Imagine my surprise when I heard that Logos Bible Software, the largest publisher of electronic Bible study material, was coming out with a print magazine called Bible Study Magazine (BSM). Honestly, I didn’t see the need. I once heard that over 8,000 magazines are in print in America, and with many of them going out of print because of lack of profitability, I questioned the wisdom of creating a new magazine, specifically one that would be aimed at scholars, who are usually more interested in journals and libraries than popular magazines.
Then I received a copy of BSM in the mail and saw just how wrong I was. The magazines tagline is “Get into the Word” and I can see from looking at it why starting it was a good idea and why Logos was an ideal company to make this magazine happen. As Bible college faculty members, we certainly need to be aware of this exciting new resource and opportunity.
Quality Reflections
My first impression of the magazine is that it is high quality in paper, printing, design, and content. From the large color picture of Josh McDowell on the cover of the Nov/Dec issue to the attractive type, graphics, and charts, it is clear that a high amount of energy has been invested in creating this 52 page magazine. The cover price is $4.95 (a subscription is $15 per year for 6 issues), and some may question whether it is worth it. But holding it in your hands will make you realize this is intended for people to keep for future reference, and the quality of the paper and ink looks like it will stand the test of time.
But the quality is more than skin deep. I found within tools to help people get deeper into the Word, whether it comes from Bible devotions, interviews with scholars about cutting edge issues, and even word studies! I can believe that a person in church who wants to know more about Scripture will find balanced and responsible content that will at least equip them to ask intelligent questions to their teachers and ministers. In fact, it might inspire them to pursue a life of Bible teaching or ministry.
Updated Resources
All of us need to know about resources that are newly available. Confession time: many of us even as Bible college teachers aren’t aware of newer Bible versions, reference books, or even archaeological discoveries. The advertisements and articles in BSM keep the reader aware of new resources for helping Christians get into the Word. And it isn’t just an advertisement for Logos Bible Software, either. I became aware of a new commentary series, study Bible, ministry conferences, websites, and educational programs, just by browsing the magazine. In this age of Internet information overload, we need help sorting through all the clutter and seeing the important developments in the world of Christian publishing and ministry. Magazines such as this help cut through the clutter and draw our attention to what is new and helpful.
Gentle Reminders
It might seem that students who are Bible college students or graduates wouldn’t need such a magazine. After all, haven’t they learned how to use a Bible dictionary, do a word study, or write their own devotional studies? Perhaps.
Will they always remember how to do those things? Or even that they need to be done? Don’t be so sure. Those of us who teach a subject stay pretty competent in our skills. But true confession time: I have forgotten some of what I learned in Bible college and seminary. So it’s nice to read an interview with Josh McDowell or Mark Goodacre and be reminded of a topic I haven’t thought of for a few years. I think it’s safe to assume our students will forget a few things as well. The equal challenges of Biblical knowledge are to keep gaining new information and stop losing familiar information. This magazine is intended to provide both. BSM can help us remember what we’ve learned in a way that stokes the fire that may be about to die out.
So would I suggest a Bible college professor purchase a subscription to BSM? At $15 per year, it’s definitely affordable and provides great quality information, updated resources, and gentle reminders. It may not be for every professor, but it will help some. I bought a subscription for my dad for Christmas, and I expect it will lead to some good discussion concerning Scripture. Since he usually passes the books he reads on to me when he’s done, I’m hoping I’ll wind up reading Bible Study Magazine as well.
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