What is the Ryrie Study Bible?
The Ryrie Study Bible is a study Bible (a Bible that includes study notes) composed and edited by Charles Caldwell Ryrie, Th.D., Ph.D (1925—2016). It was Moody Press's first Bible project and was originally published in 1978. The Ryrie Study Bible is available in many translations including ESV, NASB, and KJV, among others (meaning Ryrie's notes are included with the biblical text of those translations). It has sold over 2.6 million copies.The Ryrie Study Bible includes over 10,000 explanatory notes and is meant to act as a source for multiple Bible study needs. It has notes providing historical background, word definitions, and references to other passages of Scripture relating to the same subject. There are full-color maps and timeline charts. Each book of the Bible has an introduction that covers authorship, date, background, themes, and an outline of the contents of the biblical book. Plus, it includes a reading plan to help readers complete the Bible in one year.
However, what differentiates the Ryrie Study Bible from other study Bibles are the articles written by Ryrie including a Synopsis of Bible Doctrines, Harmony of the Gospels, How We Got Our Bible, and other informational pieces. Charles Caldwell Ryrie was a chief proponent of premillennial dispensational eschatology and is considered to be one of the most influential American theologians of the 20th century. He taught systematic theology at Dallas Theological Seminary (as well as teaching at Cairn University and Tyndale Theological Seminary) and authored thirty-two books including The Miracles of Our Lord and So Great Salvation, which won the Gold Medallion Book Award.
It is important to remember that all notes, articles, and other additional information in the Ryrie Study Bible, as in any study Bible, are furnished by a human author and do not carry the same authority as the God-inspired Scripture. However, if readers are interested in furthering their knowledge of the Bible, including its history, archaeological background, geographical references, and topical subjects, the Ryrie Study Bible is an invaluable resource.
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