Unlocking the Bible: My Top 5 Free Online Bible Study Resources
The internet is a blessing and a curse. There are so many online resources for everything these days. The same is true of studying the Bible. Which online study resources are most helpful? Let me help take the guesswork out for you. I want to share my top five free online resources that I have used over the years to help me understand the Bible.
1. Dictionary of Bible Themes
The Dictionary of Bible Themes has a great collection of thematic entries if your interested in studying a specific topic or theme in Scripture. It includes cross-references and helps you see a theme present through Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation.
2. ESV Introduction to the Books of the Bible
Bible book introductions are indispensable resources for anyone looking to study through a book of hte Bible. Even if you aren't studying through a book of the Bible, before you start reading a passage in a specific book, you should read an introduction to the book itself. It will help you understand the passage you are reading. The ESV Introduction to Bible books is a great free resource for this task.
3. Easton's Bible Dictionary
This resource is all about people, places, and things in the Bible. We are so far removed from biblical culture and times, we need resources to help us understand all three. Easton's a a classic, succinct, free Bible Dictionary to help you get to know subjects and places that you might not have familiarity with in Scripture.
4. Vine's Expository Dictionary of the New Testament
Another dictionary? Yes. This is a different kind of dictionary. Instead of focusing on the people, places, and things, this dictionary focuses on the words in Scripture. It helps you understand the original language of the New Testament (called Koine Greek) with entries that provides the Greek word and its meaning in the first century.
5. Parallel Passages in the New Testament Quoted From the Old Testament
The New Testament quotes the Old Testament quite often. And you might not always be able to recognize it. This resource removes all the guess work and helps you cross-check your New Testament passage against Old Testament passages to see if there is a quotation you may have missed.
And there you have it. Five resources that you need to help you unlock the Bible.