A version that thinks for you. Learn to think! Let me rephrase that. We need to be taught more about how to think instead of what to think. Ryrie (obviously in my opinion) doesn't have anything greatly troubling, but I grew up with Ryrie and found myself consuming more of what Ryrie's comments were than what the actual text says. I would suggest comparing translations instead of relying on commentaries. ESV and a NKJV side by side. Better, go to the original Texts. I've read New Living, Living, NAS, KJV, NKJV, ESV and several of the more "story" versions. There are significant differences. Best thing that ever happened was taking Hermeneutics, Apologetics, and Theology courses. Taught me so much about how to read these Texts instead of what they said.

OK, so specifically about this version. Very evangelical or Baptist type perspectives. Nothing wrong with that so long as you are aware of it as you read it. That being said, it is absolutely full of wonderful insights. Love it very much. it was the first 'big' Bible I ever had. Was suggested by a pastor that I wish would have told me it was a 'perspective'. You'll love this version. My choice AFTER a version like this is the Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible: Key Insights Into God's Word -New American Standard Bible. Doesn't have a fraction of the insights, but that isn't it's purpose. The Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible is for getting as close to the original meaning as possible. Second choice would be the ESV Study and then almost anything by Holman. Love Holman tools. ( )