Episode 383: Inside the Making of a Study Bible, with Preston Sprinkle

Episode 383: Inside the Making of a Study Bible, with Preston Sprinkle

Summary – Inside the Making of a Study Bible, with Preston Sprinkle

Host Doug Stuart delves into the fascinating world of study Bibles with returning guest Preston Sprinkle, a New York Times bestselling author and host of the Theology in the Raw podcast. Join us as we explore the innovative process behind the creation of the “Upside Down Kingdom Bible,” a study Bible that merges traditional biblical scholarship with contemporary sociopolitical issues.

Preston reveals the evolution of study Bibles, highlighting a shift from detailed footnotes on every verse to extended sidebars focused on fewer passages, a style that’s gaining traction among younger generations like millennials and Gen Z. Although he admits a preference for the traditional footnoted approach, Preston recognizes the market trend towards engaging sidebars and essays of over 300,000 words in study notes, covering essential themes such as leadership, power, science, wealth, poverty, sexuality, gender, and grace.

Doug and Preston dig into the challenge of translating Hebrew texts while maintaining their literary essence, debating the inclusion of themes like faith, allegiance, and the kingdom of God—crucial for a Bible focused on political insights. The episode also touches on the importance of selecting a diverse group of authors to ensure various viewpoints, which Preston emphasizes as key to the project.

The discussion further addresses the misconception that platforming different perspectives equates to endorsement. Instead, it’s about fostering dialogue and understanding, particularly in contexts of deconstructed religious beliefs. This approach is exemplified in Preston’s thoughtful contributions to the study Bible on themes like sexuality, gender, and grace, all while staying true to biblical integrity.

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The Christians for Liberty Network is a project of the Libertarian Christian Institute consisting of shows and hosts offering various perspectives on the intersection of Christianity and libertarianism. Views expressed by hosts and guests do not necessarily reflect the view of the organization, its staff, board members, donors, or any other affiliates (including other hosts or guests on the network). Guest appearances or interviews of any incumbents, officials, or candidates for any political, party, or government office should not be construed as endorsements. The Libertarian Christian Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and does not endorse any political party or candidate for any political, government, or party office. For information about the Libertarian Christian Institute’s core values, please visit this page.

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