Resources For Studying Scripture
Whether reading the Bible on your own or with your home church, questions might arise that require further research or study. Below are some recommended resources. In addition, the pastoral team is always happy to find resources or assist you with these kinds of questions.
Recommended Commentaries - available in the Knox Library
TOTC/TNTC - Tyndale Old/New Testament Commentary Series (from InterVarsity Press)
The Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries have long been a trusted resource for Bible study. These Tyndale volumes are designed to help readers understand what the Bible actually says and what it means. The introduction to each volume gives a concise but thorough description of the authorship, date, and historical background of the biblical book under consideration. Followed by a structural analysis, the commentary itself examines the text section by section, drawing out its main themes. It also comments on individual verses and deals with problems of interpretation. The aim throughout is to get at the true meaning of the Bible and to make its message plain to readers today.
The NIV Life Application Commentary
The NIV Application Commentary helps you communicate and apply biblical text effectively in today's context.
To bring the ancient messages of the Bible into today's world, each passage is treated in three sections:
Original Meaning. Concise exegesis to help readers understand the original meaning of the biblical text in its historical, literary, and cultural context.
Bridging Contexts. A bridge between the world of the Bible and the world of today, built by discerning what is timeless in the timely pages of the Bible.
Contemporary Significance. This section identifies comparable situations to those faced in the Bible and explores relevant application of the biblical messages. The author alerts the readers of problems they may encounter when seeking to apply the passage and helps them think through the issues involved.
Other Resources
The Bible Project
BibleProject is a nonprofit, crowdfunded organization that produces 100% free Bible videos, podcasts, blogs, classes, and educational Bible resources to help make the biblical story accessible to everyone everywhere.
One of the most helpful series is their overviews of each book of the Bible. This can be a helpful place to start as your group begins to study together, and can help to give historical and literary context to what you’re reading.
There is also a “classroom” section that features 12-15 hours of discussion or teaching on various topics and books.
Vine’s Bible Dictionary
This is an expository guide to thousands of words in the old and new testament, giving related passages, definitions, translations, and more. This resource is available online, either as a PDF download or a searchable site.
The Bible Song
This resource (introduced by Jim Williams) sets books of the New Testament to song. For thousands of years, music has been used to aid in comprehension and memorization.
Hymns Organized By Scripture Reference
This resource (introduced by Jim Williams) has hymns organized and grouped by the chapter of the Bible which they reference. This is a great way to bring a fresh perspective or familiar melody into your study together and connect with those who love music.