The [Expanded] Bible: New Testament is considered a study bible where one can study while reading the bible. Its purpose is to help the reader increase their understanding with additional words and comments right in the text. It is written in a modified New Century Version. This bible differs from most of the New Testament versions out there because it is an expanded version. It contains information one would find in a variety of Bible references so one could read and study at the same time. The expansion takes place by displaying other possible ways of translating a word, phrase, clause, or sentence. The expansions are enclosed within a set of brackets [ ], providing synonyms, different nuances, or another diction. A bullet marks the beginning of the replacement word and the base text appears in bold letters. One can get confused with all of the extra words in the verse but the easiest way to use The [Expanded] Bible is to read the verse or passage first using only the bolded text and then go back reading the expanded maternal.
The expansion of an alternate translation is shown by [or]. The more literal rendition is preceded by a superscript L within the bracket. A traditional version, which provides familiar terms especially those in the King James, Tradition is preceded by a superscript T within the bracket. There are comments which briefly provide historical cultural theological, or other information to assist readers understand a verse or passage better is superseded by a subscript C within a bracket. There are also cross references to parallel passages and/or quotations, which usually appear within a bracket but without a bulletin the base text.
Overall, The [Expanded] Bible is a helpful resource. The only comments that I have are these. The additions to the text may take a while to grow used to and several times to read over in order to fully grasp the meaning. It is being marketed as a study bible, which it is. But the definition is a little different. As a study bible, it points out the deeper meanings behind the words. However, unlike other study bibles, it did not have footnotes with historical details. This isn’t bad; it is just something that is good to clarify. The [Expanded] Bible is worth checking out.
Please note: This book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson via the Book Review Bloggers program.
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