The ESV New Inductive Study Bible

Today I’m happy to review a Bible that really peaked my interest because of it’s layout. It’s a Bible that I don’t see talked about too often, but it’s honestly packed full of really interesting features. I’m talking about The ESV New Inductive Study Bible from Precept Ministries and Harvest House Publishers.

I’m familiar with Kay Arthur and Precept Ministries, but I had never tried their inductive study method so this is an interesting Bible for me to check out. It’s focused on teaching you how to study the Word for yourself, which I think more people need to learn to do. Also, don’t let the translation hold you back. This Bible is available in the NASB.

Outer Materials

I’m reviewing the Burgundy Milano Softone version of this Bible. Milano Softone is the imitation leather of Harvest House. I think many companies have come a long way with their imitation leathers. I have been very impressed by many I’ve seen lately. This is not one of those. The cover of this Bible has a smooth vinyl feel to it. Paired with the paper liner on the inside, it just feels cheap. Thankfully, this Bible is really about what it’s packing inside rather than the aesthetics. However, I’d say to spring for the genuine leather version of this Bible if you can afford it.

The spine is stamped with no foil. It has the words: “The New Inductive Study Bible”, “ESV”, “English Standard Vesion”, and the Harvest House logo at the bottom. The page edges have no art gilt and there is one thin burgundy double-sided satin bookmark.

The Bible is also hefty weighing in at 3 pounds and 8 ounces. It’s a single column, verse-by-verse study Bible so what do you expect?

Inside Layout

This Bible uses the 2016 ESV text. The paper seems to be a slight off white. I don’t know the thickness, but there is very little ghosting, which is nice because this Bible is meant to be written in. The text isn’t line matched. While I can’t find information about the font size, I’d probably guess it to be about 10 point. Words of Christ are in black.

The layout of this text block is where this Bible shines in my opinion. In the ESV, there aren’t many single column verse-by-verse options, but if you like that layout then this Bible is really worth your consideration. Single column verse-by-verse means that there is one column of text and each verse starts on a new line. Verse numbers are bold to indicate the start of a new paragraph. This is an excellent format for preaching, teaching, and study.

Cross-references are found on the inside of each page margin and there is a nice wide margin to write in. This is an excellent layout. Leaving the outer margin for writing and putting the references on the inside is how all single column verse-by-verse reference Bibles should be made. Although hefty, this layout is a preacher’s dream.

Unique Features

This Bible is based on the inductive study approach. It’s aim is to provide tools for observing what the text says, interpreting what it means and applying it to life. At the front of the Bible are pages in color teaching you how to use the inductive study approach. It’s explained in full. It also includes sample charts teaching you how to use the charts found within the text such as chapter themes. There’s also an area before each chapter in the text to write down the theme. There’s even a sample page showing you how to use the markings you’re taught. This seems to be a very helpful system to me.

The Bible includes full-color maps and timelines to help you understand the text. There are also insights in the history, culture, and languages of the Bible. There’s a concordance as well as a concise overview of what the Bible is and why it’s trustworthy. You’ll also find a 10 page summary of major events in Israel’s history.

Finally, there’s a one year Bible reading plan, a three year Bible study plan, and a harmony of the gospels.

This Bible has a lot of nice features. I think the inductive study method is probably one of the most helpful things because it doesn’t give you someone’s opinions of what the text means. It helps you learn to study the Bible for yourself.

Conclusion

Everyone that I’ve talked to who has this Bible loves it. It’s full of unique features, but you really can’t beat the layout for personal study. The single column verse-by-verse and the nice wide margin make this an excellent study, teaching, and preaching tool. If that layout appeals to you then i think you’ll really love this Bible. Check out a few more pictures below.

You can pick up your copy of the ESV New Inductive Study Bible on Amazon (this is the hard cover version). (affilliate)

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this Bible from Harvest House in exchange for a fair and honest review.