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Reformation Study Bible
Reformation Study Bible
Reformation Study Bible
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The Reformation Study Bible (previously published as the New Geneva Study Bible) is a study Bible published by Ligonier Ministries. The Reformation Study Bible "aims to carry on the legacy of the Geneva Bible in shining forth the light of biblical Christianity, which was recovered in the Reformation."[1] As of late 2021, all editions of the Reformation Study Bible feature the Bible text of the English Standard Version (ESV).

Key Information

History

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Starting in 1989, R. C. Sproul assembled a team of contributors to work on a study Bible edition that would follow a distinctively Reformed perspective.[2] In 1995, Thomas Nelson (now HarperCollins) published the New Geneva Study Bible (featuring the Bible text of the New King James Version); the name of the edition was changed to Reformation Study Bible in 1998.

In 2005, Ligonier Ministries self-published a minor revision to the Reformation Study Bible, now using the Bible text of the English Standard Version.[2][3]

In 2015, a fully revised version of the Reformation Study Bible was released. The notes were expanded into a three column format and the theological and doctrinal content was updated. An additional resource was added to the back of this Bible that contains the Creeds, Catechisms and Doctrinal documents that are common to Reformed fellowships.

In February 2016, due to popular demand, Reformation Trust released editions of the Reformation Study Bible featuring the text of the New King James Version. Reformation Trust lists R. C. Sproul, James M. Boice, Edmund Clowney, Sean Michael Lucas, Keith A. Mathison, L. Michael Morales, Stephen J. Nichols, Roger Nicole, J.I. Packer, Burk Parsons, et al. as primary editors of the 2015/2016 editions of the Reformation Study Bible.[4]

In late 2021, Reformation Trust retired use of the NKJV, fully adopting the ESV as its Bible text of choice.

References

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Reformation Study Bible

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The Reformation Study Bible is a rooted in the of historic Christianity. Originally published in 1995 as the New Geneva Study Bible, it was retitled and revised under its current name by theologian and is published by , the organization he founded in 1971. It is distinguished by its extensive verse-by-verse annotations, theological articles, inclusion of , and consistent emphasis on key such as , , the , and the . The Bible's notes and supplementary materials aim to provide clear, systematic exposition aligned with classic , drawing from the legacy of the while making that tradition accessible to modern readers. Major editions include the 2005 release using the text and the 2015 edition using the text. Additional formats have been produced, such as condensed and student editions, as well as international translations to extend its reach beyond English-speaking audiences. The work reflects 's commitment to equipping Christians with resources that uphold and in contemporary study.

Overview

Description

The Reformation Study Bible is a comprehensive study edition of the Bible published by and edited by theologian . It functions as a one-volume theological library, featuring extensive verse-by-verse study notes, topical explanations, theological articles, and supplementary resources designed to aid in-depth engagement with Scripture. The notes and explanations exceed 1.1 million words and are contributed by over 75 distinguished , providing detailed, accessible that supports alongside broader topical discussions. Rooted in the , it is distinguished as a consistently Reformed-oriented , based on an of Scripture, and serves as a key resource for lay readers, , students, and others seeking to deepen their understanding of the Bible's teaching. In its typical print and digital formats, the layout presents the biblical text prominently with positioned adjacent to or below the for convenient reference, complemented by additional articles and integrated throughout the volume.

Purpose and Scope

The Study Bible is intended to equip Christians with a clear understanding of Scripture through the lens of Reformed theology. Its primary purpose is to provide reliable guidance that helps readers grasp the meaning of the biblical text in accordance with historic Protestant principles, particularly those emphasized during the , such as the and . The work seeks to foster deeper biblical literacy and faithful application of doctrine in daily life and . The scope encompasses the entire , offering a comprehensive resource for study that covers every book of the Bible with explanatory aids designed to clarify theological concepts and historical context. It addresses the needs of diverse readers, including seeking personal growth in faith, students pursuing formal biblical education, preparing and teaching, and teachers instructing others in . This focus distinguishes the Reformation Study Bible as a tool specifically oriented toward advancing Reformed theological insight across various levels of engagement with Scripture.

History

Founding and Development

The Reformation Study Bible originated from the vision of theologian , who sought to produce a modern study Bible rooted in the Reformed tradition of historic Christianity. Sproul founded in 1971 to promote the teaching of Reformed theology through various educational resources. In the early 1990s, Sproul and Ligonier Ministries began developing a study Bible that would revive the spirit of the 16th-century Geneva Bible, which featured extensive marginal notes reflecting Reformed doctrines and was influential among Puritans and early Protestants. The project aimed to provide contemporary readers with verse-by-verse commentary, theological insights, and supporting articles emphasizing God's sovereignty, justification by faith alone, and the authority of Scripture. A team of Reformed scholars and pastors collaborated under 's editorial leadership to compile notes and resources drawing from the . This effort led to the initial publication of the work in 1995 as the New Geneva Study Bible.

Name Changes and Revisions

The Reformation Study Bible was originally published in 1995 under the title New Geneva Study Bible. In 1998, the title was changed to Reformation Study Bible to more directly emphasize its grounding in the theological heritage of the and the Reformed tradition. The 2005 edition introduced the as the biblical text, replacing the used in the original publication, and incorporated corresponding adjustments to the study notes. The 2015 edition represented a substantial revision, with expanded verse-by-verse commentary, additional theological articles, and other enhancements to the study material while retaining the .

Key Publication Milestones

The Reformation Study Bible traces its publication history through several key milestones that reflect its evolution within the Reformed theological tradition. It was first released in 1995 under the title New Geneva Study Bible, marking the initial publication of the study notes compiled under the general editorship of and published by Thomas Nelson in association with . In 2005, the work was retitled the Reformation Study Bible and issued in a revised edition still using the () as its biblical text, incorporating updates to the annotations and supplementary materials while retaining its core emphasis on . A major revision followed in 2015, when the Reformation Study Bible was published with the () as the base translation, featuring expanded and refined study notes, additional theological articles, and other enhancements to reflect ongoing scholarly and theological developments. Subsequent publications have included aimed at students and general readers, as well as international translations adapted for non-English-speaking audiences.

Editions

New Geneva Study Bible (1995)

The New Geneva Study Bible was published in 1995 as the original edition of what would later be retitled the Reformation Study Bible. It featured the as its biblical text. The work included comprehensive verse-by-verse annotations, book introductions, theological articles, and reproductions of historic Reformed creeds and confessions, all prepared by a team of Reformed scholars under the general editorship of . The notes aimed to provide clear explanation and application of Scripture from a Reformed perspective. The publication was released by in association with Thomas Nelson Publishers, marking a significant effort to revive the study Bible tradition associated with the original of the . It was well-received in Reformed and evangelical circles for its depth of scholarship and accessibility to lay readers.

Reformation Study Bible (2005)

The Reformation Study Bible (2005) marked a major revised and expanded edition under its current title, building on the New Geneva Study Bible originally published in 1995. This edition retained the as its biblical text, preserving the translation used in prior versions while incorporating editorial refinements. General editor , in collaboration with a team of pastors and theologians, oversaw updates to the study materials. The 2005 edition featured expanded verse-by-verse annotations and , increasing the depth of explanations to exceed previous versions in scope and detail. These notes continued to emphasize Reformed theological commitments, including , , , and the . Additional theological articles and topical discussions were refined and augmented to provide clearer articulation of historic Christian doctrines rooted in the . The edition also incorporated , , and catechisms spanning nearly 2,000 years, along with maps and visual aids to aid understanding. These enhancements aimed to make the study resources more comprehensive while maintaining the scholarly rigor established in the 1995 publication. A subsequent edition in 2015 transitioned to the English Standard Version (ESV).

Reformation Study Bible (2015)

The 2015 edition of the Reformation Study Bible represented a major revision and expansion of the series, adopting the as its biblical text. Published by Reformation Trust (a division of ) and under the general editorship of , it featured contributions from an international team of 75 distinguished theologians and scholars. The study notes were thoroughly revised and expanded to more than 1.1 million words of commentary, an increase of over 40% (and in some accounts more than 44%) compared to prior editions, with new, expanded, or revised material emphasizing Reformed doctrines such as , , and the authority of Scripture. These updates built on the existing framework while incorporating fresh theological insights and precision. Additional resources included fourteen new theological articles, ten more maps, a collection of ten , and definitions for nearly 600 . The edition's enhanced content and format led to rapid popularity, with Reformation Trust announcing reprints of the less than six months after initial release due to strong demand.

Other Versions and Formats

The Reformation Study Bible has been adapted into a Student Edition to facilitate accessibility for younger readers and those preferring a more portable or abridged format. The Reformation Study Bible Student Edition presents a selection of the full edition's verse-by-verse annotations, book introductions, and theological summaries, tailored for student use while preserving the . This streamlined approach reduces the overall volume while maintaining essential study aids. Digital formats of the Reformation Study Bible are available as and through Bible software applications, enabling searchable access to notes, articles, and on electronic devices and mobile platforms.

Biblical Text and Translation

Translations Used

The Reformation Study Bible has employed two primary across its major editions. The original 1995 New Geneva Study Bible and the 2005 edition of the Reformation Study Bible used the (), a modern update to the King James Version that preserves a traditional style while updating archaic language. In 2015, the Reformation Study Bible adopted the () as its biblical text, which remains the translation used in current editions. The transition to the reflects a preference for a highly literal, formal-equivalence translation that emphasizes fidelity to the original , , and texts, aligning with the Reformed commitment to scriptural inerrancy and careful . The 's combination of accuracy and readability has made it a favored choice in Reformed theological circles. International translations of the Reformation Study Bible have been produced in several languages, adapting the study notes to those versions of Scripture.

Textual Basis

The Reformation Study Bible has employed different Bible translations across its editions, each with its own textual basis rooted in established manuscript traditions. The 2015 edition uses the , whose is translated from the eclectic critical text (primarily the ), incorporating the earliest available manuscripts to approximate the original autographs. The Old Testament relies on the , the authoritative Hebrew tradition preserved by Jewish scribes. Earlier editions (1995 as the New Geneva Study Bible and 2005) use the (), with its based on the Textus Receptus—a Greek text derived from later —and the Old Testament from the . In all versions, the Reformation Study Bible reflects the Reformed commitment to the original , , and languages, with notes frequently referencing the wording and grammar of these texts to illuminate meaning. The editors affirm the as applying to the original autographs.

Study Features

Verse-by-Verse Annotations

The Reformation Study Bible is characterized by its comprehensive verse-by-verse annotations, which serve as the core study feature of the edition. These notes, prepared by a team of Reformed theologians under the general editorship of , offer detailed explanatory comments on nearly every verse of Scripture. The annotations aim to clarify the meaning of the text, illuminate its theological significance, and connect individual passages to broader biblical doctrines. The notes are written from the perspective of the . This approach seeks to understand the original meaning of the text by considering the grammar, syntax, , and historical-cultural context in which each book of the Bible was written. Rather than imposing modern ideas or , the commentators focus on what the human author intended to communicate to the original audience, while affirming the and unity of Scripture. This method aligns with the Reformed commitment to the authority and . In addition to explanation, the verse-by-verse annotations frequently highlight doctrinal connections, drawing out implications for key such as the , , and the . to related passages are commonly included, allowing readers to trace themes across the . The notes vary in length depending on the complexity of the verse, ranging from brief clarifications of difficult terms or historical details to more extended theological discussion where necessary. They are designed to be accessible to serious lay readers while remaining rigorous and faithful to the . Overall, the verse-by-verse annotations distinguish the Reformation Study Bible by providing a consistent theological lens throughout the biblical text, helping readers to understand and apply Scripture in a manner consistent with the doctrines of grace and the .

Book Introductions

The Reformation Study Bible includes scholarly introductions to each book of the Bible. These introductions discuss traditional and critical views on , , historical audience, and the book's purpose within . Each introduction also provides a concise outline of the and , aiding readers in following its literary flow and logical progression. The introductions emphasize key theological themes specific to the book, such as , redemption, , or Christological foreshadowing, presented from a Reformed perspective to illuminate the text's doctrinal contributions.

Theological Articles and Essays

The Reformation Study Bible contains a collection of theological articles and essays that provide in-depth exploration of and biblical themes from a . These longer-form pieces supplement the verse-by-verse annotations by addressing , offering readers a broader conceptual framework for understanding Scripture. The articles are typically placed in the back matter of the volume as an appendix. Their primary purpose is to deepen theological understanding, clarify key , and demonstrate how these doctrines arise from and apply to the biblical text. Major articles address foundational Reformed doctrines, including the , , the and , and the . Representative examples include detailed treatments of , , the , and principles for . These essays aim to equip readers to engage Scripture with theological precision and consistency.

Creeds, Confessions, and Resources

The Reformation Study Bible includes the full text of several and , providing readers with foundational doctrinal statements that articulate the core beliefs of the Reformed tradition. These include the three : the Apostles’ Creed, the , and the Athanasian Creed. These creeds summarize essential Christian doctrines concerning the , the , and the . The volume also contains key confessional documents from the Reformed tradition: the Heidelberg Catechism, the , the , the , and the . These documents expound upon central Reformed teachings, including the , the authority and , , and the . In addition to these confessional materials, the Reformation Study Bible incorporates various supplementary resources to assist in . These include full-color maps of the biblical world, , theological diagrams (such as those illustrating the and the ), , and to aid in locating passages and topics. These , , and resources serve to anchor the study notes and articles in the historic teaching of the Reformed churches, enabling readers to interpret Scripture in continuity with the orthodox Christian faith.

Theological Perspective

Reformed Tradition

The Reformation Study Bible is firmly rooted in the Reformed tradition of Protestant Christianity, which originated during the , particularly through the theological work of in and the reform efforts led by in . Its original publication in 1995 as the New Geneva Study Bible intentionally evoked the legacy of the , the influential English translation produced by in Calvin's Geneva, which included and became a standard text for many in the Reformed tradition during the and Puritan eras. Note: Wait, can't use Wikipedia, but since it's common, but no. Wait, better: The name and concept draw directly from the historical 's role in spreading Reformed theology. The Reformation Study Bible maintains continuity with confessional Reformed Christianity, as evidenced by its alignment with the that define the Reformed faith, ensuring a consistent theological framework across generations. It distinguishes itself from other Protestant traditions, such as Lutheran or Arminian branches, by its particular emphasis on as restated in its notes and articles. The Bible thus serves as a contemporary expression of the Reformed tradition's commitment to and doctrinal precision inherited from the .

Key Doctrines Emphasized

The Reformation Study Bible emphasizes several central doctrines of the through its annotations, theological articles, and resources. These doctrines are presented as foundational to understanding Scripture and are consistently highlighted to provide a coherent theological framework. The is a prominent doctrine, portraying God as exercising absolute authority and control over all aspects of creation, , and . Notes frequently underscore this in passages on , , and , presenting God as the ultimate cause of all that comes to pass while preserving human responsibility. is another key emphasis, reflecting the 's core teaching. The Study Bible's notes on texts such as and explain that sinners are declared righteous before God solely through faith in Christ, with apart from human works or merit. The authority and of Scripture are strongly affirmed, with the Bible presented as the , authoritative Word of God without error in the original manuscripts. This doctrine undergirds the notes' approach to and . The unity of across the Testaments is also highlighted, demonstrating how Old Testament promises, , and find their fulfillment in Christ and the New Testament church. This redemptive-historical perspective connects the entire in a cohesive narrative of . These doctrines appear repeatedly in the verse-by-verse annotations to guide readers toward a Reformed understanding of Scripture.

Hermeneutical Approach

The Reformation Study Bible employs the of biblical interpretation, which seeks to understand the text according to its original grammatical structure, historical context, and the author's intended meaning. This approach examines the language, syntax, and cultural setting of the Scriptures to determine what the human authors, under , sought to communicate to their original audience. This hermeneutical framework stresses the —interpreted in light of genre, , and historical circumstances—rather than imposing external meanings. It prioritizes and the immediate context of the passage, ensuring interpretations remain anchored in the plain reading of the text. The method explicitly rejects that spiritualize or over-symbolize the text beyond what the grammar and history support, as well as postmodern hermeneutics that elevate or subjective experience over . This commitment results in notes and articles that emphasize careful grounded in the .

Contributors and Editorial Team

R.C. Sproul's Role

served as the general editor of the Reformation Study Bible, providing overall leadership and theological direction for the project across its major editions. He oversaw the transition from the original 1995 publication as the New Geneva Study Bible to its retitling and subsequent revisions under the current name, ensuring consistency with Reformed theological priorities. 's role extended to shaping the Bible's distinctive emphasis on , including , , , and the . Through his editorial oversight, he guided the development of the verse-by-verse annotations, theological articles, and supporting resources to reflect the principles of the . As founder of , the publisher of the Reformation Study Bible, integrated the project with his broader teaching ministry, which sought to make Reformed theology accessible to lay readers and scholars alike. His personal involvement in crafting and approving content helped align the study notes with the doctrinal commitments that defined his lifelong work in and biblical exposition.

Other Contributors

The Reformation Study Bible draws on contributions from a team of confessional Reformed scholars, pastors, and theologians who prepared the verse-by-verse notes and theological articles, complementing 's overarching editorial role. Notable among them is , a Scottish theologian known for his expertise in Reformed dogmatics, who contributed annotations on several biblical books and authored or co-authored theological essays. Other key contributors included scholars assigned specific biblical books for their notes, allowing for specialized insight into particular texts while maintaining a unified Reformed perspective. The division of labor typically involved assigning individual books or sections to different contributors based on their areas of expertise, ensuring comprehensive coverage of Scripture with consistent theological emphasis. , a leading figure in Reformed Anglicanism, was involved in the original New Geneva Study Bible project as a contributor to notes and introductory material. These contributors are generally qualified through their published works, teaching roles in Reformed seminaries, and adherence to historic creeds such as the .

Reception and Impact

Critical Reception

The Reformation Study Bible has generally received positive critical reception within evangelical and Reformed communities, where it is praised for its scholarly depth, theological clarity, and commitment to the Reformed tradition. Reviewers have commended the extensive verse-by-verse notes for their accessibility and insightfulness, often highlighting 's contributions as particularly helpful in elucidating complex doctrines such as and . The work is frequently lauded for integrating , , and theological articles, making it a valuable resource for both pastors and lay readers seeking a confessional approach to Scripture. Comparisons to other study Bibles, such as the and the , often note the Reformation Study Bible's stronger emphasis on and , which some reviewers consider a distinctive strength. However, critics outside the Reformed tradition have occasionally pointed to a perceived doctrinal bias in the notes, arguing that interpretations of key passages (e.g., those related to or the sacraments) reflect a particular that may not resonate with or other evangelical viewpoints. Despite such observations, the Bible's reception remains predominantly favorable among those aligned with , with many describing it as one of the most robust study editions available for that tradition.

Global Reach and Translations

The Reformation Study Bible has extended its influence beyond English-speaking regions through international translations and adapted editions. These efforts aim to equip believers in Reformed churches worldwide with accessible theological resources rooted in the . Translations of the Reformation Study Bible have been produced in several languages, including Spanish and , allowing non-English speakers to engage with its verse-by-verse notes, theological articles, and . These versions maintain the emphasis on and while adapting to local language needs. Condensed and student editions have also been made available in some international contexts to support discipleship and education among younger believers or new converts. Through these initiatives, the Bible has found use in Reformed congregations and ministries across continents, contributing to the global dissemination of Reformed theology.

Influence on Reformed Theology

The Reformation Study Bible has exerted significant influence within Reformed circles by providing a reliable, accessible resource that reinforces and popularizes core in and doctrine. Through its and , the Bible has helped equip , seminary students, and to understand Scripture in light of , particularly on , , , and the . This has contributed to greater doctrinal clarity and confidence in Reformed communities worldwide. The work is frequently used in and as a standard textbook or reference tool for courses in , , and . In local churches, it serves as a common aid for , , , and personal devotional reading, fostering consistent theological instruction across generations. By making rigorous Reformed scholarship available in a format suited for both academic and devotional use, the Reformation Study Bible has strengthened biblical literacy and theological depth among Reformed believers, helping to sustain and extend the tradition's emphasis on Scripture as the final authority in faith and practice.

References

  1. https://store.ligonier.org/collection/the-reformation-study-bible-1
  2. https://reformationstudybible.com/
  3. https://www.ligonier.org/posts/so-what-makes-the-reformation-study-bible-different
  4. https://www.ligonier.org/learn/scripture/reformation-study-bible
  5. https://store.ligonier.org/reformation-study-bible-esv-hardcover
  6. https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/r-c-sproul-man-called-god
  7. https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/history-study-bibles
  8. https://www.knowableword.com/2015/08/28/reformation-study-bible-2015-edition-its-big/
  9. https://www.reformationstudybible.com/about/the-history-of-study-bibles
  10. https://sharedveracity.net/2015/05/12/the-reformation-study-bible-2015-a-brief-review/
  11. https://newepistles.wordpress.com/2015/05/13/reformation-study-bible-2015-edition-esv/
  12. https://www.ligonier.org
  13. https://www.ligonier.org/reformation-study-bible
  14. https://www.accordancebible.com/reformation-study-bible-notes-2015/
  15. https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/reformation-study-bible-2015-edition-esv-imitation-leather-charcoal-9781567696820
  16. https://www.amazon.com/Reformation-Study-Bible-Crimson-Hardcover/dp/1567694411
  17. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/reformation-trust-re-prints-the-reformation-study-bible-2015-esv-less-than-six-months-from-release-300144420.html
  18. https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2015/05/the-reformation-study-bible-an-interview-with-dr-r-c-sproul/
  19. https://www.reformationstudybible.com/questions
  20. https://www.amazon.com/Reformation-Study-Bible-Standard-Hardcover/dp/1596381361
  21. https://store.ligonier.org/the-reformation-study-bible-esv-hardcover-crimson
  22. https://learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/interpreting-scripture
  23. https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/what-is-hermeneutics
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