For the record, I wasn’t looking for a new Bible. I was perfectly content with my ESV Study Bible.

But curiosity always gets me.  Plus, I’d tried the HCSB a couple of times and wasn’t a huge fan. So, when the opportunity to look at its update, the CSB (Christian Standard Bible), presented itself, I decided to give it a go.

{So you know, I received my copy of the CSB from B&H in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own and based on using the Bible in church, in personal study, and for teaching/speaking.}

I’m so glad I did!

The Christian Standard Bible (or CSB)

Most Bibles are translated using one of two primary methods: literal (word-for-word) or dynamic (thought-for-thought).

The ESV and NASB are two of the most used literal translations. Personally, I have always preferred this translation method for study and, for the most part, have used one of these two translations for most of my adult life.

The NIV and NLT are dynamic translations. As a general rule, dynamic translations are easier to read and have better flow. When I am reading large chunks of Scripture or teaching more difficult passages, I often use the NLT to help provide some clarity. (I’ve never been a big fan of the NIV.)

Why the CSB?

When the translation team began working on an update of the HCSB, they made what I believe was a very wise decision—to take the best of both translation methods and merge them into one translation that was highly accurate and extremely readable, they call it optimal equivalence.

For those of you who are more visual, this graph will help you see how the CSB compares to other translations.

Who can use this Bible?

Much like the ESV, I believe the CSB can be used by basically everyone. The team at B&H has done a great job of creating a line of Bibles geared to different age groups and needs. Here are a few.

{Please note, these are affiliate links and I will receive a small commission if you choose to purchase through them. My husband thanks you for supporting my book-buying habit.}

Big Picture Interactive Bible—I have the original HCSB version of this Bible and it is fantastic. We use The Gospel Project curriculum at our church and this Bible is an excellent teaching resource.
CSB Kids Bible—This edition includes study aids designed for children such a Bible dictionary and maps.
CSB Essential Teen Study Bible—This update of the HCSB Essential Teen Study Bible (which won a 2015 Outreach Magazine Award for “Best Resource” with its hundreds of study helps and 146 devotions) retains each of those features as well as the complete text of the Christian Standard Bible. I may get this one for my daughter who currently uses an ESV designed for students.
CSB UltraThin Reference Bible—This is the edition I have and it is the perfect size for carrying to church. If you are not looking for a study Bible or you want a lighter weight Bible to use for church, this is what I recommend.
She Reads Truth Bible—You know I will get this one, right? It’s gorgeous. And has excellent study aids. If you are in the market for a new study Bible and you love pretty and useful, this is is the Bible you want.
CSB Study Bible—Available beginning May 15, this edition includes 15,000 study notes and tools. I would imagine it is comparable to the ESV Study Bible in terms of additional information included. A very good choice for a new study Bible for you or for your husband.

You can find out more information the editions available and others to be released on the CSB website. Also, if you want to read through some of your favorite passages to see how they compare to other translations, you can view the entire text online.

So, there you go … my recommendation for your next Bible is to get whatever edition of the Christian Standard Bible fits your study and personal needs. I have been using it for the past five or six months and I highly recommend it.

What is your favorite translation?

If you are looking for a new Bible, check out the @CSBible from @BHPub. Great blend of readability & accuracy. Share on X

If you found this post helpful, you may also enjoy these:

The 4 Ts of Choosing a Bible Study

3 Tips for Finding Time to Read your Bible

15 Great Bible Studies for Women

5 Ways to Interact with Scripture

10 Tips for a Great Quiet Time (and here are 10 more!)