The HCSB Study Bible combines a number of attractive features to equip men and women for better understanding and living the truths of Scripture. I strongly affirm Jeremy Howard's introductory comment, "As servants to the text, the study tools are designed to keep the focus on Scripture and never on the tools themselves."


Both the Scripture and study notes are easier to read than most Bibles-especially study Bibles. Love, love, love the easy-to-read font size of study notes! The timelines that are part of the introduction to each book are arranged so that the eye easily follows the flow of events that illuminate that particular Bible book.  Illustrations are fresh and new, providing great snapshots of what is happening. Charts are of high quality and well placed in the biblical text. The word studies are useful to both lay readers and scholars in better understanding key words in context. The essays are a great addition enabling the reader to find more in-depth explanation/commentary without overwhelming the biblical text or the study notes.

Bottom line:  I will not only recommend this study Bible, but I will purchase one for my own use in personal Bible study and as a teacher.  In addition, I will share this resource when helping adult Bible study leaders discover effective Bible study tools.

Belinda Jolley
Director, Adult Ministry Office
South Carolina Baptist Convention