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As a Thomas Nelson Bible Reviewer, I received a black-cover edition of The Open Bible 2025 as a gift, and I am pleased to offer my honest review of this New King James Version Bible with the Scripture text taken from the NKJV © 1982.
The Open Bible by Thomas Nelson, division of Harper Collins Christian Publishing, Inc.
ISBN: 9781400344031 – Library of Congress: 2024938554
WOW, WHAT A WEALTH OF INFORMATION!
First Impressions—Please don’t judge this book by its cover!
Upon taking this Bible from its attractive box, I thought, “What a drab and boring black cover, even though the writing and spine had a lovely gold imprint.” However, that is because I am a woman and like colors! Actually, most men would love the black flexible cover. This Bible measures 9.5” x 6.5,” measuring the cover, and weighs approximately three pounds. On the back cover, there are some numbers; one is the ISBN and the other I didn’t know what it was, but both imprints were hard to read. It is just unfortunate that I received that one.
Aesthetic Appeal
The Bible is flat when opened, features a beautiful red ribbon placeholder, and highlights gold-imprint page sleeves.
Structure of The Open Bible
Wow! Here is where this Bible becomes EXCEPTIONAL. Thomas Nelson wanted its readers to understand Scripture and specific aspects of Scripture. The publishing company is serious about sharing how to use the Bible as a beginning Bible student and a deep and seasoned believer. With so much preliminary information, the actual Bible from Genesis to Revelation does not start right from the beginning. Below is information that is included in each section of the Bible in alphabetical order.
Features of The Open Bible
Before the Scripture
- A Guide to New Life,
- ABible Review
- Waiting on Godvisual survey of the Bible, including charts and maps about multiple points of interest, such as the history of Israel, the prophetic books, the history of the early church, and the themes of the New Testament letters.
- How to study the Bible,
- Introductions,
- New Life in Christ,
- Study Features,
- Topical index, which is one-fifth” thick, per my measurement.
- Word studies, and more.
The Scripture Text
- Definition blocks explaining words, such as yoke, tithe, redemption, Paradise,
- Keys and surveys on each book of the Bible,
- Outline of each book of the Bible,
- Overview of each book of the Bible,
- Red lettering of Jesus’ words,
- Side blocks of information, i.e., Knowing the will of God, Christ’s righteousness, Reconciliation between enemies, The role of parents, The person of the Holy Spirit,
- Thumb indexing for books of the Bible and more.
After the Scripture Text
- 60 Days through the story of Scripture,
- Concordance,
- Facts about the Bible
- History of the Twelve Apostles,
- Prophecies of the Messiah fulfilled in Jesus Christ,
- Read your Bible through in a year,
- Table of monies, weights, and measures,
- The Jewish Calendar,
- The Jewish Feasts,
- The Parables of Jesus Christ,
- The teachings and illustrations of Jesus Christ, and more.
Additional Information
This Bible even explains how to have a personal devotional time and a systematic Bible study through word studies, verse studies, paragraph studies, chapter studies, book studies, topical studies, and biographical studies. It explains the principles of Bible interpretation and gives a doctrinal overview of the Bible.
The Open Bible publishers were serious about teaching readers how to use this Bible by providing valuable information.
On an internal note, the Bible includes an attractive presentation page and uses two columns throughout its 1,750 pages, not including the introductory pages. Its font size is 9 pt. NKJV Comfort Print.
Drawbacks
Although the cover may not appeal to everyone and is heavy, it is definitely worth its weight in value.
Who Would Benefit Most from The Open Bible?
While the Bible text in the New King James Version is an excellent choice for all readers, The Open Bible 2025 is particularly well-suited for Bible teachers, seminarians, pastors, and anyone deeply involved in ministry. Its wealth of resources and in-depth study materials make it an invaluable tool for those seeking a deeper understanding of the Bible.
What Distinguishes this Bible from Others?
What truly sets The Open Bible 2025 apart from other study Bibles is its wealth of material. For instance, it offers a comprehensive topical index, a concordance, and a host of additional introductory and concluding material that most Bibles lack. This abundance of resources makes it a standout choice for deep Bible study.
My Plan
I plan to read and familiarize myself with all the information in The Open Bible and recommend it to my serious Bible-lover friends. I also can’t wait to use some of the material in the current Bible study I teach.
I also recommend this Bible as a thoughtful gift for those who are into deep Bible study, such as on Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, birthdays, and other occasions.
5+-stars
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Bible Verse
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV).
