Reformation Study Bible published by Ligonier Ministries

The ESV translation was published in 2001 and is an “essentially literal” contemporary English translation. The ESV website states, “the ESV Bible emphasizes ‘word-for-word’ accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning.” This translation is written at an 8th-10th grade reading level. So, while that may be above your child’s reading level, they will still likely be able to understand much of the text because of the excellent readability of this translation. Vocabulary will probably be their biggest hurdle, but if you are reading along with them or being intentional about talking through their reading (which I would recommend regardless of the translation) this could be an excellent choice for a first Bible translation.

This translation is endorsed by John Piper, R.C. Sproul, Joni Eareckson Tada, Albert Mohler Jr., Kevin DeYoung, and more.

Scripture Examples:

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” -Genesis 1:1

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.” -Exodus 20:12

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” -Psalm 23:1

“And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.’” -Mark 1:17

“…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” -Romans 3:23

“I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet.” -1 Timothy 2:12

This beautiful study Bible has R. C. Sproul as the General Editor. Some other names you might recognize that contributed are J. I. Packer (Associate Editor), Sinclair B. Ferguson (New Testament Contributor), and Wayne Gruden (New Testament Contributor) to name only a few.

There are extensive commentary references listed under scripture throughout to help explain and navigate the text. These are incredibly solid and very helpful. There are also teal-colored boxes scattered throughout that ask questions that might be swirling in a child’s head while reading those passages, for example: What does it mean that God is good?; Why was the kingdom of Israel divided?; What are church officers? One of these information boxes addresses infant baptism, which- if you are familiar with Sproul- shouldn’t come as a surprise. There is also a box that tackles “Is it always wrong to lie?” in the story of Rahab and the spies. It doesn’t answer the question outright but takes the stance that situations like Rahab’s are very rare, but that she was protecting human life from evil.

There are wonderful introductions for each book of the Bible that include History, Structure, Themes, and Lessons. These will set the stage well for a reader who is unfamiliar with the setting and circumstances of a particular book. While some may feel this is too much for their young reader to understand, I think this Bible could be an excellent first-full text option because it answers very basic Biblical questions in the commentary and is one that will grow into the teen years with your child.

The binding is beautiful, offered in many cover options, and contains two bookmarks. This would also be an excellent choice for new believers of any age. I highly recommend this Bible for your family!

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