Bible Software

Posted by Chuck on December 30, 2008 under Resources | Be the First to Comment

Just the other day someone asked me which Bible translation I preach and teach from.  While I primarily use the NIV to preach and teach from that is only because the NIV is the first translation that I was exposed to.  I’ve also used the NASB, KJV, and NKJV for preaching and teaching.  It all depends upon the audience.

An easy way to compare and contrast verses in different translations is with a Bible program.  I’ve personally been using QuickVerse since version 3 and I am currently using QuickVerse 2008.  It’s not that I really, Really, REALLY like QuickVerse, but since I’ve been using it for over 10 years now I’ve built up quite a library.  Unfortunately QuickVerse does not come with Hebrew.  It hasn’t for years and for $800 it should come with more.

One of these days I’m going to take the plunge and buy LogosLogos has been the “standard” in Biblical scholarship.  I’ve just never been able to afford it!  (The Scholar’s Library: Gold costs over $1,000!).  Of course, they know it’s expensive, but you get what you pay for and it comes with Hebrew!  Unlike QuickVerse, the Logos library is ever expanding.  One other “bonus” is that if you really want this scholarly tool, they now offer a payment program.

The more economical BibleWorks (about $350) has Greek and Hebrew and a LOT of Bible translations.  BibleWorks is good, affordable, and easy to use, but lacks many of the scholarly works in Logos.

So . . . money, money, money – these all cost money.  So, what’s good AND free?  e-Sworde-Sword is a fully functional FREE Bible program – BUT if you want contemporary Bibles (like the NIV) you’ll need to start forking over ca$h and the modules vary in price and could easily start to add up to the price of BibleWorks.

Now, if you are just starting out in the ministry, don’t have a budget, maybe a student, and you’re broke – but you have an Internet connection (or can access one) there’s always the Biblegateway.com with dozens of FREE translations including Greek and Hebrew!  Study “on the cheap” – but it gets the job done!

http://www.quickverse.com
http://www.logos.com
http://www.bibleworks.com
http://www.e-sword.net
http://www.biblegateway.com