fairly equipped with the answer of "just because" and "it's by faith". But within the pages of this Apologetics Study Bible more firm and explainable answers are available for some of the hardest questions of history and science combined. Check out this list of http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/apol... articles included. What I love is that these articles are in place within the pages of scripture that make sense as part of a study. Not just stuck in anywhere, and not just another appendix. Another great listing at the beginning of this Bible is a list of "Twisted Scripture Notes", this has scripture reference where within the pages as a reader you will find examples of how people have twisted a scripture and altered it to meet their ultimate needs. There are also a good few handfuls of Notable Christian Apologist Biographies that I find fascinating and a cause to look for more of their works elsewhere. Then on top of all that there are even more material such as a fabulous Introduction the the Holman Christian Standard Bible, Plan of Salvation, Concordance and Charts and Maps galore. The charts are like I have never seen. So resourceful and educational. It give me chill bumps.
I love this Bible for personal study. I love the idea of this Bible for an apologetics class. Easily this Bible would fit right into a homeschool curriculum. Our children (and adults) need to learn to be able to prove, defend, refute opposing and persuade others for the Christian faith and this is a valuable tool to do so. Now I cannot even imagine how cool the Apologetics Study Bible for Students will be!
*Thanks to Robin Patterson of B&H Publishing Group for sending me a copy*
This Bible is gorgeous. It is completely aesthetically appealing to any eye. I have been curious about this for a while now, as it was about the same time that I was teaching when this Bible was first announced as soon to be published. But I have to admit it was after an email from http://www.christianbook.com/Christia..." ChristianBook.com about some http://www.creativemadnessmama.com/20... Bright & Bold Bibles that I really put it on my wishlist. The colors of the black, silver, and blue hues are so attractive it is a visually pleasing experience to dwell in the pages of this Bible.
The Apologetics Study Bible is another first for me in that it has introduced me to the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) translation. I did not know even know about this one, but I'm really thrilled about it. It has not been long so I cannot tell you with absolute certainty, but for someone who grew up on NIV and went with NRSV and similar translations during my most thick into Bible Study years, this translation is very pleasing to me. There are a couple variances that take some getting used to, but all and all it is a good one. I'm eager to see other Bibles they come up with in the future.
To really tell you 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. Click through and read about some of their featured articles and what-not. This is fabulous. I feel like it's a gold mine to me. As someone who once has the dream of being a perpetual student for a career, this Bible is a fabulous addition to my shelves. Easily I am already have issue with whether to jump back into one of my fiction novels, play with my daughter, or spend more time studying with this Bible. Even my Enginerd, who hardly picks up a Bible was interested in the inset articles within the pages of scripture. He said that he learned new things within a few minutes of perusing the pages.
There are so many questions out there. And usually we are fairly equipped with the answer of "just because" and "it's by faith". But within the pages of this Apologetics Study Bible more firm and explainable answers are available for some of the hardest questions of history and science combined. Check out this list of http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/apol... articles included. What I love is that these articles are in place within the pages of scripture that make sense as part of a study. Not just stuck in anywhere, and not just another appendix. Another great listing at the beginning of this Bible is a list of "Twisted Scripture Notes", this has scripture reference where within the pages as a reader you will find examples of how people have twisted a scripture and altered it to meet their ultimate needs. There are also a good few handfuls of Notable Christian Apologist Biographies that I find fascinating and a cause to look for more of their works elsewhere. Then on top of all that there are even more material such as a fabulous Introduction the the Holman Christian Standard Bible, Plan of Salvation, Concordance and Charts and Maps galore. The charts are like I have never seen. So resourceful and educational. It give me chill bumps.
I love this Bible for personal study. I love the idea of this Bible for an apologetics class. Easily this Bible would fit right into a homeschool curriculum. Our children (and adults) need to learn to be able to prove, defend, refute opposing and persuade others for the Christian faith and this is a valuable tool to do so. Now I cannot even imagine how cool the Apologetics Study Bible for Students will be!
*Thanks to Robin Patterson of B&H Publishing Group for sending me a copy*
September 8, 2019
Click here to see my review --> https://cerebralfaith.net/review-of-t...
November 3, 2013
The editors sought those who are recognized in the evangelical world for the skill in both philosophical theology and applying the bible to tough questions. They did not let us down.
Pros of the Study Bible:
1. Some of the articles are simply outstanding. I can't say more. The ones by Frame, Russell Moore, Copan, and Walt Kaiser are quite good.
2. The study notes are decent, if one understands the context. It is not aiming to give an exposition of each passage, but to focus on the apologetical application of passages. Still, it gives interesting historical, archeological, and contra-cultist insights. Interestingly as a side-note, the Study Bible takes a premillennial approach to Revelation 20.
3. Wide margins. I applaud the formatters on this one. This bible has wider-margins than most. This was a huge plus in my opinion. One can legibly write thorough notes in the margin.
Cons:
1. Some of the study notes take an almost facile approach to some really hard questions. For example, Norman Geisler's attempt to demonstrate how the Apocrypha shouldn't be in Scripture. The verses he quotes against it not only do not disprove the Apocrypha, but if accepted would also disprove the book of Judges and 1 Samuel! Further, Geisler ignored essentially every good argument against the Apocrypha. This kind of shallow reasoning makes one skeptical of the overall apologetic quality. (And poor Geisler's criticism of the Apocrypha almost convinced me the Apocrypha should be in the Bible!)
2. The editors suffer from a severe myopia. For them (at least in this writing) the only challenges to the faith are a form of relativistic postmodernism (with a very simplistic discussion), evolution, and strict materialistic atheism. But as any apologist of any stripe knows, few people actually fit these above challenges. This was so fifteen years ago.
Neutral:
The translation is the Holman Christian Standard Bible. This should be evaluated independently of the Study Bible.
The notes of the study bible take a mildly Calvinistic slant. It is not as Calvinistic as R.C. Sproul but is more Calvinistic than Geisler, Moreland, and Lane Craig (even though the last three are contributors).
I have the hardback quality. The binding is very good and quite durable.
Pros of the Study Bible:
1. Some of the articles are simply outstanding. I can't say more. The ones by Frame, Russell Moore, Copan, and Walt Kaiser are quite good.
2. The study notes are decent, if one understands the context. It is not aiming to give an exposition of each passage, but to focus on the apologetical application of passages. Still, it gives interesting historical, archeological, and contra-cultist insights. Interestingly as a side-note, the Study Bible takes a premillennial approach to Revelation 20.
3. Wide margins. I applaud the formatters on this one. This bible has wider-margins than most. This was a huge plus in my opinion. One can legibly write thorough notes in the margin.
Cons:
1. Some of the study notes take an almost facile approach to some really hard questions. For example, Norman Geisler's attempt to demonstrate how the Apocrypha shouldn't be in Scripture. The verses he quotes against it not only do not disprove the Apocrypha, but if accepted would also disprove the book of Judges and 1 Samuel! Further, Geisler ignored essentially every good argument against the Apocrypha. This kind of shallow reasoning makes one skeptical of the overall apologetic quality. (And poor Geisler's criticism of the Apocrypha almost convinced me the Apocrypha should be in the Bible!)
2. The editors suffer from a severe myopia. For them (at least in this writing) the only challenges to the faith are a form of relativistic postmodernism (with a very simplistic discussion), evolution, and strict materialistic atheism. But as any apologist of any stripe knows, few people actually fit these above challenges. This was so fifteen years ago.
Neutral:
The translation is the Holman Christian Standard Bible. This should be evaluated independently of the Study Bible.
The notes of the study bible take a mildly Calvinistic slant. It is not as Calvinistic as R.C. Sproul but is more Calvinistic than Geisler, Moreland, and Lane Craig (even though the last three are contributors).
I have the hardback quality. The binding is very good and quite durable.
August 12, 2017
Have you ever been involved in a conversation where someone challenged your spiritual beliefs or asked you a biblical question that you were unprepared to answer?
When it comes to matters of faith, we need to be more knowledgeable and ready to give an answer, in season and out, for the hope that we have within us (1 Peter 3:15). One way to prepare ourselves is read the new CSB Apologetics Study Bible!
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible has been revised and updated with new articles and extensive apologetics study material from today’s leading apologists to reflect and provide us with a deeper understanding of the relevant apologetics issues and questions that people are discussing today.
The most notable update is the revision from the Holman Christian Standard Bible translation to the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) translation, which provides readers with updated word choices that remain true to the original languages and provide greater clarity and readability to modern audiences.
You’ll find a wealth of features inside of the CSB Apologetics Study Bible, including:
* Commentary and articles from 90 leading apologists
* 134 Articles on key apologetic issues
* 66 Exclusive introductions from contributors
* 48 “Twisted Scripture” explanations for commonly misunderstood passages
* 12 Profiles of Christian apologists including Thomas Aquinas, Origen, and C.S. Lewis
* 13 Timelines and Full-Color Maps
* Apologetics Study Notes
* Annotated Bibliography
This Bible is formatted in a two-column text featuring a 9.5 point type with all of the niceties you’d expect in a Bible. The grey/black color scheme add a neutral/masculine feel to this Bible.
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible is a wonderful resource to add to your home – and it’s a great study tool to use in conjunction with the CSB Apologetics Study Bible For Students!
This review is an excerpt from the original review that is published on my blog. To read my review in its entirety, please visit Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, based on my assessment of this book.
When it comes to matters of faith, we need to be more knowledgeable and ready to give an answer, in season and out, for the hope that we have within us (1 Peter 3:15). One way to prepare ourselves is read the new CSB Apologetics Study Bible!
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible has been revised and updated with new articles and extensive apologetics study material from today’s leading apologists to reflect and provide us with a deeper understanding of the relevant apologetics issues and questions that people are discussing today.
The most notable update is the revision from the Holman Christian Standard Bible translation to the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) translation, which provides readers with updated word choices that remain true to the original languages and provide greater clarity and readability to modern audiences.
You’ll find a wealth of features inside of the CSB Apologetics Study Bible, including:
* Commentary and articles from 90 leading apologists
* 134 Articles on key apologetic issues
* 66 Exclusive introductions from contributors
* 48 “Twisted Scripture” explanations for commonly misunderstood passages
* 12 Profiles of Christian apologists including Thomas Aquinas, Origen, and C.S. Lewis
* 13 Timelines and Full-Color Maps
* Apologetics Study Notes
* Annotated Bibliography
This Bible is formatted in a two-column text featuring a 9.5 point type with all of the niceties you’d expect in a Bible. The grey/black color scheme add a neutral/masculine feel to this Bible.
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible is a wonderful resource to add to your home – and it’s a great study tool to use in conjunction with the CSB Apologetics Study Bible For Students!
This review is an excerpt from the original review that is published on my blog. To read my review in its entirety, please visit Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, based on my assessment of this book.
November 19, 2014
This had many good footnotes and articles throughout the text. The articles, written by top-notch apologists, always dealt with issues that often come up in conversation and provide a good summary of the Christian worldview. I tabbed the more instructive ones.
The back of the book had a very interesting timeline of apologetic works and authors, many of whom I had never heard of. These include Theodoret's "The Truth of the Gospel Proved from Greek Philosophy" (c. 393-457), Peter Abelard's "A Dialogue Between a Philosopher, a Jew, and a Christian" (1079-1142), and Dionysius the Carthusian's "Against the Perfidy of Muhammad" (1402-1471).
It also included a chart of major archaelogical finds corroborating the Scriptures.
The translation is HCSB, which the inventions state is the "optimal equivalence" based on its adherence to literality as well as a commitment to modern readability. Personally, I was more used to NKJV and ESV.
The footnotes in the text often pointed out alleged discrepancies between Scriptures and explained each of them. One downside to this is that I was made aware of many more of these discrepancies than I knew existed! As a result, this Bible should only be for the committed believer.
The back of the book had a very interesting timeline of apologetic works and authors, many of whom I had never heard of. These include Theodoret's "The Truth of the Gospel Proved from Greek Philosophy" (c. 393-457), Peter Abelard's "A Dialogue Between a Philosopher, a Jew, and a Christian" (1079-1142), and Dionysius the Carthusian's "Against the Perfidy of Muhammad" (1402-1471).
It also included a chart of major archaelogical finds corroborating the Scriptures.
The translation is HCSB, which the inventions state is the "optimal equivalence" based on its adherence to literality as well as a commitment to modern readability. Personally, I was more used to NKJV and ESV.
The footnotes in the text often pointed out alleged discrepancies between Scriptures and explained each of them. One downside to this is that I was made aware of many more of these discrepancies than I knew existed! As a result, this Bible should only be for the committed believer.
December 23, 2014
The three star rating is for the editorial content of this Bible, not the Bible itself.
The Apologetics Study Bible contains many useful footnotes pointing out common errors in Bible critics' condemnations of Biblical truth. I was often surprised at some of the strange things certain groups pick on in their attempt to prove the Bible false. There is another feature called "Twisted Scripture" that briefly tells how a particular scripture is "twisted" to support various man-made religions/cults. There are brief profiles of noted apologists in church history. And there are a lot of good apologetic articles. So, it is not that the editorial content is bad. Just that, by the time I was half way through reading this Bible, I felt like it may be better to just read an apologetics book separately instead of having it interspersed within the pages of the Bible.
The Apologetics Study Bible contains many useful footnotes pointing out common errors in Bible critics' condemnations of Biblical truth. I was often surprised at some of the strange things certain groups pick on in their attempt to prove the Bible false. There is another feature called "Twisted Scripture" that briefly tells how a particular scripture is "twisted" to support various man-made religions/cults. There are brief profiles of noted apologists in church history. And there are a lot of good apologetic articles. So, it is not that the editorial content is bad. Just that, by the time I was half way through reading this Bible, I felt like it may be better to just read an apologetics book separately instead of having it interspersed within the pages of the Bible.
February 9, 2017
This is the Bible I am reading this year. I am on an annual Bible reading plan and use a different Bible each year. This one is okay. Different translation than NIV or ESV which is primarily why I chose it. I liked the translation, especially how it was consistent with doulos - slave. Some translations monkey around and call it servant or bondservant. It was objective in its study notes - not taking a stand on subjects such as sacraments or the end times - but presenting different interpretations. I didn't read all the articles, but the ones I did read were pretty good. It wouldn't be my primary Bible - that place will always go to THE Lutheran Study Bible - but this is a good secondary Bible.
December 24, 2009
Currently reading this version in an effort to read it again this year. Last year I read it front to back (different version). This year I am doing it chronologically. The Apologetics Study Bible offers some nice insight into the history of different interpretations, scholarly explanations and arguments, and a straight-forward style of writing that allows the message to be easily conveyed. This version is now my choice for daily reading. It helps fill in the gaps on everything from historical background to comparative religious belief on the text to simple pronunciation. Love this!
January 1, 2013
The essays on apologetics topics and the brief biographical sketches were good and helpful. The comments attached to each book were extremely uneven. The editors needed to establish clearer criteria for the contributors. Some books had thorough comments, but they were not geared to apologetics concerns particularly. Other books were more focused on apologetics issues, but in both cases it was not clear what issues would trigger comments. Overall, I was a bit disappointed.
I did enjoy the HCSB that underlies the study Bible.
I did enjoy the HCSB that underlies the study Bible.
December 10, 2009
This Study Bible while filled with a lot of amazing facts is a very biased book, it promotes a very specific strain of theology and therefore, in my opinion is a poor study bible for the serious bible student or scholar.
May 27, 2013
Well written articles. Good resource. I recommend to any Christian and non-Christian.
February 19, 2018
I LOVE God’s Word. I love opening a new Bible, bringing it to my face, thrusting my nose into the center and breathing in deeply. It always emits a sigh from my deepest heart.
Not simply because I’m enamored with a new book, and a new book smell. I get giddy with the heady scent of an old favorite book too. Currently the Bible that I use daily smells of all things coffee. There are coffee rings on some of the pages.
The sigh comes from a place of knowing how loved I am. The God who created a billion galaxies thought of and noticed little me. He wrote His life story through the pen of many men many, many years ago. He wrote this so I could, so you could know Him.
It’s what we were created for. We were created to know and love God. What better way to communicate that than through a love letter telling His story? I can’t think of one.
I recently had the honor of reviewing The Apologetics Study Bible. It is published by LifeWay/BH Publishing and uses the Holman Christian Standard translation. I received a hardback copy, on the grey and white cover there is a watermark of The Thinker with the words “Faithful and True” along the edge of the spine. If you take off the dust cover you lose none of the design. I love that.
The pages are thin, but not super thin. The font though. Oh my word the font! I can almost read it without my glasses on. I love that. I can set it on my desk and not have to lean over very close to it just to read. That is huge.
Okay. Let me explain that. The font isn’t huge. But it is a big enough size I can see it clearly. This makes me happy.
Sprinkled throughout the Bible are little boxes labeled “Twisted Scripture”. It’s not what you think! In these boxes, Alan Street offers explanation for commonly misconstrued passages of Scripture.
Also you’ll find sprinkled throughout various articles on a wide range of topics. These are great to direct your thoughts deeper and would be excellent to use as a devotional.
Each book also has, as is typical for study Bibles, an introduction to each book, and study notes at the bottom of the page.
The one thing I do not like, and to me this is not a minor dislike, but is big. In the introduction to the books, it lists the man the Spirit of God breathed through as the author. The Author of the Bible is God. Men were merely the penmen, if you will.
You can order through Lifeway or your favorite Christian bookstore.
I give it 4 out of 5 turning pages.
Not simply because I’m enamored with a new book, and a new book smell. I get giddy with the heady scent of an old favorite book too. Currently the Bible that I use daily smells of all things coffee. There are coffee rings on some of the pages.
The sigh comes from a place of knowing how loved I am. The God who created a billion galaxies thought of and noticed little me. He wrote His life story through the pen of many men many, many years ago. He wrote this so I could, so you could know Him.
It’s what we were created for. We were created to know and love God. What better way to communicate that than through a love letter telling His story? I can’t think of one.
I recently had the honor of reviewing The Apologetics Study Bible. It is published by LifeWay/BH Publishing and uses the Holman Christian Standard translation. I received a hardback copy, on the grey and white cover there is a watermark of The Thinker with the words “Faithful and True” along the edge of the spine. If you take off the dust cover you lose none of the design. I love that.
The pages are thin, but not super thin. The font though. Oh my word the font! I can almost read it without my glasses on. I love that. I can set it on my desk and not have to lean over very close to it just to read. That is huge.
Okay. Let me explain that. The font isn’t huge. But it is a big enough size I can see it clearly. This makes me happy.
Sprinkled throughout the Bible are little boxes labeled “Twisted Scripture”. It’s not what you think! In these boxes, Alan Street offers explanation for commonly misconstrued passages of Scripture.
Also you’ll find sprinkled throughout various articles on a wide range of topics. These are great to direct your thoughts deeper and would be excellent to use as a devotional.
Each book also has, as is typical for study Bibles, an introduction to each book, and study notes at the bottom of the page.
The one thing I do not like, and to me this is not a minor dislike, but is big. In the introduction to the books, it lists the man the Spirit of God breathed through as the author. The Author of the Bible is God. Men were merely the penmen, if you will.
You can order through Lifeway or your favorite Christian bookstore.
I give it 4 out of 5 turning pages.
September 28, 2017
The CSB Apologetics Study Bible is a good resource to add to your Bible study. In my opinion, the most useful information that has been included in this Bible is the articles. These articles covered a wide variety of topics and most of them answered some difficult questions very clearly. There were a few articles that I felt could have delved a bit deeper in their explanations.
I found myself comparing this Bible with the CSB Apologetics Study Bible for Students, which I recently reviewed. I personally felt that the student Bible had articles which were more in-depth and helpful to me (even as an adult). I also missed having some of the break out sections from the student Bible, such as “Fast Facts” and “Challenges and Tactics”. However, the CSB Apologetics Study Bible did contain “Twisted Scripture” sections just as the student Bible did, breaking down how scripture is sometimes used incorrectly.
So, although I would have loved to see a little more packed into this Bible, I believe it is still a good resource to reach for in studying what the Bible says concerning topics that are very relevant to our lives today.
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...
I found myself comparing this Bible with the CSB Apologetics Study Bible for Students, which I recently reviewed. I personally felt that the student Bible had articles which were more in-depth and helpful to me (even as an adult). I also missed having some of the break out sections from the student Bible, such as “Fast Facts” and “Challenges and Tactics”. However, the CSB Apologetics Study Bible did contain “Twisted Scripture” sections just as the student Bible did, breaking down how scripture is sometimes used incorrectly.
So, although I would have loved to see a little more packed into this Bible, I believe it is still a good resource to reach for in studying what the Bible says concerning topics that are very relevant to our lives today.
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...
December 10, 2018
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I really like this Apologetic Study Bible is a great addition to my Bible Study tools. It helps be to understand how the Bible and science can work together. And it helps to strengthen my faith because it proves what I believe with facts and It answers question on why people say the Bible contradicts itself.
There are many tools in this Bible that are so helpful, but to me all of the many articles were interesting to me and in these wide range of articles I am still reading and learning more than I ever imagined from this Bible. These articles were written by the most well know apologist, theologians and scholars, many names you will surely recognize.
Oh and I can’t forget to mention the twisted scripture explanations that explain verses that are misused by so many people. And I can go on and on about the many other tools that have already been helpful to me, and will continue to help in my knowledge of the scriptures.
I received this book from B&H Publishers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
I really like this Apologetic Study Bible is a great addition to my Bible Study tools. It helps be to understand how the Bible and science can work together. And it helps to strengthen my faith because it proves what I believe with facts and It answers question on why people say the Bible contradicts itself.
There are many tools in this Bible that are so helpful, but to me all of the many articles were interesting to me and in these wide range of articles I am still reading and learning more than I ever imagined from this Bible. These articles were written by the most well know apologist, theologians and scholars, many names you will surely recognize.
Oh and I can’t forget to mention the twisted scripture explanations that explain verses that are misused by so many people. And I can go on and on about the many other tools that have already been helpful to me, and will continue to help in my knowledge of the scriptures.
I received this book from B&H Publishers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
October 6, 2021
The Bible or Holy Scriptures is the inerrant Word of God and we need to be ready at all times to defend our faith! This apologetics Bible gives clear commentary and insights into the Scripture and delves into categories such as "are the days of creation to be interpreted as literal". I also love their "twisted scripture" snippets.
May 18, 2015
My rating is not for the Bible text itself but for The Apologetics Study Bible as a whole. The articles succinct and interesting, but not necessarily connected to the text in which they are placed,. As a study Bible it is just okay. The study notes are too apologetically focused to be useful for indepth study. As an introduction to apologetic topics addressed by some of the best scholars, and for the apologetics enthusiast, this Bible is great. If you are looking for a good study Bible, try the HCSB Study Bible.
I love the HCSB translation! I will use it for family reading and memorization.
I love the HCSB translation! I will use it for family reading and memorization.
August 9, 2012
I have been using this study Bible for nearly two years. It's by far the best I've ever used. It is intended for defenders of Christianity and for those new to the faith, i.e., for anyone who has questions about their beliefs (especially in these times when it's so often easy just to pay lip service to our Christian beliefs and go about living secular lives in a secular world... speaking only for myself), and for any who wants to equip themselves against cults and non-believers. As I have learned how and why to believe, this Bible has served to help my faith grow stronger day by day.
July 24, 2009
Excellent study Bible / reference Bible for those that love apologetics (everyone should), and for those that get confused with peachers that take Scripture out of context, or those that love the "fine art" of Scripture twisting (such as the JW's, Mormons, etc...). Another person I got this Bible for uses it regularly as his study Bible.
March 25, 2012
A really fantastic bible with great articles and notes/footnotes that go fairly deep into a defense of the bible and Christian theology against all others. The translation even comes with a good deal of detail even offering possible difference on debated translations of certain words/phrases. I recommend it for a Christian looking to strengthen their faith against attacks.
October 19, 2016
More pedestrian than I was hoping. Anyone who is well versed on this subject (any reading of Ravi, Os Guinness, Francis Schaefer etc. and all those on the opposing side Calvin Harris, Dawkins and their ilk.) would have a much more up to date understanding of modern Humanism and Atheism and the thinking on both sides... disappointed because of its high ratings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Currently reading
April 18, 2010Some of the good stuff is in the margins and special articles. If someone has abused Scripture in the past, when one comes to it here it is highlighted. It gives the offense (according to whomever) and replies with Scripture to show the opposing view in error.
August 30, 2012
The HCSB is an odd choice, but ultimately satisfying. Nearly all the articles are solid, though some are unnecessarily biased, and almost all leave you wanting more. The selection of scholars is good, but heavily evangelical.
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