Max Lucado has released his 4th Bible and this one looks to be extremely helpful

Note: Thomas Nelson sent this Bible free of charge in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review and my opinions are my own.

 

Encouraging Word Bible Photos

 

Translations Offered

The Lucado Encouraging Word Bible is available in New King James Version (NKJV) and the New International Version (NIV), my favorite of the two being the New King James.

 

Classification

Thomas Nelson classifies this as a study Bible and I can see how they come to that conclusion with the inclusion of introductions, notes, and outlines. I classify it as a devotional Bible. Max Lucado is very well known as a devotional writer and some of his best material is found here.

 

Cover and Binding

There are several cover options available: cloth over book-board, brown leathersoft, blue leathersoft, and e-book. I am reviewing the brown leathersoft. It is a very convincing imitation leather, so convincing, in fact, that when I first saw it I thought they had put a natural leather in a slipcover. Nelson is sewing the bindings on their Bibles again which is a very good sign because sewn bindings will literally last a lifetime.

 

Paper, Layout, & Font

We have the Thomas Nelson Comfort Print Font in 9-point font. This one is particularly readable where some of them are rather small. The notes are in an 8-point font.

 

The Bible text is laid out in a single column paragraph format with the notes in the outer margin. Many of the margins include dot-grid paper for journaling or other note taking.

 

The paper is around 28-gsm. For as thin as it is, the paper is pretty opaque. If one were going to write in this Bible, I would recommend pencil. It is possible to write in it with a ball-point pen but I am not sure that I can recommend it as it looks like there would be show through.

 

Helps

Introductions and Outlines The Introductions and Outlines are much improved over earlier Lucado edited Bibles. Included in this section are key verses, key themes, and key people to call your attention to the most important points to know for each book.

 People of the Word: 98 new articles encourage believers through the lessons learned by people throughout the Bible

For Your Journey: 691 marginal notes mix Max’s storytelling style with biblical context to lead you into a deeper walk with the Lord

Jesus Through the Bible and Growing in Christ: 115 articles provide both inspiration and practical lessons to build you up

God Cares for You and Growing Up Spiritually verses are subject-specific and provide another resource in your study of the Bible

Where to turn when . . . Scripture reference list provides topical lessons to help with both your spiritual and emotional well-being.

 

Overall Thoughts

Max Lucado has been the general editor of several Bibles and, including this one, I have owned 3 of the 4: The Inspirational Study Bible, The Devotional Bible, and this. I did not have the opportunity to own the Lucado Life Lessons Bible. There is no question that Max Lucado is an excellent writer. Admittedly, his style is a little light on exposition for me but when I am looking for resources to encourage other believers, Max Lucado’s writing is where I turn. His book, In the Grip of Grace, was life changing for me.

 

I do recommend this resource to a particular audience more than others. Believe it or not, I recommend it for those engaged in counselling ministry. We, who are counsellors, frequently find those who are discouraged or otherwise lacking fulfillment in their Christian walk and the Encouraging Word Bible will most definitely be helpful.