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by Sammy0585 | 16 April, 2010 - 20:34

Hi Jan,

We're getting married in church in a little over 14 months time.

Im not what i would consider to be a christian yet, but i have been attending church regularly and want to explore and expand my faith before the big day.

I want to be able to do this outside of church. Can you tell me what bible i should get? There are so many versions out there and its very confusing if im buying the right one.

Thanks,
Sammy

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by Jan Harney | 19 April, 2010 - 23:16
Jan Harney's picture

Hi Sammy
How lovely that you are exploring faith and want to learn more. You become a Christian the moment you accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour - the learning comes later and is an enhancement :-)

The type of Bible you read is a personal choice - a bit like your choice of magazine or newspaper. I have about a dozen different versions and like them all for different reasons - The Message is contemporary language and can pack a punch but it's not really a faithful interpretation - it's more of a paraphrase. The Good News Bible is similar - they are tabloid style simplified versions.

Some Bibles have the words of Jesus in red print. One of my Bibles is a green eco version and has words in green that refer to the creation. The preferred option for lots of scholars is the NRSV (New Revised Standard Version) because of its inclusive language - but poke around in the Christian bookshop and see what you think. They'll be happy to advise you

Whichever type you opt for, A study Bible may help you. They are more expensive but have very helpful notes at the bottom of the page. Cross referencing is also useful as it points you to other places where the subject you look up is covered. They usually have a Concordance at the back as well - so you can look up a word and find out where to look for it in the Bible.

There are lots of courses too - Alpha, Christianity Explored, Essence etc. I think the most exciting Bible teacher is Chuck Missler and you can download his course 'Learn the Bible in 24 hours' which gives an overview - it's a romp through but will make your hair stand on end!!

Have fun exploring -it's a quest that will change you life
Much love for the journey
Jan x