Study Tools
Bible Study Resources
Here is a short list of Bible study resources that are available to be downloaded or to be used online. Please keep in mind that many of these resources are written from a mostly conservative, evangelical perspective; however, few are written from the perspective of “our” doctrinal heritage, that being the historical Restoration Movement. Teachers and leaders of Memorial Church of Christ, as well as its members, should be aware of the doctrinal differences that are represented among these resources as they prepare for teaching Bible lessons or as they study the Bible on their own.
Bible Software
Here are two free Bible software packages. While some other Bible software packages seem to be more “polished,” the vast majority of the resources they provide are derived from classic study tools that are in the public domain, that is, their content is no longer copyright protected; they just charge for their software. These two packages have access to nearly the same public domain resources, but the software is free; they also have access to more recent resources, for which you will have to pay. Most modern Bible translations that these two packages offer are comparable in price to what you pay for printed copies.
e-Sword
Designed for MS Windows (95, 98, ME, NT4, 2000, XP, Vista, or Windows 7), its user forums claim success using it on Macs and with various Linux distributions using emulators, such as WINE (www.winehq.org) or Crossover (which is a commercial, supported version of WINE, www.codeweavers.com). Additional resources are available at eStudySource.com and BibleSupport.com.
The Word
Designed for MS Windows (98, ME, NT4, 2000, XP, Vista, or Windows 7); its user forums claim success using it on Macs and with various Linux distributions using emulators, such as WINE (www.winehq.org) or Crossover (which is a commercial, supported version of WINE, www.codeweavers.com).
Olive Tree Bible Software
Free software for portable devices, such as PDAs, smartphones, and some cellphones. Additional resources are available for a price.
Online Bible Study Tools
e-Sword Live
The online version of e-Sword. Free registration on the site gives you access to many additional resources, some of which you would have to pay for with the downloaded version, such as modern translations of the Bible.
BibleStudyTools.com
A free site with more than 30 versions of the Bible, including several modern translations, plus many other Bible study resources. Free registration on the site gives you the ability to save notes, highlight information, and share notes with others.
Biblos.com
A free site with an extensive library of resources, including several modern translations of the Bible.
