The Return

Review: NKJV, Apply the Word Study Bible Thomas Nelson 2016 New King James Version (NKJV) Bible has been around for quite a while, and, as the preface explains in some detail, is based on the King James Version.   The preface also explains the format design and much more to help the reader along as he encounters various notes throughout the text.   It’s probably a good idea to read that before jumping into the main text and all the notes that accompany it.   I won’t comment on the biblical text itself since I am no expert in the languages, history, culture, etc.   Best to trust the scholars on that one. The study portion of this Bible seems to be organized into themes as the reader encounters them in his reading.   For instance, a portion of Leviticus 19 is applied to modern topics like ethics in the workplace or as they titled it “Theology for the Marketplace” (160).   If the reader desires more on that topic several other references are p...

Review: KJV Foundation Study Bible Thomas Nelson, Inc. 2015 KJV, King James Version, the text of Scriptures translated into the English language long ago.   Happily, the more recent editions have dispensed with the script used back in the 1600’s and opted for a more modern one.   It’s my understanding that the translation itself has not been altered, but that realm belongs to the experts.   The features available in this particular version from Thomas Nelson are what I intend to address. As the title states, this is a study Bible.   The notes do not intrude or interfere with the main text and are not available for every verse.   That keeps the number of pages to a more manageable size and weight.   Those notes are generally basic, but insightful.   Each book has a brief introduction covering the author, date, theme, and a key verse.   Cross references, a concordance, and a good set of color maps round out the study material availa...

Review: Short Answers to Big Questions about God, the Bible & Christianity Clinton E. Arnold and Jeff Arnold Baker Books 2015 The title describes this book well.   It gives short answers, but as the authors say in the preface, “… Short Answers is not meant to be the end of your study; rather, it’s the beginning.   Let this be the springboard for you to dive into the deep ocean that is understanding God.” (17)   To help the reader move toward that goal each chapter ends with several Scripture passages related to the chapter topics and then a few questions for thought.   Some of those questions are tough, too.   There is a list of titles for further reading provided at the end.   The authors have achieved their goal, in my opinion. This is no light, fluffy read.   There are illustrations that are relevant though, so it isn’t like trying to read a catechism book.   That is good.   It is not written for the totally unchurc...