24:48 Matt. As a father, I want to commend you for this little nugget of joy. The honesty and smile in your sons statement "By falling asleep to an audiobook" might be the best thing I've heard ever. I can feel the love, devotion and connection between you two, even though I watch this video here in Denmark, Scandinavia. People take note. This is parenting done right. And Matt, thank you for sharing, not only your visdom, but this little innocent nugget, that is the relationship between you and your son. God bless you 🙏♥️
I would like to say thank you for your utterly justified, thoughtful, and thorough critique of the Catholic Study Bible. As a Catholic, I find it embarrassing that this study Bible has the name Catholic on the front. I worry how many souls this type of scholarship has led away from a better knowledge of and relationship with God. We should confront textual challenges and critiques of the Bible (e.g., we should have a real, unflinching discussion about the Mosaic authorship of the Penteateuch), but we should NOT simply accept, hook, line, and sinker, the essentially secular theories offered in the Catholic Study Bible. I think that the issues that you highlight have a somewhat uncomfortable basis: Catholic Biblical scholarship has, since the Reformation, largely lagged behind the work that Protestant scholarship, and most of it is derivative, not new scholarship. There are some really great, thoughtful Catholic Bible scholars today, but we are not seeing their work in the Catholic Study Bible. I would like to echo the recommendations here and on the first part of this mini-series -- the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible is great. The Navarre Study Bible is also great. Thanks for your work here on this channel and on the Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast. I have listened every day since it started -- right before or after Fr. Mike Schmitz's Bible or Catechism in a Year podcast. So grateful for what you do Matt.
Ammmmnnnn....I disagree, there is some great work out there by Bishop Robert Barron, Scott Hann, Deacon Jay of St. Theresa Catholic Church (all RUclips videos that one.) I'm sure there are many more
Reminds me of the outstanding amount of people "Catholic" by name. You cant call youself catholic if you are still voting for liberal politicians and havent been to confession or mass in 30 years. People dont realize that the amount of practicing catholics today that believe in everything the catholic church believed in the last 2000 years except the last 100 years of modernism is extremely small now. True practicing catholic are basically a small sect now. Even our pope does adhere to catholicism in its tradition...but we knew this would happen. And Mary's Heart will Triumph in the end and the world will have a full conversion to Catholicism just as the world seems fully communist.
@@cedricphillip5945 I actually agree with you! I tried to be careful in my phrasing, but maybe I could have done better. I would also highlight the work of Dr. John Bergsma and Dr. Brant Pitre. There is good work being done in Catholic scriptural study, but it does not hold a candle to Protestant scriptural study.
❤ as a Catholic who enjoys your channel immensely, when I saw (in the last video) which Catholic study Bible you got my first thought was that I never expected that you would set up a straw man like that, it seemed so out of character. So I watched this video and I am glad I did. No straw man, just a REALLY GOOD evaluation of a very bad study Bible which no one should read. I really appreciate your fair evaluation of all of these Bibles.
I'm Catholic, and I am pleasantly surprised by the spirit of your rating of the Catholic Study Bible by Oxford. I haven't seen or heard about it but your review will be in my mind if and when I do. Thanks for the work you do
I own the Oxford Catholic Study bible and am a Catholic. I picked it up as my first bible when I came into a renewal of my faith. I found many of these editorials that Matt pointed out highly confusing as someone, who at the time, was very under-informed in my understanding of the bible. It took me a while to find better resources that set me straight. I also would not recommend this bible.
This is one of the two study bibles a priest recommended to me. He did say it was more on the critical side. It really is, the commentary is " scholarly", less "theologically" . Still combined with the Ignatius study bible he (and I ) thought it gives a solid read and well rounded picture.
I actually use to have that same catholic study bible i read about 70 percent of it all the way through and over and over again i was taken aback by how secular the notes were in that bible. I actually ended up throwing it in the garbage because i didnt want to sell it or give it away because i was afraid sombody might actually read it. Im not catholic but at that time in my life i was considering it.
Please be assured than many Catholics have had very similar reactions to this same work of heresy. The Ignatius Press Bible or the Haydock Commentary are far better works of Catholic scholarship.
A professor in college got me hooked on the NET Bible. (Much thanks to prof Merritt!) I love how it's almost a 3 in 1 study Bible. You get the general commentary notes, notes about why they translated it a certain way, and the text critical notes you mentioned about laying all the difficulties and problems with the original texts on the table. It's always one I recommend for people to look into, and they have a free version online if you don't want to pay for a physical copy.
I can really recommend the Crossway Archeology Study Bible! As a new Christian who did not grow up in the faith seeing all these pictures and graphics really helps to grasp what I'm reading. Reading scripture for the first time can be quite overwhelming, having a little bit of background and context provided here and there really makes a huge difference.
Another Catholic thanking you for including us and giving that NABRE the drubbing it deserved. Good for you for recognizing that the notes aren’t even really Catholic! The Ignatius Study Bible’s OT books are available in single volumes, they just haven’t been published in a single volume yet. Another upvote for taking a look at the Great Adventure Bible.
If you want a good Catholic study bible, try the Didache Bible or the Ignatius Catholic New Testament Study Bible. The latter has the most in-depth notes but as the name implies, it's NT only, and it's already massive. The Didache Bible is the full Bible and has footnotes for every single passage and often cross-references with the Catechism, Church fathers, etc. I have and use both.
Try 1. The Didache Bible with Commentaries Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Ignatius Edition; 2. Word on Fire Bibles The Pentateuch Volume 1, 2 and 3, The Gospel Volume 1 and Acts, Letters, and Revelation Volume 2; 3. Great Adventure Bible by Ascension Presents; 4. Divine Mercy Catholic Bible by Ascension Presents; and 5. Ignatius Catholic Study Bible Old and New Testament.😄🤝
Just wanted to thank you again. I spent this year in the Ancient Faith CSB bible you reviewed last year. It has genuinely helped my growth and helped me significantly in my planning for Sunday School Class. I can't wait to watch this and pick out next year's study bible. Thanks again Matt, your work has a real impact on people!
As a Catholic, I've heard similar feelings from faithful Catholics about the Catholic Study Bible, I would recommend the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible (NT) as well and/or the Great Adventure Catholic Bible
I can only say that I loved seeing and hearing from your son. He's got great insight and loved his opinions on these lovely bibles. I've always enjoyed your videos when you rate the bibles but you really outdid yourself on these. Thank you so much as these videos really do help me in deciding which bible to purchase or not to purchase. God bless you and your family ~ Merry Christmas.
You should check out Bishop Barron's Word on Fire Bible series. Those are great. Only three tomes are finished and on sale (The Gospels, Letters and Torah). Other parts of the Bible coming out later.
I would love to see a review of the Lutheran Study Bible. Also, your son is adorable and you have every right to be super proud of him, as I'm sure you are!
You might consider the Orthodox Study Bible. Not fancy. But gives a uniquely different perspective. Often straying from ALL Western interpretation of the text. Both Catholics and Protestants sometimes don't recall that we share a common Augustinian interpretation. But in the East there are many completely different interpretations.
I'm Catholic and I too own a copy of that Oxford edition. I got it primarily because I think the translation (NABRE) of the Old Testament is much improved from the previous edition (NAB). But as far as the notes go, I agree with you 100%. It relies too heavily on the critical methods and is too skeptical about the text. I typically don't use study Bibles anymore because they tend to rely too much on historical criticism. For my money, commentaries are better because they allow for fuller explanations of the text by examining the actual meanings while still providing some textual insights but rarely, if ever, to the degree of most Study Bibles.
Unfortunately, the Oxford "catholic" Study Bible is one of the modern "catholic" interpretations that has no real roots in actual Catholic teachings. The Ignatius Catholic Study Bible is much better. Also, many "Scholars" propose what the Church should say or should have said. Instead of what the Catholic Church has traditionally held. Toss that one out.
I commented on his last video, and he mentioned that the Ignatius Press Bible is the one that he forgot, but that he generally liked it, though disagreeing with its more explicitly Catholic parts.
And yet the Bishop of the Melkite Greek Catholic Eparchy of Newton advises audiences (clergy and laity) to pick up the Catholic Study Bible frequently.
@@highviewbarbell Neither does the USCCB, which commissioned that translation to be used in the United States. That’s not the point. The NASB is a lousy translation and even worse footnotes. The RSVCE which the Ignatius Study Bible uses if far superior, very literal, used by majority of orthodox Catholic scholars.
This description of that Catholic study Bible does is my experience of a Catholic university’s theology program. They treated historical critical method as the only way to read scripture academically and it was disgusting to me then and now.
@@jsharp3165 The OT has been text-complete for years. A combination of Ignatius Press being slow and some (local? USCCB?) office taking forever to approve a couple of final essays is the source of the holdup.
@@jsharp3165I emailed Ignatius Press earlier this year and they said they were hoping it would be out next year but its been delayed so many times there's no way to be sure. I also heard the other day that Dr. Matthew Thomas had written the introduction to Maccabees a while back. They've been working on it for a while but we just have no idea when it's coming out
So heart warming to see your sons heart for the Lord and His word. I am getting married in May and look forward to raising my future children in the Lord like you did! Blessings!
Matt! Great Review! Your beautiful son stole the show!😎✝️ You have done a great job with this wonderful young man! Good for you! I have a few of these bibles as well! May you continue to bless others with your channel! ✝️😇🙏🏼😎
Matt, new subscriber here. I'm a parishioner of Our Lady of Sorrows in St. Louis and youtube led me to your channel. I so much pray for your mission of convictional unity. I have been a lifelong learner and supporter of ecumenism. I'm getting on in years, but know you are in my prayers.
THANK YOU for finally saying what I've been thinking about the "Q document" stuff! I've been going through my masters of Theology and keep asking "okay... and what evidence do you have of this as apposed to the affirmation by the earliest church fathers?"
That would be the most adorable side kick in RUclips history lol. The facial expressions and obvious interest are awesome. Great reviews and information as well.
Thank you Matt I agree with you. orthodox Catholic here. Scott Hahn a few years ago published a Catholic Bible Dictionary I have it in my library of books and I recommended it. Thank you🔥🤟🙏⛪👨👩👧👦🇺🇸
As a Catholic, I generally like the way the text is in the NAB and NABRE. The language used is nice and plain and perfect to be read aloud, which is why the NAB is the version read aloud at Mass in the United States. Other English-speaking corners of the church will use the ESV-CE, I think. I do not think the TEXT of the NAB(RE) is necessarily bad for study, but the notes certainly are. The notes can be pretty bad, and several apologists like Trent Horn will tell you the same thing. The unfortunate part is that per the USCCB they have to be included in all printings of the NABRE! I think it should be made clear that the study notes in the NABRE are not official Catholic doctrine or teaching. There is supposed to be a new edition of the NAB coming next year, and hopefully the notes are much improved. This new version of the NAB seeks to be the go-to translation used both for Mass and for catechesis. The group behind the new version is the Catholic Biblical Association, so lets pray that they can clean up some of the sus notes in the current version of the NAB(RE). For individual study and devotion, I love, love, LOVE my Ascension Press Great Adventure Bible (RSV-2CE). The RSV language is a little less 'spoken word' friendly so I can see why the USCCB doesn't use it for Mass, but it is still a Catholic approved version.
Thanks heaps for this Matt. Love the way you do these videos and ive definitely shared them with people at my church including my minister as a way to just see the bigger picture and think a bit more about why they like their bibles, whats good in a bible and whos doing what currently.
I understand your criticism of the Catholic Study Bible, and it's clearly not made for you, and I agree that it might not show a high view of scripture that might befit most Catholics, but I don't think it's right to dismiss its critical view as simple "18th-19th century" theology that was popular at the time and now can be dismissed. It's the point of view that scholars from both history, religious studies and archaeology in various institutions hold, some of them religious as well and others hold great respect to the text even if not viewing it in the same way you do. Ironically, I think I will want to check it out and give it a fair shake based on your review, but I do appreciate the honesty in approaching your views and in showing the contents of the book, even if you disagree with it!
I think his point was there is a very concerning casual dismissal of arguments that scholars much more contemporary to the events held and is not representative of the Current theology of the Catholic Church. Also just would want to push back on the a lot of people hold these views so they must be good. Yes many scholars hold these views but these views generally come from people that start with the underlying assumption that the Bible is not the word of God and that anything supernatural must be automatically dismissed. If you come from that starting point, you end up with a whole different set of conclusions. Science deals in the quantifiable. By definition the supernatural can not be quantified. So yes while "people do hold these beliefs" it's not the type of people hold to the very most core assumptions of the Christian faith and there for is not particularly useful as a study Bible. It's not the entertaining of these ideas that is the problem. The Bible can stand up to criticism. It's the casual dismissal of the traditional readings that don't align at all with Catholic Theology.
Thank you. This was well worth the time. Thorough review of current selections. Objective rubric for evaluation and fair assessments. Your candor with the Oxford edition affirms your objectivity. Finally, you are an inspirational role model for father-son dynamics. Kudos to the man-child for his answer to the Matthew question. Be proud, dad. Blessings and Merry Christmas.
You son is a bright and thinking individual who sees well the text and larger Biblical context! A youth puts these so called scholars to shame! Thanks for the great review!
Your son knows Mathew better than I do! Maybe I should adopt his strategy! If I were to pick one that appeals to me the most, it would be the Chronological Life Application, as context behind the scripture is very important to me. One of my main concerns with how we tend to read the Bible today is that we're so separated from both the time and the place that we've become blind to the original context and tend to put our own biases into our reading. Lately, I've been reading "Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes" by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O'Brien, and that book has opened my eyes to how different their culture was compared to ours, some of which I can't even wrap my head around, and a lot of it is still maintained to this very day. What makes this important is that a lot of how they think in the middle east would have been where Jesus would be getting a lot of his teachings from.
OK - I am a 'cradle' Catholic. I must admit that I have not studied the Bible as I should have, or perhaps better said hardly at all. This unusual "Catholic" bible is pretty different than anything I have ever read or heard preached in any one of the many, many different Catholic Churches that I have frequented over the past 6 decades. Thanks for the level-headed analysis!! I am a loyal fan and have pass your site on to friends and family.
i haven't had time to watch this episode for the last 3 weeks. I wasn't disappointed. Thank you and your son for so much hard work to shed light on the Sacred Book. God bless
Looking for my first study Bible right now. I appreciate your reviews. Thank you. I have been carrying a devotional Bible but am curious about learning more. Your son is a very bright young man!
I'm a bit too slow a reader for study Bibles... I currently read the Saint Benedict Press New American Bible (Catholic edition). It's purpose seems to be to immerse me in the Word, giving explanations only of text that is hard to understand without greater context (i.e. cross-references from other parts of the Bible or history). I am also pretty interested in that last Protestant Bible (crossway, church history) you showed. That's such a cool concept to quote such people. A well done video. Cheers and God bless.
You got the student version of the Reformation Study Bible, if you were to get to the full version, you would indeed get very reformed articles. You’ll even see the reformed standards in the back. The full version isn’t restrained at all.
As a Catholic, I love your honest yet respectful approach to the Catholic Church. Not many Protestants out there ask questions and, instead, just make unfair assumptions. Keep up the great work brother!
I really appreciate you saying that, and for what it's worth in the interest of mutual understanding, we feel the exact same way about most of our interactions with Catholics. The people who speak the loudest on these questions tend to be the most abrasive.
I am Catholic and had only read one Bible in my lifetime of approx 50 years. It was a Childrens Illustrated that I read one summer as a teenager. I decided late Dec to read the Bible, and chose Father Mike's Bible in a Year. I initially was using a NAB bible. I could not use it past Genesis as the notes were so critical, almost saying do not take this literally...I did purchase the Great Adventure Bible and read it everyday with Father Mike and many others. (RSV-CE-2nd edition). I then also purchased a DR Bible to have. I look at it some, but find the RSV-CE easier to read. I am awaiting delivery of the NIV Cultural Geography Study Bible. We began homeschooling our sons during Covid, and comparing with my younger sons Ancient History has been fun. I agree - NAB, NABRE are awful. I plan to one day give one son my Great Adventure Bible, and my other son the DR I purchased, perhaps the Geography Study Bible as well. Will see...Your son is adorable and love the bond between the two of you.
I bought the Church History Study Bible about a year ago, and I've loved it! I'm glad you highlighted it. However, I really want that Archaeology Study Bible!
I’m catholic and I couldn’t agree with you more. The nab is the official bible used for the mass. For correspondence , study and for all official documents the church uses the RSV. The nab is the worst bible I’ve ever read. Keep up the good work; I get a lot out of your channel.
Its pretty sad that they put all this work into the NAB and read it during Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours but almost no Catholic actually prefers it. I like the RSV myself and I honestly don't think I've heard a single Catholic bible scholar or theologian say they prefer the NAB.
I am a Catholic and have that Study Bible. and you are spot on. I've disliked many things about the commentary and study notes in that thing. As a Catholic, I have found that the Navrarre and Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture to be MUCH better. Scott Hahn's Ignatius (which you mentioned) is not bad either but the other two I mentioned are much better
Thanks for more great content. You and your son are adorable! I love the Great Adventure Study Bible and the timeline created by Jeff Cavins - highly recommended Catholic study Bible. Have you considered adding an Orthodox Study Bible to your repertoire?
What an awesome younge man you have the privelege to be the father of. I also think highly of his father! Haha! Thanks for the content you produce. Not that your vids are the only reason, but they have been a significant influence in having me buy a bible recently and attending my first mass in a persuit of returning to my faith in nearly 60 years (I'm catholic - obviously I guess). Bless you and your family and best wishes for Christmas and next year.
@Bc232klm truth is sometimes a tricky thing, particularly in the rigor of science, in the furtherance of the grand-daddy "objectively" studying reality that is Physics. Often, whenever someone in Physics thought he'd discovered "truth," it turned out to be a very different thing than he'd initially conjectured it to be. So ... "truth"? It's partially interpretive sometimes, is sometimes mistaken, and is sometimes a little dangerous to serve as a foundation for one's argument. Some things that we accept as "true" might in fact actually be, but the things that are tend to be simple, granular, discrete and strictly speaking, empirical or sequential (eg this came before that). So .. I am wondering what might be the "truth" to which you may refer?
Is there a place we can see all the graphics? My son and I are wanting to get deeper into 'The Word'. Your breakdowns would help us gather the study Bibles that would help us grow in faith in a very intentional way. Thank you for your work. Blessings to you and yours.
Your thoughts on the Oxford Catholic Study Bible 3rd Edition made me go look at what ones I have. They're Oxford's but they're the Personal Study Editions, 2nd & 3rd Edition. I haven't used the 3rd Edition yet, because I just got it, but I hope it's NOT a repeat of that one!!
Due to your review last year, I've been making my way through the Ancient Faith Study Bible and really enjoying it. My plan is move next to the Enduring Voices Study Bible you also reviewed. I guess the Church History Study Bible will be after that. Hopefully I can get to it before you review more study Bibles.
I bought the Ancient Faith Study Bible on Matt's video recommendation as well. Before that I primarily used the Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible so going from that to the Ancient Faith Study Bible was very interesting. I may have to pick up the Enduring Voices Study Bible to continue the journey.
I was looking for a study bible and was leaning Catholic, but all the reviews of the Oxford Catholic Study Bible Third Edition that you reviewed. I found reviews of it by Catholics similar to your review, with horror about the anti-scriptural notes that were described generally as a seeming attempt to reduce the reader's faith. I wanted to go for the Word on Fire bible set, but it isn't done and it's in a bunch of books and I wanted a single book package, but I think the Ignatius Augustine Study Bible , the one you had on Kindle, is supposed to be good also. I have a Catholic bible from when I was a kid too, it has better notes, but they're a bit weird sometimes too, they're not really study bible notes, just the notes that come standard with the translation, like the NABRE, but the non-RE version.
The Didache Bible is a pretty good Catholic study bible that has faithful notes mostly drawn from the Catechism. Unfortunately the Ignatius Study Bible only has the New Testament out and the Old Testament will be a seperate volume so the Didache Bible is one of the only faithful single volume Catholic study bibles.
You showed up in my for you feed. I like what I see here BUT I'm subbing because of that man child. His smile kept me looking and his knowledge made me hit sub.
I would just like to say the “Oxford Catholic Study Bible” is not what most Catholics use, I would recommend the Ignatius Bible, Dhouay Reims, The Catholic Adventure Bible, or I have to admit I do have an NAB bible which we use in mass but just make sure you get it from a good publisher. I’m actually a catechumen (someone converting) and fourteen so when I messaged my sacraments directors he said he highly recommends an NRSV bible 😊
Interesting perspective on the Catholic Study Bible. I would be interested in your opinion on the Harper Collins / New Annotated Oxford Study Bibles. I have been looking for good and fair critical biblical scholarship to better understand the text, and those two are often highly recommended. What are your thoughts?
Thank you so much for your reviews Matt! I do like the archeology study Bible. Very surprised by the Catholic Bible & what you're reading by a commentary in it doesn't even sound like the person was even a Christian. Being born & raised Catholic living as a protestant for 40 years returned to Catholicism now in my 70s will say disappointed in that Bible. Loving yoir reviews. Always inspired & blessed by your son's smiles & understanding. Blessings to you and yours 💕. 🙏
Yes, the Oxford Catholic Study Bible is like a minimally-Catholic version of the New Oxford Annotated Bible, only with a worse format, with all the unique commentary at the front of the book instead of on the same page as the Biblical text, thus defeating the main advantage of a study Bible. They did it that way because there are baked-in footnotes that have to be included with the New American Bible translation text, and those footnotes take up so much space that it is hard to fit anything else on the page (the NAB footnotes are themselves skeptical and inconsistent, and generally disliked). Unfortunately, English-speaking Catholics do not have a good general-use one-volume study Bible. There are lots of books for believing Catholics about the Bible, but none that are truly comparable to the ESV Study Bible et al. There are multi-volume study Bibles (e.g. Navarre Bible and Word on Fire Bible), there are "study Bibles" with limited resources but not extensive footnotes (Didache Bible, Little Rock Study Bible), there is a 19th-century study Bible called the Haydock Bible. But there is no modern one-volume study Bible with extensive, verse-by-verse commentary, and there won't be until Ignatius Press actually publishes the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible, hopefully some time before the second coming of Christ. There are a number of reasons for this lacuna in Catholic publishing: there are only so many conservative Catholic Bible scholars (Catholic universities being filled with disciples of "higher criticism" who obviously do not believe in Catholicism), the NAB is the defacto standard Bible translation in the USA and its footnotes take up a ton of space, Catholic Bible products require special permissions from the local diocese and the Church moves slowly on these things, and competition just isn't as fierce as in Evangelical Protestant publishing, where you'll be laughed out of the room if you put out a mediocre product when Crossway's catalog is right there competing with you, so Catholic publishers get away with a lot of relative mediocrity. So for now, the best general-use Catholic book on the New Testament is the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible New Testament, and the best book on the Old Testament is the volume "A Catholic Introduction to the Bible: The Old Testament."
Thank you for your reviews and your ministry. Your son steals the podcast! You mentioned that the ESV Archaeology Study Bible by Crossway is in the middle of the pack, so which archaeology study bible(s) would you place at the top?
The Catholic Study Bible (Oxford) is the analog to the New Oxford Annotated Bible which is basically a very academic "anglican" bible with the same narrow historical-critical lenses. Ignatius Study Bible (still working on the OT) is closer to what you were expecting. Navarre Bible is an interesting mix of scholarly notes and devotional notes. The Didache Bible is annotated solely with relevant passages from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Thank you for this analysis of different study bibles. I have the "Little Rock Catholic Study Bible" (I'm Catholic) which I received in a bible study several years ago and compared the sections you read of the Oxford Catholic Study Bible and found some sections read differently and some had the same assumptions. I was glad to see you also pulled out a couple of other Catholic study bibles that you found were more comfortable with more traditional understanding of the Bible's origin and history. I also have an old copy of the New English Bible (not s study bible.) I read from them both on my small bible reading channel. I plan to use your analysis to buy another bible. I'm torn now between The Catholic Scriptures Study Bible, the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and the Archeology Study Bible. I shall consult my budget to see if it approves of a possible purchase of two of these. :D
Since you are looking at Catholic study Bibles, I would look at the Haydock Commentary. It uses the Douay-Rheims, so the language can be a bit hard, and it is also rather anti-Protestant in its polemic rather than just general material, but it is still worth at least considering.
Yes, the Catholic study Bible you reviewed is similar to the New Oxford Annotated Study Bible, but this one has the cannon of the Catholic Bible only (vs an ecumenical canon) and the notes are geared toward a Catholic interpretation of scripture. The Reader's Guide is geared towards Biblical scholarship in terms of textual criticism. This Bible is ideal for a Catholic who is studying textual criticism at the college level. Lay Catholics would be much more interested in the Ignatius Study Bible: New Testament or the Great Adventure Catholic Bible. They would not be interested in the study Bible you reviewed.
Dang it, Matt and the unfortunate passage of time! I bought the CSB Ancient Faith Study Bible on your recommendation, but now I really want that ESV Church History Study Bible for the same, but more defined, reason! How can I justify two ESV Bibles and two "commentary from lots of smart, really old dead guys"? Probably that gilded spine alone is justification enough, right?
Hey Matt, thanks so much for the content on these study Bibles. In your experience, have you seen some that are in a larger print? I am looking for a study Bible that I can easily read. Do you have any recommendations on this? Thanks.
Matt, thanks for inspiring us to learn more about God. I brought my new ESV Archaeology Study Bible to my men's group this morning. The discussion 1 of Chronicles was richer from this resource you reviewed. Notice, I did not say "recommended". Just like your podcasts, you present the information with as much detail and context as possible, without a sales pitch. Then you let us decide. I just ordered 3 more Bibles for guys in my group. Don't worry about view counts and algorithms. Just know you are making a difference and inspiring people to know God.
I love love love your son!! His smile is like a ray of sunshine! Train up a chile in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Pro 22:6 You're a great dad!
I just purchased that chronological study bible in preparation for my year long chronological bible reading next year. Appreciate you bringing that to my attention! Will need to contribute to the patreon to show my appreciation 😅
Learnt alot in both part 1&2 Thank you for the reviews I've never seen chronological Bibles sold in Kenya, will see if I can source for one, seems like it'll be interesting Love that you did this with your son He knows so much 😊
Hi Matt I just came across your Channel and love it. Thank you for your service. Have you ever heard about the Assyrian or thought to make a video about the assyrian Church.
Your son! 🤗 My mommy-heart is dancing with delight over here! That smile and intelligence. I know you’re proud. Well done mom and dad 👏 Actually, I ordered the Ancient Faith Bible and saved the other to my wish list. If your affiliate is set up, I think you’ll still get credit as I started with your link first 👍 Great reviews. Very much appreciated.
Matt, the Oxford Catholic Study Bible is probably not my first choice for a Catholic study Bible at all (and I'm a Catholic). My first choice is probably the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible (only the NT is published in full, though there have been OT volumes released by Ignatius Press). I suspect that might have been the Catholic study bible you previously used. The Oxford CSB is not quite as academic and secular notes wise as the New Oxford Annotated Bible though there are definitely lots of strains of that in the NABre's notes which assume a historical-critical take on the Scriptural text and in the reading guides. I only recommend this study bible only to those who are fairly secure in their faith and want an understanding of the way the academic world looks at the Bible. I hold the same view with regard to the New Oxford Annotated Bible (Oxford University Press), the Harper Collins Study Bible (Harper Collins) and the New Interpreter's Study Bible (Abingdon Press). Alternatively these are my other preferred Catholic study bibles: - Midwest Theological Forum's "The Didache Bible" which features a number of articles and references back to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, - The Word on Fire Bible (Vols 1 "Gospels", 2 "Acts, Letters & Revelation" & 3 "Pentateuch" are out currently), which is a gorgeous multi-volume bible set that is typeset beautifully, has plenty of commentary by Bishop Robert Barron and other commentators through the centuries and lots of Christian artwork reproduced with articles about each piece of artwork, - Catholic Book Publishing Company's "New Catholic Bible" (in the various St Joseph Editions), which is supposed to be a reading Bible but its notes are in a similar vein to the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible rather than the NABre notes. Other more niche Catholic study bibles would be The Great Adventure Bible and the Divine Mercy Catholic Bible which are both published by Ascension Press, the Catholic Scripture Study Bible and Spiritual Warfare Bible both published by TAN Publications/St. Benedict Press. And I say all that as a former Protestant who still uses a lot of my former Protestant study bibles when doing scripture study (my faves include Holman's "CSB Ancient Faith Bible", Concordia's "The Lutheran Study Bible" and Thomas Nelson's Full Notes edition of the NET Bible).
I was surprised that you have the Kindle edition of the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible NT by Ignatius Press on your phone. You'll be glad to hear the complete Bible will be published in October/November 2024. Ten's of years in production. No doubt you'll review that too. 👍😊
The glimpse here into your relationship with your son is a model to me. I hope and pray for the opportunity to have sons and show them what I missed growing up (in addition to repeating for them the blessings of my own upbringing).
I was pleasantly surprised to see the NKJV Study Bible in your stack. It is my go-to day-to-day bible for both private study and creating Sunday School lessons. And for just the reason you praised: It has a HUGE amount of notes and almost every verse is covered in some way. So if I or a class member has a question about a verse or word or concept, there's a good chance the NKJV Study Bible will have a helpful note on it. It has an openly evangelical bent but it's not heavy-handed. Speaking of heavy, I own both the full-color version shown in your video and the black-and-white version. The color stays on my desk. And the b&w is my "beater" copy that goes back and forth to church with me. The b&w copy feels a bit lighter, probably because it doesn't have the heavier glossy paper for the photographs. Anyway, I love it and it has a ton of info for such an affordable price. If one has the NKJV Study Bible to break down theology and original languages, a Cultural Background Study Bible for historical and anthropological context, and a devotional Life Application-style bible in an NLT or similar translation - one would have a pretty solid starter library for Bible study.
The women's ministry at our church is currently going through the latest edition of Experiencing God. I now know you talked about the study Bible in the last video, but this was an interesting surprise to hear about in this one (I didn't watch the first one when I first posted this comment XD)
I have the paperback version of that NKJV study Bible from Thomas Nelson and I had to buy some cheapy reader glasses for Grocery Outlet. But I like it for the extra information.
![Stromae, Pomme - “Ma Meilleure Ennemie” (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Visualizer]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1F3OGIFnW1k/mqdefault.jpg)
The way his son watches his dad, he’s got a smile on his face- he’s so proud of his dad! So lovely to see x
24:48 Matt. As a father, I want to commend you for this little nugget of joy.
The honesty and smile in your sons statement "By falling asleep to an audiobook" might be the best thing I've heard ever.
I can feel the love, devotion and connection between you two, even though I watch this video here in Denmark, Scandinavia.
People take note. This is parenting done right.
And Matt, thank you for sharing, not only your visdom, but this little innocent nugget, that is the relationship between you and your son.
God bless you 🙏♥️
You son is so adorable and steals the show ❤ so lovely to see the two of you working together. Hope we see more of this 🙏 blessings to you both
I would like to say thank you for your utterly justified, thoughtful, and thorough critique of the Catholic Study Bible. As a Catholic, I find it embarrassing that this study Bible has the name Catholic on the front. I worry how many souls this type of scholarship has led away from a better knowledge of and relationship with God. We should confront textual challenges and critiques of the Bible (e.g., we should have a real, unflinching discussion about the Mosaic authorship of the Penteateuch), but we should NOT simply accept, hook, line, and sinker, the essentially secular theories offered in the Catholic Study Bible.
I think that the issues that you highlight have a somewhat uncomfortable basis: Catholic Biblical scholarship has, since the Reformation, largely lagged behind the work that Protestant scholarship, and most of it is derivative, not new scholarship. There are some really great, thoughtful Catholic Bible scholars today, but we are not seeing their work in the Catholic Study Bible.
I would like to echo the recommendations here and on the first part of this mini-series -- the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible is great. The Navarre Study Bible is also great.
Thanks for your work here on this channel and on the Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast. I have listened every day since it started -- right before or after Fr. Mike Schmitz's Bible or Catechism in a Year podcast. So grateful for what you do Matt.
Ammmmnnnn....I disagree, there is some great work out there by Bishop Robert Barron, Scott Hann, Deacon Jay of St. Theresa Catholic Church (all RUclips videos that one.) I'm sure there are many more
Reminds me of the outstanding amount of people "Catholic" by name.
You cant call youself catholic if you are still voting for liberal politicians and havent been to confession or mass in 30 years.
People dont realize that the amount of practicing catholics today that believe in everything the catholic church believed in the last 2000 years except the last 100 years of modernism is extremely small now. True practicing catholic are basically a small sect now. Even our pope does adhere to catholicism in its tradition...but we knew this would happen. And Mary's Heart will Triumph in the end and the world will have a full conversion to Catholicism just as the world seems fully communist.
@@cedricphillip5945 I actually agree with you! I tried to be careful in my phrasing, but maybe I could have done better. I would also highlight the work of Dr. John Bergsma and Dr. Brant Pitre. There is good work being done in Catholic scriptural study, but it does not hold a candle to Protestant scriptural study.
I totally agree, this study Bible is an embarrassment. :( I hope we get the Ignatius OT study Bible sometime this decade...
It's justxa different view than you. Doesn't make it less catholic.
Love how your son is just loving this and laughs at your silliness. You can tell he loves you so much. Great reviews, and thanks for the good humor!
❤ as a Catholic who enjoys your channel immensely, when I saw (in the last video) which Catholic study Bible you got my first thought was that I never expected that you would set up a straw man like that, it seemed so out of character. So I watched this video and I am glad I did. No straw man, just a REALLY GOOD evaluation of a very bad study Bible which no one should read.
I really appreciate your fair evaluation of all of these Bibles.
Can we get an opinion on the Great Adventure Bible by Ascension presents?
OH Yes! Please do, Matt
I just got one and love it, especially if you're doing the bible in a year audio plan would recommend.
I work in a Christian bookstore here in Australia, and I always find your reviews so helpful when recommending bibles. Thanks Matt!
I thought I'd be the only Aussie following Matt, cool!
I'm Catholic, and I am pleasantly surprised by the spirit of your rating of the Catholic Study Bible by Oxford. I haven't seen or heard about it but your review will be in my mind if and when I do. Thanks for the work you do
I own the Oxford Catholic Study bible and am a Catholic. I picked it up as my first bible when I came into a renewal of my faith. I found many of these editorials that Matt pointed out highly confusing as someone, who at the time, was very under-informed in my understanding of the bible. It took me a while to find better resources that set me straight. I also would not recommend this bible.
Augustine fooled reformers. See Soteriology101 Ali Bonner (Cambridge historian)interview. Evidence is clear.
This is one of the two study bibles a priest recommended to me. He did say it was more on the critical side. It really is, the commentary is " scholarly", less "theologically" . Still combined with the Ignatius study bible he (and I ) thought it gives a solid read and well rounded picture.
Why catholic?
@@uganda_mn397 Mostly because of Rome proof texting Matthew 16 18.
I actually use to have that same catholic study bible i read about 70 percent of it all the way through and over and over again i was taken aback by how secular the notes were in that bible. I actually ended up throwing it in the garbage because i didnt want to sell it or give it away because i was afraid sombody might actually read it.
Im not catholic but at that time in my life i was considering it.
Please be assured than many Catholics have had very similar reactions to this same work of heresy. The Ignatius Press Bible or the Haydock Commentary are far better works of Catholic scholarship.
Lol, I throw away all bibles I find 🤣
A professor in college got me hooked on the NET Bible. (Much thanks to prof Merritt!) I love how it's almost a 3 in 1 study Bible. You get the general commentary notes, notes about why they translated it a certain way, and the text critical notes you mentioned about laying all the difficulties and problems with the original texts on the table. It's always one I recommend for people to look into, and they have a free version online if you don't want to pay for a physical copy.
I'll second the New English Translation (NET) bible. I've been using it for years now, and have found the references to be excellent.
I can really recommend the Crossway Archeology Study Bible!
As a new Christian who did not grow up in the faith seeing all these pictures and graphics really helps to grasp what I'm reading.
Reading scripture for the first time can be quite overwhelming, having a little bit of background and context provided here and there really makes a huge difference.
Your son is absolutely precious as can be. He has a beautiful spirit! Thanks guys! 🥰🙏🏻
Another Catholic thanking you for including us and giving that NABRE the drubbing it deserved. Good for you for recognizing that the notes aren’t even really Catholic! The Ignatius Study Bible’s OT books are available in single volumes, they just haven’t been published in a single volume yet. Another upvote for taking a look at the Great Adventure Bible.
If you want a good Catholic study bible, try the Didache Bible or the Ignatius Catholic New Testament Study Bible. The latter has the most in-depth notes but as the name implies, it's NT only, and it's already massive. The Didache Bible is the full Bible and has footnotes for every single passage and often cross-references with the Catechism, Church fathers, etc. I have and use both.
Try 1. The Didache Bible with Commentaries Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Ignatius Edition; 2. Word on Fire Bibles The Pentateuch Volume 1, 2 and 3, The Gospel Volume 1 and Acts, Letters, and Revelation Volume 2; 3. Great Adventure Bible by Ascension Presents; 4. Divine Mercy Catholic Bible by Ascension Presents; and 5. Ignatius Catholic Study Bible Old and New Testament.😄🤝
Just wanted to thank you again. I spent this year in the Ancient Faith CSB bible you reviewed last year. It has genuinely helped my growth and helped me significantly in my planning for Sunday School Class. I can't wait to watch this and pick out next year's study bible. Thanks again Matt, your work has a real impact on people!
As a Catholic, I've heard similar feelings from faithful Catholics about the Catholic Study Bible, I would recommend the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible (NT) as well and/or the Great Adventure Catholic Bible
Great adventure is amazing
@@rayvanee277Agree!
💯
I have the Ignatius NT. It has great notes.
Totally agree! I use both Ignatius and Great Adventure. Hoping to have an Ignatius OT before long.
Love your videos. I'm a Reformed Guy in the Anglican tradition. Your son is an encouragement. Bravo young man. Glory to God for your raising Dad.
I can only say that I loved seeing and hearing from your son. He's got great insight and loved his opinions on these lovely bibles. I've always enjoyed your videos when you rate the bibles but you really outdid yourself on these. Thank you so much as these videos really do help me in deciding which bible to purchase or not to purchase. God bless you and your family ~ Merry Christmas.
Thank you so much. The little guy and I had a lot of fun making this together.
The hair distribution is quite different between the 2, though 😄
One is hairy on the arms, the other on the head. 🤪
You are obvoiusly and rightly so, very proud of your son. Good job you two!
You should check out Bishop Barron's Word on Fire Bible series. Those are great. Only three tomes are finished and on sale (The Gospels, Letters and Torah). Other parts of the Bible coming out later.
I would love to see a review of the Lutheran Study Bible. Also, your son is adorable and you have every right to be super proud of him, as I'm sure you are!
Yes! I would love Matt to review TLSB!
Interesting topic for sure but the display of great fathering is what stands out most in this video.
You might consider the Orthodox Study Bible.
Not fancy.
But gives a uniquely different perspective.
Often straying from ALL Western interpretation of the text.
Both Catholics and Protestants sometimes don't recall that we share a common Augustinian interpretation.
But in the East there are many completely different interpretations.
I second this! Although apparently, this has been controversial among some Eastern Orthodox.
I'm Catholic and I too own a copy of that Oxford edition. I got it primarily because I think the translation (NABRE) of the Old Testament is much improved from the previous edition (NAB). But as far as the notes go, I agree with you 100%. It relies too heavily on the critical methods and is too skeptical about the text.
I typically don't use study Bibles anymore because they tend to rely too much on historical criticism. For my money, commentaries are better because they allow for fuller explanations of the text by examining the actual meanings while still providing some textual insights but rarely, if ever, to the degree of most Study Bibles.
Unfortunately, the Oxford "catholic" Study Bible is one of the modern "catholic" interpretations that has no real roots in actual Catholic teachings. The Ignatius Catholic Study Bible is much better. Also, many "Scholars" propose what the Church should say or should have said. Instead of what the Catholic Church has traditionally held.
Toss that one out.
I commented on his last video, and he mentioned that the Ignatius Press Bible is the one that he forgot, but that he generally liked it, though disagreeing with its more explicitly Catholic parts.
I also endorse the Ignatius Catholic study Bible. Great commentary plus thick pages for note-taking and color pencil highlighting 👍🏻
And yet the Bishop of the Melkite Greek Catholic Eparchy of Newton advises audiences (clergy and laity) to pick up the Catholic Study Bible frequently.
@@highviewbarbell Neither does the USCCB, which commissioned that translation to be used in the United States. That’s not the point. The NASB is a lousy translation and even worse footnotes. The RSVCE which the Ignatius Study Bible uses if far superior, very literal, used by majority of orthodox Catholic scholars.
@@frisco61 why would Orthodox Catholics use a Roman Catholic source? I believe we use the Orthodox study bible
This description of that Catholic study Bible does is my experience of a Catholic university’s theology program. They treated historical critical method as the only way to read scripture academically and it was disgusting to me then and now.
I have been teaching a Bible study at my parish for years using the Ignatius Study New Testament. That's the one to use.
Do you know if Scott Hahn is currently working on the OT to complete the Ignatius?
@@jsharp3165 : They've been working on it for years and years. I hope to see it in my lifetime.
@@jsharp3165 The OT has been text-complete for years. A combination of Ignatius Press being slow and some (local? USCCB?) office taking forever to approve a couple of final essays is the source of the holdup.
@@jsharp3165I emailed Ignatius Press earlier this year and they said they were hoping it would be out next year but its been delayed so many times there's no way to be sure. I also heard the other day that Dr. Matthew Thomas had written the introduction to Maccabees a while back. They've been working on it for a while but we just have no idea when it's coming out
That "Catholic" study Bible he accidentally ordered seems like its on Rev. Kim's desk at the Unitarian Universalist church
I congratulate you on hiring an assistance. He was a great asset to this video!
So heart warming to see your sons heart for the Lord and His word. I am getting married in May and look forward to raising my future children in the Lord like you did! Blessings!
Matt! Great Review! Your beautiful son stole the show!😎✝️ You have done a great job with this wonderful young man! Good for you!
I have a few of these bibles as well! May you continue to bless others with your channel! ✝️😇🙏🏼😎
Great reviews thanks Matt! You should be proud of your son too. Well done
Matt, new subscriber here. I'm a parishioner of Our Lady of Sorrows in St. Louis and youtube led me to your channel. I so much pray for your mission of convictional unity. I have been a lifelong learner and supporter of ecumenism. I'm getting on in years, but know you are in my prayers.
Thank you, Kenneth; I love that church! And thank you for praying for me; it means a lot.
THANK YOU for finally saying what I've been thinking about the "Q document" stuff! I've been going through my masters of Theology and keep asking "okay... and what evidence do you have of this as apposed to the affirmation by the earliest church fathers?"
That would be the most adorable side kick in RUclips history lol. The facial expressions and obvious interest are awesome. Great reviews and information as well.
Thank you Matt I agree with you. orthodox Catholic here. Scott Hahn a few years ago published a Catholic Bible Dictionary I have it in my library of books and I recommended it. Thank you🔥🤟🙏⛪👨👩👧👦🇺🇸
As a Catholic, I generally like the way the text is in the NAB and NABRE. The language used is nice and plain and perfect to be read aloud, which is why the NAB is the version read aloud at Mass in the United States. Other English-speaking corners of the church will use the ESV-CE, I think. I do not think the TEXT of the NAB(RE) is necessarily bad for study, but the notes certainly are. The notes can be pretty bad, and several apologists like Trent Horn will tell you the same thing. The unfortunate part is that per the USCCB they have to be included in all printings of the NABRE! I think it should be made clear that the study notes in the NABRE are not official Catholic doctrine or teaching.
There is supposed to be a new edition of the NAB coming next year, and hopefully the notes are much improved. This new version of the NAB seeks to be the go-to translation used both for Mass and for catechesis.
The group behind the new version is the Catholic Biblical Association, so lets pray that they can clean up some of the sus notes in the current version of the NAB(RE).
For individual study and devotion, I love, love, LOVE my Ascension Press Great Adventure Bible (RSV-2CE). The RSV language is a little less 'spoken word' friendly so I can see why the USCCB doesn't use it for Mass, but it is still a Catholic approved version.
Love your content. Can you do a review of the Orthodox Study Bible?
Thanks heaps for this Matt. Love the way you do these videos and ive definitely shared them with people at my church including my minister as a way to just see the bigger picture and think a bit more about why they like their bibles, whats good in a bible and whos doing what currently.
I understand your criticism of the Catholic Study Bible, and it's clearly not made for you, and I agree that it might not show a high view of scripture that might befit most Catholics, but I don't think it's right to dismiss its critical view as simple "18th-19th century" theology that was popular at the time and now can be dismissed. It's the point of view that scholars from both history, religious studies and archaeology in various institutions hold, some of them religious as well and others hold great respect to the text even if not viewing it in the same way you do. Ironically, I think I will want to check it out and give it a fair shake based on your review, but I do appreciate the honesty in approaching your views and in showing the contents of the book, even if you disagree with it!
I think his point was there is a very concerning casual dismissal of arguments that scholars much more contemporary to the events held and is not representative of the Current theology of the Catholic Church.
Also just would want to push back on the a lot of people hold these views so they must be good. Yes many scholars hold these views but these views generally come from people that start with the underlying assumption that the Bible is not the word of God and that anything supernatural must be automatically dismissed. If you come from that starting point, you end up with a whole different set of conclusions. Science deals in the quantifiable. By definition the supernatural can not be quantified. So yes while "people do hold these beliefs" it's not the type of people hold to the very most core assumptions of the Christian faith and there for is not particularly useful as a study Bible.
It's not the entertaining of these ideas that is the problem. The Bible can stand up to criticism. It's the casual dismissal of the traditional readings that don't align at all with Catholic Theology.
Thank you. This was well worth the time. Thorough review of current selections. Objective rubric for evaluation and fair assessments. Your candor with the Oxford edition affirms your objectivity. Finally, you are an inspirational role model for father-son dynamics. Kudos to the man-child for his answer to the Matthew question. Be proud, dad. Blessings and Merry Christmas.
What a wonderful comment! Thank you for taking the time to write it, and for the encouragement in general.
I'm surprised some Americans still like books !
I was sure y'all were hooked on the Kardashians.
Mmmh, I must say I'm pleasantly surprised. 🤔
I'd like to hear your take on the complete Jewish study bible.
You son is a bright and thinking individual who sees well the text and larger Biblical context! A youth puts these so called scholars to shame! Thanks for the great review!
Your son knows Mathew better than I do! Maybe I should adopt his strategy!
If I were to pick one that appeals to me the most, it would be the Chronological Life Application, as context behind the scripture is very important to me. One of my main concerns with how we tend to read the Bible today is that we're so separated from both the time and the place that we've become blind to the original context and tend to put our own biases into our reading. Lately, I've been reading "Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes" by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O'Brien, and that book has opened my eyes to how different their culture was compared to ours, some of which I can't even wrap my head around, and a lot of it is still maintained to this very day. What makes this important is that a lot of how they think in the middle east would have been where Jesus would be getting a lot of his teachings from.
Amazon has some interesting critical reviews of that book, that seem pretty balanced.
OK - I am a 'cradle' Catholic. I must admit that I have not studied the Bible as I should have, or perhaps better said hardly at all. This unusual "Catholic" bible is pretty different than anything I have ever read or heard preached in any one of the many, many different Catholic Churches that I have frequented over the past 6 decades. Thanks for the level-headed analysis!! I am a loyal fan and have pass your site on to friends and family.
i haven't had time to watch this episode for the last 3 weeks. I wasn't disappointed. Thank you and your son for so much hard work to shed light on the Sacred Book. God bless
Looking for my first study Bible right now. I appreciate your reviews. Thank you. I have been carrying a devotional Bible but am curious about learning more.
Your son is a very bright young man!
I'm a bit too slow a reader for study Bibles... I currently read the Saint Benedict Press New American Bible (Catholic edition). It's purpose seems to be to immerse me in the Word, giving explanations only of text that is hard to understand without greater context (i.e. cross-references from other parts of the Bible or history).
I am also pretty interested in that last Protestant Bible (crossway, church history) you showed. That's such a cool concept to quote such people.
A well done video.
Cheers and God bless.
You got the student version of the Reformation Study Bible, if you were to get to the full version, you would indeed get very reformed articles. You’ll even see the reformed standards in the back. The full version isn’t restrained at all.
As a Catholic, I love your honest yet respectful approach to the Catholic Church. Not many Protestants out there ask questions and, instead, just make unfair assumptions. Keep up the great work brother!
I really appreciate you saying that, and for what it's worth in the interest of mutual understanding, we feel the exact same way about most of our interactions with Catholics.
The people who speak the loudest on these questions tend to be the most abrasive.
I am Catholic and had only read one Bible in my lifetime of approx 50 years. It was a Childrens Illustrated that I read one summer as a teenager. I decided late Dec to read the Bible, and chose Father Mike's Bible in a Year. I initially was using a NAB bible. I could not use it past Genesis as the notes were so critical, almost saying do not take this literally...I did purchase the Great Adventure Bible and read it everyday with Father Mike and many others. (RSV-CE-2nd edition). I then also purchased a DR Bible to have. I look at it some, but find the RSV-CE easier to read. I am awaiting delivery of the NIV Cultural Geography Study Bible. We began homeschooling our sons during Covid, and comparing with my younger sons Ancient History has been fun. I agree - NAB, NABRE are awful. I plan to one day give one son my Great Adventure Bible, and my other son the DR I purchased, perhaps the Geography Study Bible as well. Will see...Your son is adorable and love the bond between the two of you.
I bought the Church History Study Bible about a year ago, and I've loved it! I'm glad you highlighted it. However, I really want that Archaeology Study Bible!
I’m catholic and I couldn’t agree with you more. The nab is the official bible used for the mass. For correspondence , study and for all official documents the church uses the RSV. The nab is the worst bible I’ve ever read. Keep up the good work; I get a lot out of your channel.
Its pretty sad that they put all this work into the NAB and read it during Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours but almost no Catholic actually prefers it. I like the RSV myself and I honestly don't think I've heard a single Catholic bible scholar or theologian say they prefer the NAB.
I agree, even KJV and NRSV are better than NAB.
I am a Catholic and have that Study Bible. and you are spot on. I've disliked many things about the commentary and study notes in that thing. As a Catholic, I have found that the Navrarre and Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture to be MUCH better. Scott Hahn's Ignatius (which you mentioned) is not bad either but the other two I mentioned are much better
The Great Adventure Catholic Bible - by Ascension Press - I will keep recommending it until you check it out!
Thanks for more great content. You and your son are adorable! I love the Great Adventure Study Bible and the timeline created by Jeff Cavins - highly recommended Catholic study Bible. Have you considered adding an Orthodox Study Bible to your repertoire?
What an awesome younge man you have the privelege to be the father of. I also think highly of his father! Haha! Thanks for the content you produce. Not that your vids are the only reason, but they have been a significant influence in having me buy a bible recently and attending my first mass in a persuit of returning to my faith in nearly 60 years (I'm catholic - obviously I guess). Bless you and your family and best wishes for Christmas and next year.
That's encouraging to hear on a lot of levels. Thank you for the comment.
You should value truth over faith.
@Bc232klm truth is sometimes a tricky thing, particularly in the rigor of science, in the furtherance of the grand-daddy "objectively" studying reality that is Physics.
Often, whenever someone in Physics thought he'd discovered "truth," it turned out to be a very different thing than he'd initially conjectured it to be. So ... "truth"? It's partially interpretive sometimes, is sometimes mistaken, and is sometimes a little dangerous to serve as a foundation for one's argument.
Some things that we accept as "true" might in fact actually be, but the things that are tend to be simple, granular, discrete and strictly speaking, empirical or sequential (eg this came before that).
So .. I am wondering what might be the "truth" to which you may refer?
What nice little helper! Great reviews!
Is there a place we can see all the graphics? My son and I are wanting to get deeper into 'The Word'. Your breakdowns would help us gather the study Bibles that would help us grow in faith in a very intentional way. Thank you for your work. Blessings to you and yours.
Your thoughts on the Oxford Catholic Study Bible 3rd Edition made me go look at what ones I have. They're Oxford's but they're the Personal Study Editions, 2nd & 3rd Edition. I haven't used the 3rd Edition yet, because I just got it, but I hope it's NOT a repeat of that one!!
Due to your review last year, I've been making my way through the Ancient Faith Study Bible and really enjoying it. My plan is move next to the Enduring Voices Study Bible you also reviewed. I guess the Church History Study Bible will be after that. Hopefully I can get to it before you review more study Bibles.
I bought the Ancient Faith Study Bible on Matt's video recommendation as well. Before that I primarily used the Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible so going from that to the Ancient Faith Study Bible was very interesting. I may have to pick up the Enduring Voices Study Bible to continue the journey.
I was looking for a study bible and was leaning Catholic, but all the reviews of the Oxford Catholic Study Bible Third Edition that you reviewed. I found reviews of it by Catholics similar to your review, with horror about the anti-scriptural notes that were described generally as a seeming attempt to reduce the reader's faith. I wanted to go for the Word on Fire bible set, but it isn't done and it's in a bunch of books and I wanted a single book package, but I think the Ignatius Augustine Study Bible , the one you had on Kindle, is supposed to be good also. I have a Catholic bible from when I was a kid too, it has better notes, but they're a bit weird sometimes too, they're not really study bible notes, just the notes that come standard with the translation, like the NABRE, but the non-RE version.
The Didache Bible is a pretty good Catholic study bible that has faithful notes mostly drawn from the Catechism. Unfortunately the Ignatius Study Bible only has the New Testament out and the Old Testament will be a seperate volume so the Didache Bible is one of the only faithful single volume Catholic study bibles.
You showed up in my for you feed. I like what I see here BUT I'm subbing because of that man child. His smile kept me looking and his knowledge made me hit sub.
He and I just celebrated with a high five over lunch.
LUNCH? What time zone are y'all in? It's 7:45 AM here, lol. I really like you and your kid. Looking forward to exploring the channel.@@MattWhitmanTMBH
@pearlsandsocks5605 lol, fair enough. We're visiting and filming churches in Italy this week.
I would just like to say the “Oxford Catholic Study Bible” is not what most Catholics use, I would recommend the Ignatius Bible, Dhouay Reims, The Catholic Adventure Bible, or I have to admit I do have an NAB bible which we use in mass but just make sure you get it from a good publisher. I’m actually a catechumen (someone converting) and fourteen so when I messaged my sacraments directors he said he highly recommends an NRSV bible 😊
Interesting perspective on the Catholic Study Bible. I would be interested in your opinion on the Harper Collins / New Annotated Oxford Study Bibles. I have been looking for good and fair critical biblical scholarship to better understand the text, and those two are often highly recommended. What are your thoughts?
That brown grass turning green joke was exactly what I needed to hear today. Haha. Thanks for the great video.
Thank you so much for your reviews Matt! I do like the archeology study Bible. Very surprised by the Catholic Bible & what you're reading by a commentary in it doesn't even sound like the person was even a Christian. Being born & raised Catholic living as a protestant for 40 years returned to Catholicism now in my 70s will say disappointed in that Bible. Loving yoir reviews. Always inspired & blessed by your son's smiles & understanding. Blessings to you and yours 💕. 🙏
Love this review. I have a previous recommendation on my nightstand still waiting to be started.
Yes, the Oxford Catholic Study Bible is like a minimally-Catholic version of the New Oxford Annotated Bible, only with a worse format, with all the unique commentary at the front of the book instead of on the same page as the Biblical text, thus defeating the main advantage of a study Bible. They did it that way because there are baked-in footnotes that have to be included with the New American Bible translation text, and those footnotes take up so much space that it is hard to fit anything else on the page (the NAB footnotes are themselves skeptical and inconsistent, and generally disliked).
Unfortunately, English-speaking Catholics do not have a good general-use one-volume study Bible. There are lots of books for believing Catholics about the Bible, but none that are truly comparable to the ESV Study Bible et al. There are multi-volume study Bibles (e.g. Navarre Bible and Word on Fire Bible), there are "study Bibles" with limited resources but not extensive footnotes (Didache Bible, Little Rock Study Bible), there is a 19th-century study Bible called the Haydock Bible. But there is no modern one-volume study Bible with extensive, verse-by-verse commentary, and there won't be until Ignatius Press actually publishes the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible, hopefully some time before the second coming of Christ.
There are a number of reasons for this lacuna in Catholic publishing: there are only so many conservative Catholic Bible scholars (Catholic universities being filled with disciples of "higher criticism" who obviously do not believe in Catholicism), the NAB is the defacto standard Bible translation in the USA and its footnotes take up a ton of space, Catholic Bible products require special permissions from the local diocese and the Church moves slowly on these things, and competition just isn't as fierce as in Evangelical Protestant publishing, where you'll be laughed out of the room if you put out a mediocre product when Crossway's catalog is right there competing with you, so Catholic publishers get away with a lot of relative mediocrity.
So for now, the best general-use Catholic book on the New Testament is the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible New Testament, and the best book on the Old Testament is the volume "A Catholic Introduction to the Bible: The Old Testament."
I recommend the Lutheran Study Bible by CPH.
Thank you for your reviews and your ministry. Your son steals the podcast! You mentioned that the ESV Archaeology Study Bible by Crossway is in the middle of the pack, so which archaeology study bible(s) would you place at the top?
The Catholic Study Bible (Oxford) is the analog to the New Oxford Annotated Bible which is basically a very academic "anglican" bible with the same narrow historical-critical lenses. Ignatius Study Bible (still working on the OT) is closer to what you were expecting. Navarre Bible is an interesting mix of scholarly notes and devotional notes. The Didache Bible is annotated solely with relevant passages from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
I love this review and your son’s participation is the best❤
❤🙏💕 Love everything about the reviews and the interaction with your son!
Thank you for this analysis of different study bibles. I have the "Little Rock Catholic Study Bible" (I'm Catholic) which I received in a bible study several years ago and compared the sections you read of the Oxford Catholic Study Bible and found some sections read differently and some had the same assumptions. I was glad to see you also pulled out a couple of other Catholic study bibles that you found were more comfortable with more traditional understanding of the Bible's origin and history. I also have an old copy of the New English Bible (not s study bible.) I read from them both on my small bible reading channel. I plan to use your analysis to buy another bible. I'm torn now between The Catholic Scriptures Study Bible, the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and the Archeology Study Bible. I shall consult my budget to see if it approves of a possible purchase of two of these. :D
Since you are looking at Catholic study Bibles, I would look at the Haydock Commentary. It uses the Douay-Rheims, so the language can be a bit hard, and it is also rather anti-Protestant in its polemic rather than just general material, but it is still worth at least considering.
@@nicholasshaler7442 thank you for the suggestion
Yes, the Catholic study Bible you reviewed is similar to the New Oxford Annotated Study Bible, but this one has the cannon of the Catholic Bible only (vs an ecumenical canon) and the notes are geared toward a Catholic interpretation of scripture. The Reader's Guide is geared towards Biblical scholarship in terms of textual criticism. This Bible is ideal for a Catholic who is studying textual criticism at the college level. Lay Catholics would be much more interested in the Ignatius Study Bible: New Testament or the Great Adventure Catholic Bible. They would not be interested in the study Bible you reviewed.
Dang it, Matt and the unfortunate passage of time! I bought the CSB Ancient Faith Study Bible on your recommendation, but now I really want that ESV Church History Study Bible for the same, but more defined, reason! How can I justify two ESV Bibles and two "commentary from lots of smart, really old dead guys"? Probably that gilded spine alone is justification enough, right?
Justify away. I'm going to order one as well
Hey Matt, thanks so much for the content on these study Bibles. In your experience, have you seen some that are in a larger print? I am looking for a study Bible that I can easily read. Do you have any recommendations on this? Thanks.
Just ordered the ESV Archaeology Study Bible. Thanks! It will really help with your upcoming Nehemiah series!
you will love it. I have one and its great
Matt, thanks for inspiring us to learn more about God. I brought my new ESV Archaeology Study Bible to my men's group this morning. The discussion 1 of Chronicles was richer from this resource you reviewed. Notice, I did not say "recommended". Just like your podcasts, you present the information with as much detail and context as possible, without a sales pitch. Then you let us decide. I just ordered 3 more Bibles for guys in my group.
Don't worry about view counts and algorithms. Just know you are making a difference and inspiring people to know God.
Whew, found pt. 2, what a relief :D
I love love love your son!! His smile is like a ray of sunshine! Train up a chile in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Pro 22:6 You're a great dad!
What are your thoughts on the Orthodox Study Bible?
I mentioned it in the last video, but no Orthodox Study Bible? There is only one, so it shouldn’t be too much of a hassle to add it in :)
I just purchased that chronological study bible in preparation for my year long chronological bible reading next year. Appreciate you bringing that to my attention! Will need to contribute to the patreon to show my appreciation 😅
Thats what I did this year! Its been a great experience. 😊
Learnt alot in both part 1&2
Thank you for the reviews
I've never seen chronological Bibles sold in Kenya, will see if I can source for one, seems like it'll be interesting
Love that you did this with your son
He knows so much 😊
Hi Matt
I just came across your Channel and love it.
Thank you for your service.
Have you ever heard about the Assyrian or thought to make a video about the assyrian Church.
Your son! 🤗 My mommy-heart is dancing with delight over here! That smile and intelligence. I know you’re proud. Well done mom and dad 👏
Actually, I ordered the Ancient Faith Bible and saved the other to my wish list. If your affiliate is set up, I think you’ll still get credit as I started with your link first 👍
Great reviews. Very much appreciated.
Matt, the Oxford Catholic Study Bible is probably not my first choice for a Catholic study Bible at all (and I'm a Catholic). My first choice is probably the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible (only the NT is published in full, though there have been OT volumes released by Ignatius Press). I suspect that might have been the Catholic study bible you previously used. The Oxford CSB is not quite as academic and secular notes wise as the New Oxford Annotated Bible though there are definitely lots of strains of that in the NABre's notes which assume a historical-critical take on the Scriptural text and in the reading guides. I only recommend this study bible only to those who are fairly secure in their faith and want an understanding of the way the academic world looks at the Bible. I hold the same view with regard to the New Oxford Annotated Bible (Oxford University Press), the Harper Collins Study Bible (Harper Collins) and the New Interpreter's Study Bible (Abingdon Press).
Alternatively these are my other preferred Catholic study bibles:
- Midwest Theological Forum's "The Didache Bible" which features a number of articles and references back to the Catechism of the Catholic Church,
- The Word on Fire Bible (Vols 1 "Gospels", 2 "Acts, Letters & Revelation" & 3 "Pentateuch" are out currently), which is a gorgeous multi-volume bible set that is typeset beautifully, has plenty of commentary by Bishop Robert Barron and other commentators through the centuries and lots of Christian artwork reproduced with articles about each piece of artwork,
- Catholic Book Publishing Company's "New Catholic Bible" (in the various St Joseph Editions), which is supposed to be a reading Bible but its notes are in a similar vein to the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible rather than the NABre notes.
Other more niche Catholic study bibles would be The Great Adventure Bible and the Divine Mercy Catholic Bible which are both published by Ascension Press, the Catholic Scripture Study Bible and Spiritual Warfare Bible both published by TAN Publications/St. Benedict Press.
And I say all that as a former Protestant who still uses a lot of my former Protestant study bibles when doing scripture study (my faves include Holman's "CSB Ancient Faith Bible", Concordia's "The Lutheran Study Bible" and Thomas Nelson's Full Notes edition of the NET Bible).
I was surprised that you have the Kindle edition of the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible NT by Ignatius Press on your phone. You'll be glad to hear the complete Bible will be published in October/November 2024. Ten's of years in production. No doubt you'll review that too. 👍😊
Guy who buys 2,000 year old coins quizzes son on why the Archeology Study Bible is his favorite.
The glimpse here into your relationship with your son is a model to me. I hope and pray for the opportunity to have sons and show them what I missed growing up (in addition to repeating for them the blessings of my own upbringing).
I was pleasantly surprised to see the NKJV Study Bible in your stack. It is my go-to day-to-day bible for both private study and creating Sunday School lessons. And for just the reason you praised: It has a HUGE amount of notes and almost every verse is covered in some way. So if I or a class member has a question about a verse or word or concept, there's a good chance the NKJV Study Bible will have a helpful note on it. It has an openly evangelical bent but it's not heavy-handed. Speaking of heavy, I own both the full-color version shown in your video and the black-and-white version. The color stays on my desk. And the b&w is my "beater" copy that goes back and forth to church with me. The b&w copy feels a bit lighter, probably because it doesn't have the heavier glossy paper for the photographs. Anyway, I love it and it has a ton of info for such an affordable price. If one has the NKJV Study Bible to break down theology and original languages, a Cultural Background Study Bible for historical and anthropological context, and a devotional Life Application-style bible in an NLT or similar translation - one would have a pretty solid starter library for Bible study.
Id love to see a video of you reviewing the orthodox study Bible!
I have the MacArthur study Bible and reformed study Bible by RC. Sproul and I love them both very much.
The women's ministry at our church is currently going through the latest edition of Experiencing God. I now know you talked about the study Bible in the last video, but this was an interesting surprise to hear about in this one (I didn't watch the first one when I first posted this comment XD)
I’d love if you could get the affiliate link figured out so I can give the cooperation of Amazon most of my money but also get you a few cents
I have the paperback version of that NKJV study Bible from Thomas Nelson and I had to buy some cheapy reader glasses for Grocery Outlet. But I like it for the extra information.
Matt, have you checked out the Great Adventure Bible by Ascension Presents? Worth looking at for SURE