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Book Review: Alexander Maclaren Study Bible by Patti Greene

If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.

As a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received the Alexander Maclaren Study Bible  (New King James Version® – NKJV), and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.

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BLUE COVER – JUST RELEASED!

The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible

Beautiful Beginnings – First Impressions

As soon as I slid the Alexander Maclaren Study Bible out of its boxed sleeve, its beauty drew me in. It felt warm and welcoming—the kind of Bible that seems to say, “Pick me up.” While I don’t usually compare Bibles to furniture, this one reminds me of something comparable to the elegance of Ethan Allen furniture: elegant, eye-catching, and a little more expensive than most.

The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible – Cover

Beauty in the Basics – Basic Facts

  • Translation: New King James Version®
  • Publisher: Thomas Nelson (HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
  • ISBN: 978-1-4003-3595-4
  • Font: NKJV Comfort Print®
  • Typeset: Modeled after Scottish Roman type (1808–1813)
  • Extras: Blue satin ribbon and thumb indexing
  • Copyright: 2025

Elegant Exterior – Spine & Front Cover Decor

The sky blue “leathersoft” cover features graceful gold accents on the spine, front, and back. A script “M” for Maclaren appears on the spine, along with the Bible’s title and NKJV imprint. Both covers display a matching floral pattern that continues onto the page edges when closed. This edition feels especially fitting for women—a thoughtful gift for someone dear.

Treasures Within – Contents and Interior Design

The front pages offer a preface to the NKJV, a list of Bible books, abbreviations, and an introduction to Alexander Maclaren, known as “the Prince of Expositors.” In the back pages, you’ll find a bibliography, a four-page index of features (Christ connections, life applications, and outlines), seven maps, and a 388-page concordance. Yes, you heard me right – 388 pages! Wow.

The 388-page Concordance

Inside, the layout is both practical and beautiful. Blue boxes highlight Scripture with a cross symbol, while decorative frames hold life applications. “Triumphant Prayers” appear throughout. The two-column format includes reference verses between columns and footnotes at the bottom of select pages. The blue satin ribbon adds a graceful touch.

Radiant Purpose – What Makes This Bible Special

This Bible stands out for its look, feel, and thoughtful design. One feature I haven’t seen elsewhere is how it includes highlights of Christ in both the Old and New Testaments—a meaningful detail that deepens its impact.

The Alexander Maclaren’s Study Bible – Interior

Designed for Hearts – Who Is This Bible Written For

This Bible would bless a wide range of readers—from seekers, new believers, to seasoned followers. Its gentle tone and thoughtful features make it an excellent companion for anyone seeking deeper faith. But, due to the cover, I would say, especially for women! There are previously published works for men, as well.

Unique Beauty – What Sets This Bible Apart

This Bible makes me smile. It feels like it’s whispering, “Lift me up and read me.” I can visualize it on coffee tables and office desks, luring folks to pick it up to read it. The seven maps in the back are clear and easy to follow, especially Paul’s journey to Rome, which many Bibles leave out. The color coordination from cover to content is stunning. The concordance is thorough, and the biography of Alexander Maclaren adds depth. When I first opened it, I wondered, “Who exactly is Maclaren?” After reading about his life and ministry, I now want to explore his sermons. FYI, Maclaren was elected president of the Baptist Union in 1875 and “preached with a power that rivaled Charles Spurgeon.”

The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible

Graceful Adjustments – If I Could Tweak

If I could adjust a few things, I’d widen the margins to give note-takers more space. I’d also redesign the sleeve to reflect better the Bible’s beauty—right now, it doesn’t do it justice. In a bookstore, I might overlook it and miss out. Lastly, I’d shrink the cover design slightly to allow room for personal imprints, which isn’t possible with this design.

Lasting Impressions – Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meaningful gift, this Bible is worth considering. It’s a study Bible, so it’s a bit heavier—but it’s full of treasures. I’ll definitely be using the concordance often. I absolutely love this Bible and wholeheartedly recommend it—for a friend or for yourself.

“The gospel is not speculation but fact. It is truth, because it is the record of a person who is the Truth.” ~ Alexander MacLaren

Source: TOP 25 QUOTES BY ALEXANDER MACLAREN (of 121) | A-Z Quotes

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Bible Review, Bible Study, Book Review, Book Reviews, Jesus Christ, Life Issues, New Testament, Old Testament, Patti Greene, Spiritual Growth, The Bible, Thomas Nelson, Uncategorized

Book Review: The Prayer Bible by Patti Greene

If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.

As a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received The Prayer Bible (New International Version-NIV), and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.

Reviewing The Prayer Bible

I always get excited when I receive a new Bible to review. I love flipping through the pages, wondering what treasures I’ll find inside. I always pray that each Bible I read will bless others and help them grow closer to God.

First Impressions

When I opened the blue-sleeved box and saw The Prayer Bible, I said aloud, “Oh, I love it!” The color and feel are wonderful. Mine has a brownish-burgundy two-tone cover with a soft vine design on the front. It feels gentle and a little feminine, but not too much. However, I looked it up and found out it also comes in a sleek Gray/Black cover in the NIV® version. It’s also light enough to carry easily. The title, The Prayer Bible, is printed in shiny silver on the front and spine. It’s beautiful.

The Prayer Bible – Cover and Sleeve

One of the first things I noticed was how this Bible includes short sections called “Praying the Scripture.” Each one has a Bible verse and a brief prayer idea. For example, in John 14, it says:

“As Jesus continued teaching during the Last Supper, he assured the 12 of his peace. He promised the heavenly home that he was about to prepare for them, confirming that he is the only way to it. Sensing their anxiety, he also promised a kind of peace that only he could provide.”

“When you are anxious, call on Jesus. Don’t just ask for peace—ask him for His peace.”

I love that! These little prayers are on most pages, and they often end with a question or something to think about. There’s also space in the margins for notes, which is excellent if you like to write while you read.

The Prayer Bible – Praying Scripture

Quick Facts:

• This Bible has 1,636 pages.
• It’s published by Thomas Nelson.
• It uses the NIV (New International Version).
• ISBN: 9781400345410; Library of Congress: 2024946600.

It includes extras like:

• A 365-day reading plan with checkboxes
• A list of prayers from the Bible
• A Guide to Scripture engagement vs. Bible study
• Tips for spiritual growth
• A table of weights and measures
• Abbreviations and formatting notes, and
• A section called “Why Read the Bible?”

Each book of the Bible also starts with a short introduction, which helps readers understand the big picture. That’s especially helpful for pastors, teachers, or anyone wanting to dig deeper.

Layout and Design

This Bible follows the usual order—from Genesis to Revelation. It doesn’t have pictures or lengthy explanations, which some people might prefer. It does have helpful, short footnotes and references on many pages. The text is printed in one column instead of two, which makes it feel fresh and easy to follow.

What I Loved

• The flexible leathersoft cover feels great in your hands.
• The “Praying the Scripture” sections help you connect with God while reading.
• The words of Jesus are printed in red, which makes them stand out.

The Prayer Bible – List of Prayers in the Bible

Things to Consider

Everyone looks for different things in a Bible. I always suggest seeing and holding a Bible before buying it. For me, the print size is okay now—thanks to cataract surgery—but it might be a little small for some readers.

Also, this is not a Study Bible. It lacks maps, charts, commentary notes, and a comprehensive topical index. Even a small index would be helpful.

Why I Recommend It

I recommend any Bible that shares the truth of Jesus Christ. I want everyone to read God’s Word and let the Holy Spirit speak to their hearts. The “Praying the Scripture” feature is a beautiful way to connect Bible verses with your personal prayers.

Who Should Read It?

This Bible is for everyone—believers, seekers, and even those who aren’t sure what they believe. Whether you’re a student, teacher, politician, someone facing illness, or someone feeling anxious, the Bible has something for you. God’s Word is for all people.

Final Thoughts

I liked the pages that explain the difference between Scripture engagement and Bible study. I wish this explanation were at the front of the Bible instead of the back, though. And I absolutely LOVE the list of prayers—it makes it easy to find what you need.

If you receive this Bible—whether as a gift or something you buy—my advice is simple: pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you as you read it. God will meet you right where you are.

The Prayer Bible

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