9 Rules For Finding the Best Bible Concordance For You
Choosing a Bible concordance for the first time can be a challenge, especially if you are new to Bible study. Trust me, I’ve been there. I got the first Bible concordance that was recommended to me and now I don’t really use it that much.
But there are some great Bible concordances out there. Here are some tips that I wish I could go back and give myself now. Hopefully, they will help you find a concordance that will see more use.
1. Choose One in Your Preferred Translation
One of the first and most important things to remember when getting a concordance is to get one in your preferred translation. Concordances are Bible reference tools that lists the words and their references in an organized manner.
Because different translations use different words there are concordances that correspond to those translations. For example, you can get the Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, for either the KJV or NASB. There are also concordances for translations like the ESV or NIV.
2. Consider Your Purpose
Perhaps the second most important thing to consider is your purpose. Why do you want a concordance? How do you plan on using it?
If you are a pastor or seminary student preparing a sermon or doing an in-depth study, then you will need a different concordance than someone who is seeking a deeper personal devotion or simpler word studies.
3. Determine What Type of Concordance You Want
Another thing to consider is what type of concordance you want. There are three different types of concordances: compact, complete, and exhaustive. Each type can be helpful for different things. It’s important to consider what type you need.
If you aim is a personal bible study with simple word studies, then a more user-friendly compact or complete concordance will be best. However, if you are working on preparing a sermon you may want to consider an exhaustive concordance.
If you want a more in-depth look at the different types of concordances and how to use them, then you may want to read Bible Concordances: Different Types and When to Use Them.
4. Decide Whether You Want a Physical or Digital Copy
It’s also important to consider whether or not you want a physical or digital copy of a Bible concordance. The choice between a physical or digital Bible concordance will depend on your study habits and preferences.
Physical concordances offer a hands on, distraction-free experience ideal for in depth Bible study sessions. They’re accessible without the need for an internet connection and can be used during Bible group studies without distraction. However, they can be bulky and lack searchability.
Digital concordances, on the other hand, provide easier portability and faster search capabilities.
5. Consult Reviews and Seek Recommendations
It would also be wise to read reviews of various concordances to see what other users like and dislike. These reviews may be from fellow believers, scholars, or trusted sources.
Recommendations can provide insights into a concordance’s reliability, usability, and alignment with your study goals. Keep a look out for feedback on the concordance’s accuracy, completeness, and user-friendliness.
Reviews can help you avoid potential disappointments and ensure that the concordance you select meets your specific needs and expectations. Typically, you will like what others tend to like about a concordance and dislike what they dislike. That said, you still need to factor in your personal preferences.
6. Consider Your Budget
Budget is a crucial factor when considering what concordance you need to choose. Concordances can come in a wide range of prices varying from $10-$45 dollars.
As a general rule, exhaustive concordances will be on the higher price end. But while they may be a little pricier it may be worth it for serious believers who want to consistently do in-depth study.
That said, if you are on a tighter budget, there are still great affordable alternatives. It is important to consider your budget and your Bible study goals when choosing a concordance to find the best cost-effective option for you.
7. Decide if You Want Definitions
Deciding whether or not you want definitions included in the concordance is a vital decision to make. As understanding the meaning of a word can make your Bible more accessible.
If you are unfamiliar with Greek and Hebrew a concordance that provides clear and concise definitions will help deepen and enliven your Bible study. But if you are a bible scholar and well versed in Hebrew and Greek then you may be able to get by with a concordance that doesn’t offer definitions.
8. Determine if You Want Additional Features
Consider if you want or need additional features in your Bible concordance. Some concordances will come with additional features such as: cross-references, topical indexes, and more. If you are looking for a comprehensive study tool, then you may want to go with one of these.
However, if your focus is just on word studies, then a more streamlined approach of a concordance without these extra features may be the best fit.
9. Choose a User-Friendly One
User-friendliness is key when it comes to choosing a Bible commentary. This includes things like size, portability, and ease of navigation.
Concordances can be big books. This is especially the case with exhaustive concordances. If you are going to take your BIble study with you, or plan on taking the concordance to a group Bible study, then consider getting one that is not as bulky. A pocket or compact concordance will be easier to carry.
When looking at digital concordances find one that is easy to navigate. There are some online concordances that can be just as confusing to search with as a physical copy. A digital concordance should offer simple search features and be clutter and distraction free.
Overall, choosing a Bible concordance that works best for you will mean finding one that helps you grow spiritually. Remember a concordance is a Bible study resource. As such, it is meant to be an aid in Bible study and not a hindrance. So, look for one that helps you experience the Bible in a positive way.
