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Michael Carter

Bible Study Software

Whether you're looking for the best free Bible software program or you've decided to invest in a comprehensive Bible software package, this collection of top Bible software programs is sure to offer the option that's just right for your budget and your Bible study needs. I have been shopping for the last few months and have been amazed at what's on the market. There's no reason to not be able to study in depth any more! I ended up going with the Quickverse and PC Study Bible and love them!

1. e-Sword (Windows)

Starting with the best free Bible software program, e-Sword gives you more than you might expect from a free program, including several free add on Bible versions, dictionaries and commentaries. It's easy to use with tutorials, manuals and training demos all provided for free on the e-Sword Website. A Pocket PC version of e-Sword called Pocket e-Sword is also available for free. More: e-Sword Website

2. MacSword (Macintosh)

MacSword is a free open source application designed specifically for Mac users running Mac OS X. It is based on the Sword project of open source Bible software, making it compatible with many Bible translations and more than 200 Bible study texts. Devotionals, commentaries, dictionaries and lexicons are just some of its surprisingly versatile features in this basic Bible software program. More: MacSword Website

3. Logos Bible Software 3 (Windows)

Logos Bible Software 3 Scholar's Library Logos Bible Software is designed for anyone from the beginner Bible software user to the most serious Bible scholar. The software packages range is price from $149.95 for the Christian Home Library to $1379.95 for the Scholar's Library Gold. Each of the seven packages comes with the free Libronix software engine. You choose the modules and libraries that best suit your needs. When you add up the retail value of the resources in each package, Logos Bible Software is by far the best deal for the money you'll spend. "Alpha 9," a Macintosh version is currently available for free beta testing for existing Logos Bible Software users.

More: Logos Bible Software Website

4. BibleWorks 7 (Windows)

BibleWorks 7 features the Greek, Hebrew and the Septuagint Bibles, and is packed with tools specifically designed for close analysis of the original languages of the Bible text. For the cost of $349, the full version offers 112 Bible translations in 30 languages, as well as lexicons, dictionaries and many other integrated text analysis tools. BibleWorks does not have a specific Macintosh version, but claims the software will run capably on certain Macintosh computers.

More: BibleWorks Website

5. iLumina Gold (Windows & Macintosh)

This interactive software program from Tyndale House Publishers brings a multimedia experience to Bible study, featuring narrated and musically scored digital animations. At $89.99 the software is available for both Windows and Mac users. Just a few of the program's highlights include self-guided Bible lessons and quizzes, the Book of Life encyclopedia, a virtual tours of the Holy Land, the Tabernacle, the Nativity Scene, and an overview of all of history.

More: iLumina Website

6. Accordance Bible Software (Macintosh)

If you're a Mac user and you want a variety of choices, then Accordance Bible Software is for you. Their software packages are geared for all levels of study, from student to scholar with prices as varied as options. The Starter Package is $49 which can be applied toward other packages, such as the Library 8 Standard ($199), Scholar's Collection Unlock All ($2800), Jewish Collection Advanced ($259), Catholic Collection ($159), and many more. Accordance can also be run on a Windows PC using their emulator. More: Accordance Bible Software Website

7. PC Study Bible Version 5 (Windows)

PC Study BibleImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber The PC Study Bible is both powerful and affordable, with five library options graduating in price from $37.95 for the Discovery Reference Library to $449.95 for the Advanced Reference Library. This software is designed for conservative believers, packed with Bible-based commentaries and reference works. A unique feature of the PC Study Bible is their Biblesoft Authoring System, allowing you to create your own Bible study materials that can be integrated into the software.

More: Biblesoft Website

8. QuickVerse 2008 Deluxe (Windows)

QuickVerse 2008 Deluxe is a comprehensive Bible software program priced at $349.95. It features 21 Bible translations, 63 commentaries, study notes, dictionaries, handbooks, concordances, Greek resources, theology sources, specialty references, church history, maps, pictures, reading plans and devotionals. One unique feature is the audio tool designed to teach you the correct pronunciation for more than 6000 difficult Bible words.

More: Quick Verse Website

9. SwordSearcher Bible Software (Windows)

The SwordSearcher Bible Software is reasonably priced at $49.95 for the deluxe edition and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee with a free downloadable evaluation version. This program features easy and powerful search tools, 18 Bible versions, loads of dictionaries, commentaries, topical guides, as well as maps and illustrations. More: SwordSearcher Website

10. Theophilos Library CD Updated Edition (Windows)

This study library is an affordable Bible software program priced at $19.95 for the basic edition, $49.95 for the student edition and $69.95 for the scholar edition. It contains 43 Bibles, including foreign language Bibles, dictionaries, commentaries, and scholarly writings. The program offers wide appeal for any age group, from children to teenagers and, of course, adults.

Michael Carter, Realtor Greenville, SC www.beachboyrealestate.com

Sarah Palin Brings Hope to Evangelical Voters

Sarah Palin
Evangelical Christians seem to be responding enthusiastically to John McCain's choice of Sarah Palin as a running mate. Up until now, one outspoken conservative leader, Dr. James Dobson of Focus on the Family, had been very reluctant to put his support behind McCain. However, in this recent statement made after the announcement by McCain, it's obvious that Dobson's outlook has changed:

    "Sen. McCain's selection of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is an outstanding choice that should be extremely reassuring to the conservative base of his party. She is a strong executive who hates corruption and puts principle above politics. After floating the names of Tom Ridge and Sen. Joe Lieberman in recent weeks - selections that would have created consternation among pro-family Republicans - Sen. McCain has chosen a solid conservative who has a reputation for espousing common sense.

    "Gov. Palin's commitment to the sanctity of life is not just a political position. She was advised to abort her fifth and youngest child when it was learned he had Down syndrome. She refused. That's bravery and integrity in action.

    ... This selection by Sen. McCain is a very encouraging sign for his campaign."

And Dr. Dobson is not the only evangelical with renewed hope for this year's presidential campaign. Check out this election blog at Christianity Today to see what other conservative voices are saying about Sarah Palin. Also visit Scott's Catholicism Blog to find out what Catholics are saying about Palin.

Michael Carter, Realtor Greenville, SC www.beachboyrealestate.com