NIV Verse Mapping Bible
I can’t tell you how exciting I was to review the NIV Verse Mapping Bible. I had heard so much about verse mapping and wanted to know more. So when I received this Bible free for being a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid, I was eager to dive in to see what verse mapping is all about.
Verse Mapping is a system developed by Bible teacher Kristy Cambron. Verse mapping is, as defined by Cambron, “a method of studying the historical context, transliteration, translation, connotation, and theological framework of a verse (or section) of the Bible.”
This system was integrated with the NIV Bible to yield a great resource for those who want to go deeper in the Word of God. Each book starts with a brief introduction that includes the author, date written, where is takes place, and the major themes. Throughout each book, there are verse maps included with key verses already printed on them. These pages invite you to complete your verse mapping right on the page. There is also a blank verse mapping page and the end of each book, for you to choose additional verses or sections of focus. I loved engaging with God’s Word using this Bible.
A few point you may want to consider. The Verse Mapping method calls for you to consult many different translations. The main text of this Bible is NIV. They have taken the extra step to include the NKJV and NASB on the verse mapping organizer as a convenience for the studier, but it is a little limiting if these or not your translations of choice. I’m a NKJV girl myself, so I appreciate that version being included. I also find the text to be a little small. The pages are lined on the sides for note taking, but there is not much space for writing.
I also reviewed the NIV Verse Mapping Bible for Girls. I must say it is a cute Bible. I appreciate the cute color on the cover. I was, however disappointed to see that there was not much content targeted to girls. The back cover says that this Bible is for teens and tweens, but there is nothing specifically for them. It is also not a Study Bible. There really is nothing that makes this Bible for girls except for the cute girly color and design. It is still a great Bible for young girls who want to dig in on their own without commentary.
Some other features of these Bibles include:
Complete text of the accurate, readable and clear New International Version (NIV)·
Exclusive Zondervan NIV Comfort Print typeface in a readable 8-point print size·
350 partially completed verse maps with preselected verses.·
70 blank verse maps for you to use with scriptures you choose.
Guided instructions on how verse mapping works
Both Bibles include the same verse maps that make family study easy.
I also had the opportunity to review the Verse Mapping Journal. I like this journal. It lays out verse maps in a visually appealing way that is not overwhelming. It is designed to be use as you see fit, and is not restrictive or rigid. The journal includes verse mapping instructions to get you started and a Topical Map with suggested scriptures. There are 55 blank maps to use which give you space to write out the scripture as well as other translations. I am not sure that I like the right-left orientation, however. The scripture are first recorded on the right, then the application and action are recorded on the left. It will take some getting use to. You will also need more that just your Bible. You will need other study aids and tools, but there is a reference guide in the back of the journal to help to find just what you need. If you are looking to go deeper in a meaningful way, verse mapping may be just what you are looking for.
“Truly a structured way to dive deeper into God’s Word!“
“A beautiful way to engage with your daughter or niece while studying God’s Word”
If you are interested in purchasing this either the NIV Verse Mapping Bible, the NIV Verse Mapping for Girls Bible, or the Verse Mapping Journal, you can order them at the Faith Gateway Store and other locations where NIV Bibles are sold. #BibleGatewayPartner