Whether you have been studying the Bible for years or if you have just read it for the first time there is always more that can be learned and understood. For Christians, the Bible is the ultimate source of truth and the guidebook for living. Therefore, it is important that each Christian understand the Bible the best that he or she can. A Bible commentary can be one of the best tools for getting the most out of Scripture.
Do you remember using Cliff’s Notes to make it through a literature class during school? Basically, a Bible commentary is like a Cliff’s Notes for the Bible. It gives explanation to difficult passages and gives in depth description about things like characters, setting, and theme. A Bible commentary is a great supplement to your daily Bible reading. Consider reading a passage of Scripture and then reading what your Bible commentary has to say about that same passage. You will be amazed at the depth and insight your Bible commentary gives.
Having a good Bible commentary or two is a great resource for people who are studying the Bible for classes or for those who are preparing to lead studies or discussions on the Bible. Almost like having your own Bible teacher, a great Bible commentary is one of the best tools you will ever have. It is great because unlike a teacher, your Bible commentary can be with you all the time.
If you are thinking of purchasing a Bible commentary for the first time, check with your pastor or with other friends for their recommendations about which Bible commentary might be the best for you. Every Bible commentary is written from a different theological perspective, so be sure that you buy a Bible commentary that matches with the beliefs of you and your local church. You may even be able to borrow a Bible commentary or two from a friend so that you can try them out and compare them before making a purchase of your own.
You can get a Bible commentary at most local bookstores, Christian bookstores, or online. If you live in a town with a college or university, you can check out their bookstore as well. Whatever it takes to get your hands on a Bible commentary, it is worth it. Your reading and understanding of Scripture will never be the same. You will grow deeper in your knowledge of the ways of God with each reading of Scripture and with each time you use your Bible commentary. Just be sure not to stop reading your Bible just because you have a Bible commentary. Even the best Bible commentary cannot replace the treasure of the Bible itself.
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I had no idea; I’m going to look into this further, it’s a great tool and I didn’t know it was available, I’m passing this info on to family and friends..how come I didn’t know about this till now..thanks
I am glad that I was able to give everyone some useful information. I always worry!
How is it that I have never heard of this before! Why don’t more people talk about it. I have read the Bible for years and never knew about a Bible Commentary. I think it would be so helpful when you are trying to explain sections of the Bible to your kids. I will have to find one. Thanks Rita!
Like I said just Google it or ask at your local bookstore. I am sure you will find one that works for you.
i did not know they had this. it would have helped me out in school as well. i went to a baptist school and took quite a few classes about the bible there.
There are a lot of different ones out there, just do a Google search or check out your local bookstore.
A Bible commentary is so helpful for anyone learning the bible, kids and adults. I have used one in the past and it had greatly helped me. I would recommend one to anyone starting out. Also is just awesome to have one on hand.
I agree, without mine I don’t think I would understand half of what the bible says.
Bible commentaries are great for providing you with insights you wouldn’t get on your own. I have certainly found them helpful.
I have as well and was so pleased the very first time I used one.
I’d be lost without some direction but then what you said is true…there are different perspectives and a commentary would be giving THEIR account of what they think a passage means. Honestly, it’s been a long time since I read daily, and everytime it means something new. That is why I pray before reading…so I get out of it what God needs me to see at the right time. I am quite sure I would read the same passage now that I might have read as a teen or a young mom at age 27, then probably would not get the same exact message. I do like the idea of getting others ideas but I also believe that if you ask for the meaning ahead, that is shown to you. For me, if I got preconceived notions of another’s ideas, I might be blinded by that and miss something important I was supposed to see?
I enjoy reading the bible commentary and then discussing in our bible study group everyone’s perspective. It really is interesting to see how people interpret so differently the same story.
I realize that it’s difficult to make sure you get the right one. Even just buying a bible can be a challenge. I needed one for a confirmant and found one I like and then realized it was not for Catholics.