As an editor of Christian books, I often need quick access to multiple Bible translations and resources, and I know you find yourself in the same boat daily. Here are some online sources to assist you in your preparation.
- Bible Gateway—This is my go-to resource, and I keep it on the Favorites bar of my Internet browser for quick access. Bible Gateway bills itself as “a searchable online Bible in over 100 versions and 50 languages.” Search the translations by passage or keywords. Audio versions are provided on the site, as well as a topical index, devotionals, reading plans, commentaries, and a video lecture series. There is also an app for mobile devices. Biblegateway.com.
- Blue Letter Bible—Similar in purpose, Blue Letter Bible also offers passage and keyword look-up features for multiple translations—mostly those that have been around a while—along with a search option for Hebrew and Greek Lexicon which I have found very helpful. The site includes access to reference works and commentaries, devotionals, a daily reading plan, and a free mobile app. blueletterbible.org.
- E-Sword—This resource is a free download. Since it does not require an Internet connection after the initial download to be used, it can be valuable to a pastor working in a small church office where the Internet might not be available. E-Sword contains some Bible translations, commentaries, and dictionaries for free, including Strong’s. Other translations such as NIV and NKJV, and various other commentaries and resources, can be accessed by purchasing a product key for the specific product. This means you can customize E-Sword according to your needs. Another feature is the Graphics Viewer which allows viewing of various full-color maps. e-sword.net.
- Bible Hub—Described as an “Online Bible Study Suite,” Bible Hub offers multiple Bible translations, along with even more translations accessible through links to sites such as BibleGateway.com and BibleStudyTools.com. The Apocrypha is there as well. Search options allow passages or key words. Commentaries, concordances, dictionaries, language helps, and color maps are made available with free downloads, devotions, and reading plans included to round out the offerings. Colorful menu buttons are provided for ease in use. Biblehub.com.
- StudyLight—As an online Bible study site, StudyLight has a lot to offer. Various Bible translations, including the most well-known, are offered with the ability to search by passage, keyword, or topic. The site also includes Daily Wisdom, devotionals, and reading plans, along with commentaries, concordances, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and language helps. studylight.org.
Check them out! I hope you find something that will be helpful as you study God’s Word.
Maleah Bell is a freelance editor and pastor’s wife. She and her husband make their home in Middle Tennessee.