If you’re ready for serious study, the John MacArthur Study Bible is one of the most comprehensive study Bibles you can buy. It gathers decades of MacArthur’s scholarly and pastoral work into one volume, explaining the historical background of each passage and showing how it applies to your life today.
A deep, plain-spoken study Bible from a pastor who has taught the Word for more than 50 years.
Best for: teachers, small group leaders and anyone ready for in-depth study.
Highlights
- Over 20,000 study notes
- Overview of theology and a doctrine index
- Available in ESV, NASB, NIV and NKJV
Watch-outs
- Notes reflect one teacher's theological view
- A lot of material for brand-new readers
At a glance
| Author | John MacArthur |
|---|---|
| Translations | ESV, NASB, NIV, NKJV |
| Study notes | Over 20,000, plus maps, charts, outlines and articles |
| Concordance | 125 pages, including people and places |
| Theology | Overview of theology and an index to key doctrines |
| Formats | Hardcover, leather editions and Kindle |
About John MacArthur
MacArthur has served Grace Community Church since 1969 and is a well-known author and conference speaker. His Grace to You ministry reaches people around the world. That long pastoral experience shows in the notes: they’re direct, candid about what the text says, and always aimed at helping you live it out.
Study notes and features
This isn’t just a Bible with a few comments in the margin. It’s a streamlined, information-packed study tool:
- More than 20,000 study notes, maps, charts, outlines and articles
- An overview of theology to help you see the big picture
- An index to key Bible doctrines
- A 125-page concordance that includes both people and places
Which translation should you buy?
The MacArthur Study Bible comes in four translations. The NASB is a very literal, word-for-word translation in modern English, the ESV balances accuracy and readability, the NKJV keeps the feel of the King James, and the NIV is the easiest to read. Not sure which fits you? See our overview of Bible versions.
What buyers say
What buyers love
- Notes that go deeper. Readers praise the commentary, maps and study notes for a richer study time.
- Easy to understand. NASB readers like the modern English, which makes the text easier to read and apply.
- Choice of translations. Buyers appreciate having ESV, NASB, NIV and NKJV options.
- Built to last. Owners of the genuine leather edition are confident in its durability.
- A favorite Bible. Several readers call it their favorite after trying many others, and some pair it with the Grace to You app.
Things to consider
- One perspective. The notes come from a single teacher, so you'll want a multi-contributor study Bible if you prefer a range of views.
- Depth. New believers may find a lighter study Bible easier to start with.
Who should buy it
A great fit if you
- Teach or lead a Bible study
- Appreciate John MacArthur's teaching
- Want notes that apply the text to life
Look elsewhere if you
- Are just starting out (try the Life Application Study Bible)
- Want many scholars' views (try the ESV Study Bible)
See how it compares with other options in the 13 best study Bibles compared.
Video walkthrough
Final verdict
The John MacArthur Study Bible is a serious study tool from a seasoned pastor. If you want thorough, practical notes and you’re ready to dig in, it’s a Bible you’ll use for years.
