For that past couple of years, we have been recommending the English Standard Version of the Bible, and it continues to grow in popularity and receptivity. Its attempt to give us a word-for-word translation of the Hebrew and Greek texts, as far as is possible, has found acclamation.

Having reviewed the ESV in earlier Equip for Ministry issues, we will focus on the Children’s Bible, ESV. The many pages of art and illustrations help children visualize some the Bible’s story lines. The text is the actual ESV translation; however, each book of the Bible is artistically designed to appeal to the younger readers. The headers on each page as well as the chapter numbers follow the same bright red motif of the cover. Blanketed through the Bible are illustrations and pictures ranging from Moses and two tablets containing the Ten Commandments, to Naaman washing in the Jordon River, to the potter working with clay illustrating Isaiah’s teaching.

I found the supplementary inclusions were very well done. The Bible study helps will be extremely beneficial to teachers, parents, and young readers. There are sections such as: who is God and what is God like, God chooses a people for himself, and God making himself known.

There are numerous other topics with brief descriptions and definitions on things such as the Good News, The Gospel of Jesus, and salvation. The ordo salutis, along with its explanation is well done. There are also good tips on Bible reading, as well as a plan for reading the Bible. Even adults will benefit from this schedule and plan.

While there is no concordance included, there are two additional valuable resources: a Bible Memory plan and a dictionary of carefully selected terms for understanding the Bible.

I encourage parents and Sunday school teachers to use this edition of the ESV for children. It would be good to encourage parents and churches to help their children acquire their own copy.

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