Thompson Chain-Reference or MacArthur Study Bible?

[Onomatopoeia]

I'm looking to get a new study Bible, and I *think* I've narrowed it down to either a Thompson Chain-Reference or a MacArthur Study Bible.

Is there anyone that has used either or both of these types, and if so which do you prefer-and why?

Thanks so much!

 

[Morghaine]

I don't have either type of those Bibles, but I do have "The MacArthur Bible Commentary" and I really love it. I probably didn't help you much, but I just thought I'd let you know that I think the MacArthur commentary is good!

 

[AngCath]

I have a chain-reference and I think it is great. It is a great Bible that uses Scripture to explain Scripture and shows the interconnectedness of it all along with some basic study tools. however, if you're looking for lots of commentary on Scripture, look elsewhere because that is not what it is for. As far as MacArthur, I don't have one so I can't comment, but my top two study bibles would be the Oxford Study Bible REB and the Oxford Annotated RSV.

 

[daveleau]

Both are superb. The issue is whether you want a detailed refernce system for Scripture (very useful) or very good reference notes, with minimal references. The MacArthur does have some references to other Scripture, but the TCR is the best in regards of this cross-reference system.

The TCR takes a little bit of study to understand how to use it effectively. Once you figure out its reference system, it is great.

I have both the KJV TCR and NIV TCR. I do not have the MacArthur, but have the NIVSB, and Nelson KJV SB, which are both similar. I use the NIVSB more often.

It depends on what you want to do, as the two are different types of reference systems. Both are superb. Think about trying to get one used from abebooks, as I got my new leather NIVSB there for $25, and got my KJV TCR there for a similar price. You just have to be sure not to get the hardback (if you want leather), as they are intermingled with the leather-bound.

 

[BroBarry]

I'd highly recommend any of John MacArthur's study materials. I have his Bible Handbook and a number of other guides and book. I've really enjoyed them

 

[Onomatopoeia]

Thank you SO much everyone for your imput!

I've decided to go with a MacArthur Study Bible. My husband has a NIV TCR, so after batting around which I should get, I decided to go with a MacArthur so that we have one of each.

daveleau-Thanks for the site to buy used Bibles. Until now I had only ever looked on ebay.

 

[AngCath]

many blessings on your journey with your new spiritual tool.