The MacArthur Study Bible: English Standard Version

I didn't know much about John MacArthur except that he was Calvinist, so I was skeptical when a friend gave me this Bible. I knew that I would disagree with some of his theology. But this study Bible gives a lot more than just theological notes. What I really lacked was historical context for confusing passages, and that is a strength of this study Bible.

I often read a $2 NKJV that has 5 years of my underlines and scribblings, but I have several study Bibles, and after reviewing all of them on certain Scriptures, I am pretty sure this one has had the clearest book introductions and most helpful in-text commentary.

On ESV:
I can also say that the ESV probably cannot be beaten for combining readability and a straightforward translation. show more The only thing that keeps me in the NKJV is those moments when the KJV/NKJV literally translates a Hebraism or idiom, whereas any modern version interprets it for you, leaving slightly less dirt in which to dig for buried treasure. show less

It's great but not better than ESV Study.