OK, I am a Bible consumer. Step one is admitting my problem.
In other posts, I have talked about how I have shopped around for translations (here), and how I ultimately settled down with the ESV. Additionally, there are blogs out there, such as the Better Bibles Blog, which can really illuminate all of the possibilities.
However, while I find myself disgruntled with various translations, angry at the lack of useful notes (usually, notes at the bottom are just not interesting to me) or cross-references, I still find myself drawn to the Bibles section of bookstores. Initially, I’m hoping to find the perfect Bible that fits all of my criteria. Then, I realize, that what I’m really looking for is just the latest and greatest thing.
Bibles are always going to be a bit of a disappointment for me. Why? Because I’m not designing them. Until Thomas Nelson or Crossway or Zondervan talks to me, there just isn’t going to be a perfect Bible in my eyes. Until they commit to the Hebert Edition, I’ll just have to make do.
I may be disappointed, but this doesn’t stop me from thirsting after different editions.
The latest Bible to tickle my fancy is Crossway’s “Journaling Bible.” Essentially, it’s a moleskine-inspired Bible. If you don’t use moleskine notebooks, either you’re not cool, or you’re way too cool. Essentially, a moleskine is a small, hard cover notebook. Typically, they are black with an elastic band and a handy-dandy pocket inside. You can get them ruled, squared, blank, sketch papered, etc. They look really nice sitting in a pretty row on a shelf. Love ‘em.
Crossway’s Journaling Bible looks and feels exactly like a huge moleskine. The aesthetics here are a big draw. But an even bigger bonus is that each page features a 2″ ruled margin for writing notes. This is one of my dream Bible features!!!
But, it’s not perfect.
First, it lacks cross-references. For me, this is almost essential. I’m not sure how I’ve managed to survive without them in my current Crossway “TruTone Slimline” ESV edition. Nevertheless, I have survived—so, it must be possible.
The second drawback is that the font is 7.5 point. That’s pretty tiny. There is no way I can possibly use this Bible 20 years from now…my failing eye-sight won’t allow it.
But the paper feels so nice, and the margins look so good.
I’m a hopeless Bible consumer. I want it. I’ve already told my wife that this is what I need for Christmas.
Will I have to wait until December 2007? Probably not…
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We’re listening. I’d be very pleased to have you join our conversation about Bibles and how we can make them better for you and for other “hopeless Bible consumers.”
As a bible consumer, I remain in prayer on societal, worldy and personal issues that may arise. I like the idea of the moleskin bible where users can take notes. Great for uplifiting our conscience when reading His word.
Another resource I enjoy is the website http://www.blueletterbible.org
This website offers a huge resource of devotionals, image maps relating to scripture, passage lookup and explanations, study tools on Mosaic Law, Lord’s Parables, Warnings, Miracles, and Promises revealed thorugh His Son & His word. Also included are Christian links to other web resources via online and audio resources.
Praise the Lord, keep that relentless search to seek His face and his
doctrine of Jesus. Brothers & Sisters, Remember to KEEP THE FAITH!!!
GLORY to Jesus, Our Lord & Saviour
Micah 7:18-19