[Study Bibles] [Christian Study]
Brief Description: First published in
1909 (sold now as the First Scofield), with the 1917 revision still being produced and
sold by Oxford University Press, the Scofield is probably the best known and most widely
used of the study Bibles. It has essentially become the "handbook of
fundamentalism" in many circles. Synonymous with dispensational theology, the
Scofield Bible has probably done more to spread the cause of dispensationalism than any
other entity. It comes in various sizes, including large print and wide margin editions.
The original was based on the King James Version. A 1967 update was produced and is called
the New Scofield Study Bible. The Scofields that are based on translations other than the
King James use the 1967 notes.
Advantages: The Scofield Reference (or Study as some editions are
called) Bible is a tremendous tool to teach God's unfolding plan for the ages. It is a
very well done study Bible, with a tremendous cross-reference system and many valuable
notes both in the center columns and at the bottom of the pages. The indexes in the back
are very good, as are the maps (though they are somewhat dated now). There is also a
"Dictionary of Scripture Proper Names" that is quite useful, though the
pronunciations are often somewhat strange. The theology and methodology are fairly
uniform throughout the whole Bible. The discussions of the covenants and the Levitical
sacrificial system and how they point to Christ are two examples of how good this Bible
is. Overall, this work has stood the test of time quite well (with the following
exceptions).
Disadvantages: Probably the most glaring weakness in the Scofield
Bible is found before one even gets past the first chapter. The "gap theory" is
taught, as well as a non-literal view of the days of creation (page 4, note 2). While a
historical understanding of the times in which this work was produced may excuse this
somewhat, it is still a grievous error. While fundamental Baptists are among the
leading proponents of the Scofield, the church government taught therein is based on the
presbytery model. The notes are relatively few compared to the study Bibles of today, but
they tend to be quite in-depth, with many scripture references to spur on further study.
The placement of the note concerning the Dispensation of Grace is found in John 1:17,
which is somewhat strange as the note found there itself makes it clear that the
dispensation did not begin until the death, burial and resurrection of Christ occurred.
There are a few other minor criticisms, but overall not too bad a score for a work that is
nearly 100 years old. Many wish that it would have been type-set in self-pronouncing text.
Recommendation: All Christians should be familiar with the
Scofield, as it has impacted Christianity so profoundly during this century. The theology
is excellent, the interpretive method solid and the study helps very nicely done (without
the aid of computers, no less).
