Revisiting the ESV Preaching Bible

I was still learning a lot about Bibles and reviewing when I first reviewed the ESV Preaching Bible back in 2019. Since then, I’ve seen a lot, learned a lot, and I haven’t looked at this Bible that was a major player in my journey of Bible reviewing in a very long time. I decided that it is time for me to look at this Bible with fresh eyes and much more knowledge when it comes to the Bible world. When I opened it up, I was pleasantly surprised. Let’s jump in.

There’s just so much positive to say about this Bible. I was blown away by the grain of the goatskin. It’s not the sturdiest piece of goatskin and I’ll mention that a little more, but the grain is beautiful and the Bible itself looks beautiful. This Bible has four raised spine hubs, but what jumped out to me on the spine is that they’re still using the old ESV logo. I like that logo, but admittedly like the newer one better. Maybe it’s time for a refresh?

The page edges are beautiful as always with the red under gold art gilt. However, it really jumped out at me that there are only two ribbons in this thick Bible. It seems a little funny if I’m honest. They cram four ribbons into the thin Omega and can only spare two for this behemoth? I think they should add a couple more.

I know it sounds like I’m complaining, but I really like this Bible and the block is where it really shines. However, this Bible uses a very thin cover. It looks great, but the Bible just pours over your hands when you hold it. I really think they need to make the cover a bit sturdier to give the Bible a bit more structure when it’s open.

Like I said though, the block is where this Bible shines. This Bible is printed in China, but I actually love the Chinese paper. It’s thick, white, and beautiful. The text pops off the page and it feels good turning the paper with your fingers. You don’t feel like you’re struggling to not skip pages. I love the paper Crossway is using in this Bible.

I also love the layout. This beauty is meant for notes. It’s a single column with wide margins. The type size is a nice 10 point with generous line spacing that makes the type look bigger than it is. It’s a beautiful Bible to read from and a beautiful Bible to write in. This Bible is called a preaching Bible, but I think it should be called a note taking Bible. It’s certainly not just for preachers and I think it’s better than the Wide Margin Crossway makes.

Other features of this Bible include it being Smyth-sewn and edge-lined. It has a robust Concordance. It also features a few full color maps.

All in all, this Bible is fantastic. You get a true Heirloom for the price. Crossway also backs it up with their lifetime guarantee and in my opinion that makes this Bible a no brainer.

Pick yours up at Crossway or on Amazon. (affiliate)

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this Bible from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.