What do you think?
Rate this book
Thompson Chain-Reference Study Bible
Thompson Bibles are unique. Each Thompson Bible is carefully hand-crafted, one at a time, using the finest Bible paper, leathers and craftsmanship. Thompson Bibles are made for those w
Leather Bound
First published December 12, 1981
511 people are currently reading
383 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 28, 2016
I am so glad to be able to mark this as "read."
In February of 2015, I was asked by friends to join them in reading the Bible through in one year. A daunting task, it seemed to me. My spirit was led, and I agreed. Though I've been a Christian for a long time, there were still books that I'd never read. Amos and Micah, for example. A cross-country move left me 3 weeks behind, but I trudged on. Learning, growing, enriching His Spirit within me. How did I ever walk with Him without this daily practice of being in His Word?
John 15: 4-9
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
I have chosen to continue my reading, but am following a two-year plan this time. Reading through in one year was heavy and left little time for contemplation of what I'd read or for looking into a Bible Atlas to follow the journeys of those I was reading on. Continuing in His love...
In February of 2015, I was asked by friends to join them in reading the Bible through in one year. A daunting task, it seemed to me. My spirit was led, and I agreed. Though I've been a Christian for a long time, there were still books that I'd never read. Amos and Micah, for example. A cross-country move left me 3 weeks behind, but I trudged on. Learning, growing, enriching His Spirit within me. How did I ever walk with Him without this daily practice of being in His Word?
John 15: 4-9
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
I have chosen to continue my reading, but am following a two-year plan this time. Reading through in one year was heavy and left little time for contemplation of what I'd read or for looking into a Bible Atlas to follow the journeys of those I was reading on. Continuing in His love...
May 28, 2012
This is pretty much the best version of the Bible I've ever found. My favorites are the archaeological supplement, scripture atlas, and the colored bible maps. It made studying really interesting and actually fun.
January 27, 2023
First, I must point out that the KJV Thompson Chain-Reference Bible is gorgeous—with or without the dust jacket. The golden-yellow hardcover has a glossy design that is both visually appealing and easy to grip. It includes a presentation page for gift-giving that shares the same color and striped appearance as the dust jacket, and two attached satin ribbon markers.
I’ve trusted Thompson Bibles since I was young, and especially appreciate the King James Version. I own several versions, but I was initially introduced to the KJV as a teenager and have always enjoyed its formal and sometimes poetic quality. To me, it feels like the most reverent and worshipful version of Scripture. The 9.5 comfort print is easy to read and easy on the eyes. A large-print version is also available.
Now, I’ll focus on the chain-reference aspect of this Bible. A chain-reference system of studying God’s Word guides the reader through topical connections. For instance, if you come across something of particular interest while reading, you can follow a chain of linked verses in the page margin. Or, if you know the topic you want to investigate, such as ‘dreams’, or ‘parables’ you can search for related verses to that topic in the index.
There are many helpful and inspiring features of this Bible in addition to the Scriptures. The extensive study resource section in the back of the book includes over 1,000 pages of Bible helps, methods of study, outlines, lined note pages, maps, words of Jesus in red, and more.
Two of my favorite features are the easy to read, full-page maps, and the Bible Character Studies. These biographical sketches of prominent characters in the Bible are fascinating! I appreciate and adore everything about this Bible and its method of study.
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book as a #BibleGatewayPartner. Opinions are 100% mine.
I’ve trusted Thompson Bibles since I was young, and especially appreciate the King James Version. I own several versions, but I was initially introduced to the KJV as a teenager and have always enjoyed its formal and sometimes poetic quality. To me, it feels like the most reverent and worshipful version of Scripture. The 9.5 comfort print is easy to read and easy on the eyes. A large-print version is also available.
Now, I’ll focus on the chain-reference aspect of this Bible. A chain-reference system of studying God’s Word guides the reader through topical connections. For instance, if you come across something of particular interest while reading, you can follow a chain of linked verses in the page margin. Or, if you know the topic you want to investigate, such as ‘dreams’, or ‘parables’ you can search for related verses to that topic in the index.
There are many helpful and inspiring features of this Bible in addition to the Scriptures. The extensive study resource section in the back of the book includes over 1,000 pages of Bible helps, methods of study, outlines, lined note pages, maps, words of Jesus in red, and more.
Two of my favorite features are the easy to read, full-page maps, and the Bible Character Studies. These biographical sketches of prominent characters in the Bible are fascinating! I appreciate and adore everything about this Bible and its method of study.
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book as a #BibleGatewayPartner. Opinions are 100% mine.
March 2, 2014
Best book in the Universe.
May 28, 2015
I LOVE GOD'S HOLY WORD! It's straight from His mouth, mind and heart. He means every word. Promise, every note.
There's no mistaking this IS the Living Breathing Word of God! the King James Version is the way to go!
There's no mistaking this IS the Living Breathing Word of God! the King James Version is the way to go!
April 23, 2012
I have read through the Bible cover to cover twice and read passages every day. It should be on my read list, my to read list, and my currently reading list.
Read
August 19, 2012I starting reading the Bible when I was 5 years old - random readings. I was a 'born again' Christian by the age of 15 years old. Then as a young adult, I started studying the Bible via church leaders and scholars. I participated fully in church and church related activities. Took many courses from seminaries and bible schools. Then in my thirties, I found the need to read the Bible without outside influence. So, I read it cover to cover -- Gen. 1:1 to Rev. 22:21 -- six times from 1980 to 1986. I filled dozens of spiral notebooks with my findings, feelings and thoughts. About half-way through my 7th reading I discovered I had become an atheist -- a lack of belief in god(s). The Bible and all religious tomes (I have read the major ones) have stories, proverbs and parables that can offer insight into the kinder, gentler side of humanity. They also show us how fear, power and prejudice can cause people to assign responsibility for these 'failings' to a god or gods. So yes, I think the Bible is worth reading but not just the 'feel good' parts -- read all of it if you are going to read it.
August 11, 2019
This is a wonderful, high quality bible published by B.B. Kirkbride. This bible I'm reviewing is the beloved, 1611 Authorized King James text.
These Chain-Reference bibles are some of the most "influence free" study-reference bibles available today; using the efficient chain reference system to prove scripture with scripture. Many other study bibles rely upon notes, commentaries, essays, and doctrinal interpretations from contributing scholars which may contain biased viewpoints.
Including the cyclopedic index, color maps, illustrations, archeological supplement, and concordance, this bible is packed with 78 study features for the Christian's study, spiritual growth, edification, doctrine, faith, and practice.
Today's Thompson-Chain bibles are printed and bound in the United States. They have sewn bindings so the bible lays open flatly on a table or across a knee. These bibles have quality paper, are available with soft & hardcovers, thumb-indexing, and are made to withstand years of daily usage.
Highly recommend!
You can obtain these beautiful bibles directly from the publisher at:
www.kirkbride.com
These Chain-Reference bibles are some of the most "influence free" study-reference bibles available today; using the efficient chain reference system to prove scripture with scripture. Many other study bibles rely upon notes, commentaries, essays, and doctrinal interpretations from contributing scholars which may contain biased viewpoints.
Including the cyclopedic index, color maps, illustrations, archeological supplement, and concordance, this bible is packed with 78 study features for the Christian's study, spiritual growth, edification, doctrine, faith, and practice.
Today's Thompson-Chain bibles are printed and bound in the United States. They have sewn bindings so the bible lays open flatly on a table or across a knee. These bibles have quality paper, are available with soft & hardcovers, thumb-indexing, and are made to withstand years of daily usage.
Highly recommend!
You can obtain these beautiful bibles directly from the publisher at:
www.kirkbride.com
December 31, 2020
I've had my Thompson Chain-Reference Bible for ten years and I love it even more now. The studying aspects are so beneficial. Just an excellent reference across the board. Plus, it's the greatest story ever told. All the stars. ❤
March 2, 2016
I refuse to ever put this Book down. It is the greatest book ever written and it is prophetic, which makes it different from all other books.
July 26, 2025
The best book to understand the Word of God
KJV Thompson Chain reference Bible
The word of God required understanding in each and every word penned by the human inspired by God himself who created heaven and earth. I feel KJV is the best translation but old english which I can not understood in full. At this time God gave the KJV Thompson chain reference Bible to understand my LORD. Thanks to the publishers .
KJV Thompson Chain reference Bible
The word of God required understanding in each and every word penned by the human inspired by God himself who created heaven and earth. I feel KJV is the best translation but old english which I can not understood in full. At this time God gave the KJV Thompson chain reference Bible to understand my LORD. Thanks to the publishers .
December 29, 2023
Always fulfilling to read God’s word through annually. I followed a chronological plan which I find a little different. The Thompson Chain Reference Bible is such a fantastic study Bible. Can’t say enough good things about it.
January 1, 2019
I read the entire Bible every year. Prepare for your Spiritual Retirement.
Read
September 4, 2023I only read the Old and New Testaments and none of the supplementary material constituting the study portion of the Bible (1146 pages vs. 1900~ pages)
February 2, 2023
Sometimes, when I’m teaching God’s Words, I tell the class we are going to chase a bunny trail. In other words, we are going to dig deeper into the underlying meaning and application of a Bible verse or concept. Rabbit trails have a destination. They don’t just go off into unknown places. The rabbits are looking for sustenance or they are heading home.
So, how does that apply to the newest revision of the Thompson Chain Reference Bible? Let’s suppose you’re reading a section of the Bible and come across a topic that is new or interesting to you. All you have to do is go to that verse in Thompson’s and ‘chase’ the references (other places in the Word that refer to that verse or concept).
You might think with thousands of references and topics the process is complicated. It’s actually quite easy to choose how deep you want to get into the issue you are pursuing. There are several study helps in this revision, including individual book synopsis, studies of individual Biblical characters, an extensive concordance, maps, and much, much more.
I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to review and experience this new resource. I’ll be using it for many years to come as I write blog posts, prepare to teach, and just want to learn all I can about a concept I’ve come across in my daily Bible reading.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid. 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 requirements, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” #BibleGatewayPartner
So, how does that apply to the newest revision of the Thompson Chain Reference Bible? Let’s suppose you’re reading a section of the Bible and come across a topic that is new or interesting to you. All you have to do is go to that verse in Thompson’s and ‘chase’ the references (other places in the Word that refer to that verse or concept).
You might think with thousands of references and topics the process is complicated. It’s actually quite easy to choose how deep you want to get into the issue you are pursuing. There are several study helps in this revision, including individual book synopsis, studies of individual Biblical characters, an extensive concordance, maps, and much, much more.
I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to review and experience this new resource. I’ll be using it for many years to come as I write blog posts, prepare to teach, and just want to learn all I can about a concept I’ve come across in my daily Bible reading.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid. 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 requirements, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” #BibleGatewayPartner
July 1, 2014
A Great Resource
This is the Thompson chain reference system linked to a Bible at the end of the book. The printed version's greatest strength was the topical chain system developed by Dr. Thompson, and you get that in this kindle version. You can search by this system, and its linked Bible text. If you want to study the Bible by topics, this is the resource. What you do not get are the printed version's charts, indices, and a marked Bible. You get the heart of the printed version, the topical chain reference system, and that is easily worth the price for this version.
This is the Thompson chain reference system linked to a Bible at the end of the book. The printed version's greatest strength was the topical chain system developed by Dr. Thompson, and you get that in this kindle version. You can search by this system, and its linked Bible text. If you want to study the Bible by topics, this is the resource. What you do not get are the printed version's charts, indices, and a marked Bible. You get the heart of the printed version, the topical chain reference system, and that is easily worth the price for this version.
December 25, 2021
I can't in honesty review the usefulness of this Bible, because for me, l had to abandon reading it very early on. The type size was miniscule, making it painful. I don't know if there are other editions that are in a more user friendly typeface, so this poor review is soley based on the problem this posed for me.
July 9, 2013
This is a great study bible , i'm currantly just reading through it and what i really like about it are the book introductions and extra imfomation scattered throughout...its noted for the chain referencing , i have not at moment really used this functioning but plan to.
October 2, 2007
This is a manual for life and the life to come.
September 26, 2008
Always ongoing (reading).
February 12, 2010
An ongoing read...sometimes needing to ...other times not dedicated enough to read it....
March 6, 2012
The only must-read book: God's Word. The Chain Reference is a cool version but the old saying 'the best version is the one you'll read' holds true! God's Word WORKS miracles.
May 20, 2012
Love this Book! Great way to work With His Word!
Want to read
June 23, 2012Copyright 1988
9th Printing Sep 1996
Gift from David Upton in 2000
9th Printing Sep 1996
Gift from David Upton in 2000
August 7, 2014
Nice nice very nice.
July 3, 2014
Love this study bible!
January 1, 2023
Every year my goal is always to read the Bible in a year. It is important to read and study the Bible everyday. The more you read it, the more you learn. The word of God is true.
January 17, 2016
This bible was a gift back in 2011 and I will say it has been one of the best gifts ever! I love God's word, each time you read a whole new layer comes to light!
December 27, 2015
This was one of my first study Bibles and still one of my favourites, especially for topical studies.
August 18, 2016
This is hands down the best study Bible out there! I recommend this to anyone who is a Christian, young or old, babe in Christ or Seasoned warrior.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews