" The Bible is the greatest of all books; to study it is the noblest of all pursuits; to understand it the highest of all goals ." - Dr. Charles C. Ryrie
Regardless of how many Bibles you may already have, a study Bible is a must if you intend to deepen your understanding of God, His character, His methods, and His commands. The Ryrie NIV Study Bible is purposely designed to keep the focus on God's Word, the 10,000 explanatory notes are written to enhance, not comment on Scripture. In addition, wider margins allow you to add your thoughts, notes, and insights. Also included are in-text supporting maps, charts, timelines, and diagrams; 16 full-color maps and 8-page historical timeline; thorough topical index and comprehensive concordance.
And whether you are a new believer or a mature Christian, Dr. Ryrie includes helpful articles to further your knowledge of the Bible.
In addition, you will receive a software download for The Moody Library, an ideal Bible software program for Pastors, Teachers, Professors, Students, Bible Study Leaders, and anyone thirsting to learn and understand more fully. Valued at over $400, this study and reference software was developed by Moody Publishers and WORDsearch™ as an electronic companion to The Ryrie Study Bibles.
Charles Caldwell Ryrie (born 1925) was a Christian writer and theologian. He graduated from Haverford College (B.A.), Dallas Theological Seminary (Th.M., Th.D.) and the University of Edinburgh, Scotland (Ph.D.). For many years he served as professor of systematic theology and dean of doctoral studies at Dallas Theological Seminary and as president and professor at Philadelphia College of Bible, now Philadelphia Biblical University. He was a premillennial dispensationalist, though irenic in his approach. He was also the editor of the popular Ryrie Study Bible.
A version that thinks for you. Learn to think! Let me rephrase that. We need to be taught more about how to think instead of what to think. Ryrie (obviously in my opinion) doesn't have anything greatly troubling, but I grew up with Ryrie and found myself consuming more of what Ryrie's comments were than what the actual text says. I would suggest comparing translations instead of relying on commentaries. ESV and a NKJV side by side. Better, go to the original Texts. I've read New Living, Living, NAS, KJV, NKJV, ESV and several of the more "story" versions. There are significant differences. Best thing that ever happened was taking Hermeneutics, Apologetics, and Theology courses. Taught me so much about how to read these Texts instead of what they said.
OK, so specifically about this version. Very evangelical or Baptist type perspectives. Nothing wrong with that so long as you are aware of it as you read it. That being said, it is absolutely full of wonderful insights. Love it very much. it was the first 'big' Bible I ever had. Was suggested by a pastor that I wish would have told me it was a 'perspective'. You'll love this version. My choice AFTER a version like this is the Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible: Key Insights Into God's Word -New American Standard Bible. Doesn't have a fraction of the insights, but that isn't it's purpose. The Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible is for getting as close to the original meaning as possible. Second choice would be the ESV Study and then almost anything by Holman. Love Holman tools.
This is my BIBLE folks! Everyone has their own particular favorite I suppose this bible is that one for me. It's just the perfect bible in my opinion. Fantastic study bible. I've had mine for many..many years. It's nice and worn now. Very special. Ilove it..love it! Quite divine.
So-so translation. Footnotes are a hodge podge of varying views from a wide spectrum of denominations. Sadly, the "study" portion was designed for marketing and appeal moreso than exigesis and truth.