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

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Bible Review: NKJV Journal the Word Bible

Introduction

The New King James Version Journal the Word Bible by Thomas Nelson Publishing is designed with beauty and simplicity. It is not a traditional study Bible filled with maps, concordances, or introductions, but rather a devotional tool that emphasizes personal reflection and journaling. In this review, I will evaluate both the external presentation and the internal features, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and finally offering my personal opinion on its usefulness.

First Impressions: Cover and Jacket

• Jacket Design: The Bible arrived in an attractive tan or beige jacket. The front displays the title, while the back of the title page provides publishing details, including the ISBN (9781400352319). A sample double-page spread is also shown, giving readers a preview of the interior layout.
• Physical Cover: Removing the jacket reveals a beautifully stitched, stone-colored cover with a floral design inside a beige border. On the back, Isaiah 40:8 is inscribed: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” This verse sets the tone for the Bible’s devotional purpose.
• Spine and Ribbon: The spine identifies it as the NKJV Journal the Word Bible in elegant italics. A satin white ribbon marker adds a touch of beauty and practicality.

Practical Insight: The external design communicates reverence and beauty, reminding us that Scripture is not only to be read but cherished. The verse on the back cover is a teaching opportunity about the permanence of God’s Word compared to the fleeting nature of life.

Front Matter and Preface

• Ownership Page: A page is provided for personalization (“This Bible belongs to…”).
• Copyright and Publishing: Copyrighted in 2018 by Thomas Nelson, a division of HarperCollins Christian Publishing.
• Table of Contents: Organized by Old and New Testament, followed by an alphabetical listing of all books. It does not include the Apocrypha.
• Preface to the NKJV: The preface outlines the translation philosophy, stating that the intention was not to produce an updated version but rather to build upon and enhance the tradition established by the King James Version. It emphasizes devotional quality, clarity, and allegiance to the original texts.

Practical Insight: The preface is worth reading. It explains NKJV’s legacy and its careful balance between tradition and modern scholarship. Teachers can use this section to explain how translations are developed and why textual variations exist.

Internal Features

• TEXT LAYOUT
• Red-letter text for the words of Jesus.
• Subject headings for clarity.
• Italics for emphasis.
• Poetry is formatted in structured lines.
• Capitalization of divine names.
• Semi-small print.
• REFERENCES
• Footnotes provide definitions (e.g., “burden” = “oracle” in Malachi) and textual notes (Nu-Text, M-Text) that highlight manuscript variations.
• Journaling Space: Each page includes approximately two inches of lined margins for notes.
• Page Count: 1,426 pages.
• Missing Features: No maps, concordance, introductions to books, or indexes.

Practical Insight: This Bible is designed for devotional use and personal reflection rather than academic study. The journaling margins encourage interaction with Scripture, making it ideal for notetaking in sermons, Bible studies, or for personal insights.

End Matter

The Bible concludes with three pages of lined notes. However, the absence of maps, concordances, or indexes limits its usefulness for any in-depth study.

Practical Insight: The lack of study aids can be a reminder that sometimes Scripture is best approached devotionally, without distraction. Teachers can encourage readers to use this Bible for prayerful reflection rather than exhaustive research.

Pros and Cons

PROS

• Attractive design and durable stitching.
• Journaling space encourages personal engagement.
• Red-letter text highlights the words of Christ.
• Elegant ribbon marker and thoughtful cover verse.
• Preface provides valuable insight into translation philosophy.

CONS

• Small print size (challenging for older readers).
• No maps, concordance, or book introductions.
• Thin pages allow some text bleed-through.
• Limited usefulness for serious study or teaching preparation.

Practical Insight: 1. Devotional Reading: Ideal for journaling reflections during personal quiet time. 2. Sermon Notes: Margins provide space for recording insights from preaching or teaching. 3. Gift Potential: Its beauty makes it suitable as a gift Bible, especially for those who value aesthetics and journaling. 4. Translation Legacy: The NKJV preface can be used to teach translation history and textual reliability.

My Personal Opinion

At 71, I find the print small but still manageable. The lined margins are an excellent feature for notetaking, especially during church services or Bible studies. However, as mentioned, the absence of maps, concordances, and introductions makes this Bible less suitable for deep research or understanding.

In my view, this Bible shines as a devotional companion rather than a comprehensive study tool. Its beauty and journaling features make it perfect for those who want to interact with Scripture personally and creatively. It would also make a lovely gift or coffee table Bible, inviting reflection and conversation. I would be remiss if I did not mention that, to get the most from this Bible, it is best to read the preface thoroughly to understand its structure.

Conclusion

The NKJV Journal the Word Bible is best suited for readers who value devotional engagement and personal journaling. It is not a replacement for a study Bible but rather a complement to one. Its design, journaling space, and thoughtful details make it a meaningful resource for personal reflection, teaching moments, and gift-giving.

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