This might be THE Study Bible

Without looking at my bookshelf, i would estimate that i have roughly 25 bibles, and about 15 of them are what might be called Study bibles.  These bibles contain additional articles or prompts for thought or tips or archaeological insights that the "plain old bible" does not.  Why are there so many? What more is there to be learned from and about a 3500 year old book?  Yes, depth calls unto depth and there is much to be gained from continued and consistent study of the Word of God.  But does one need 15 (or more) study bibles to clarify one or two passages for a sermon or bible study?  I can honestly say that each study bible was supposed to be "The" Study bible that would preclude the need for any other, but which obviously did not. 

Into this movement Kregel Publications gave me the option of reviewing yet another  Study bible, "The Evangelism Study Bible".  The fact that the bible was offered free in exchange for a review that is as objective as possible made it that much more attractive to me.  What is the Bible's objective or if your don't mind, its agenda?  According the Book jacket, "The Evangelism Study Bible provides all the tools you need to learn to share the gospel clearly and simply as God opens doors of opportunity.''  I liked where this was going.  God opens the doors of opportunity and I essentially study "to show myself approved" when that opportunity presents itself.  This Study Bible is an efficient and strategic tool to aid me in that study. 

These are some things that this bible uniquely offers:

·         Book introductions with particular attention on the evangelistic themes of each book.

·         Study notes that speak generally about biblical themes, but which also focus on evangelism practices.

·         evangelism tips without direct biblical references.

·         devotions to develop the reader's personal relationship with Christ.

·         Cross references, concordance and maps.

I personally recommend this Study bible, but not as another in your collection.  It should be the Bible that you take with you when you leave your place of comfort and go to seek "that which was lost".  It should be the book you return to when you feel like you have lost your motivation to "keep on keeping on".  This is the study bible that should motivate you to study the Bible.   The cover of the Bible is its best advertisement: there is a full color picture of a fisherman's net and  the caption reads: "follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." - Matthew 4:19.