NLT Illustrated Study Bible – A Book Review

As a member of the Tyndall Blog Network, I occasionally have an opportunity to review one of Tyndall Publishing’s books in return for a complimentary copy of the book.

The hardcover version of the NLT Illustrated Study Bible is a book that I’ve recently received and reviewed. I’ll first say quickly that I have not read the entire book, but this review is made on thumbing through the book, using it for many of my personal devotionals, and referring to it several times in preparation for my weekly men’s Bible Study meeting as we are currently studying the book of Acts.

I’ve enjoyed the countless colorful illustrations that are throughout the book! The fact that these illustrations appeal to me reinforce the fact that I’m a very visual person. So if you are also, this NLT Illustrated Study Bible will likely be appealing to you for that reason.

“Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions.” – Psalm 119:18 – is a verse printed on one of the first pages of the book… indeed fitting!

There must be thousands of pictures, maps and graphics throughout the book. The timelines of significant periods are wonderfully illustrated in color. The various maps have lots of details and notes included, such as the maps of Paul’s missionary trips.

The reference materials included in the book make it a great tool for studying many aspects of our Christian faith. Hebrew and Greek Word Studies, a Notes Index, a Dictionary/Concordance and a Features Index are all helpful.

The Features Index is a listing of key topics, themes or people of the Bible. One particular feature that I found fascinating was a two-page graphic of the major themes found in Proverbs. I really appreciated how the editors of the book took the time to show the connection between many of these important themes and their sub-themes. I’ve included this graphic within this post. (Back in 2010 I did something similar when I wrote a short blog post with a graphic that depicts key links between spirituality and health.)

Another image I’ve chosen to include is one that represents the verse John 14:6. This simple path that its shown is representative of the fact that Jesus is the only way to a relationship with the God of the Universe and to eternal life.

The link that follows is to a pdf document that provides a sampling of illustrations that are used in the NLT Illustrated Bible. I think this document is a good representation of the illustrations found throughout the book. NLT Illustrated Study Bible – a Sample Preview

One review I have read on the book referred to the thin paper that is used for the printing of the book. The pages are more thin than my personal preference as well, but the quality and quantity of the images and the various study aids outweigh this negative, in my opinion.

I have enjoyed using the NLT Illustrated Study Bible, and I recommend it, especially if you are a visual learner. It’s available wherever you buy Bibles.

Related Blog Posts

Read other book reviews I’ve written.